Wine Tasting with the winemaker in Villa Santa Eurosia

This private wine tasting experience offers a rare glimpse into Venetian viticulture, set on a tranquil island where few travelers venture. Hosted by Winetomeetyou, this tour takes you to a small, untouched island of Venice, where you’ll get to meet a local winemaker and sample some of the most distinctive wines from the lagoon. The highlight? Tasting Dorona, an ancient, native grape variety that can only be found here, grown amid salty soils and unique climate conditions.

What we love about this experience is the chance to step away from the bustling city streets of Venice and into a quiet, rural setting that feels worlds apart. The personal approach—guided by the winemaker himself—is genuinely special. Plus, the views across the lagoon are breathtaking, adding a scenic backdrop to each sip.

A potential consideration might be the cost. At around $240 per person, this isn’t the most budget-friendly activity, but the intimacy, exclusive access, and educational value make it a worthwhile splurge for wine lovers or those seeking a more authentic Venetian experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate good wine, enjoy learning about local traditions, and want an off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines natural beauty with cultural discovery.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Visit a nearly untouched island with only 50 residents, mostly farmers.
• Authentic Experience: Meet a local winemaker and learn about Venetian wine traditions firsthand.
• Unique Grape Varieties: Taste Dorona, a rare native grape that grows only here amid salty soils.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking lagoon views and peaceful rural landscapes.
• Educational Value: Gain insight into the influence of terroir on Venetian wines with detailed explanations from the guide.
• Limited Group Size: Private tour ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

A Detailed Look At the Experience

The Setting: An Island Untouched by Tourism

Right from the start, this experience feels special. Instead of joining a crowded tour, you’re heading to a small island where only about 50 people live, most of them farmers. The journey begins at the meeting point in Vignole, Venice, and the boat ride out to the island sets the tone—quiet, scenic, and a welcome break from the city’s hustle.

The island offers a rare glimpse into the Venetian countryside, a side of Venice that many visitors never see. The landscape is characterized by vineyards and artichoke fields, with traditional farmhouses dotting the landscape. We loved the way this environment combined a sense of rural authenticity with stunning lagoon views.

Visiting the Vineyard and Artichoke Fields

Once on land, you’ll take a walk through the vineyard, where the winemaker explains the history and cultivation of their grapes. The focus here is on Dorona, a historic native grape variety unique to Venice. You learn that this grape’s soil and climate create distinct iodized and brackish sensations in the wine, making it unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere.

Walking between the grapevines and artichoke patches allows for a relaxed, intimate experience—an opportunity to really connect with the land. Reviewers mention the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm, making the walk both informative and engaging. Candace_P, in her review, highlighted that the guide was notably “informative” and the views “spectacular.”

The Winemaker’s Tasting

The core of the experience is the tasting itself. You’ll sample three wines produced on the island, with a focus on the Da Dorona wines. The winemaker explains the characteristics of each, describing how the soil and lagoon influence their flavor profiles.

The tasting includes snacks and water, which complements the wines without overpowering them, allowing you to truly savor each sip. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide means you get more than just tasting; you learn about the history, the terroir, and the traditions that shape Venetian winemaking.

Reviewers like Candace found the wines “amazing,” especially praising the white variants. She noted that the “view was spectacular,” and the guide made the experience “informative,” adding a layer of depth often missing in larger commercial tastings.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes—perfect for a relaxed but substantial experience.
• Price: $239.46 per person, which includes the boat ride, tasting, snacks, and the guide’s insights.
• Transport: The tour involves a boat to the island; private transportation isn’t included, so plan to book or arrange your own transfer if needed.
• Group Size: Private, exclusive experience—only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book around 48 days ahead—don’t delay if you’re keen on this unique experience.

Why It’s Worth It

While the price might seem high at first glance, consider what’s included: a private visit to a tiny, pristine island, a personal interaction with the winemaker, and the opportunity to taste rare, native grapes that can’t be sampled elsewhere. The scenic setting and educational component add significant value, especially for wine enthusiasts or those craving an authentic Venetian experience away from the crowds.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to explore something beyond typical vineyards. It suits travelers interested in local traditions and native grape varieties like Dorona. If you’re someone who enjoys quiet, scenic environments and meaningful cultural exchanges, this tour will resonate with you.

It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate private, personalized experiences and are willing to invest in a higher-end activity that combines natural beauty, local history, and gastronomy.

Not suitable for minors who won’t be served wine, but children can still enjoy the scenic boat ride and the peaceful island landscape. It’s a fantastic choice for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a memorable, off-the-beaten-path Venetian adventure.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare chance to experience Venetian wine culture in a setting that few travelers ever see. The personal interaction with the winemaker, combined with the island’s serenity and the uniqueness of Dorona grapes, makes it a memorable outing. The views are stunning, the wines are intriguing, and the knowledge imparted is authentic and engaging.

While the price might be a barrier for some, the intimate nature and exclusivity of this experience justify the cost for many. It’s less about a simple tasting and more about connecting with Venetian tradition in a meaningful way.

If you’re seeking an authentic, educational, and scenic escape from Venice’s busy streets, this tour is well worth considering. It’s best for those who value quality over quantity, and who want to come away with a deeper understanding of Venice’s lesser-known local treasures.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, private transportation is not included. The experience begins at the meeting point in Vignole, and the boat to the island is part of the activity.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, providing ample time for walking, tasting, and learning.

Can minors participate in this tour?
Yes, minors can join, but they won’t be served wine and won’t be charged for the tasting.

What is the focus of the tasting?
The main focus is on Venetian wines, especially Dorona—an ancient native grape that grows only here—and its unique terroir.

How many wines are sampled?
You will taste three wines, with detailed explanations from the winemaker about each one.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, offering a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Are snacks included?
Yes, snacks are provided along with water and the wines to enhance the tasting.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
The experience is available from September 1, 2025, through October 6, 2026, and can be booked on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM.

What makes this experience special?
The combination of visiting a nearly untouched island, meeting a local winemaker, and tasting rare Venetian wines makes this truly unique.

This private wine tasting in Villa Santa Eurosia offers a meaningful way to explore Venice’s countryside, its history of winemaking, and the stunning lagoon views—all in an intimate setting that leaves a lasting impression.