Mezzocorona: Wine Tasting and Cellar Tour with Aperitif

Discover the Charm of Trentino with a Wine Tasting and Cellar Tour at Azienda Agricola Viola

Our review of the Mezzocorona: Wine Tasting and Cellar Tour with Aperitif offers a detailed look at this authentic experience in the heart of Italy’s renowned wine region. This 1.5-hour guided journey combines a fascinating visit to an ancient cellar—once used as an icehouse—with a tasting of some of Trentino’s finest wines, paired with local specialties. If you’re passionate about wine or simply eager to learn about the region’s traditions while enjoying a relaxed, intimate atmosphere, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

One aspect we really appreciate is the personal touch of the family-run winery, Azienda Agricola Viola. The guides, especially Nadia, are praised for their warmth and passion, making the experience both educational and welcoming. The chance to taste a sparkling Trento DOC Riserva aged over 60 months is a rare treat, offering real value for wine enthusiasts. The only consideration might be the limited dietary options for vegans, gluten-free, or lactose-intolerant travelers, as the food offerings lean towards vegetarian local specialties.

This experience is ideal for those who want a genuine taste of Trentino’s wine culture without the crowds or commercialism. It suits travelers seeking a balanced mix of history, authentic regional flavors, and beautiful scenery. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon, it also works well as part of a day exploring Mezzocorona and the surrounding mountains.

Key Points

• Authentic Family-Run Winery: Experience the personal stories behind Azienda Agricola Viola’s wines.
• Historic Cellar Tour: Discover the underground space once used as an icehouse, adding a layer of history and charm.
• Premium Wine Selection: Tasting of aged reserves like Navarro Trento DOC Riserva and other unique reds from Teroldego grapes.
• Local Delicacies: Savor Speck, Trentingrana cheese, and other Trentino specialties that complement the wines.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized atmosphere.
• Value for Money: At $41, including tastings, cellar tour, and local snacks, this offers great value for wine lovers.

The Day Itself: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Meeting at Viola Wine Shop and the Start of the Journey

Your experience begins at Viola Wine Shop, conveniently located at the foot of Monte di Mezzocorona, right next to the famous Skywalk. Meeting here makes it easy to access from nearby towns or hotels. The shop is a cozy, welcoming space that hints at the warmth you’ll find inside the cellar. This is where the guide, likely Nadia or another family member, greets you and sets the tone for the tour.

Exploring the Ancient Cellar

From the shop, you’ll descend into the ancient cellar, a space with a history that adds a real sense of continuity and tradition. According to reviews, this cellar was once used as an icehouse, which gives it a unique charm and a tangible connection to the area’s past. As you walk through the cool, stone corridors, your guide will impart stories about the winery’s roots, the local terroir, and how high-altitude conditions influence their wines.

The cellar isn’t just a storage space; for visitors, it’s a visual and sensory journey that enhances your appreciation of the wine. The underground setting keeps the temperature steady, ideal for aging and highlighting the minerality in their sparkling wines.

Tasting and Aperitif in a Historic Building

Next, you’ll head to a historic building that’s been converted into a cozy spot for your aperitif. Here, the atmosphere is laid-back, perfect for savoring the moment. You’ll be offered two glasses of wine, which you can pair with local specialties like Speck (a cured ham), Trentingrana cheese, and possibly other regional nibbles.

The highlight here is the Navarro Trento DOC Riserva, a sparkling wine made via traditional methods, aged over 60 months on the lees. Reviewers describe it as having fine, persistent bubbles with notes of white flowers, citrus, and bread crust—a true testament to the mountain-grown, high-altitude grapes. It’s considered a “classic method” wine, and its mineral freshness makes it a standout.

Sampling Other Notable Wines

Alongside the sparkling, you’ll sample reds like the Rosso Mancato IGT Vigneti delle Dolomiti, crafted from Teroldego grapes. Reviewers emphasize its soft, elegant style with hints of ripe red fruit, spices, and a velvety finish. For a more intense experience, the Nero Viola IGT Vigneti delle Dolomiti offers deep flavor and structure, with notes of blackberry, wild herbs, and dark chocolate, finished with well-integrated wood aging.

A casual choice is the 5+5 Rosso IGT Vigneti delle Dolomiti, a lively, fresh red ideal for guests who prefer a lighter, easy-drinking option. This variety, described as young and fruity, complements the overall tasting experience, making it accessible for all palates.

The Purchase Opportunity

For those interested, there’s a chance to purchase limited-edition niche labels directly from the winery. These are curated for connoisseurs and collectors alike, emphasizing the authenticity and craftsmanship behind each bottle. This feature adds a practical value for those wanting to bring a piece of Trentino home.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike many generic wine tastings, Azienda Agricola Viola offers an authentic family-driven experience. Reviewers like Emanuele and Alba highlight the passion and professionalism of the guides—Nadia, in particular, makes the history and production process come alive. Alba mentions that Nadia took them on a journey through the company’s history and wines, sharing her enthusiasm and knowledge.

The cellar tour is more than just a walk; it’s an immersive way to understand how climate, altitude, and tradition shape the wines. For example, the high-altitude grapes grown in the Piana Rotaliana area produce wines with distinct mineral freshness, a feature that every wine lover will appreciate.

The tasting selection includes a good balance of sparkling, reds, and young varietals, providing a well-rounded experience that captures the diversity of the region. The pairings with local specialties elevate the tasting, giving you a taste of Trentino’s culinary heritage.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the warmth and professionalism of the guides, especially noting Nadia’s passion for her work and her detailed explanations that make the experience educational yet accessible. Emanuele describes the guide as “very welcoming” and appreciated how she explained each step of the process, making the tasting more meaningful.

Alba emphasizes that the wines were “really excellent” and appreciated the authenticity of the experience—not overly commercialized, but genuine and heartfelt. The limited group size (up to 8 participants) ensures a personalized touch, making it easy to ask questions and engage with the hosts.

Practical Details and Considerations

Price and Value

At $41 per person, including tastings, the cellar tour, and local snacks, the experience offers solid value, especially considering the high-quality wines and intimate setting. The inclusion of rare reserves like the Trento DOC Riserva adds to its appeal for serious wine lovers.

Duration and Group Size

The 1.5-hour duration is just right for a relaxed yet rundown of the winery. The small group size ensures an intimate atmosphere, making it more like visiting a friend’s cellar than a commercial tasting.

Accessibility and Logistics

The tour is wheelchair accessible and pet-friendly, which is helpful for travelers with mobility needs or those wishing to bring along furry friends. The meeting point at the Viola shop is easy to find and close to the town, with free parking available.

Considerations for Travelers

• Transportation to the meeting point is not included, so plan accordingly.
• The experience is not suitable for vegans, gluten-free, or lactose-free diets, as the offerings are vegetarian but contain animal products and gluten.
• The timing varies, so check availability and book in advance to secure your preferred slot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Trentino’s genuine production methods and taste rare high-altitude wines. It’s also ideal for history buffs who appreciate the story behind traditional cellars and family-run wineries. Those looking for a relaxed, authentic encounter rather than a commercialized tasting will find this tour rewarding.

If you’re traveling with someone who enjoys local food and wine but prefers a manageable, intimate setting, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a balanced mix of education, tasting, and scenic views without the fuss of larger tour groups.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to Viola Wine Shop in Mezzocorona.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including the cellar tour and tastings.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is accessible for people with reduced mobility.

Can pets join the tour?
Yes, pets are allowed, making it convenient for travelers bringing furry friends.

Are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or lactose-free options available?
Vegetarian options are available, but the experience does not serve vegan, gluten-free, or lactose-free foods.

What wines are included in the tasting?
You’ll taste a selection of wines including a sparkling Trento DOC Riserva, reds like Rosso Mancato and Nero Viola, and a lively young red—each with local food pairings.

Can I purchase wines after the tour?
Yes, you can buy limited-edition niche labels directly from the winery, perfect for collectors or gifts.

Is the experience family-friendly?
It’s suitable for adults and children, especially since pets are allowed, but keep in mind the tasting is for those of legal drinking age.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in Italian, though guides may accommodate English speakers if needed.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot, especially given the small group size, booking ahead is recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this wine tour at Azienda Agricola Viola offers a genuine slice of Trentino’s heritage. It combines a fascinating cellar visit with high-quality tastings, paired with local delicacies—all within a warm, family-run setting. Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or simply curious about regional traditions, this experience promises a memorable, authentic insight into Italy’s northern wine culture. It’s best for those who enjoy relaxed, personal encounters over commercialized experiences and who value the stories behind each bottle.