Tenuta San Lorenzo: Wine & Food Tasting Experience

If you’re seeking a genuine taste of Piedmont’s wine culture, Tenuta San Lorenzo offers a delightful experience that combines wine education, local flavors, and stunning vineyard views. This two-hour tasting tour, priced at around $57 per person, is suitable for those who want to explore Italy’s rich wine traditions in an authentic, family-run setting.

What makes this experience particularly attractive is the chance to sample local and indigenous wines with expert guidance from a WSET-certified sommelier, all set against the scenic backdrop of the estate’s vineyards. While the price is reasonable, it’s worth noting that the experience is quite intimate, and booking in advance is recommended, especially for larger groups.

One possible consideration is that the tasting room isn’t accessible for guests with reduced mobility due to architectural limits. However, the overall value and the personal attention from hosts make this a memorable and enriching outing. This tour suits wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and travelers who enjoy immersive experiences where they can learn and taste in one go.

Key Points

• Authentic family-run winery offering a personal touch
• Expert guidance from a WSET-certified sommelier
• Local and indigenous Piedmont wines to discover
• Beautiful vineyard views from the panoramic tasting room
• Includes wine and food pairing with local cured meats and cheeses
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

An In-Depth Look at the Tenuta San Lorenzo Experience

Location and Accessibility

Located just a few kilometers from the towns of Novi Ligure, Gavi, and Serravalle Scrivia, Tenuta San Lorenzo is easily accessible for travelers staying in or passing through Piedmont. Its proximity makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the region’s wine and culinary scene, especially if you’re based near Alessandria or Alba.

First Impressions: The Winery and Its Setting

From the moment you arrive, the charm of this family-run estate shines through. The tasting room is perched with large windows overlooking the vineyards, offering a panoramic view that makes every sip of wine feel more special. The estate boasts a welcoming atmosphere, with hosts who are eager to share their passion for wine and local traditions.

The Guided Tour: Learning About the Estate’s Heritage

The experience begins with a guided tour that lasts approximately 45 minutes. Here, you’ll get a chance to hear about the estate’s history, which dates back to its long-standing tradition of winemaking since 1966. The host, likely an enthusiastic family member, will walk you through the winery’s production process, offering insights into both white and red wine techniques.

Expect to learn about the Cortese grapes used for the estate’s Gavi DOCG and Spumante Brut, vinified with the Martinotti method. The guide’s passion for their craft makes even the most technical details accessible, turning wine talk into an engaging chat rather than a lecture.

The Tasting Itself: Discovering Three Unique Wines

The highlight is, of course, the tasting of three distinct wines, each paired thoughtfully with local snacks. The lineup typically includes:

• Spumante Brut “Tenuta San Lorenzo”: A sparkling wine made with Cortese grapes using the Martinotti method. This bubbly offers crisp, refreshing notes perfect as an aperitif.
• Gavi DOCG: The estate’s flagship white wine, vinified from Cortese di Gavi grapes, known for its delicate aromas and clean acidity.
• Red Wine of Your Choice: Either a Piemonte DOC Barbera or Monferrato DOC Dolcetto, giving you the chance to compare two of Piedmont’s beloved reds.

The tasting room’s setting enhances this experience. Weather permitting, you’ll have the option to enjoy the wines on the terrace overlooking the vineyards, which truly amplifies the connection between the land and the wine.

Food Pairing: Local Flavors in Every Glass

Each wine is paired with local cured meats, cheeses, and breadsticks, elevating the tasting to a full sensory experience. The pairing highlights Piedmont’s culinary heritage, with the flavors of the region shining through in each bite. According to reviewers, the delicious food complements the wines perfectly, making each sip even more enjoyable.

Authenticity and Expertise

Guests consistently mention the warm hospitality and expert guidance. Reviewer Giulia praised the hosts as “estremamente ospitali, preparati e cortesi,” emphasizing the genuine care and professionalism. Tobias simply said, “Good wine,” but the overall tone suggests that the quality of the wines and the experience exceeds expectations for the price point.

Purchasing Wines and Additional Options

For those wishing to take a taste of Piedmont home, wines can be purchased directly from the estate. They also offer the option of home delivery, making it easy to keep the experience going long after your visit.

Practical Details and Tips for Visitors

Tour Duration and Scheduling

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with multiple starting times available—be sure to check for current availability. This flexible timing makes it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing or other regional activities.

Group Size and Accessibility

The experience is geared towards private groups, with a maximum of 10 people for a more personalized touch. Larger groups must book three days in advance. Note that due to the estate’s architecture, the tasting room is not accessible for guests with reduced mobility, so contact the team beforehand if needed.

Costs and Value

At $56.94 per person, this experience offers excellent value, especially considering the expert guidance, the quality of wines, and food pairing. It’s a well-rounded introduction to Piedmont wines, ideal for travelers who want more than just a tastings-only visit—learning about the wines’ origins and production adds depth.

Cancellation & Booking Flexibility

Reservations can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours beforehand, providing peace of mind for spontaneous travel plans. You can also reserve now and pay later, which is handy when planning a flexible itinerary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tasting experience is perfect for wine lovers seeking an authentic, educational, and visually stunning experience. It suits those who enjoy pairing wine with regional foods and appreciate a personal touch from passionate hosts. It’s also ideal for travelers wanting a deeper understanding of Piedmont’s indigenous grapes, especially Cortese, Barbera, and Dolcetto.

However, it’s less suitable for those with mobility challenges or families traveling with children under 18, as the estate and tasting room are not fully accessible, and the experience is tailored to adults interested in wine and food.

Final Thoughts

Tenuta San Lorenzo’s wine and food tasting offers an inviting glimpse into Piedmont’s winemaking traditions. The combination of beautiful vineyard views, expert guidance, and delicious local pairings makes for a well-rounded experience that appeals to both novices and seasoned wine enthusiasts alike.

While the visit is concise, the quality of the wines and the warmth of the hosts create a memorable impression of Piedmont’s rich wine heritage. The inclusion of a guided tour, tasting of three different wines, and pairing with local delicacies ensures you walk away with both knowledge and a satisfied palate.

This experience is particularly valuable for those wanting an intimate, educational, and flavorful introduction to Piedmont’s wines without the crowds or high prices of larger wineries. It’s the kind of outing that enriches your trip, adds a personal touch to your Italian adventure, and leaves you with some wines to cherish at home.

FAQ

What wines will I taste during the tour?
You’ll sample a sparkling Spumante Brut made with Cortese grapes, a Gavi DOCG white wine, and a red wine of your choice between Piemonte DOC Barbera or Monferrato DOC Dolcetto.

Is the tasting room accessible for guests with reduced mobility?
No, due to architectural limits, the tasting room isn’t accessible for guests with reduced mobility. Contact the estate in advance if needed for alternative arrangements.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, including the guided tour and tasting.

Can I purchase wines to take home?
Yes, wines can be bought directly from the estate, with the option for home delivery.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the experience is designed for adults, and children under 18 are not permitted.

What is the price, and is it worth it?
At about $57, the experience offers good value considering the expert guidance, quality wines, and regional food pairing. It’s a well-rounded introduction to Piedmont wines.

How many people can join the tour?
Private groups are preferred, with a maximum of 10 participants. Larger groups must be booked three days in advance.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are advisable since there is a vineyard tour involved. If the weather is nice, outdoor seating on the terrace is a lovely option.

In summary, Tenuta San Lorenzo provides an engaging, authentic taste of Piedmont’s wine culture, perfect for travelers wanting a personal, educational experience with beautiful views, excellent wines, and delicious local foods. It’s a wonderful choice for those who value quality over quantity and enjoy learning about regional traditions in a friendly, family-run setting.