Amarone Wine Tour with 2 Wineries Lunch and Private Transfer

Exploring the Amarone Wine Tour in Valpolicella: A Deep Dive into Italy’s Famous Wine Region

If you’re passionate about wine or simply love experiencing authentic culinary traditions, the Amarone Wine Tour with visits to two historic wineries in Valpolicella offers an enriching taste of Italy’s renowned wine culture. This full-day adventure takes you through picturesque countryside, where you’ll learn about the meticulous process behind Italy’s signature Amarone, taste a diverse array of wines, and enjoy a hearty Italian lunch.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances expert-guided tastings with genuine local charm. Visiting family-run wineries offers an intimate look at the craftsmanship behind each bottle, and the included lunch at a local trattoria adds a warm, communal touch. That said, one potential consideration is the need for private transfers if you opt out of the transportation package — so be prepared to drive yourself if you prefer a self-guided approach.

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to understand the nuances of Valpolicella’s winemaking, as well as travelers seeking a well-rounded, authentic experience without breaking the bank. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in Italy’s famous reds, this tour delivers on both education and enjoyment.

Key Points

• Authentic Visits: Experience two family-run wineries, each with its own story and unique approach.
• Expert Tastings: Taste 10 different wines, including the celebrated Amarone, accompanied by local products.
• Beautiful Scenery: Enjoy stunning views of vineyards, hills, cherry trees, and olive groves throughout the day.
• Delicious Food: Savor a traditional 3-course Italian lunch in a charming trattoria.
• Flexible Options: Choose between guided transportation or self-driving (own car needed).
• Knowledgeable Guides: Learn about wine-making techniques, including ancient methods like fermentation in terracotta amphorae.

An In-Depth Look at the Amarone Wine Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

The day kicks off with pickup from your accommodation or meeting point in Valpolicella, setting the tone for a relaxed, personalized experience. From there, you’re whisked away on a scenic drive through the rolling hills of this legendary wine region, which alone is reason enough to book this tour — the views are genuinely breathtaking.

Stop 1: Pedemonte Winery Visit & Tasting
Your first stop is a family-run winery situated in the heart of Valpolicella. This is a wonderful way to ease into the day because it offers an intimate look at both historic and modern wine production. You’ll walk through the vineyards, see the historic cellars, and learn about the traditional methods used to craft wines here.
This visit lasts around 2 hours and includes a guided tasting of some local wines, with a focus on the production of Amarone. The guide, likely someone with a wealth of knowledge like the tour’s positive review mentions, explains the nuances of grape drying, fermentation, and aging — insights that help bring each glass to life.

Stop 2: Pescantina for a 3-Course Lunch
Next, a quick drive delivers you to a cozy local trattoria where you’ll indulge in a three-course meal featuring regional dishes. Think fresh starters, hearty pasta, and a tempting dessert, all served with water and coffee. The focus here is on authentic flavors and rustic ambiance, making you feel part of the local culinary scene.
The two-hour lunch break is the perfect way to relax and recharge, with many reviews praising the quality of the food and the warm atmosphere.

Stop 3: San Pietro in Cariano Winery Tour & Tasting
In the afternoon, you’ll visit a second, historic winery located in a country house dating back to 1917. Here, the focus shifts to the winery’s unique techniques — particularly, the drying process of grapes in dedicated rooms (used for Amarone and Recioto), and a demonstration of fermentation in terracotta amphorae, a method dating back to Roman times.
This visit also lasts about 2 hours, where you’ll see French oak barrels, taste award-winning wines, and learn about the craftsmanship involved. The guide’s enthusiasm and expertise are often highlighted in reviews, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

The Wines and Tasting Experience

The core of this tour is the guided tasting of 10 wines, including the famous Amarone, Recioto, and other regional varieties. You’ll also sample local products like cold cuts and cheeses, which complement the wines perfectly.
Guests report that the wines are of high quality, with particular admiration for the Amarone — often described as delicious, complex, and well-balanced. The tasting sessions are generally led by knowledgeable guides who make the process accessible, even for newcomers to wine appreciation.

The Value of the Tour

At $154.10 per person, the tour offers solid value considering the inclusions: two winery visits, tastings of ten wines, a full meal, and the scenic drive. The ability to learn about both traditional and innovative winemaking techniques, including Roman-era fermentation methods, adds a distinctive educational layer that sets this experience apart from more generic wine tastings.

Logistics and Practicalities

Depending on your choice of transportation, you can either enjoy a guided group transfer or opt for a self-drive option (note that this requires your own vehicle, and no transfer is included). This flexibility is handy if you’re already in the region and prefer to explore at your own pace. The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, making it a full but comfortably paced day.

While most travelers find the timing ideal, it’s worth noting that the tour is booked on average 128 days in advance — indicating how popular this experience is among wine lovers.

Authenticity and Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer, peter_s, mentions, “Wonderful tour at a good price and top planning.” He appreciated visiting both a family-run winery and a larger, more refined operation, allowing for a well-rounded perspective on winemaking in Valpolicella. His comment about learning “something new about wine-making progress” highlights the educational value of the tour.

Another praise points to the knowledgeable guides and the chance to taste amazing wines, including Amarone. The focus on local, award-winning wines and the visit to wineries with historic roots (dating back to 1917) gives a sense of authenticity that many travelers seek.

Guests also appreciate the stunning scenery and the informative explanations of production processes, especially the unique fermentation techniques like terracotta amphorae. The inclusion of a hearty Italian lunch in a cozy trattoria stands out as a highlight for many, offering a genuine taste of local cuisine.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• If you choose the self-drive option, ensure your vehicle is prepared for a day of gentle countryside driving, as the scenery is a key highlight.
• Booking in advance is highly recommended, as this tour is popular and fills quickly.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking through vineyards and cellars, and bring a jacket for cooler cellar temperatures.
• Consider bringing a small notebook or camera; both the scenery and the wine are photo-worthy.
• The tour includes tastings of 10 wines, so pace yourself to fully enjoy each sample.
• If you’re a vegetarian or have special dietary needs, check with the provider beforehand about the lunch menu.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Amarone and Valpolicella’s winemaking traditions. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate authentic, family-run wineries and want a taste of Italy’s countryside charm. Food lovers will enjoy the carefully curated Italian lunch, while those interested in historic techniques, like fermentation in terracotta amphorae, will find this particularly fascinating.

It’s a solid choice for couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers looking to deepen their appreciation for Italian wines in a relaxed, scenic setting. If your goal is to combine scenic views, cultural insights, and high-quality wine tastings, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Transportation is included only if you select the guided transfer option. If you choose the “No Transfer — Full Day Own Car” option, you’ll need to drive yourself.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including winery visits, lunch, and tastings.

Are the winery visits guided?
Yes, both winery visits are guided, offering insights into the vineyards, production processes, and wine styles.

What wines will I taste?
You will taste 10 wines, including Amarone, Recioto, and other local varieties, along with local cheeses and cold cuts.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Guides are knowledgeable and make the tasting process accessible, whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just starting out.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is private, so it can be tailored to your preferences, especially if you opt for the self-drive option.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking in vineyards and cellar environments are recommended.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a 3-course meal at a local trattoria, with water and coffee, is included in the price.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 128 days in advance, highlighting its popularity. Early booking is advised.

Final Thoughts

The Amarone Wine Tour in Valpolicella offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and wine education. The chance to visit two different historic wineries, paired with a traditional Italian lunch and tastings of ten wines, makes it a well-rounded day for anyone interested in Italy’s famed wine heritage.

The experience’s highlight is undoubtedly the opportunity to see and taste Amarone, one of Italy’s most esteemed reds, in a setting that emphasizes authenticity and craftsmanship. The knowledgeable guides, stunning countryside, and personal touches from family-run wineries mean you’ll come away with more than just a collection of wine samples — you’ll gain a genuine appreciation for Valpolicella’s winemaking soul.

For wine lovers, foodies, and curious travelers alike, this tour provides excellent value and memorable moments that will enrich your Italian adventure.

Note: Always double-check details with the provider before booking, especially if you have specific dietary restrictions or transportation preferences.