Exclusive Winery Tour with Tasting and Dinner in Chianti vineyard

When it comes to exploring Tuscany’s famed wine region, this exclusive winery tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines expertly guided tastings, charming villages, and a spectacular dinner among the vineyards. The whole trip is designed for those who want to avoid tourist traps and truly savor the essence of Chianti’s wines and scenery. Featuring round-trip transportation from Florence, intimate group sizes, and authentic local experiences, it promises a rewarding day for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.

What really stands out is the personalized touch — with knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and a focus on quality over quantity. A particular highlight for many is the VIP dinner among the vines, where you get to enjoy a seasonal Tuscan meal paired perfectly with Chianti wines. On the flip side, some might find the dinner a bit rushed or the bus ride a little bumpy, but for most, the value and authenticity outweigh these minor quirks. This tour suits those seeking a balanced, immersive, yet relaxed way to explore Tuscany’s wine country outside of Florence’s busy streets.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit two distinct wineries, each showcasing different styles of Chianti wines.
• Guided Tastings & Local Snacks: Learn about wine production from grape to glass while munching on regional treats.
• Charming Villages: Stop in Greve in Chianti, a picturesque medieval town with artisan shops and cozy cafes.
• Unique Dinner Setting: Enjoy a Tuscan dinner among the vineyards, paired with local wines, in an intimate setting.
• Private & Small Group: Limited to 25 participants for a more personal, engaging experience.
• Convenient Transportation: Round-trip transfers from Florence eliminate the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transport.

An In-Depth Look at the Chianti Winery Tour

Starting Point in Florence

The journey begins at Piazzale Montelungo, a central and easy-to-find meeting point. From here, you’ll board a comfortable bus that whisks you out of the city and into the rolling hills of Chianti. The ride itself, about 15 minutes, is a great chance to get excited about the day ahead, and the vehicle’s size ensures a cozy group — no more than 25 travelers — which really enhances the sense of connection and personalized service.

First Winery: An Immersive Introduction

Your first stop is a winery along the Strada Statale 222 Chiantigiana, renowned for its outstanding Chianti wines. Here, you’ll step into the cellar to learn about the complete production process, from grape budding to fermentation and aging. This aspect resonates with many reviewers who appreciate the focus on education — “both vineyards showed off wonderful wines and views of the countryside,” as one guest noted.

The tasting experience is thoughtfully paired with local Tuscan snacks, such as cured meats and olive oil, enhancing the sensory journey. The guide often shares insights into the regional wine-making practices, adding layers to your understanding and appreciation. Several reviews mention the diversity of wines sampled, highlighting that both wineries are different yet equally interesting, offering a well-rounded experience.

Exploring Greve in Chianti

Before heading to the second winery, there’s a lovely opportunity to explore Greve in Chianti. This tiny medieval village, with its artisan shops and cafes, makes for a peaceful break. Visitors often comment on its quaint charm and the chance to stretch their legs. During the short stop, you might find yourself wandering cobbled streets and soaking in the typical Tuscan atmosphere — a favorite part for many, as one reviewer said, “the stop in the village was fantastic.”

Second Winery & The Highlight: Dinner among the Vines

As the sun begins to set, the real magic happens. You’re invited to a VIP dinner at a second winery where you can dine outdoors among the grapevines. The setting is truly special, especially as you watch the sunset paint the sky in deep orange shades. The dinner features a seasonal Tuscan menu prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and is paired with Chianti wines — a highlight appreciated by guests who describe it as “an authentic sensory experience.”

While some reviews mention that the dinner can feel rushed or chaotic — with multiple glasses on the table and courses served quickly — the overall consensus is that the view, food, and wine make up for it. Most guests value the chance to enjoy such a unique setting, making it more than just a meal, but an experience to remember.

Return to Florence

After a leisurely evening, you’ll hop back onto the bus for the short drive back to Florence. The journey, about 15 minutes, is the perfect time to reflect on the day’s highlights — stunning landscapes, informative tastings, and a memorable dinner. Guests often leave with a sense of relaxed satisfaction and plenty of new wine knowledge.

Practical Details & What You Can Expect

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 3:00 pm — ideal for a relaxed afternoon trip from Florence. The small group size ensures personalized interaction, while the inclusion of round-trip transportation means no worries about navigating or parking. The price, around $113.84 per person, offers excellent value for a full day of wine tasting, village exploring, and a gourmet dinner.

The tour is accessible for most travelers; service animals are allowed, and vegetarian or vegan menus are available if requested. For families, children are offered soft drinks during tastings, making it suitable for a range of ages. The only potential consideration is the weather — if it’s rainy, the dinner will move inside, and the outdoor experience may be less scenic.

Guides and Reviews

Guests consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. Names like Lucy and Gennora come up as engaging, humorous, and informative, which significantly enhances the overall experience. Their ability to share insights into wine production, local culture, and the scenery makes each stop more meaningful.

Value & Authenticity

While the tour’s cost might seem high at first glance, many reviewers emphasize the quality of the experience — from the carefully curated tastings to the picturesque dinner setting. Compared to other options, this tour tends to focus on authentic, intimate encounters rather than crowded, commercialized visits.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers wanting to deepen their appreciation while soaking in Tuscan scenery. It suits those seeking a relaxed, small-group atmosphere where they can ask questions, learn, and genuinely enjoy good wine and food. It also appeals to travelers who appreciate beautiful landscapes and cultural stops in charming villages.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely or gourmet-focused tour, or if rushing through meals isn’t your style, you might want to consider your pacing expectations. The emphasis on authentic, farm-to-table dining and educational tastings makes it perfect for curious travelers eager to explore Tuscany’s genuine flavors.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Florence is included, making it easy and hassle-free to enjoy the day without worrying about driving.

Can I expect to learn about wine production?
Absolutely. One winery features a cellar tour where guides explain the entire process, from grape harvest to aging, enriching your tasting experience.

What’s the dress code?
Smart casual is perfectly fine. Just be prepared for some walking around the villages and winery grounds.

Is the dinner outdoors?
Yes, unless weather conditions require moving inside, in which case it will be held in the winery’s indoor space.

Can I ship wine home?
Yes, the tour offers arrangements to ship wine, helping you avoid language barriers and ensuring your bottles arrive safely.

Is this suitable for kids?
Children are welcome and will be offered soft drinks during tastings. The focus on wine tastings is for adults, but the scenic drive and village stop can be enjoyable for the whole family.

Final Thoughts

This exclusive winery tour in Chianti offers a well-balanced mix of education, scenery, and authentic local flavors. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and picturesque vineyard dinner make it stand out among wine tours in Tuscany. It’s a particularly good choice for travelers who want more than just tasting — they want to learn, savor, and experience the real Chianti countryside.

While the dinner might feel a little rushed to some, the overall value, breathtaking views, and intimate atmosphere tend to leave guests with a genuine sense of connection to the region. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a deeper connection to Italy’s wine culture, this tour provides a memorable, rewarding day out of Florence.

In short, if you’re after an authentic, small-group experience that combines wine, scenery, and a touch of Tuscan elegance, this tour is a highly recommended choice. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy quality without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

Enjoy your trip, and cheers to a fantastic day in Chianti!