From Florence: Small-Group Tuscany Wine & Oil Tour with typical Tuscan Meal

This 7-hour guided experience offers a taste of Tuscany’s legendary wines, flavorful olive oils, and stunning scenery, all while exploring the picturesque Chianti region. The tour combines visits to two wineries, an olive oil mill, and a charming cooking school, topped off with a hearty Tuscan meal.

What really makes this tour stand out is its small-group setting—max 8 people—which ensures a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. We’re fans of how easy it is to ask questions, get personalized attention, and truly soak in the region’s ambiance.

One potential consideration? The tour involves multiple stops, so if you’re sensitive to long drives or busy days, it’s worth noting the pace can be quite full. Still, if you’re eager to experience Tuscany’s culinary and viticultural traditions firsthand, this adventure is a fantastic choice for those wanting both education and indulgence in a manageable day.

This tour is ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and travelers craving an authentic, behind-the-scenes glimpse into Tuscany’s local products. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples looking for a personalized experience beyond the typical tourist trail.

Key Points

• Authentic Tastings: Sample up to six Chianti wines, including Chianti Classico, plus premium olive oils.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Francesca and Cristina make the experience engaging and informative.
• Scenic Drives: Journey through rolling vineyards and iconic Tuscan landscapes, with plenty of photo-worthy stops.
• Delicious Food: Enjoy a traditional three-course Tuscan meal at a local cooking school, with drinks included.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hassle-free round-trip transportation from Florence in a comfortable Mercedes minibus.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, which allows for a more personalized, relaxed experience.

What to Expect on the Tour

This experience begins with a convenient pickup in central Florence, where your driver and guide will collect you around 9:30 am. The first thing you’ll notice is the transformation in scenery—the city streets give way to vineyards, olive groves, and cypress-lined roads that seem straight out of a postcard. The drive takes about an hour, giving you some time to settle in and get excited about what’s ahead.

Visiting Two Wineries and an Olive Oil Mill

Your first stop is the Malenchini Wine Estate, where you’ll explore the cellar and learn about the production of Chianti wines. Guides here, like Cristina, are well-versed in regional wine styles, explaining how the Canaiolo and Sangiovese grapes are cultivated and what makes Chianti Classico unique. You’ll taste several wines, savoring the differences in aroma and flavor. Reviewers mention that tasting up to six wines at each cellar allows for a good comparison—many say the wines are of excellent quality and representative of the region.

Next, the group visits Diadema Wine & EVO, a boutique winery offering another in-depth look at wine production. Here, you’ll also sample top-quality Tuscan olive oils. The guided visits often include a peek into the wine cellars, with some reviewers noting the hosts are friendly and eager to share their knowledge. One guest describes the experience as “informative,” appreciating the variety of wines and oils tasted.

Exploring the Chianti Landscape

After the winery visits, you’ll take a scenic drive to Greve in Chianti, a charming town that’s often called the gateway to the Chianti region. The journey itself is part of the charm, offering picturesque views of vineyards, castles, and vineyards. One reviewer highlights the visit as “a stunning natural landscape where vineyards, villas, and castles take center stage,” adding that the scenery looks like something from a movie.

In Greve, you’ll have about 50 minutes to explore independently. This is enough time to stroll the town’s quaint streets, admire the medieval architecture, or browse local shops. Reviewers love the chance to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Tuscan Cooking School and Lunch

The final highlight is a visit to Diadema Cooking School for a traditional Tuscan meal. The focus here is on authentic flavors—think fresh pasta, local meats, and cheeses. As you sit down to enjoy a three-course meal, you’ll taste more wines, carefully selected to complement each dish. One guest describes the lunch as “delicious,” and appreciates that drinks are included with the meal, making it feel like a true indulgence.

The meal is more than just food; it’s an experience in itself. Many reviewers mention the guide’s expertise and friendly demeanor as key to making the meal special. Francesca, one of the guides, is praised for her knowledge and personable approach, making everyone feel like they’re dining with old friends.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Stop 1: Malenchini Wine Estate

This first stop is about understanding wine craftsmanship. The guided tour of the cellar reveals traditional winemaking techniques. Tastings include regional specialties, with many reviewers noting the wines are “amazing” and “well-rounded.” The hosts are friendly, and the tasting is often accompanied by insights into the estate’s history and family traditions. It’s a great way to start your day of wine appreciation.

Stop 2: Diadema Wine & EVO

Here, the focus is on boutique wine production, with a special emphasis on olive oils. The guided visit lets you peek into the winemaking process while tasting a variety of oils and wines. Guests frequently comment on the knowledgeable hosts and the chance to try different styles, including some “top-quality oils” that pair beautifully with bread or cheese. The visit ends with a small wine shop, so you can purchase your favorites.

Stop 3: Greve in Chianti

This stop isn’t just sightseeing; it’s soaking up the classic Tuscan scenery. The highlight includes iconic castles like Vicchiomaggio and Verrazzano, which accentuate the area’s medieval charm. The free time is appreciated by travelers who want to take photos or grab a quick espresso. Reviewers mention the vistas as “spectacular,” making this a memorable part of the trip.

Stop 4: Diadema Cooking School

The finale features a hands-on cooking experience combined with a generous lunch. The dishes focus on local recipes, and the host’s friendly guidance makes it accessible even for beginners. The included wines, both during the meal and at tastings earlier in the day, elevate the experience. Reviewers love the quality of the food and the relaxed yet educational atmosphere.

Transportation & Group Size

Traveling by Mercedes minibus ensures comfort and easy conversation, and the small size of the group (up to 8 people) keeps the experience intimate. Guests consistently praise the professionalism of drivers and guides, with some mentioning that the transportation is smooth and punctual.

While the tour is designed to be hassle-free, it’s worth noting that most travelers find the schedule quite full, with a mix of structured visits and free time. The tour operates rain or shine, which means you should be prepared for variable weather but also that you won’t miss out on the scenic views or experiences.

How Good Is the Value?

At around $93.61 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. You get visits to two wineries, an olive oil mill, a scenic drive, a three-course Tuscan meal, and expert guiding—all with transportation included. Guests often mention that the quality of wines and oils, combined with the personalized service, feels like excellent value.

The small-group format enhances the experience significantly, allowing for personal interaction and a relaxed atmosphere, which many larger tours lack.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Tuscany wine and oil tour from Florence offers a well-rounded look into regional viticulture and culinary traditions, wrapped in breathtaking scenery. It’s a particularly good fit for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those seeking a more intimate, authentic experience outside the hustle of larger tour groups.

The knowledgeable guides, especially Francesca and Cristina, make the day both educational and fun, sharing insider insights that you won’t find in guidebooks. The combination of scenic drives, tasting multiple wines and oils, and a delicious Tuscan lunch makes for a treat of a day.

While the schedule can be packed and the pace lively, it’s all designed to maximize your exposure to the best of Chianti’s wines, landscapes, and food. If you want a taste of Tuscany’s culinary soul in a friendly, small-group setting, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

• What is included in the price?
  The tour includes transportation in a Mercedes minibus, guided visits to two wineries and an olive oil mill, tastings of wines and oils, a three-course Tuscan lunch with included drinks, and free WiFi on board.

• Is this tour suitable for all ages?
  Most travelers can participate, but guests under 18 will not be served alcohol. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts and those interested in culinary traditions.

• How long is the drive from Florence?
  The drive to the Chianti region takes about 1 hour, offering a scenic introduction to Tuscany’s landscapes.

• Can I buy the wines and oils I taste?
  Yes, many wineries have shops where you can purchase your favorites after tasting.

• What if it rains?
  The tour takes place rain or shine, so be prepared with appropriate clothing. The scenic views and experiences are not affected by weather.

• How many people are on each tour?
  The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 participants for a more personalized and relaxed experience.

• Is lunch included?
  Yes, a traditional Tuscan three-course meal at the cooking school is included, with wine served throughout.

This tour encapsulates the essence of Tuscany—its wines, olive oils, and scenic beauty—all in a friendly, manageable package. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in authentic flavors, it’s a delightful way to spend a day near Florence.