Langhe e Monferrato: Tour & Wine tasting of Agliano Wines

Discover Piedmont’s Hidden Gem: A Tour & Wine Tasting of Agliano Wines

If you’re exploring Italy’s Piedmont region, a visit to the quieter, less commercialized Agliano Terme offers a delightful way to experience authentic local wines. This guided tour, run by Azienda Agricola Filippa, combines a walk through a family-run winery with tastings of some of the best wines the area has to offer—think Barbera d’Asti DOCG Superiore, Chardonnay, and Rosé—paired with regional cured meats and cheeses.

What really shines here is the passion of the guides — Matteo and Alfredo, who bring their deep love for winemaking to life. Plus, the comprehensiveness of the tour, which takes you from the fermentation cellar to the aging barrels, offers genuine insight into the winemaking process. On the downside, the 1.5-hour duration is relatively short, so if you’re a serious wine enthusiast, you might want to look for more extensive experiences nearby. This tour suits those who appreciate authentic, small-batch wineries and are eager to learn about wine production in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Family-Run Experience: Small group size (maximum 10 people) means personalized attention and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
• Educational & Tasty: Guided tour covers every stage of winemaking, ending with tastings of 5 wines paired with local snacks.
• Regionally Focused: Located in the heart of Piedmont, specifically in Agliano Terme, known for its Barbera d’Asti.
• Value for Money: At only $29, this experience provides a lot of insight and flavor for the price.
• Accessible & Flexible: The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
• Excellent Guides: Reviewers praise Matteo and Alfredo’s knowledge, passion, and friendly approach, making this a memorable and informative outing.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The tour starts in the rustic courtyard of Azienda Agricola Filippa, a charming red-brick farmhouse that instantly feels authentic. As you arrive, you’re greeted warmly—expect a small, intimate atmosphere that sets the tone for a relaxed, engaging experience. Matteo and Alfredo are eager to share their family’s passion for winemaking, making it clear they love what they do.

Visiting the fermentation cellar is the first highlight. Here, you see how freshly harvested grapes are transformed into wine through fermentation—a fascinating process that many casual wine lovers don’t usually get to witness firsthand. The guides explain each step in simple, engaging language, demystifying the science behind winemaking while keeping it accessible.

Next, the journey continues to the bottling and packaging room. This part offers a behind-the-scenes look at the machinery used to bottle, label, and prepare wines for shipment. It’s a rare opportunity to see the tech side of wine production, adding a layer of appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.

Following this, the tour moves below ground to the barrique cellar, where aging takes place in oak barrels. Here, you learn about how oak influences flavor and why aging is crucial for certain wines. The underground setting, with barrels lining the walls, creates an atmospheric backdrop for tasting.

The final tasting is held in the historic cellar, where you sample five wines: Piedmont DOC Cortese, Chardonnay, Rosé Armonia Rosa, Barbera d’Asti DOCG, and Barbera d’Asti DOCG Superiore. The latter, a flagship wine, is often highlighted by guests as a personal favorite. The tasting is accompanied by a carefully curated platter of local cured meats and cheeses, adding a savory complement to the wines.

Authentic Wines and Local Flavors

We loved the diversity of the wines offered. The Barbera d’Asti DOCG is renowned for its richness and balanced acidity, perfect for pairing with the local charcuterie. The Chardonnay offers a crisp contrast, while the Rosé is light and refreshing—ideal for warm days. Guests consistently mention the quality of the wines, with one reviewer noting that the tasting was “fantastic” and expressing particular appreciation for Matteo’s knowledge.

The tasting experience is designed not just to showcase the wines but to help guests understand their unique qualities and what makes Piedmont wines so special. The pairing of local cured meats and cheeses underscores the region’s culinary heritage, making this more than just a wine tasting—it’s a small taste of Piedmontese culture.

Practical Details and How It Adds Value

At just $29 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering the depth of insight and personal attention. Compared to larger, more commercial wine experiences, this is more intimate, allowing for questions and interaction. The small group size implies you can ask detailed questions about the wines, aging process, or even the family’s history.

The tour lasts around 1.5 hours, which is perfect for a quick yet comprehensive introduction to the winery. Tours are available at various times (check availability) to fit into your schedule, and the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.

Booking is flexible—reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before. This flexibility is especially useful if your travel plans change unexpectedly.

The Guides: Passionate and Knowledgeable

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and enthusiasm. Matteo and Alfredo are praised for their passionate storytelling and ability to make complex winemaking processes accessible. One reviewer called the guides “a small, family-run business with a lot of passion,” which is exactly the vibe you get from their warm approach and genuine pride in their work.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to go beyond just tasting wines and learn about their origins. It’s excellent for those interested in small-scale, family-run wineries, and for anyone who appreciates a relaxed, authentic atmosphere. It’s also a good choice for wine newbies who want a comprehensive yet straightforward introduction to Piedmont’s famous wines.

The Sum Up

This tour of Azienda Agricola Filippa in Agliano offers a genuine glimpse into Piedmont’s winemaking traditions. For just $29, you receive a friendly, informative experience with tastings of five wines and local delicacies—an unbeatable combo of value and authenticity. The guides’ passion and the intimate setting make it a memorable way to connect with the region’s viticultural culture.

While the tour’s length is short, it packs a punch with its detailed explanation of each step in the process and the chance to taste some of Piedmont’s most celebrated wines. If you’re looking for a relaxed, small-group experience that balances education, flavor, and local charm, this is a fantastic choice.

This experience is especially suitable for curious travelers eager to understand the art of winemaking and enjoy regional flavors without the crowds or commercial feel of larger wineries. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts at all levels who want depth without complexity, and for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their Piedmont journey.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable yet insightful experience without taking up your whole day.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll taste five wines: Piedmont DOC Cortese, Piedmont DOC Chardonnay, Rosé Armonia Rosa, Barbera d'Asti DOCG, and Barbera d'Asti DOCG Superiore.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible and limited to small groups (max 10), ensuring a comfortable experience for most guests.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel schedule.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, giving you flexibility while securing your place.

Will I learn about the winemaking process?
Absolutely. The guided tour takes you through fermentation, bottling, and aging, providing valuable insights into how the wines are made.

Is this experience authentic?
Yes, it’s run by a family-owned winery, and reviewers consistently praise the guides’ passion and knowledge.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is recommended, especially if you want to explore the cellar and barrels closely.