Lucca – Wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli

Exploring the Lucca – Wine Tasting at Tenuta Mareli: A Authentic Taste of Tuscany

If you’re searching for an authentic, intimate wine experience in Tuscany, the Lucca wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli offers just that. With a rating of 5.0 based on nine reviews, this tour provides a close-up look at organic and biodynamic wine production on the scenic hills near Lucca. It combines hands-on vineyard insights, a personal tour of the cellar, and generous tastings of wines, oils, and honeys—all in a charming setting.

What we really love about this experience is the chance to connect directly with Francesca, the passionate host who shares her family’s story and philosophies on natural winemaking. The tasting under the pergola, paired with traditional Tuscan fare, feels relaxed and genuine.

One possible consideration is the duration—while generally lasting more than two hours, the tour can extend depending on the size of your group. If you’re tight on time, it’s worth confirming the schedule beforehand.

This experience appeals most to those eager for authentic, educational, and delicious tastings, especially if you’re interested in the natural and biodynamic approach to wine and food.

Key Points

• Authentic Tuscan Setting: Located on the rolling hills near Lucca, the vineyard offers stunning views and a rustic charm.
• Personalized Experience: A private tour with Francesca, providing tailored insights and a friendly atmosphere.
• Educational Focus: Learn about natural wine production, biodynamic farming, and traditional methods directly from the host.
• Tasting & Food Pairings: Enjoy four different wines along with local cheeses, olive oil, and honey under a lovely pergola.
• Hands-On Involvement: Depending on the season, visitors might see harvesting, foot pressing, or bottling—activities still done manually.
• Excellent Value: Priced at around $34.39 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Tuscan rural life.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary: From Vine to Glass

The tour begins with a gentle drive up to the farm nestled on the Camaiore hills, offering travelers a chance to appreciate Tuscany’s natural beauty even before stepping into the vineyard. Once there, you’ll be guided through the cellar and warehouse, where Francesca explains the harvesting and winemaking processes. Visitors often appreciate how transparent and approachable she is, sharing insights about biodynamic and organic practices that emphasize sustainability and natural methods.

For many, the highlight is the visit to the vineyard itself, where you can see the rows of grapevines and, if visiting during the right season, witness harvest activities like hand-picking grapes or foot pressing—things that are still done manually here, adding a sense of authenticity and tradition.

Tasting Under the Pergola

After the tour of the production areas, guests settle under a shaded pergola to enjoy the tasting. Here, Francesca sits with guests, enthusiastically explaining the organoleptic features of each wine—notes, textures, and pairing suggestions. The wines are all organic or biodynamic, which means you’re sampling products made with care and respect for the environment.

The tasting includes four wines, complemented by local cheeses and croutons, which help highlight the flavors. The pairing enhances the tasting experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the nuances of each wine. The oils and honeys—such as acacia, chestnut, millefiori, and pollen honey—are served alongside, adding layers of depth and local flavor.

Why Reviewers Are Enthusiastic

Edwin, one reviewer, loved how Francesca’s passion made the experience special. He mentions, “We learned so much that we simply didn’t know even about the honey business,” highlighting the educational aspect. Betsy, meanwhile, describes the experience as a “once in a lifetime” moment, emphasizing the delicious wine and memorable food in a lovely setting. Juan was particularly impressed by Francesca’s attentiveness, noting that she explained the winemaking process clearly and served traditional Tuscan dishes to complement their tastings.

The Value of the Experience

At around $34.39 per person, this is a fantastically priced introduction to Tuscan wine. Considering the personalized attention, the opportunity to see traditional manual manufacturing processes, and the chance to taste multiple local products, many might find this to be excellent value. It’s not just about tasting wine—it’s about understanding the care and passion behind each bottle, which makes the experience richer.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Duration & Group Size

Most tours last roughly 1.5 to more than two hours, depending on the size of the group and the season. The tour is private, so your group will be the only participants, allowing for more personalized interaction. Smaller groups tend to extend the experience as there’s more time for questions and discussions.

Meeting Point & Accessibility

The meeting point is at SP1, 5, 55041 Montemagno LU, Italy. The activity is near public transportation, making it accessible for those staying in the Lucca or Versilia area. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, although those under 18 won’t be served alcohol.

Booking & Cancellation

You can book this experience on Viator, typically 22 days in advance, and the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. This flexibility makes it easier to plan your Tuscany itinerary without stress.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you’re looking for an authentic, educational, and delicious wine experience surrounded by Tuscan scenery, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially recommended for wine enthusiasts and food lovers who appreciate hands-on visits and learning about natural farming and winemaking.

The opportunity to taste excellent wines paired with local cheeses and honey, along with the chance to witness manual production processes, makes this stand out from more commercial wine tastings. Francesca’s genuine passion and personable approach turn this into a memorable cultural experience rather than just another tasting.

While it’s not a large-scale winery tour with extensive transportation logistics, it offers depth and authenticity that many travelers crave when exploring Tuscany’s lesser-known gems. The flexible schedule and private setting also mean you get a personalized experience that feels like visiting a friend’s farm.

Who Should Book This Tour

This experience is perfect for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who want a genuine taste of Tuscan farm life and wines. It’s ideal for those interested in biodynamic and organic practices, as well as travelers eager to learn about traditional winemaking methods firsthand.

If you’re a foodie who loves pairing wines with local products or someone who appreciates scenic views combined with educational storytelling, this tour will be a highlight of your trip to the Versilia area.

However, if you prefer large, structured tours with quick stops, or are seeking a more commercialized wine tasting, this might feel a bit intimate for your taste. But for anyone wanting an authentic, heartfelt experience, it hits all the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers of all ages can participate, children under 18 aren’t served alcohol. They can enjoy the vineyard and the scenery, making it a family-friendly experience in that regard.

How long is the tour?
Typically, expect it to last between 1.5 and more than two hours, depending on group size and the season’s activities.

Can I see the manufacturing process?
Yes, depending on the period of your visit, you may witness activities like harvest, foot pressing, vinification, bottling, or labeling—most of which are still done manually.

What is included in the tasting?
You’ll taste four organic/biodynamic wines, accompanied by croutons, local cheeses, and a selection of honey and olive oils.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusive to your group, offering a more personalized and relaxed setting.

What’s the price?
It costs around $34.39 per person, offering a good balance between cost and the depth of experience.

What is the location?
The tour starts at Montemagno LU, in the Versilia region, near Lucca, Italy.

Are transportation options available?
The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility in your planning.

Is the experience suitable for non-drinkers?
While alcohol isn’t served to underage participants, non-drinkers can still enjoy the vineyard, food pairings, and the scenic setting.

Final Thoughts

The Lucca wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli offers more than just a sip of wine; it provides a genuine glimpse into Tuscany’s sustainable farming and artisanal traditions. With an affordable price, a warm and knowledgeable host, and delicious local pairings, it’s designed for travelers eager to connect with the land and its flavors.

Perfect for those who want a relaxed, educational, and immersive experience, this tour makes for a memorable addition to any Tuscan itinerary. Whether you’re a wine novice or an experienced connoisseur, the passion evident here is contagious, and the tasting under the pergola—paired with stories of family, tradition, and love—will stay with you long after your trip ends.

If you’re visiting the Versilia or Lucca area and crave an authentic, hands-on taste of Tuscany, this experience is a clear standout, offering great value and heartfelt hospitality.