Private wine tour with sommelier – the magical Bolgheri (2 wineries)

If you’re dreaming of a day immersed in the charm of Tuscany’s wine country, this private tour through Bolgheri offers an authentic, relaxing, and educational experience. Led by Simone Vergamini, a certified sommelier crowned “Best Sommelier of Tuscany 2023,” this day promises visits to two iconic wineries, delightful tastings, and a taste of local cuisine—all in a custom, intimate setting.

One of the things we love most about this experience is how Simone’s extensive knowledge brings the region’s wines and history vividly to life. His passion makes the journey not just about tasting wine but also about understanding what makes Bolgheri such a special place. A potential consideration is that the tour lasts around 8 to 9 hours, so it’s a full day that suits travelers eager for a relaxed but enriching experience.

This tour is ideal for wine lovers who appreciate personalized attention and authentic visits, as well as those who want a deeper connection to local culture beyond just sipping wine. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious traveler, this journey offers a perfect blend of education, scenery, and flavor.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring tailored attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert Guidance: Simone’s credentials and passion enhance every aspect, from vineyard walks to tastings.
• Authentic Visits: Stops at two renowned wineries showcase the diversity and quality of Bolgheri wines.
• Cultural Flavor: A visit to Bolgheri village, with a chance to enjoy lunch in a top wine shop, adds local character.
• All-Inclusive Value: The tour covers transport, bottled water, wine tastings, and snacks, delivering great value.
• Flexible & Private: Pickup and drop-off included, with options for group discounts, making it convenient and customizable.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting at Chiappini Winery

Your day kicks off with a visit to Chiappini Winery, a place that embodies the essence of Bolgheri’s wine craftsmanship. You’ll spend about an hour and a half exploring the vineyards, walking through the cellar, and ultimately tasting their wines. Guests consistently praise the “amazing wines” and the knowledgeable guidance provided by the staff. One reviewer noted how Simone’s storytelling brought the vineyards to life, sharing insights into the terroir that influences Chiappini’s styles.

The wine tasting here is designed not just for sipping but for understanding the nuances that make each bottle special. Whether it’s the aroma, the aging process, or the winemaker’s philosophy, Simone’s explanations make the experience engaging and educational.

Visiting Tenuta Grattamacco

Next, the group heads to Tenuta Grattamacco, a winery renowned for its quality and innovation. Like the first stop, you’ll spend about an hour and a half touring the vineyards and wine cellar. The wines produced here often receive high praise for their balance and depth, which you’ll get to appreciate during tastings paired with local snacks.

Reviewers mention the delicious wines and the friendly staff, with one noting how touching the vineyards and visiting the cellars offered a tangible sense of the craft behind each bottle. The guide’s insights into the wine-making process help distinguish this experience from a simple tasting—it’s about understanding the passion and effort poured into each vintage.

Lunch in Bolgheri Village

A highlight of the tour is the two-hour stop in Bolgheri, where you’ll enjoy lunch in a top wine shop, often the Tognoni wine shop, recommended by Simone. Here, you get to sample local products like extra virgin olive oil, cheese, and salami, paired with a selection of wines.

Many reviews remark on how the lunch elevates the experience—“lunch in Bolgheri was top quality,” one reviewer notes—adding a delicious, relaxed break in a picturesque setting. You can also choose your preferred restaurant if you wish, but the wine shop lunch offers a cozy, authentic atmosphere that pairs well with the wines tasted earlier.

Transport, Timing, and Comfort

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, making the long day comfortable regardless of the weather. Pickup is offered, which simplifies logistics, especially for travelers staying in Lucca or nearby. The tour starts at 9:30 am, giving you a full day to explore without feeling rushed.

Despite the relatively high price point ($347.05 per person), the inclusion of visits to two major wineries, expert guidance, tastings, snacks, and transport makes this a solid value—especially considering the intimate, private nature of the experience. It’s clear from reviews that Simone’s enthusiasm and detailed explanations elevate the visit, making it more than just a standard wine tour.

Flexibility & Booking

This is a private tour, so only your group participates, giving you the chance to ask questions, customize the pace, and enjoy a more personal experience. The tour can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility for travelers’ plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting to deepen their knowledge of Tuscan and Bolgheri wines, as well as those seeking an authentic cultural experience. It suits travelers who enjoy personalized tours with a knowledgeable guide, and who appreciate the beauty of small villages and local food.

It’s also a good fit for couples, friends, or small groups looking for a day of relaxed exploration combined with high-quality tastings. If you’re someone who values storytelling and education alongside tasting, this tour will hit the mark.

Final Thoughts

This private Bolgheri wine tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience. Led by a passionate, highly qualified guide, you’ll visit two top wineries, learn about the region’s winemaking traditions, and enjoy a delicious lunch in a charming village setting.

The combination of expert narration, beautiful vineyard views, and exceptional wines makes this a memorable day out. The tour’s intimate size and flexibility mean you’ll get personalized attention, making it especially appealing for those who want to go beyond a generic tasting.

While the price is on the higher side, the value lies in the depth of experience, quality of visits, and the ease of logistics. If you’re after a genuine, educational, and delicious taste of Bolgheri, this tour is an excellent choice.

FAQ

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a fully private tour, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized, relaxed experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, wine tastings at both wineries, and snacks such as extra virgin olive oil, bread, cheese, and salami.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included in the tour price but is offered during the stop in Bolgheri. You can opt for the pre-booked wine shop lunch or choose your own restaurant if preferred.

What wineries will be visited?
The tour typically visits Chiappini and Grattamacco, or alternatively Tenuta di Vaira and Le Novelire, both highly regarded for their quality.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 9:30 am.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is designed for those who enjoy wine, culture, and scenic views, and can handle a full day of sightseeing.

This tour offers a fantastic opportunity to discover Bolgheri’s finest wines in a relaxed, educational setting, all while soaking in the charm of Tuscany’s countryside. If you value expertly guided tastings, authentic local experiences, and the chance to explore renowned wineries without the hassle of planning, this experience deserves a spot on your itinerary.