Tour of the cellar and tasting of 6 wines

An Authentic Taste of Chianti: Cantalici’s Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting

If you’re looking for a genuine experience that combines history, family passion, and outstanding local wines in Italy, the tour at Cantalici in Lucca is certainly worth considering. This relatively short, affordable excursion offers a well-balanced mix of guided insights into winemaking, a peek into historical artifacts, and the chance to taste six carefully selected wines. What makes this experience stand out is not just the quality of the wines, but the warm, family-run atmosphere that envelops you during the visit.

One of the aspects we love most is how the tour balances education with tasting. The guides, especially Vanessa, are praised for their passion and knowledge, making complex wine processes accessible and engaging. However, since the tour is about an hour long, some travelers might wish for a little more time to savor each wine or explore the surroundings at a leisurely pace. Still, this tour is ideally suited for those who appreciate authentic, small-group experiences that emphasize local traditions and family pride.

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone wanting to enjoy a taste of the Chianti region without leaving Lucca. It’s also a wonderful choice for visitors who want to combine a cultural activity with delicious food, all without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Authentic Family Atmosphere: Experience the warmth and passion of a family-run winery.
• Educational & Engaging Guides: Vanessa and other guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Historical Highlights: Discover an ancient brick kiln dating back to the 1500s.
• Quality Wine & Food Pairings: Six wines are paired with local snacks like crackers, taralli, and bruschetta.
• Value for Money: At around $35, this tour offers a well-rounded experience for wine lovers.
• Small Group Feel: With a maximum of 40 travelers, it feels personal and friendly.

Exploring the Cantalici Cellar Tour and Tasting Experience

What’s Included & What to Expect

For just over $30 per person, this experience packs a lot into its roughly 1-hour to 1.5-hour duration. You begin at the winery’s welcoming location in Castagnoli, near Lucca, where you’ll meet your guide to start the journey. The visit kicks off with a tour of the vinification cellar, where you’ll learn about the production process and the philosophy that drives Cantalici’s wines. The guides, especially Vanessa, are noted for taking their time to explain the nuances of winemaking, making it accessible even for newcomers.

Next, you’re led to the aging cellar, which isn’t just a typical wine storage area. Here, you’ll find an ancient brick kiln dating back to the early 1500s—an unexpected and fascinating highlight that connects past craftsmanship to today’s wine production. Reviewers mention that this element makes the tour feel more meaningful, as it adds a historical layer that’s seldom included in standard wine tastings.

The Tasting Experience

The highlight of the tour is the tasting of six carefully selected wines. Each glass is accompanied by local snacks—crackers, taralli (a crunchy Italian snack), and bruschetta topped with extra virgin olive oil—creating a perfect pairing experience. Reviewers describe the wines as “delicious,” noting a clear sense of passion and pride in each bottle. The guide will explain the differences between the wines, helping you understand what makes each one unique.

One reviewer appreciated that they received German-language explanations, which made the experience accessible for a broader audience, and others highlighted how the tasting is both relaxed and educational.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Cantalici Winery:
This is more than a quick visit; it’s a chance to see the family’s approach and hear their story. The guides are often praised for their passion and patience, taking the time to answer questions thoroughly. Visitors consistently mention how much they appreciated the personal touch, especially Vanessa, who clearly enjoys sharing her knowledge.

Vinification & Aging Cellars:
The tour covers the entire process, from grape to glass. You’ll see the stainless steel tanks and traditional aging barrels, and learn about how specific techniques impact flavor. The highlight is the ancient brick kiln, a relic that adds historical depth to the visit. Some reviews describe it as a “beautiful place,” emphasizing the visual appeal and sense of history.

Wine & Olive Oil Tasting:
The tasting is regarded as a genuine highlight. The six wines are not only tasty but seem thoughtfully curated to showcase the winery’s best. Reviewers mention that the wines are “truly passionate,” and the accompanying snacks elevate the experience—crackers for crunch, taralli for a savory kick, and bruschetta with extra virgin olive oil for that authentic taste of Tuscany.

Additional Touches:
Some visitors also appreciated the opportunity to taste local extra virgin olive oil and snacks, which rounds out the experience and supports local producers. The tour ends back at the start point, making it easy to continue exploring Lucca or head to your next activity.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration & Group Size:
  Expect your visit to last about 1 to 1.5 hours, with a maximum of 40 travelers, ensuring a friendly, manageable group.

• Booking & Price:
  Most travelers book about ten days in advance, suggesting it’s a popular choice. Cost-wise, at $34.73 per person, it offers good value, considering the guided tour and six wine tastings included.

• Location & Meeting Point:
  The tour starts at Via Della Croce, 17/19, in Castagnoli, close enough for day-trippers staying in Lucca to access easily.

• Accessibility & Language:
  Most travelers can participate. There is at least an option for German-language explanation, making the tour more inclusive.

• What’s Not Included:
  Lunch isn’t part of this experience, so plan to eat before or after your visit. The tour is primarily about the wine and the story behind it.

Authentic Reviews & Insights

Reviewers repeatedly mention Vanessa’s passion and how she takes her time explaining, which enhances the experience. One commented, “She was obviously very passionate about the business & winemaking,” which is evident from the way she shares the stories behind each bottle. Another added that the wines were “very good,” and the family’s dedication is clear.

The ancient kiln, a surprising discovery for many, connects visitors with the history of the region. Multiple reviews describe the place as “beautiful,” with one saying, “Very good wine and truly passionate people.” The combination of historical artifacts and modern winemaking creates a layered experience that goes beyond just tasting.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This cellar tour and tasting at Cantalici are best suited for those seeking an authentic and intimate look at Chianti-style wines, especially if you value family stories, historical touches, and local flavors. It’s an excellent choice for wine lovers, history buffs, or curious travelers who want a memorable, well-rounded experience without spending a fortune or dedicating an entire day.

The guide’s enthusiasm, the historical kiln, and the quality wines make this a genuine highlight in the Lucca area. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting your journey into wine appreciation, you’ll find value here—paired with a generous dose of Tuscan charm.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, including the guided visit and tasting.

What’s included in the price?
You get a guided tour of the cellar, tasting of six wines, plus local snacks like crackers, taralli, and bruschetta with extra virgin olive oil.

Are children allowed to join?
Most travelers can participate; the tour is family-friendly and suitable for those interested in local culture and wine.

Is the tour suitable for non-German speakers?
Yes, the tour is generally accessible, and some guides provide explanations in languages other than Italian, such as German.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 10 days ahead, as it tends to be popular.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Via Della Croce, 17/19, Castagnoli, Italy, a convenient spot near Lucca.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and a curious mind! The tour involves walking through the cellar and historical areas.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not part of this experience; plan to eat before or after the tour.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
No, this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

This tour offers a wonderful snapshot of Chianti wines, history, and family craftsmanship. It’s a perfect option if you’re visiting Lucca and want a taste of authentic Italian winemaking without the hassle of a full-day tour.