Wine tasting in Lucca “at home” with expert sommelier – 5 wines

Looking for a unique way to savor Tuscany’s local wines without leaving Lucca? This wine tasting experience led by Simone Vergamini, named Best Sommelier of Tuscany 2023, offers an intimate, expert-led journey through five carefully selected wines. Whether you’re staying in the city or nearby hills, this private session brings the vineyard to your doorstep, paired with delicious local snacks.

What makes this experience truly stand out is Simone’s impressive credentials and personal touch. He takes care of everything—from setting the table to pouring each glass—making it a relaxed and engaging way to deepen your understanding of Tuscan wines. But it’s not just about tasting; it’s about learning the stories behind the wines and the small producers who craft them.

The only thing to consider is that this experience is best suited for those who appreciate relaxed, educational wine sessions in a cozy setting. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a memorable, authentic taste of Tuscany’s wine culture without the crowds or tourist traps.

If you love discovering wines with a knowledgeable guide and enjoy pairing them with local produce, this at-home tasting is a fantastic choice. Just keep in mind that the experience requires some planning—booking about two months in advance—so it’s perfect for those who want a well-organized, premium experience.

Key Points

• Expert-led experience: Simone Vergamini, a highly acclaimed sommelier, guides every aspect of the tasting.
• Location flexibility: Tasting can be hosted at your home, hotel, or in Lucca’s surrounding hills.
• Focus on local and organic: Wines come from small, mainly organic producers, emphasizing authenticity.
• Included tasting essentials: Bread, cheese, and local oil complement the wines perfectly.
• Personalized and private: Only your group participates, with full attention from the host.
• Uncorked bottles: Bottles are left uncorked at the end so you can enjoy them during your holiday.

A Closer Look at the Experience in Lucca

When it comes to wine tastings in Tuscany, many focus on visiting vineyards or large wineries. This experience flips that script by bringing the wine to you, in a warm, private setting. It’s a tailored, boutique approach that allows for an up-close look at the wines and the stories behind them.

Booking and Availability

Most travelers book about 55 days in advance, which shows how popular and well-regarded this experience is. With a price of $77.14 per person for a session just under 90 minutes, it’s surprisingly affordable considering the level of expertise, personalized service, and quality of wines provided.

Meeting Point and Flexibility

The starting point is centrally located at Corso Garibaldi in Lucca, but the real perk is that the tasting can be arranged at your residence or hotel. Simone’s flexibility means you don’t have to worry about transportation or additional logistics—he personally handles setting up the tasting, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The core of this experience involves an introduction to wine tasting, covering fundamental aspects like aroma, taste, and structure, tailored for both beginners and aficionados. Simone then shares insights into the history of the territory and local wineries, adding context that enhances your appreciation.

Following the intro, you’ll sample five wines—each paired with a selection of bread, cheese, and oil sourced from local producers. These wines are selected from small, mainly organic producers who are passionate about their craft, which adds a layer of authenticity hard to find in mass-produced wines.

The Wines and Food Pairings

Guests consistently praise the delicious and unique wines Simone offers. Many reviews mention that the wines are “delicious,” “unique,” and “perfectly paired” with the snacks provided. The inclusion of bread, cheese, and oil from local production elevates the tasting, offering a real taste of Tuscany’s culinary heritage.

Simone’s approach is educational but relaxed—he guides you through the differences in taste profiles, helping you identify what makes each wine special. Guests also appreciate that the bottles are left uncorked at the end, so they can enjoy their favorites later during the trip.

Atmosphere and Service

Guests have described Simone as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive—making the experience feel like a private lesson with a trusted friend rather than a formal tasting. The professional glasses, tasting tablecloths, and attention to detail add a touch of class, making the entire experience feel special.

Authenticity and Unique Touches

What’s especially valuable is Simone’s commitment to supporting small, organic wineries—a genuine peek into Tuscany’s local wine scene. Many guests note that they left with a new appreciation for wines they might not have otherwise discovered, along with the opportunity to buy bottles directly from Simone afterward.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Megan D. highlights that Simone’s knowledge and teaching skills made the session “wonderful,” while Marlene P. mentions that the wines were “unique and delicious,” adding that Simone’s experience elevated their visit. Sara P. sums it up as a highlight of her trip, emphasizing the kindness and expertise of Simone and his assistant Angelo.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This private tasting is best suited for wine enthusiasts wanting a more intimate, educational experience. It’s perfect if you prefer to avoid large tours and instead enjoy learning about wine in a relaxed setting. It also appeals to those who love small-producer wines and are interested in supporting organic and local artisans.

Travelers looking for an authentic, personalized touch will appreciate Simone’s attention to detail and storytelling. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a memorable wine experience, this is an excellent choice.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it an ideal activity to fit into a busy day of sightseeing.
• Price: At $77.14 per person, the experience offers excellent value given the personalized service and quality of wines.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 55 days in advance—plan early to secure your preferred date.
• Location: Starts at Corso Garibaldi but can be hosted at your accommodation for convenience.
• Accessibility: Service animals are allowed, and the activity is suitable for most travelers.
• Weather: As the experience is indoors, weather is rarely a concern, but it’s good to confirm if you’re hosting outdoors.
• Cancellation: Full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option.

The Sum Up

This wine tasting in Lucca, led by Simone Vergamini, offers a truly memorable way to connect with Tuscany’s wine culture without leaving your accommodation. The private setting, expert guidance, and focus on small, organic producers make it a standout experience for those wanting authenticity, intimacy, and education in one package.

It’s especially well-suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to expand their wine palate and learn from a top-rated sommelier. The experience’s warmth and attention to detail make it a thoughtful addition to any Tuscan trip, whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just discovering the world of vino.

This tasting balances value and exclusivity brilliantly. You get a personalized, professional experience with wines you might not find elsewhere, plus the comfort of enjoying everything in your own space. It’s a delightful way to spend an afternoon or evening in Lucca, leaving you with new knowledge—and a few bottles to enjoy later.

FAQ

Can the tasting be organized at my hotel or home?
Yes, Simone can arrange the tasting directly at your hotel or private residence within Lucca or the surrounding hills.

How many wines are included?
You will taste five wines, selected from small producers who mainly focus on organic certification.

Are snacks included?
Yes, bread, cheese, and local oil are provided to complement the wines, enhancing the tasting experience.

Is this a group activity?
No, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, ensuring personalized attention.

What is the duration of the tasting?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 55 days ahead is recommended to secure your preferred date.

Can I buy bottles after the tasting?
Absolutely, many guests leave with bottles uncorked, and Simone is happy to assist with purchasing additional wines.

This private wine tasting experience in Lucca offers a blend of expert guidance, authentic local wines, and personalized service—a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation of Tuscany’s viticulture while relaxing in your own space.