How to plan a wine tasting in Italy

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What better thing to do for your trip planning than knowing how to plan a wine tasting in Italy? If you’ve already got Italy on the agenda for the summer (if you haven’t, you should!) then you really shouldn’t miss out on enjoying some of their finest products.

Every region in Italy has its own wines and wine houses, and enjoying a tasting is a great way to relax and learn a bit more about your favorite wines. Planning a wine tasting isn’t difficult, but with our tips you will come prepared!

Why is Italy famous for wine?

Wine is an integral part of Italian culture, with some wine houses going back hundreds of years. Since ancient times, it has been an important part of ceremonies and festivities and a symbol of hospitality. Today, Italy has over 700,000 hectares or vineyards and is the largest wine exporter in the world.

How to plan a wine tasting in Italy

Know your region

While you’ll find good wines anywhere, it’s good to know which wines are being produces in which area when you’re planning a wine tasting. For instance if you’re in Tuscany, enjoy Montepulciano or Chianti, Valpoliccela or Amarone when you’re around Venice and the lakes, or a Sangiovese in the deep south of Puglia.

Our favorite wines include Amarone from Veneto and Nero d’Avola from Sicily.

Have some food in you

While you are likely to get some snacks with your wines, it’s wise not to show up with an empty stomach! A good wine tour will take you to the vineyard and show some of the production process, which may take a while.

A wine tasting usually involves tasting 4 to 5 wines and depending on the grapes that are farmed, will be a mixture of reds and whites. During our latest tasting at Corte San Mattia close by Verona, we tasted one white and four reds. All fantastic!

You won’t get 5 full glasses, but you should be getting more than just a sip. A quarter glass is a good amount. Which brings us to the following:

Try not to drive

Whether you would still be able to or not after a few drinks, it’s never a good idea, even when leaving local laws out of it. You would be surprised by how many wineries are actually reachable by public transport, but if that’s not your thing; set up a taxi both ways. To make it even easier, you could also book a full service tour with pick up and drop offs.

Another option is to stay the night, as some wineries are an agriturismo as well and have rooms. This is a great way to experience the Italian countryside and enjoy a nice dinner and evening.

Dress up!

This is by no means a must, but wine tasting in Italy is still a classy thing. Try to avoid athletic clothes and know that flip flops are never okay in Italy. Do wear shoes that you can walk around in, but take the chance to wear your nice stuff!

Avoid wearing heavy perfumes or other scents as those may interfere with the fragrances and taste of your wine.

Make an appointment

Reach out to the winery of your choice and call or check their website for available tours and tastings. Rocking up without an appointment is harder, as they might either be full or unprepared. Of course, an organized wine tour is another way to go.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

It doesn’t matter if you’re a wine expert or novice, wine is for everyone. Don’t be afraid to ask if you have questions about the production process, grapes or choice of glasses. There are no stupid questions and your host will be happy to answer them!

How to plan a wine tasting in Italy FAQ

What if I’m a light drinker?

You don’t have to drink all the wine if you don’t want to. Another thing is to ask for a spittoon (if there isn’t one already) and spit it out. No one will be offended if you do so.

Will they speak English?

Yes! We have yet to encounter a winery where the tours were not available in English, and trust us, we’ve seen a lot!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO