Italian Wine Tasting & Food Como Lake

Experience the Charm of Italian Wine and Food in Como

If you’re visiting Lake Como and looking for a way to truly taste the region, the Italian Wine Tasting & Food experience offers a delightful blend of education, authentic flavors, and intimate company. Held in a cozy wine shop near Como’s old town, this 1.5-hour guided tasting is a chance to explore local and international wines with a knowledgeable sommelier. Priced at just over $76 per person, this tour is highly recommended — with a perfect 5-star rating from 174 reviews — and it’s clear why so many travelers find it such a memorable part of their trip.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the small-group setting, limited to 12 people, which creates a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged. Second, the pairing of wines with Italian snacks like prosciutto, cheese, and buffalo mozzarella elevates the tasting from mere sipping to a true culinary adventure. We also love how the tasting notes are provided at the end — a small touch that helps you recall the wines long after you’ve left.

One potential consideration is timing: since the tour is popular and booked about 26 days in advance, planning ahead is wise. Also, while the price is fair for what you get, those seeking a more extensive wine experience might find this more of a tasting than a full-blown wine tour. This is ideal for food and wine lovers, curious travelers wanting a local perspective, or anyone who enjoys engaging small-group experiences.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Setting: Small group of 12 creates a friendly atmosphere perfect for questions and conversation.
• Expert Guidance: A professional sommelier explains each wine, offering insights into the region and production.
• Authentic Flavors: Italian snacks and cheese pairings enhance the wine tasting, making it more memorable.
• Flexible Experience: The tasting includes 4-5 glasses of wine, with options to upgrade or continue for an additional fee.
• High Ratings & Reviews: Consistently praised for knowledgeable hosts, excellent wines, and a warm ambiance.
• Great Value: At $76, it’s a worthwhile investment for a genuine taste of Italy, especially considering the personalized service.

A Deep Dive Into the Como Wine Tasting Experience

How the Experience Unfolds

When you arrive at Capitan Drake near Como’s old town, you’re greeted into a cozy, tastefully decorated wine shop that exudes Italian charm. The tour begins just a few minutes after the scheduled start, with a friendly sommelier guiding you through the selection of wines. Expect to taste 4 to 5 glasses, each carefully chosen to showcase local Italian varieties alongside a few international options.

What’s particularly engaging about this experience is the small-group format — only 12 participants. As one reviewer put it, “Giuseppe selected some excellent wines to pair with the meats and cheeses provided, and provided great commentary and explanations on the wine making process.” This personal attention means you’ll get detailed descriptions of each wine’s origin, style, and taste profile, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just starting to explore wine.

What You’ll Learn

The sommelier-led narration covers everything from the wine regions to the grape varieties, and even the winemaking techniques. Several reviews highlight how knowledgeable and engaging guides like Giuseppe or Sandu make the session fun and educational. As one person said, “She was well informed, answered questions, etc.” Expect to learn about Italian wine regions, especially focusing on local wines from Lombardy and beyond.

The Food Pairings

No wine tasting is complete without proper accompaniments, and here, the snacks play a big role. Typical Italian foods such as prosciutto crudo, cheese, and buffalo mozzarella are served, complementing each wine and enriching the tasting experience. Reviewers frequently mention how these pairings add to the enjoyment, with many noting the quality and freshness of the cheeses.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

Reviews often emphasize the warm, friendly environment and the chance to meet fellow wine lovers from around the world. “We met another lovely family during the tasting and all had a fantastic time together,” wrote one traveler. The cozy ambiance makes the experience feel more like a gathering of friends than a formal event, which is exactly what we love about small-group tastings in Italy.

Practical Details

The tour is priced at $76.17 per person and booked approximately 26 days in advance, so plan ahead. The location is easy to reach, near public transportation, and the meeting point is clearly specified. Since tips and additional wines aren’t included, you might want to bring some cash if you wish to tip your host or purchase bottles afterward. Note that service animals are allowed, and the tour is suitable for most travelers.

The Value for Money

For the price, you get a comprehensive, personalized experience that goes beyond just sipping wine. The tasting notes provided serve as a useful souvenir, and the pairings add value, turning a simple tasting into a small culinary adventure. Several reviews mention that it’s “worth every penny,” and one even noted they were tempted to ship wines home after the session.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate learning about wine in a friendly environment, want to try local Italian varieties, or enjoy pairing wine with authentic foods. It’s also a good choice for those seeking a more intimate, social experience rather than a large, commercial tasting. If you’re interested in a relaxed, informative afternoon with good company, this is hard to beat.

The Sum Up

The Italian Wine Tasting & Food experience in Como offers a genuine taste of Italy’s wine culture with a personal touch. Its small size and knowledgeable hosts make it more than just a tasting — it’s a chance to learn, connect, and savor. The pairing of local wines with Italian snacks adds authenticity and depth, making this a highlight for foodies and wine lovers alike.

While it’s a relatively short experience, the depth of information and warm environment leave a lasting impression. The price reflects good value, especially considering the personalized guidance and high-quality wines. It’s particularly ideal for those wanting to explore Italian wines without the fuss of larger tours or seeking a memorable, social experience in Como.

If you’re looking for a friendly, educational, and flavorful way to spend an afternoon, this small-group wine tasting could become a cherished part of your Lake Como visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The sommelier provides explanations suitable for all levels of wine knowledge, making it a welcoming introduction even if you’re new to wine tasting.

How many wines will I taste?
You will sample 4 to 5 glasses of wine, with options to upgrade or continue for an additional fee if desired.

Are food pairings included?
Yes, Italian snacks like prosciutto, cheese, and buffalo mozzarella are served alongside the wines to enhance the experience.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 12 people to ensure a more personal and engaging experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund if canceled within that window.

Is the location easy to find?
Yes, the meeting point at Capitan Drake is near public transit and well-signposted in Como city center.

Can I purchase wine after the tasting?
While not included in the price, many guests enjoy buying bottles to take home, and the guide may offer suggestions or assistance.

This small, expertly guided wine and food tour in Como proves that you don’t need to travel far to enjoy a truly enriching taste of Italy. Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile or just curious to explore local flavors, it offers a welcoming introduction to Italy’s renowned wine culture in one of its most picturesque settings.