A Closer Look at the Private Wine Tour on the Hills of Lucca
If you’re craving an authentic taste of Tuscany’s wine culture, then this private tour through the enchanting hills of Lucca should be on your list. Led by Simone Vergamini, who was crowned Best Sommelier of Tuscany 2023, this experience takes you to two carefully selected wineries. The tour lasts around 4 to 5 hours, visits vineyards and cellars, and wraps up with wine tastings paired with local bites.
At $208.99 per person, it offers a blend of personalized guidance, scenic landscapes, and genuine wine knowledge. It’s usually booked 81 days in advance—proof that travelers love this experience. The tour includes pickup, air-conditioned transport, and tastings of 8 to 12 wines with delicious snacks.
What we especially appreciate about this tour is the passion of Simone, whose expertise elevates the experience from just tasting wine to learning about vineyard practices, wine regions, and local traditions. Plus, visiting two different wineries—each representing different denominations—means you’ll walk away with a well-rounded understanding of the area’s diverse wine scene.
A small caveat? If you’re staying more than 15 km from Lucca, expect a small extra charge for pickup. Also, since this is a private experience, the pace and stops are tailored to your group, which can mean more flexibility but also requires booking well in advance. This tour suits wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those wanting a more authentic, less touristy experience of Tuscany’s winemaking life.
Key Points
- Expert guidance: Led by a top-rated sommelier, Simone, with extensive knowledge of Tuscan wines and traditions.
- Authentic visits: Two wineries representing different denominations, offering a varied tasting experience.
- Scenic landscapes: Beautiful views of the Lucca hills that enhance the wine tasting experience.
- Delicious pairing: Wines paired with local delicacies like cheeses, cured meats, and olive oil.
- Flexible options: The “Light lunch” includes a full meal with 8 wines; additional options for more wine tasting are available.
- Great reviews: Consistently rated 5 stars with glowing feedback on the guide, wineries, and overall experience.
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An In-Depth Review of the Lucca Hills Wine Tour
What to Expect from the Itinerary
This tour is designed to maximize your exposure to Lucca’s unique wine landscape in a comfortable, intimate setting. Starting in Lucca city, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a smooth ride through the rolling Tuscany hills.
First stop: Lucca. Here, you’ll visit a winery where you can explore the cellar and vineyards. The tasting typically includes 4 to 6 wines with a selection of seasonal regional products such as cheeses and charcuterie. Simone often mentions that visiting these small wineries allows for a more personalized experience, where you can really engage with the people behind the wines.
Next, you’ll head to Montecarlo, renowned for its wine production. The second winery visit follows a similar pattern: a tour of the cellar and vineyards, followed by a tasting of another 4 to 6 wines paired with local snacks. Reviewers like Kaitlin_C have appreciated how Simone’s expertise makes the visits feel both educational and relaxed, with plenty of time for questions and discussion.
The Wineries and Their Charm
While specific wineries are not named, the emphasis is on small, high-quality establishments. These wineries are selected to showcase diverse Denominations of Lucca, giving you a broader picture of the region’s wine-making traditions.
Travelers often comment on the difference in wines between the two stops, which adds depth to the tasting experience. As one review notes, “The wineries were different, which offered us a variety in tasting,” a perfect way to understand Tuscan wine styles beyond the more commercial options.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
One of the biggest highlights is Simone himself. His credentials as Italy’s third-best sommelier and his genuine enthusiasm shine through every part of the day. Multiple reviews emphasize his knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make guests feel like friends. For example, Melinda_v called him a “great tour guide” and said it was a highlight of her Italy trip.
The private aspect means you won’t be part of a crowded group, allowing for a more relaxed, personalized experience. You’ll learn about vineyard practices, harvesting, and regional characteristics in a way that’s approachable and engaging, especially if you’re a wine enthusiast.
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Food and Tastings: More Than Just Wine
The pairing of wines with local delicacies is a consistent praise point. You’ll sample cheeses, cured meats, and extra virgin olive oil, which complement the wines beautifully. Simonne’s attention to pairing details enhances the tasting experience, helping you understand how regional products fit with local wines.
For those who opt for the “Light lunch”, expect a full meal combined with eight wines, making this not just a tasting but a genuine opportunity to savor Tuscany’s flavors.
Transportation and Logistics
The tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, perfect for the Tuscany heat or chilly days. The total duration of around 4 to 5 hours balances quality visits with enough time to relax and enjoy each stop.
Travelers should note that pickups outside Lucca are available for an extra fee, which Simone communicates beforehand. This flexibility makes the tour suitable for those staying in nearby towns or accommodations.
Pricing and Value
At $208.99 per person, the tour presents a good value considering the private experience, expert guidance, multiple tastings, and delicious local food. The reviews often highlight the quality of the wines and the personalized attention as key value points.
Compared to larger, more commercial wine tours, this one offers a more authentic, educational, and relaxed experience. Many report feeling their wine knowledge and appreciation increased, making it a worthwhile investment if you love wine or want an intimate taste of Tuscany’s best.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re passionate about wine and eager to learn from an expert, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic drives and want to see the beautiful hills of Lucca while sipping regional wines.
Travelers seeking personalized service and small, private groups will find this experience especially appealing. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a relaxed, educational day immersed in Tuscan culture will find it highly rewarding.
This tour is less suited for those on a tight schedule or who prefer larger group tours with a more fast-paced itinerary. Also, if you’re not keen on wine tasting or have dietary restrictions, you may want to check the specifics of the included snacks and meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving enough time to visit both wineries and enjoy tastings without feeling rushed.
What is included in the price?
The price covers transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, tastings of 8 to 12 wines, snacks (cheese, cured meats, bread, olive oil), and a knowledgeable guide.
Are the wineries open to the public?
Yes, the visits include cellar and vineyard tours at each winery and are included as part of the experience.
What is the “Light lunch” option?
It includes a full meal paired with 8 wines, offering a hearty complement to the tasting experience.
Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s flexibility to adapt the stops or focus, especially if you have specific interests or dietary needs.
Is pickup included?
Pickup is offered within Lucca. For locations more than 15 km away, a small extra fee applies, payable at the end.
Is it suitable for wine novices?
Absolutely. Simone’s expertise makes it accessible whether you’re a wine newbie or a seasoned connoisseur.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking in vineyards, and dress according to the weather—comfortable and casual.
Will I learn about wine regions and production?
Yes, Simone shares insights into vineyard practices, regional characteristics, and harvest details, making it both fun and educational.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.
Final Thoughts
This private wine tour in the hills of Lucca offers a beautiful blend of scenic landscapes, expert guidance, and authentic regional wines. Led by a passionate and knowledgeable sommelier, it’s a perfect fit for wine lovers seeking a personalized experience. The visits to small wineries provide insight into local traditions and distinctive wines, all while enjoying delicious food pairings.
The small group setting and flexible itinerary mean you’ll get a more intimate, relaxed day that emphasizes quality over quantity. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or just someone eager to drink and learn in Tuscany, this tour delivers value through personalized attention, diverse tastings, and scenic beauty.
Ideal for travelers who want a deeper connection to Tuscan winemaking without the crowds or commercial feel of larger tours. It’s an experience that enriches your understanding of Tuscany’s wine culture while offering some of the most stunning views in the region. If that sounds like your kind of day, booking ahead is highly recommended—these tours fill up fast!