Monferrato (Asti): Wine Tour with light lunch picnic in the vineyards

A Taste of Monferrato: Wine Tour with a Vineyard Picnic

Setting out on a wine tour in Monferrato (Asti) for about $57.50 per person, you’re looking at a roughly 1 hour 30 minutes experience that blends the pleasures of vineyard landscapes, local wine, and delicious food. The experience begins at Tenuta Garetto in Agliano Terme, a charming spot where you’ll meet your guide and start your journey into the world of Italian wines. The highlight? A guided winery tour, followed by a light picnic in the vineyards, complete with wine and water.

What we really love about this experience is how it offers a genuine taste of local life—you’re not just tasting wine but learning about its roots, right in the heart of the Piedmont countryside. The professional sommelier makes the tasting educational and approachable, perfect for both wine novices and enthusiasts. Plus, the picnic with local traditional foods paired with the vineyard’s own bottles creates a warm, authentic meal amid rolling vines.

One small consideration is the group size—with a maximum of 15 travelers, it’s intimate but can fill up quickly, so booking ahead is wise. Also, while the tour is suitable for most travelers, it’s not recommended for children under 18. This experience best suits those who enjoy wine, scenic countryside, and leisurely, educational outings. If you’re after a relaxed insight into Piedmont’s wine culture, this tour hits the spot.

Key Points

• Authentic vineyard experience in the heart of Piedmont’s wine country.
• Guided tour by a professional sommelier makes wine tasting accessible and informative.
• Picnic in the vineyards offers a delightful meal paired with local wines.
• Small group size ensures a personal, intimate experience.
• Pricing offers good value for the combination of wine, food, and scenic beauty.
• Ideal for wine lovers and those seeking a relaxed, authentic taste of Italy’s countryside.

A Deep Dive into the Monferrato Wine & Picnic Experience

When it comes to learning about wine in Italy, few regions can match the charm of Piedmont’s Monferrato area. This tour is more than just sipping; it’s about experiencing the landscape, the local traditions, and the craftsmanship behind each glass. Starting at Tenuta Garetto in Agliano Terme, the meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, which makes accessing the venue manageable for most travelers.

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step

The winery tour is the first highlight. Here, a professional sommelier guides you through the vineyard’s history, cultivation methods, and wine production process. We loved how the guide explained not only the types of wine but also the regional significance of Piedmont’s famous varieties. The tasting includes two bottles of vineyard wines—each sip revealing the terroir and craftsmanship that make Piedmont wines renowned worldwide.

After the tasting, it’s time for the picnic. You’ll sit in olive orchard vines, a setting described as “really unique” by a reviewer, with a casual, local, traditional food spread. The picnic includes light lunch items—likely cheeses, cured meats, bread, and regional specialties—paired with more wine and water. This laid-back meal is the perfect way to connect with the landscape and appreciate the fruits of the vineyard.

What makes this experience special is the combination of education and leisure. We loved the way the guide brought wine tasting to life, making it approachable, even for beginners. Meanwhile, the scenic backdrop of vines and the informal picnic foster a sense of authentic rural Italy.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and approachable staff, with Deborah calling the experience “stupenda e molto romantica” and Krissy mentioning that, despite the language barrier, the tour was very enjoyable. The local, traditional food paired with two bottles of vineyard wine received compliments for its quality and authenticity.

Cathy’s review highlights fun family time—especially the chance to picnic in a beautiful olive orchard—making this a flexible experience suitable for various travel styles. The small group size adds to the personal touch, allowing for more interaction than a large tour.

Practical Details: What To Expect

The tour kicks off at 11:30 am, which allows you to soak in the morning light and avoid the midday heat. The 1.5-hour duration is just right—enough time to learn, taste, and relax without feeling rushed. As it is not inclusive of gratuities, hotel transfers, or extras, you’ll want to budget accordingly.

The cost of $57.50 per person** offers reasonable value, considering the guided tour, wine tastings, picnic, and scenic setting. We think the quality of the experience—especially the personal attention and authentic local food—justifies the price.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to learn about Piedmont wines and local food in a relaxed setting. It’s also great for those seeking an authentic, small-group experience away from tourist-packed attractions. If you appreciate scenic countryside, educational tastings, and a casual picnic, this tour will suit you well.

However, if you’re traveling with children under 18 or looking for a more energetic or diverse activity, you might want to consider other options. The tour’s focus on wine and a serene picnic makes it ideal for adults who enjoy slow-paced, cultural experiences.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under 18, as it primarily involves wine tastings and adult-oriented activities.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a winery tour, wine tastings (2 bottles), a light lunch picnic, and drinks (wine & water). It does not include gratuities, hotel pick-up/drop-off, or additional extras.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, giving enough time for a guided tour, tasting, and picnic without feeling hurried.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Tenuta Garetto in Agliano Terme. The location is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, along with walking shoes for touring the vineyard, is recommended.

Is the tour English-speaking?
While the tour was booked in English, some reviews mention that explanations might be in Italian. However, the friendly staff generally make the experience enjoyable regardless of language barriers.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Piedmont’s wine culture, with the added charm of a picnic amid vines, this wine tour and vineyard picnic in Monferrato offers a balanced blend of education, scenery, and local flavor. The small group setting and friendly guides make for a genuine, intimate experience—perfect for travelers who want to relax, learn, and enjoy good wine and food in a beautiful setting.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast looking to deepen your understanding or simply want a peaceful day in Italy’s countryside, this tour delivers a memorable slice of Piedmont life. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate rural charm, regional traditions, and good company.

This tour provides excellent value and an authentic look at Piedmont’s wine country—ideal if you’re after a peaceful, educational, and delicious escape into Italy’s rural heart.