Valpolicella Lunch or Dinner Wine & Food tasting with Amarone

Imagine wandering through sun-drenched vineyards, touching barrels full of aging reds, and then settling in to enjoy a carefully crafted 5-course meal paired with five distinctive wines. This Valpolicella Lunch or Dinner with Amarone experience, priced at around $110 per person, offers just that—an intimate dive into one of Italy’s most celebrated wine regions just outside Verona.

Over roughly 3 hours and 45 minutes, you’ll visit a family-run winery, explore its cellars and drying lofts, and then relax in a cozy restaurant for a wine-paired feast. What makes this tour stand out? First, the guide Fabio, who wins praise for his passionate storytelling and personable approach. Second, the quality and variety of wines — from sparkling rosé to the legendary Amarone — that are paired with delicious regional dishes.

A small note: since the tour involves walking through vineyards and cellar visits, it’s worth wearing comfortable shoes. Also, if you’re someone who prefers a very structured, formal tasting, you might find this experience more relaxed and conversational — and that’s exactly why many reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere.

This tour suits travelers who love good wine, authentic food, and a behind-the-scenes look at Italian winemaking. It’s especially ideal for those wanting a personal, memorable experience rather than a large, impersonal tasting.

• Authentic Experience: Visit a family-run winery with personal touches and engaging stories.
• Tasting & Food: Enjoy five wines paired with a five-course regional meal.
• Educational Yet Relaxed: Skip the boring lessons — this is about enjoying and understanding wine naturally.
• Beautiful Setting: Explore vineyards, barrels, amphorae, and a drying loft in a scenic rural environment.
• Excellent Guides: Fabio’s enthusiasm and professionalism receive universal praise.
• Value for Money: The combination of winery visits, tastings, a full meal, and a voucher makes it a well-rounded experience.

Meeting in Corrubbio: Starting Point for a Journey into Valpolicella’s Heart

The tour begins at Cantine Buglioni in Corrubbio, a charming spot just outside Verona. Here, you’ll gather with a small group—up to 40 travelers—and start your adventure outdoors among the organic vineyards. The setting is peaceful, and the air is thick with the scent of ripening grapes. This initial outdoor welcome sets a friendly tone, emphasizing the family’s commitment to organic practices and the land.

What travelers love about this start? Many mention Fabio’s warm welcome and the scenic backdrop as perfect for setting a relaxed mood. It’s a good reminder that this isn’t a hurried tasting — it’s a chance to appreciate the landscape as much as the wine.

Exploring the Cellar & Touching the Wine Making Process

Your first stop inside the winery is the cellar, where the magic of aging occurs. You’ll have the chance to see barrels and amphorae—the traditional clay containers used for fermenting some of their Amarone Riserva. Touching the barrels and amphorae adds a tactile element that helps connect you with the centuries-old craft.

Then, you’ll visit the drying loft, an unusual feature in many wineries. It’s here that the Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, Croatina, and Oseleta grapes rest for months, dehydrating slowly before being pressed. Many reviews highlight the impression of walking through a labyrinth of grapes carefully drying, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Amarone is crafted.

Why It Matters for You

This part of the tour isn’t just about looking at barrels; it’s about understanding the tradition and patience required to produce Valpolicella’s most famous wines. It’s an educational, sensory experience that makes every sip later on more meaningful.

Transition to the Restaurant: The Heart of the Experience

After the winery visits, you’ll head to Locanda Buglioni, a cozy wine restaurant just a short drive away. Here, the focus shifts from the cellar to food and conviviality. You’ll be served a 5-course meal cooked with regional ingredients, with each course paired with a carefully selected wine.

Reviewers love this part of the tour for its informal, friendly atmosphere. Fabio and the staff are attentive without being intrusive, creating an environment where you can relax and enjoy good conversation. The menu varies, but expect to taste authentic Veneto dishes that complement the wines beautifully.

The Wines You’ll Taste

• Il Vigliacco (Rosè Brut) — a sparkling start that awakens the palate
• Rosacipolla (Rosè Trevenezie IGT) — a fresh, floral rosé
• Il Bugiardo (Ripasso Valpolicella DOC) — a robust red with layered flavors
• Il Lussurioso (Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG) — the star, rich and velvety
• Il Narcisista (Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG) — a sweet, aromatic finish

As one reviewer enthused, the quality of wines and dishes was outstanding, making this a true highlight of their trip.

The Bonus: A Voucher for a Glass in Verona’s Historic Center

After the meal, you receive a voucher for a glass of wine at Piscaria, an Osteria in Verona’s historic heart. It’s a nice touch that encourages you to revisit the region and enjoy more local wines, perhaps with a view of the ancient city streets.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: Almost 4 hours, blending winery tours, tastings, and delicious food.
• Price: At $109.86, it offers a comprehensive experience—seeing vineyards and cellars, tasting five wines, and enjoying a full meal.
• Group Size: Up to 40 travelers, which is manageable for a personal, engaging experience.
• Transport: Self-transfer is necessary, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• Booking: Book about a month in advance, as many travelers do, to secure your spot.

Many reviewers emphasize the value for money. They appreciate the combination of educational tours, high-quality wines, and hearty regional food, all delivered in a friendly setting.

If you enjoy authentic wine experiences with a personal touch, this tour is perfect. It suits travelers who want to go beyond tastings in supermarkets and get a real sense of the winemaking process. Food lovers will appreciate the regional five-course meal, and wine enthusiasts will find the selection both interesting and enjoyable.

It’s especially ideal for those who value guides who are passionate and knowledgeable—many reviews highlight Fabio’s enthusiasm and storytelling ability. If you’re not a big fan of large crowds or overly formal tastings, you’ll find this experience refreshingly intimate.

This Valpolicella wine and food tour offers a genuine window into Italy’s celebrated wine region, infused with warmth, tradition, and excellent taste. It balances hands-on exploration, great wine, and delicious regional cuisine in a way that feels authentic and accessible.

While it’s not a quick stop, the experience rewards visitors with a rich understanding of Valpolicella’s craftsmanship and a chance to enjoy some truly memorable wines. It’s best suited for those who seek a relaxed but meaningful immersion into Italian wine culture, combined with good company and good food.

If you’re looking for a genuine, well-priced experience that combines education, scenery, and culinary delight, this tour is a winner. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and be ready to enjoy the simple pleasures of good wine and hearty food in beautiful surroundings.

Is transportation provided?
No, this tour requires self-transfer between the winery and restaurant. You should plan your own transportation to and from Corrubbio and San Pietro in Cariano.

How long does the entire experience last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, including winery visits, tasting, and the meal.

What wines are included in the tasting?
You’ll sample five wines: a sparkling rosé, a rosé Trevenezie IGT, a Ripasso Valpolicella, Amarone della Valpolicella, and Recioto della Valpolicella.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is casual and focuses on enjoying wine without formal lessons, making it perfect for newcomers and seasoned wine lovers alike.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Many reviews mention gluten-free options and attention to dietary needs. It’s best to mention any allergies or restrictions when booking.

What is the best time to book?
Booking about 36 days in advance is typical, as the tour is popular. Weekdays might be less crowded than weekends.

Is the wine in the tasting regionally authentic?
Absolutely. The wines are produced by Cantina Buglioni, a family winery with a long tradition rooted in Valpolicella’s land.

Can I revisit the winery after the tour?
Yes, the voucher allows you to return within 365 days to enjoy more wine at Piscaria in Verona’s historic center.

This tour represents a fantastic way to connect with Italy’s wine-making artistry while enjoying delicious regional dishes. For those who love authenticity, good stories, and quality wines, it’s a memorable choice—sure to be a highlight of any Verona visit.