Florence: Italian wine Tasting at "Giannino San Lorenzo"

Florence: Italian Wine Tasting at “Giannino San Lorenzo” — A Genuine Taste of Italy

Looking for an authentic experience that combines Florence’s historic charm with the pleasure of fine Italian wines? This wine tasting tour at Giannino San Lorenzo offers just that. For $44 per person, you’ll spend about an hour and a half exploring wines from two notable wineries—either from Tuscany or Piedmont—and enjoy a complimentary bottle of your chosen wine. Guided by friendly hosts, you’ll learn about the wines and food pairings that make Italian wine culture so special.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to choose between premium wines like Barbera or Chardonnay, and the chance to combine tasting with a simple, delicious meal. The intimacy of small groups—limited to just eight participants—means you’ll likely get personalized attention and insights you won’t find on larger, more commercial tours. The only potential downside? Since it’s a relatively short experience, those seeking an in-depth, multi-day wine immersion might want something more comprehensive.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a relaxed, educational experience with a focus on authentic wines and regional cuisine. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a meaningful taste of Italy’s wine regions without leaving Florence.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Tasting premium wines from Tuscany and Piedmont, paired with local cuisine.
Small Group: Limited to just 8 participants for a more personalized experience.
Flexible Options: Choose wines from two reputable wineries—Vini Boeri (Piedmont) or Monterò (Tuscany).
Affordable Value: For $44, you get tastings plus a 750ml bottle of your selected wine.
Convenient Location: Meets at Ristorante Giannino in San Lorenzo, within easy walking distance of Florence’s main sights.
Educational & Enjoyable: Learn about regional wines in a friendly, relaxed setting.

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A Close Look at the Experience

Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins at Ristorante Giannino in San Lorenzo, a lively spot known for its local charm. This central location makes it convenient to join after a morning of sightseeing. The tour ends back at the same spot, which means you can easily combine it with other activities or enjoy a meal afterward.

Duration and Group Size

Spending about 1.5 hours, this experience strikes a nice balance between depth and brevity. It’s neither rushed nor overly long, making it ideal for travelers with busy schedules. The small group limit—just eight people—ensures a friendly, engaging atmosphere where you can ask plenty of questions and get personalized attention.

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The Wines and Wineries

Here’s where the experience really shines. You’ll get to sample two different wines (about 50ml each), which gives a good sense of each winery’s style.

Vini Boeri from Piedmont offers classics like Barbera d’Asti DOCG and Piemonte DOC Chardonnay. These wines are known for their balance of fruitiness and structure—perfect for those new to Italian reds and whites alike.
Monterò, based in Tuscany, produces organic wines like Vermentino DOC from Maremma Toscana and Morellino di Scansano DOCG, both of which reflect the region’s sun-kissed character.

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Food Pairings and Enjoyment

After sampling the wines, you get to select a dish from the menu to pair with your bottle. This simple yet satisfying aspect allows you to tailor your tasting experience to your taste and ensures you’re not just drinking wines in isolation but appreciating them with regional flavors.

The Bottles and Value

Most impressive is that your ticket includes a 750ml bottle of the wine you select—a generous gesture that extends the enjoyment beyond the tasting. Whether you choose a crisp Vermentino or a full-bodied Morellino, you’ll leave with a bottle to savor back home.

What Previous Travelers Say

One reviewer highlights: “We loved the way they explained the wines and the chance to pick our own bottle. It felt very personalized.”
Another reviewer notes: “The wines from Monterò were organic and tasted fresh and authentic. It made me appreciate Tuscany wines even more.”

Practical Details

Price: $44 per person offers excellent value, considering the inclusion of tastings and a bottle.
Availability: Check ahead for specific starting times, as this varies.
Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible and hosted in English and Italian.
Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Why This Tour Is Worth Your Time

This experience provides a hands-on, up-close look at Italy’s renowned wine regions without leaving Florence. The focus on premium wines from Tuscany or Piedmont, combined with the option to purchase a bottle, makes it more than just a tasting; it’s an opportunity to deepen your appreciation for Italian wine culture. The informal, small-group setting encourages conversations and questions, perfect for wine novices and enthusiasts alike.

The choice of wines and the quality of the hosts make this a genuine, memorable part of a Florence visit. If you’re curious about regional wines, enjoy pairing local flavors, or just want a relaxed, educational activity, this tour fits the bill. Plus, the taste of an authentic Italian wine paired with regional cuisine makes for a delightful experience you’ll remember long after your trip.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

Travelers who want to sample authentic Italian wines without the hassle of traveling to rural wineries will find this tour ideal. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small, intimate groups and personalized attention. If you’re short on time but want a meaningful wine experience in Florence, this tasting offers a perfect balance of education, enjoyment, and value.

Wine lovers who want to bring home a taste of Tuscany or Piedmont will love the included bottle, which allows you to savor your favorite wine back home. It’s also a great addition for food and wine enthusiasts seeking a taste of Italy’s diverse regions.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for this tour?
No, private transportation is not included. The meeting point is at Ristorante Giannino, which is centrally located and accessible on foot.

What’s included in the price?
You get to taste two wines (50ml glasses each) and receive a 750ml bottle of your selected wine.

Can I choose wines from both wineries?
Yes, you can select wines from either Vini Boeri (Piedmont) or Monterò (Tuscany), depending on your preference.

Are there food options included?
You can choose a dish from the menu to pair with your wine, but it is not included in the ticket price.

What wines will I taste?
Possible wines include Barbera d’Asti DOCG, Piemonte DOC Chardonnay, Vermentino DOC from Maremma Toscana, and Morellino di Scansano DOCG.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, wines are not served to anyone under 18.

How long does the experience last?
Approximately 1.5 hours.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to 8 participants for a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This wine tasting at Giannino San Lorenzo offers a warm and straightforward way to experience Italy’s celebrated wines without the fuss of touring far-flung vineyards. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to taste authentic regional wines, learn a bit about their origins, and leave with a bottle to enjoy later. The combination of small-group intimacy, quality wines, and regional cuisine makes this a valuable and memorable part of any Florence trip.

If your idea of travel involves genuine local flavors and a relaxed atmosphere, this experience will serve you well. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate well-selected wines and want a taste of Italy’s diverse wine regions, all within the heart of Florence.

Remember, reservations are flexible, and this experience is designed to fit into your Florence itinerary effortlessly. Cheers to discovering Italy’s finest wines in a setting that feels like sharing a glass among friends.