Santa Maria della Versa: Grape Harvest & Wine Tasting Tour

Imagine standing amidst lush vineyards in Northern Italy, feeling the warmth of the sun on your back as you harvest grapes and stomp them with joy. For about $67.97 per person, you can spend roughly two hours diving into this immersive experience, offered by AZIENDA AGRICOLA MANUELINA S.S.A. in Santa Maria della Versa. This tour isn’t just about tasting wine; it’s about feeling connected to the land, the vintners, and the tradition of wine-making.

We love how this experience combines education with hands-on participation. From learning about vine-growing techniques to experiencing traditional grape stomping, this tour encourages you to step beyond the usual wine tasting. Plus, the guided winery visit and tasting of three carefully selected wines make this a well-rounded adventure.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is an outdoor activity that involves physical work, so comfortable shoes and clothes that can get a little dirty are recommended. Also, since it’s a fairly short experience, you’ll want to plan this as part of a broader exploration of the region. It’s particularly suited for those eager to get a genuine taste of local viticulture rather than just a sit-down tasting.

Key Points

Authentic Participation: Harvest grapes and stomp them — an engaging way to connect with Italy’s wine traditions.
Educational Element: Learn about vine-growing techniques directly from the vintners.
Tasting Delights: Sample three wines, including a sparkling and semi-sparkling red, in a beautiful vineyard setting.
Local Pairing: Enjoy a small snack with salami, adding a taste of regional flavors.
Memorable Souvenirs: Purchase wines to take home, extending your experience beyond the visit.
Family Friendly & Practical: Designed for adults, with clear guidelines on what to bring and wear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: Where and What

This tour takes place in the scenic vineyards of Santa Maria della Versa, a region renowned for its vintage wine production. The experience is led by knowledgeable guides, likely sharing their passion and expertise for local winemaking. At $67.97, considering the combination of hands-on activities, guided tours, and tastings, the price offers solid value — especially for travelers eager to experience something beyond a typical wine bar.

The tour lasts approximately two hours, which is enough time to enjoy the activity without feeling rushed. You’ll start with an explanation of vine-growing techniques, giving insight into how the grapes are cultivated and why this matters for the wine’s character. Then, it’s time to get your hands dirty, harvesting grapes alongside the local vintners.

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The Harvest Experience: More Than Just Picking Grapes

One of the tour’s standout features is the chance to harvest grapes using pruning shears and baskets — a rare opportunity that few travelers get to enjoy. As we learned from others’ reviews, the process is straightforward but meaningful. It’s a physical activity, so comfortable shoes and clothes that can handle a bit of dirt are essential.

The highlight, for many, is stomping on grapes, an activity that connects you with centuries-old traditions. Expect some fun and perhaps a little messy, but most travelers find the experience surprisingly joyful. It’s a tactile way to understand the effort behind each bottle of wine.

Guided Winery Tour: Insights into Winemaking

After harvesting, the group is taken on a guided tour of the winery. Here, the guide explains the wine production process, from fermentation to bottling, and details what makes their wines special. The review mentions that the guide is engaging and informative, helping you appreciate the nuances of the wines you’ll taste later.

Tasting the Wines: A Flavorful Finale

The tasting session includes three wines:

Martinotti Extra Dry: A sparkling wine made from Pinot Noir grapes, offering a crisp and refreshing start.
Riesling Filare 52: A still white wine from Riesling grapes, noted for its balance and subtle complexity.
Bonarda Chillius: A semi-sparkling red from Croatina grapes, providing a lively finish with a hint of spice.

The guide pairs these wines with a small snack of salami, giving you a taste of regional flavors. Many reviewers appreciate the informative tasting that deepens their understanding of each wine’s origin and character.

As a bonus, each participant receives a gift bottle of Sangue di Giuda Il Traditore, a local red wine with a dramatic name translating to “Blood of Judas, the Traitor,” which adds a memorable touch to your collection or travel story.

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Practical Details and Considerations

While transportation to and from the vineyard isn’t included, the experience’s value lies in its authentic approach and the chance to learn directly from local vintners. The tour accommodates adults 18+ only, so no children, pets, or outside food and drinks are allowed. Also, wear comfortable, outdoor-appropriate clothing and shoes, and bring a hat if the sun’s out.

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts, foodies, or anyone curious about traditional Italian wine-making. It’s also a good choice for those interested in participatory activities rather than just tasting.

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Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

The reviews emphasize the authenticity of the experience. One review states, “We loved the way they explained vine-growing techniques and made us feel part of the process.” This personal touch makes it more than just a tasting; it’s an educational moment that deepens your appreciation for Italy’s wine culture.

Another review highlights the fun of grape stomping, describing it as “more than just a photo op — it’s a real connection to the craftsmanship.” Attendees often mention the friendly guide and the relaxed atmosphere, making it a memorable highlight of their trip.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At just under $70, considering the hands-on participation, guided tour, three wines, and small regional pairing, this experience offers strong value. It’s a unique, tangible way to learn about winemaking, which many travelers find worth the effort and expense. If you’re looking for a personal, authentic connection to Italian wine, this tour delivers.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, want to learn by doing, and love wine or food. It’s especially ideal for those who want a more meaningful connection to local traditions rather than a simple tasting. However, it’s not suitable for children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

If you’re a curious traveler eager to understand the effort behind each bottle, and want a fun, memorable experience in a scenic vineyard setting, this tour could be a highlight of your Italian trip.

Is transportation to the vineyard included?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there. It’s best to plan ahead, especially if you’re staying outside the immediate area.

How long does the experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a good afternoon activity without taking up your whole day.

Can I participate if I don’t know much about wine?
Absolutely. The guides explain vine-growing techniques and the wine-making process in a straightforward way, making it accessible for all levels of knowledge.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothes and shoes are essential. Expect to get a little dirty, especially during grape harvesting and stomping.

Are children allowed?
No, this experience is only for adults 18 and over, given the wine tasting component and physical activities.

Can I buy the wines I taste?
Yes, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase bottles of the wines you sample, perfect for taking home a tangible memory.

Is the experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves outdoor activities and physical participation, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides are available in Italian and English, ensuring clear communication and an engaging experience.

For those seeking an engaging, authentic taste of Italy’s wine culture, this Grape Harvest & Wine Tasting Tour strikes a fine balance. You’re not just watching from the sidelines — you’re actively involved in the process, from harvesting grapes to stomping them, and savoring wines right in the vineyard. It’s a memorable way to deepen your appreciation of Italian winemaking traditions, especially if you love hands-on experiences.

While it’s a fairly short tour and involves some physical activity, the intimacy of the setting, the opportunity to learn directly from vintners, and the chance to taste excellent local wines make it well worth considering. It’s particularly suited for curious, active travelers who want a personal connection to Italy’s wine heritage. If you’re after a fun, authentic activity that offers both education and enjoyment, this tour delivers.

Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile or simply looking for a unique experience during your time in Northern Italy, this vineyard visit offers a genuine, flavorful glimpse into the world of Italian wine — one grape at a time.