Wine Experience: vineyard, wines and food

A Genuine Taste of Puglia: Wine Tasting at Brindisi’s Farmhouse

This wine experience offers a delightful escape into the heart of Apulia’s countryside, right outside Brindisi. For just about $32.50 per person, you get an immersive 2-hour tour starting at the picturesque Trulli il Castagno, led by friendly guides who share stories of local viticulture. You’ll visit a Moscato di Trani vineyard just steps from the farmhouse, walk among the vines, and learn about the region’s unique grape varieties and traditional winemaking methods. The highlight? Tasting four carefully curated wines while soaking in views of the rolling Itria Valley — a perfect blend of scenic beauty and authentic flavor.

What we particularly like about this experience is the small, intimate group size—usually just up to ten people—which makes it easy to ask questions and share the experience. Also, the incredible host knowledge shines through, making each wine’s story come alive, whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious beginner. Plus, the stunning sunset views paired with wine and local snacks create a memorable atmosphere you won’t easily forget.

One thing to consider: this tour is quite popular, often booked about 35 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise if you’re set on visiting during peak season. It’s a shorter, two-hour experience, which is great if your schedule is tight but might leave those craving a deeper exploration wanting more.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy authentic experiences—those who want to see where the wine is grown, hear stories from passionate locals, and taste genuinely good, local wines paired with homemade Apulian snacks. Foodies, wine enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a laid-back yet enriching activity will find this a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience in a family-run farmhouse near Martina Franca
• Four different wines tasted, each with a story and paired with traditional snacks
• Beautiful vineyard surroundings, with views of the Itria Valley and sunset
• Small group size enhances personal interaction and education
• Excellent value — a comprehensive tasting for an accessible price
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

A Closer Look at the Wine Experience

The Location and Setting

Situated just outside Martina Franca, Trulli il Castagno combines rustic charm with welcoming warmth. The tour begins with a walk in the Moscato di Trani vineyard, located just a few steps from the farmhouse itself. This proximity makes it easy to focus entirely on the experience without long bus rides or complicated logistics. You’ll find yourself surrounded by red poppies and rolling vineyards, with views stretching across the Itria Valley, often described as breathtaking by visitors. A couple of reviews even mention watching the sunset while sipping wine, creating a truly magical moment.

The Vineyard Walk and Guided Tour

You’re likely to start by meandering through the vineyard with your guide (Vincenzo or Lorenzo, based on reviews). They will explain the peculiarities of Apulian viticulture — from local grape varieties like Nero di Troia and Verdeca to traditional farming techniques. Reviews highlight how informative and friendly the guides are, taking time to share stories without feeling rushed. One reviewer praised Lorenzo’s ability to make everyone feel welcomed and engaged, which is crucial because this isn’t just a tasting — it’s storytelling through wine.

The Wines You’ll Taste

Expect to sample four distinct wines, each with its own character. These include:

• “Terra Viva” – a still red wine from Nero di Troia, with 13% alcohol
• “Pietra Viva” – a white from Verdeca, light and refreshing
• “1° Luglio” – a rosé from Nero di Troia grapes, perfect for summer evenings
• “Pietro 60” – a dry white made from Moscato di Trani

Each sip is accompanied by stories about how these wines were created, what makes them unique, and why they are representative of the region. Several reviews mention how generous the tastings are, with some reports noting they received two rounds of each wine to enjoy.

The Food and Snacks

Complementing the wines are homemade Apulian appetizers, which many reviews rave about. Think simple, hearty, and flavorful — bread, focaccia, local cheeses, and regional snacks that enhance each wine’s flavor profile. The pairing experience is designed to emphasize the local culinary traditions without overwhelming the senses or breaking the bank.

The Atmosphere and Ambience

Many reviewers mention how special the atmosphere is — from the soft glow of string lights during an evening tasting to the tranquil vistas of vineyards. Gisele described it as a “whimsical fabulous experience,” noting how the sunset matched the wine being served, culminating in a red wine in the dark under string lights. It’s these authentic, unpretentious moments that make the tour stand out.

The Value and Overall Experience

For $32.50, you get not only a guided walk, four generous tastings, and local food, but also an authentic glimpse into Apulia’s winemaking culture. Many reviews emphasize the excellent hospitality and friendliness of the hosts, which elevates the overall value. The tour is highly rated — 5 stars from over 100 reviews — and 97% of visitors would recommend it.

Practical Details and Tips

• Advance booking is recommended, especially in high season, as it’s a popular experience.
• The tour lasts around 2 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity or a relaxing evening out.
• It’s suitable for most travelers, including service animals, and groups are capped at 10 people for intimacy.
• The meeting point is easy to find at Strada Noci, 315 Bis in Martina Franca.
• You might want to arrive a little early or stay afterward to explore the farm or take more photos.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those wanting to connect with local traditions, enjoy beautiful scenery, and sample high-quality wines at a reasonable price. It appeals to foodies, wine lovers, and curious travelers looking for an authentic, relaxed activity that combines education and leisure. If you’re interested in learning about grape varieties and hearing personal stories from passionate growers, this tour won’t disappoint.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While primarily a wine tasting, children or non-drinkers can enjoy the walk in the vineyard or the scenic views. However, the main focus is on wine, so it’s best suited for adults.

How long does the experience last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, including walking, tasting, and enjoying local snacks.

Are the wines available for purchase?
Many visitors mention they bought bottles to take home, and hosts often recommend local wines after the tasting at reasonable prices.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included, but the meeting point is straightforward to reach by car or taxi.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking in the vineyard is recommended, along with sunglasses and sun protection if visiting during the day.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, making it flexible for travel plans.

To sum it up, this wine experience at Trulli il Castagno offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, authentic storytelling, and delicious wines—all for a very reasonable price. It’s a perfect activity if you want to see where Puglia’s wines are made, taste excellent local varieties, and enjoy a relaxing evening in good company. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a genuine local experience, this tour delivers warmth, knowledge, and spectacular views that will linger long after your visit.