Private Carmignano Tour: The First Cabernet Sauvignon in Tuscany

Experience the Charm of Tuscany’s Carmignano Wine Country with a Private Guide

If you’re dreaming of tasting some of Tuscany’s finest wines while soaking up spectacular scenery, the Private Carmignano Tour offers an intimate, well-rounded experience. Priced at around $414 per person, this 5.5-hour journey from Florence is perfect for wine lovers who want more than just a tasting glass. Expect to visit two historic boutique wineries, enjoy guided tours of vineyards and cellars, sample award-winning wines and olive oils, and sit down to a homemade Tuscan lunch—all with the comfort of private transportation.

What we love most about this tour is the personalized attention you get from a dedicated guide, as well as the chance to explore a less touristy side of Tuscany where the scenery is stunning and the wines are authentic. The fact that it’s a private tour means you can tailor the experience to your pace and interests, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone craving an authentic, relaxed day in the countryside.

One aspect worth considering is the drive time—about an hour each way—which keeps the day comfortably manageable but can be a factor if you prefer a shorter trip. This tour is best suited for those with an interest in wine, history, and the scenic Tuscan landscape, and who appreciate a more personalized touch rather than large group tours.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience ensures a relaxed, personal day in Tuscany.
• Visit two historic wineries with guided tours, tastings, and insights into local wines and olive oils.
• Authentic Tuscan lunch featuring local, zero-kilometer products, elevating the tasting experience.
• Expert driver and guide make the journey smooth and informative, with plentiful storytelling.
• Ideal for wine enthusiasts and travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate alternative to larger tours.
• Comfortable round-trip transportation from Florence removes any worries about driving or directions.

An in-depth Look at the Carmignano Private Tour

Starting Point: Florence and the Drive Out

The day begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Florence, usually around 8:45 am, with the driver arriving promptly. This early start helps you beat any midday crowds and makes the most of your limited time. The drive through Tuscany’s rolling hills lasts roughly an hour, giving you time to admire the landscape and get into the relaxed, countryside mood.

This part of the experience is a simple but significant advantage—no need to worry about navigating narrow rural roads or parking. The comfort and convenience of private transport allow you to focus on the views and conversation, especially if your driver is knowledgeable and friendly.

First Stop: Fattoria e Cantina di Bacchereto

Located on the hills of Carmignano, this family-run estate has kept its charm since 1920. The guide at Bacchereto adds depth with stories about Leonardo da Vinci’s grandmother, who once lived here—an intriguing historical tidbit that connects art, wine, and local legend.

The estate is committed to biodynamic, natural techniques, which means you’re tasting wines made with care for the environment and authenticity. The estate also produces olive oil, giving you a taste of regional flavors in their tastings. The tour covers the vineyards and wine cellars, revealing how their wines are made, culminating in a tasting of their wines and oils.

Visitors rave about the informative and friendly guide and the beautiful setting, which combines rustic charm with history. Megan from a recent review appreciated the “beautiful wineries and lunch,” noting the tour was “informative, tasty, and a lovely day soaking up all the Tuscan countryside has to offer.”

Second Stop: Tenuta di Capezzana

Next, you’ll visit one of Tuscany’s oldest wineries, dating back to 804 AD. The estate’s long history of producing olive oil and wine makes it a true ambassador of regional tradition. The winery’s impressive vintage collection, dating from 1925, attests to its enduring quality and respect for history.

Here, you’ll tour the estate grounds, see the wine cellars, and taste some of the award-winning wines. The family-run nature of the winery shines through, with a focus on quality and tradition. The estate’s renowned restaurant and cooking school also offer a chance to indulge in genuine Tuscan cuisine, which is included in your visit. The meal features local, zero-kilometer products, emphasizing regional flavors and freshness.

Jodi K, in her review, called this “truly one of the top vineyard tours” she’s experienced in Italy, particularly praising guides like Fabian for their enthusiasm and knowledge—not just about wine but about the entire region’s history and culture.

Relaxed Lunch and Final Drive Back

After the tasting, you’ll sit down to a carefully curated Tuscan lunch, with local cheeses, cured meats, and other regional specialties. The lunch isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of local ingredients, prepared with care and paired thoughtfully with the wines tasted earlier. This sit-down experience is a highlight, especially for those who enjoy good food paired with good wine.

Following lunch, your driver will return you to Florence, usually arriving back by the early afternoon—perfect for the rest of your day or evening in the city.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The cost of $413.71 might seem high at first glance, but when you consider it covers private transportation, expert-guided visits to two historic wineries, tastings of multiple wines and oils, and a full Tuscan lunch with local products, it quickly becomes clear that this is a premium but worthwhile experience.

Having a dedicated guide means you get tailored attention, deeper insights, and the ability to ask all your wine questions. The visits to two different wineries offer a well-rounded perspective on regional varieties and traditions. The inclusion of olive oil tastings and a hearty lunch adds to the authenticity and enjoyment of the day.

This tour is particularly suitable for travelers who want to avoid large groups, prefer a more flexible itinerary, and have a genuine interest in Tuscany’s wine-making traditions. It’s also a lovely way to step outside Florence’s busy streets and enjoy the slower-paced, scenic countryside.

Who Should Book This Experience?

If you’re a wine enthusiast eager for authentic tastings from local producers, this trip will deliver in spades. It’s perfect for those wanting a personalized experience and a break from city sightseeing. History buffs will appreciate the stories about Leonardo da Vinci’s family home and the long-standing tradition of these estates.

Couples or small groups seeking a romantic or intimate day in Tuscany will find this tour’s private setting ideal. Food lovers will also appreciate the Tuscan lunch and the opportunity to purchase local oils and wines directly from the producers.

However, if you’re pressed for time and want a brief overview, this might feel a bit long. Also, the drive time means it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of a scenic ride rather than those seeking a quick city escape.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum age for drinking is 18, but children can enjoy the scenic drive and the estate visits.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes visits to two boutique wineries, olive oil tastings, wine tastings, a Tuscan lunch made with local products, private transportation, and a certified sommelier/guide.

How long is the drive each way?
The drive from Florence to the wineries takes about an hour each way, making for a total transport time of roughly 2 hours including the return.

Are drinks included during the tastings?
Yes, you’ll sample multiple wines and olive oils at each estate, with guidance from knowledgeable staff.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a private tour, so you can discuss your interests with the guide to tailor the experience to your preferences.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Please inform the tour provider in advance if you have any dietary needs; the lunch can be adjusted if notified beforehand.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
Just wear comfortable shoes for walking the vineyards and estates, and bring your curiosity and appetite for authentic Tuscan flavors.

To sum it up, this Private Carmignano Tour offers a thoughtfully curated blend of history, scenery, and authentic wine and food experiences in Tuscany. With the comfort of private transport and a flexible, personalized approach, it’s well worth considering if you want to experience Tuscany’s wine culture without the crowds. It’s perfect for wine lovers, foodies, and anyone eager to explore Tuscany’s countryside in style and comfort.