Amarone Wine Tour with 2 Wineries Lunch and Private Transfer

A detailed look at the Amarone Wine Tour with 2 Wineries, Lunch, and Private Transfer

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Italy’s celebrated wine country, this Amarone Wine Tour offers a fine blend of history, authentic vineyards, and delicious local cuisine. Starting from Verona, for about $154 per person, you’ll spend roughly 8 hours exploring two distinct wineries, tasting 10 different wines including the legendary Amarone, and enjoying a three-course lunch at a charming local trattoria.

One thing we love is the carefully curated visits to both a family-run winery and a historic estate, giving you insights into traditional and modern winemaking techniques. Plus, the inclusion of a 3-course meal in the middle of your day provides a perfect balance of activity and relaxation. The fact that transportation is included with the guided option makes it a stress-free way to visit one of Italy’s most famed wine regions.

A possible consideration is that the self-drive option requires you to have your own car, and no transfer is included—so if you’re not comfortable driving, opting for the guided experience is a wise choice. This tour suits travelers who want an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at Valpolicella’s vineyards without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious about Italy’s famed Amarone, this tour is designed to satisfy your curiosity.

Key Points

• Authentic Visits: You’ll visit two historic wineries, one family-owned and one established estate, offering diverse perspectives on winemaking.
• Tasting Experience: Tasting 10 wines, including the renowned Amarone, provides a comprehensive introduction to Valpolicella’s signature wines.
• Local Cuisine: The included 3-course lunch is a chance to experience traditional Italian flavors in a cozy trattoria.
• Flexible Options: Whether you choose transportation or self-driving, the tour adapts to different travel styles.
• Guided Insight: Knowledgeable guides walk you through vineyards, cellars, and drying rooms, enriching your understanding of wine production.
• Authentic Setting: Expect beautiful views of vineyards, cherry trees, and olive groves, especially at the second winery.

Experience and What to Expect from the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Pedemonte – The Family-Run Winery
This is where your journey begins. After a scenic drive through the picturesque Valpolicella countryside, you arrive at a cozy, family-owned winery with a long-standing tradition. Here, you’ll tour the vineyards, explore historic and modern cellars, and learn about the wine-making process. The guide (likely a passionate local) will share stories about the family’s history and their methods, making the experience feel personal and authentic. The tasting here includes a selection of wines, possibly including some unique local varieties, and a tasting of local cold cuts and cheeses.

What we liked: The intimacy of a family-run setting and the chance to see both old and new techniques side by side. Since the visit lasts about 2 hours, there’s plenty of time to ask questions and soak in the atmosphere.

Stop 2: Pescantina – The Trattoria Lunch
Next, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour break for a traditional 3-course lunch. In a local trattoria, you’ll experience authentic Italian flavors—think fresh pasta, regional starters, and a dessert. Water and coffee are included, adding to the value of this well-rounded meal.

Why it’s special: Sitting down to a hearty, well-prepared meal in an unpretentious setting provides a real taste of local life. It’s a leisurely pause, giving you time to relax and savor the moment.

Stop 3: San Pietro in Cariano – The Historic Estate
The afternoon is dedicated to visiting a historic winery dating back to 1917. Surrounded by lush vineyards, olive trees, and cherry orchards, this estate combines history with innovation. You’ll see the fruit cellar, where grapes are naturally dried for months—an essential step for producing Amarone and Recioto wines. The guide might show you the French oak barrels and barriques used for aging, and perhaps even introduce you to the ancient Roman technique of fermentation in terracotta amphorae—a method making a comeback among artisans.

The highlight: Tasting award-winning wines after touring the facilities, including the drying rooms and cellars that hold the secrets to Valpolicella’s distinctive profile.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Knowledgeable Guides
Guests consistently praise the guides’ passion and expertise. As one reviewer said, “Wonderful tour at a good price and top planning,” highlighting how the guides’ insights significantly enhance the experience. Their ability to explain complex processes in approachable language makes the tour not just fun but educational.

Authentic, Historic Wineries
Visiting family-owned wineries and a historic estate means you’re stepping into the world of traditional wine-making, not just touristy tasting rooms. The combination allows you to see how local wines are crafted from start to finish, appreciating the care and history behind each bottle.

Variety of Tasting Experiences
Sampling 10 wines, including Amarone—a bold, complex red—gives you a comprehensive understanding of Valpolicella’s wine styles. The tasting of local cold cuts and cheeses complements the wines, turning each sip into a full sensory experience.

Stunning Scenery and Setting
Picturesque views of vineyards, rolling hills, and historic buildings set the perfect backdrop. The second winery, in particular, offers lovely vistas that are both relaxing and photogenic.

Considerations for Travelers

While the guided option offers convenience, the self-drive variant requires you to have your own vehicle and be comfortable navigating local roads. No transportation is included in this option, so it’s best suited for travelers already renting a car or confident drivers.

Timing-wise, the tour is structured to give a full day of exploration, so it’s ideal for those with a day to spare in Verona. The 8-hour duration balances sightseeing with leisure, though some might find it a bit packed if they prefer a more relaxed pace.

The Value of the Tour

At $154 per person, this tour provides a well-rounded experience considering the visits, tastings, and meal included. The value lies in the insights gained from visiting two distinct wineries, tasting local award-winning wines, and enjoying an authentic Italian lunch without the hassle of planning each step yourself. The fact that most travelers book this tour 128 days in advance underlines its popularity and perceived value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to learn about Amarone and Valpolicella wines in a relaxed yet informative setting. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, family-run wineries and want a comprehensive tasting in a scenic environment. Those interested in wine production techniques—from traditional drying to modern fermentation—will find this tour particularly enriching.

If you prefer a guided, stress-free day with a mix of sightseeing, tasting, and local flavor, this tour checks all those boxes. Meanwhile, self-driving enthusiasts should note that no transportation is included unless they select that option, so plan accordingly.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the guided tour?
Yes, if you select the guided option, transportation from Verona is included. The self-drive option requires you to bring your own car, as no transfer is provided.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 8 hours, including visits, lunch, and tasting.

Can I choose a self-drive option?
Yes, there is a self-drive option where you travel with your own car, but note that no transportation is included.

What is included in the tasting?
You will be guided through tastings of 10 wines, including Amarone, along with local cold cuts and cheeses. The lunch is a 3-course meal with water and coffee.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tasting, non-drinkers could still enjoy the scenic drives, the historic settings, and the delicious lunch.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most travelers of all ages could enjoy the sightseeing and lunch, but the wine tasting may appeal more to adults.

Are the wineries historical?
Yes, one winery dates back to 1917, and the tour includes visits to historic cellars and drying rooms.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and mild weather, with perhaps a light jacket for outdoor vineyard visits.

Is this tour available year-round?
While the data doesn’t specify seasonal availability, most wine tours run regularly in good weather months.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 128 days ahead, so planning early is advisable to secure your spot.

In sum, this Amarone Wine Tour offers a fantastic chance to discover the authentic world of Valpolicella wines, from traditional family wineries to innovative practices, all complemented by a delicious Italian meal. It’s an experience that balances education, flavor, and scenery, making it a must for anyone wanting to deepen their appreciation of Italy’s renowned wine culture.