Taranto isn’t just Italy’s historic port city; it’s also a surprisingly good base for exploring the rich wines of Puglia. While the region is famous for its Primitivo and Negroamaro grapes, Taranto often gets overlooked compared to nearby towns like Lecce or Ostuni. But if you’re into authentic wine experiences, there’s plenty to enjoy here. Some of our favorite options include a private full-day tour that combines wine tasting, sightseeing, and local lunch—perfect if you want a balanced mix of culture and vino— and a cozy vineyard walk in a historic masseria that offers a taste of regional tradition. For those on a tighter schedule, a quick visit to a modern winery lets you sample regional wines without needing a full day.
Below, you’ll find an overview of the top three wine tours in Taranto, each with its unique appeal. Whether you’re after an all-inclusive day trip, an in-depth visit to a cellar rich in history, or a brief but delightful tasting, there’s something here for your style and budget.
1. Private Wine Tour from Ostuni with Lunch including Alberobello and Locorotondo
At number one, this private full-day tour combines wine tasting, sightseeing, and regional cuisine. It’s ideal if you want a well-rounded experience that balances cultural exploration with sipping regional wines. The tour kicks off with a visit to a 16th-century masseria—a traditional farm estate—where you’ll sample local wines and learn about the winemaking process. Next, you’ll explore Alberobello’s UNESCO-listed “trulli” dwellings, walking among these iconic cone-shaped houses and meeting a local Trullo Master who explains their construction.
The highlight is the visit to Locorotondo, a charming hilltop town, where you’ll enjoy a farm-to-table lunch. Afterward, you get to taste three different Valle d’Itria wines in a modern winery setting, with snacks that perfectly complement the wines. The tour finishes on a panoramic terrace, sipping rosoli liqueur amidst the cone-shaped roofs of the trulli—an authentic taste of local life.
This tour scores highly for its comprehensive nature: combining sightseeing, wine tasting, and culinary delights. Reviewers love how relaxed and personal the experience feels, especially with the private guide. It’s perfect if you prefer a full-day immersive experience that avoids the stress of driving.
Bottom Line: A top pick for those who want culture, cuisine, and wine all wrapped into one memorable day.
2. Wine Tour “The Pearls of Manduria”
For a shorter, more focused experience, the “The Pearls of Manduria” wine tour offers an intimate visit to a cellar that has been producing Primitivo and Negroamaro wines for five generations. This 1.5-hour tour takes you right to the heart of Salento’s wine country, where you’ll taste some of the region’s most iconic reds. The guide’s knowledge of the local traditions and the winemaking process makes this tour more than just a tasting—it’s an education about Puglia’s wine culture.
This experience is particularly good for those who want a quick introduction to the region’s wines without committing to a full day out. Reviewers appreciate the professionalism of the guide and the passion behind the small family winery. It’s a great way to sample Primitivo, Negroamaro, and regional delicacies in a setting that feels genuine and welcoming.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers with limited time who want an authentic, educational tasting in a cozy, family-run cellar.
3. Vineyard Walk and Tasting at a Masseria Winery in Taranto
This one-hour experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at a modern winery in an ancient masseria—a traditional farmstead. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, relaxed visit with a focus on regional wines and local scenery. The tour begins with a vineyard stroll, where you’ll see the bush-trained vines typical of this coastline, and then moves into the oak and ceramic wine-aging rooms.
The highlight is the wine tasting, where you’ll sample three local wines paired with regional delicacies. The setting is both informal and informative, with sweeping views from the panoramic hall. Reviewers mention that the price point makes this an excellent value, especially if you’re just looking for a taste of Taranto’s wine culture without a big time commitment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a short, casual visit with a taste of regional wines in a scenic setting.
$52 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Wine Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your time availability, budget, and interest level. If you want a comprehensive day trip with plenty of sightseeing and a delicious lunch, the Private Wine Tour from Ostuni offers incredible value—and you can learn more here. For a quick, educational visit that focuses on Salento’s famous reds, the Pearls of Manduria tour is perfect and requires less time. If you prefer a relaxed, scenic stop for a short tasting, the vineyard walk at the masseria provides a beautiful setting and delicious wines for a modest price.
Keep in mind that booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. For experiences like the private tour, confirm availability in advance to secure your preferred date. Most tours offer flexible options, but planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out.
Final Thoughts
Taranto offers a surprising range of wine experiences that cater to different tastes and schedules. For a full day of cultural and culinary discovery, the Private Wine Tour from Ostuni is hard to beat. If you’re short on time but still want a quality taste of Puglia’s reds, the Pearls of Manduria provides a memorable, intimate encounter. And for a quick scenic stop, the vineyard walk and tasting at a masseria delivers regional flavor without fuss.
No matter which you choose, each experience promises a chance to sample some of Italy’s best wines while enjoying the beautiful landscapes and authentic local culture. Be sure to book early, especially if you want the more comprehensive tours, and prepare to savor every sip of Puglia’s excellent wines. Cheers to your wine adventure in Taranto!