Guided tour and tasting with platter.

A Genuine Taste of Veneto: Guided Winery Tour & Tasting at Corte Badin

Imagine wandering through vineyards dating back to the 1700s, with the rolling hills of the Valpolicella region spreading out around you. That’s exactly what we experienced during this two-hour guided tour at Corte Badin, a family-run winery that’s been producing wine since 1931. The visit begins with a walk through the vineyards and a peek into the historic winery, where generations of the Bonazzi family have cultivated grapes with dedication and respect for tradition. After the tour, we sat down to taste four beautifully crafted wines accompanied by a platter of local cheeses and cold cuts, plus a chance to try a rare Amarone salami.

What we loved most about this experience was the personal touch—the guides, who were friendly and knowledgeable, made us feel like guests in a family home rather than just travelers. Also, the setting itself, in the heart of the Valpolicella Classica, provided stunning views and a palpable sense of history. However, since the tour is about two hours long and involves walking through vineyards and wine cellars, it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges or looking for a quick, casual tasting.

This tour is perfect if you’re seeking an authentic, immersive experience into the world of Italian winemaking, especially if you appreciate family traditions and want a taste of local culture. It’s well-suited for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of what makes Valpolicella wines special.

Key Points

• Historical Family Winery: Run by the Bonazzi family since 1931 on land cultivated since the 1700s.
• Exclusive Tasting: Four wines, including Valpolicella Superiore, Ripasso, and two IGT options, paired with a local platter.
• Location & Setting: Located in the Valpolicella Classica, with vineyard views and a historic villa.
• Authentic Experience: Guided by friendly, multilingual guides in Italian, English, and Russian.
• Limited-Edition Tasting: Includes a rare Amarone salami, showcasing small-batch, limited production items.
• Accessibility & Cancellation: Wheelchair accessible; free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Heart of Veneto: What to Expect

When you arrive at Corte Badin, parking is straightforward at the villa Badin, and the experience begins with a warm welcome from your guide, who will likely be a member of the family or someone deeply familiar with the land and wines. The setting immediately sets a tone of authenticity; the winery is perched on a south-facing hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards. The 8-hectare estate includes not only vines but also olive and cherry trees, which hints at a broader appreciation for traditional agricultural practices.

The Vineyard & Winery Tour

Your guide will lead you through the vineyards, explaining how the Bonazzi family has cultivated these lands with “love and respect” for centuries. Expect to hear stories about their long-standing commitment to quality and the specific characteristics of the Valpolicella region, famous for Amarone, Recioto, and Valpolicella wines.

The visit continues inside the winery, where you’ll see the traditional wine-making equipment—likely wooden barrels and modern stainless steel tanks—showing a blend of tradition and innovation. The setting of the winery, in a splendid elevated position, is ideal for optimizing sun exposure—crucial for ripening grapes and producing vibrant wines.

The Wines & Tasting Experience

Following the tour, you’ll sit down to a tasting of four wines, each offering a different expression of the region’s grapes:

• Valpolicella Superiore, a lively and fresh red with bright fruit notes.
• Valpolicella Ripasso, which highlights the “pass over” process, offering more complexity and body.
• Camponi IGT, a regional blend that adds a different dimension.
• Beso IGT, perhaps a more modern or innovative label from the estate.

The tasting is complemented by a platter of cold cuts and cheeses, which are local and typical of the Veneto region. This pairing enhances the wines’ flavors and provides a true taste of local craftsmanship.

Special Touch: The Amarone Salami

A highlight is the opportunity to sample a limited-production Amarone salami, a rare treat that underscores the winery’s dedication to small-batch, artisanal products. Many reviews appreciate this exclusive offering, noting it’s a “unique and limited” item that adds an extra layer of authenticity.

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Practical Details & Considerations

The entire experience lasts around two hours, making it a manageable addition to a day of exploring Veneto. It’s wheelchair accessible, though the walking through vineyards and cellar might require some mobility considerations. The tour is offered in multiple languages, including Italian, English, and Russian, making it accessible for many travelers.

Booking is flexible—reserve now and pay later—and cancellations can be made free of charge up to 24 hours beforehand, which offers peace of mind in case travel plans change.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to larger, less personal wine tastings, this experience provides a close-up view of traditional winemaking alongside a personal introduction to the family’s heritage. The inclusion of a delicious regional platter and exclusive salami tasting enhances the value, especially for those who want more than just a sip of wine.

The scenic setting combined with the family history makes this a memorable cultural and gastronomic experience, perfect for travelers interested in authentic Italian traditions rather than commercialized tourist traps.

Who Will Love This Experience

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate craftsmanship and tradition. If you love learning about local history while tasting authentic wines, you’ll find this experience rewarding. It’s especially suited for small groups or couples seeking a personalized, relaxed atmosphere.

Since it’s not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women, it’s better suited for adult wine lovers. Those with mobility issues might want to inquire further about accessibility, but the winery’s location on a hill might present some challenges.

Final Thoughts

A visit to Corte Badin offers a rare glimpse into the art of winemaking in one of Italy’s most renowned regions. You’ll enjoy beautiful scenery, a warm family atmosphere, and high-quality wines that reflect the land’s unique qualities. The combination of an authentic vineyard tour, small-batch tastings, and the chance to try an exclusive Amarone salami makes this experience well worth the price for a genuine taste of Veneto.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply curious about Italian wine culture, this tour provides insights, flavor, and scenery that are sure to leave a lasting impression. It’s a delightful way to deepen your understanding of Italy’s wine heritage without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for wine beginners?
Yes, the guide will explain each wine, making it accessible for those new to tasting wine and wanting to learn more about the regional varieties.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately two hours, including the vineyard walk, winery tour, and tasting with a platter.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Paying later options also give flexibility.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
It’s wheelchair accessible, but some walking through vineyards and cellars might require additional considerations.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample Valpolicella Superiore, Valpolicella Ripasso, Camponi IGT, and Beso IGT.

Is the Amarone salami included?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to taste this limited-production, unique salami, which many reviews find to be a highlight.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18, as it involves wine tasting and mature products.

This guided tour at Corte Badin offers an authentic, flavorful journey into Veneto’s winemaking tradition, perfect for those eager to connect with Italy’s cultural roots and enjoy high-quality local wines in a stunning setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: