SMALL GROUP Chianti 2 wineries & meat feast @ Dario Cecchini

Discover Tuscany’s Wine and Food Charm with a Small-Group Tour from Florence

This 7-hour tour offers a taste of genuine Tuscany—beautiful vineyards, authentic wine-making, and an unforgettable meat feast at Dario Cecchini’s renowned butcher shop. Led by passionate guides like Clemente or Matteo, you’ll visit two distinct organic wineries in Chianti, learn how Terroir influences wine flavors, and sample around 10 wines. The experience wraps up with a hearty lunch at a famous butcher’s shop, making it a full day of sensory delights.

Two reasons we particularly love this tour: First, the small group size (limited to 8 travelers) ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and truly connect with your guides. Second, the stop at Dario Cecchini—an icon in Tuscan gastronomy—adds a unique, tangible flavor of local tradition that’s hard to find elsewhere.

One potential drawback? The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point in Florence, which is conveniently near public transportation. Also, if you’re not a wine or meat enthusiast, some moments might feel a bit specialized, but overall, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Tuscan culture.

This experience suits wine lovers, foodies, and curious travelers eager for an authentic, in-depth look at Tuscany’s culinary and vinicultural treasures. It’s especially ideal if you’re keen on understanding the nuances of Chianti wines and want to enjoy a relaxed, small-group setting.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Setting: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Authentic Tasting Experience: Around 10 wines, focusing on Chianti and Chianti Classico.
• Gourmet Lunch at Dario Cecchini: Famous butcher shop offering a memorable meat feast.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Clemente and Matteo enhance your understanding of wine and local culture.
• Stunning Tuscan Scenery: Enjoy beautiful vineyard views and a stroll in Greve in Chianti.
• Convenient Itinerary: Carefully timed stops with a balance of tasting, sightseeing, and food.

A Deep Dive into the Tuscany Wine and Food Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

You’ll meet your guide at Via dei Renai in Florence (near public transportation) about 15 minutes before the tour begins. The small size of the group (max 8) means the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day to soak up Tuscany’s sights and flavors without feeling rushed.

Exploring the Vineyards: Grape Tours and Casa Erta

Your adventure starts with a visit to Grape Tours’ office, which doubles as the meeting point. From there, you’ll head into the rolling hills of Tuscany to visit two distinctly different organic wineries.

The first stop, Casa Erta at Fattoria Corzano e Paterno, is a highlight. Expect a guided tour of the property, followed by a tasting of several wines. The reviews praise the warm welcome and the passionate explanations from guides like Clemente, who bring the vineyards to life with their stories and expertise. We loved the way the guides explained the concept of terroir—the idea that soil, climate, and vineyard practices shape wine flavors—which is especially interesting for those new to wine tasting.

Tasting and Learning About Wine

You’ll sample around 10 wines throughout the day—primarily Chianti and Chianti Classico—and learn how to identify characteristics such as aroma, acidity, and tannin levels. As one reviewer noted, the first tasting was “excellent” and the guide’s passion infectious. This isn’t just about sipping; it’s about understanding what makes each wine unique.

The Meat Feast at Dario Cecchini

After exploring the vineyards, it’s time for a hearty lunch stop at Antica Macelleria Cecchini, arguably the most famous butcher shop in Tuscany. Here, the focus is on local meats and Tuscan specialties.

While some reviewers felt the meal could have been more attentive—“little to no attention from the wait staff”—most agree the quality of the food and the experience of visiting such a legendary butcher makes up for it. Dario Cecchini himself isn’t always present, but the atmosphere, the meat cuts, and the authenticity of the setting make it well worth the visit. It’s a real taste of Tuscan tradition.

Strolling Through Greve in Chianti

The tour wraps up with a quick visit to Greve in Chianti, a charming town with a lively piazza, perfect for a brief stroll and some photo opportunities. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and soak in more of the countryside’s charm.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

The value of this tour lies in its combination of wine education, authentic Tuscan gastronomy, and personalized service. The small group size makes for more engaging conversations, and the guides’ obvious passion elevates the experience beyond just tasting wine. The inclusion of a local butcher’s lunch adds a distinctive, tangible flavor of Tuscan culture.

For anyone who loves learning about wine, appreciates good local cuisine, and desires a relaxed, intimate experience, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially good for those who want to understand the nuances of Chianti wines while savoring authentic Tuscan flavors.

Analyzing the Price

At $359.16 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive day out—covering two wineries, a hearty lunch, and guided insights. While it’s not the cheapest option available, the quality of the wineries visited, the expert guides, and the inclusion of a famous meat feast make it a solid value for travelers wanting a well-rounded Tuscany experience.

The Sum Up

This small-group Chianti tour from Florence offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Tuscan wine, food, and scenery. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just a bus ride—it’s an opportunity to learn, taste, and connect with Tuscany’s culinary traditions in an intimate setting.

Guided by passionate experts, you’ll discover the subtleties of Chianti wines, gain insights into organic viticulture, and enjoy a legendary meat feast at Dario Cecchini. The scenic stops, friendly guides, and authentic experiences make this tour a memorable choice for foodies and wine lovers alike.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, informative, and delicious day out, this tour will satisfy your curiosity and palate. Just plan to meet at the designated spot—then let Tuscany unfold before you in its full flavorful glory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included in this tour?
No, this tour does not include hotel transportation. You’ll need to meet at the designated meeting point in Florence, which is conveniently located near public transportation.

How many wines will I taste during the tour?
You will sample approximately 10 wines, focusing on Chianti and Chianti Classico varieties. The guides help you learn how to identify their different characteristics.

What does the lunch at Dario Cecchini include?
The lunch features local meats at the famous butcher shop. While some reviews mention limited service, most agree the quality and authenticity of the food are excellent.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The minimum age is 18 years, so it’s primarily suited for adult travelers interested in wine and food.

How long are the winery visits?
Each winery tour and tasting lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, providing ample time to enjoy the wines and learn about the process.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are experienced at explaining wine basics, and the tasting is designed to be accessible for all levels of knowledge.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to stroll through Greve. An ID is necessary for wine tasting, and a small bag or backpack is useful for personal items.

In sum, this tour delivers a genuine slice of Tuscany—perfect for those wanting to experience the region’s wine and culinary delights in an intimate, engaging setting.