The Grand tour of Valpolicella: 2 Wineries, Lunch & Amarone focus

The Grand tour of Valpolicella: 2 Wineries, Lunch & Amarone focus offers a beautifully curated glimpse into Italy’s famous wine region just outside Verona. For $246.53 per person, you’ll spend about five hours traveling through landscapes dotted with vineyards, tasting exceptional wines, and enjoying a hearty Veronese lunch. Led by passionate guides, this tour is ideal for those eager to deepen their understanding of Amarone, one of Italy’s most celebrated reds, with plenty of opportunities to speak directly with winemakers.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to visit two contrasting wineries — from a small family-run operation to a historic estate dating back to the 1500s — both of which offer insights into traditional and innovative wine-making styles. Second, the inclusion of a seated lunch paired with local cuisine elevates the day; this isn’t just wine tasting in a sterile setting, but an authentic meal with regional flavors.

A possible consideration? The group size is limited to 12, which is excellent for personalized attention, but it also means booking well in advance—on average, this tour is booked around 61 days ahead. Also, note that guides are not included in the price, so the experience relies heavily on the expertise of your local driver and the winemakers themselves.

This tour best suits wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Amarone and Valpolicella’s indigenous grape varieties, as well as food lovers who appreciate regional cuisine paired with premium wines. If you enjoy small-group experiences, engaging conversations with winemakers, and scenic drives through Italy’s countryside, you’ll find this tour well worth the investment.

This experience made our article of Verona’s 12 Top Lunch Experiences (With Prices).

Key Points

• In-Depth Wine Focus: The tour centers around Amarone, showcasing multiple vintages and limited-edition wines.
• Authentic Visits: Two different wineries, including a historic one from the 1500s, offer a range of experiences.
• Gourmet Lunch: A seated meal featuring traditional Veronese dishes, paired with local wines, for a true taste of Italy.
• Expert Engagement: Direct conversations with winemakers and tastings guided by passionate hosts.
• Scenic Drive: Traverse the beautiful hills of Valpolicella, with panoramic stops perfect for photos.
• Small Group: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

A Deep Dive Into the Valpolicella Experience

If you’re passionate about wine, especially Amarone, this small-group tour offers a detailed look that few other experiences can match. Starting in Verona, the journey begins with a scenic drive through the sunny hills of Valpolicella, where vines cascade over gentle slopes. The first stop, in Marano di Valpolicella, introduces you to two wineries. Here, the emphasis is on local tradition and family-owned charm.

Wineries with personality make all the difference. The first is a boutique vineyard where your guide—likely someone like Diana, who earns rave reviews for her knowledge and cheery demeanor—will introduce you to the land and the grapes. You’ll get to walk among the vines, feeling the soil beneath your feet and hearing stories about the art of grape growing that have been passed down through generations.

The highlight is tasting their prized wines, including some limited-edition Amarones. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide Diana was fantastic! She took us to two delightful wineries where we had terrific wines and learned a lot about the Valpolicella styles.” This quote sums up the quality of the visits—small, personal, and packed with insider knowledge.

The second stop, in San Giorgio di Valpolicella, is where the lunch takes place. Expect a family-owned winery, with a tasting of wines paired with homemade regional dishes like bruschetta and grilled polenta. The setting is historic, dating back to the 1500s, and the menu varies seasonally, but the focus remains on authentic Veronese cuisine. This part of the tour offers a perfect balance of gastronomic delight and wine education. As one guest noted, “The lunch at a family-owned winery and meeting the owners was a joy — it was a true taste of Veronese tradition.”

After lunch, you’ll explore Indigenous grape varieties in Sant’Ambrogio di Valpolicella, walking through vineyards and learning what makes Valpolicella’s wines distinct. The session wraps up with a grappa toast, a traditional way to end a day of regional appreciation. Multiple reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one saying, “Linda was excellent and took care of all aspects of our adventure,” ensuring everyone felt comfortable and engaged.

Transportation and Group Size

Transport is by private vehicle or Mercedes Minivan, which keeps the experience intimate and comfortable. The small group size (maximum 12) makes for a more relaxed atmosphere, where you can ask questions and get personalized insights. Many reviews praise the professionalism of the guides and the comfortable transportation, describing the day as “flawless” and “worth every penny.”

Food and Wine

The lunch is not just a snack but a full meal, featuring local cheeses, salami, chocolates, and cookies, all carefully chosen to complement specific wines, especially Amarone and Recioto DOCG. Notably, the wine tasting includes multiple vintages of Amarone and some limited-edition IGT wines. Guests frequently mention the variety and quality of wines, with one reviewer exclaiming, “If you love Amarone, you’ll be in wine heaven.”

Authenticity and Education

What truly elevates this tour is the chance to speak directly with winemakers and owners. According to reviews, the personal stories and explanations make the experience more meaningful. For some, it’s a chance to see the craftsmanship behind each bottle, making the wine more than just a drink but a story of land, tradition, and personality.

The Value Proposition

While the price might seem high, consider what’s included: transportation, visits to two wineries, tastings, a full regional lunch, and personalized attention. When you factor in the expert guidance, the exclusive tastings, and the authentic setting, it’s a well-rounded experience worth the investment. Many reviewers say it’s their favorite wine tour ever, underscoring the value of small-group intimacy and genuine interaction.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to learn about Amarone and Valpolicella’s indigenous grapes. It’s equally suited for foodies who want a regional meal paired with premium wines. If you enjoy small, personalized tours with knowledgeable guides and the chance to meet winemakers firsthand, this tour will delight you. Travelers looking for a scenic drive combined with authentic experiences will also find this a memorable day.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is by private vehicle or Mercedes Minivan, ensuring comfort and intimacy throughout the day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately five hours, including visits, tastings, and lunch.

Are guide services included in the price?
No, guides are not included; however, the tours are led by certified local drivers and knowledgeable hosts. The focus is on direct interaction at wineries.

What’s the group size?
Limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, making for a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Can I visit more than two wineries?
No, this tour specifically includes visits to two wineries, with an emphasis on quality over quantity.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a seated, traditional Veronese lunch with regional dishes and local wines is part of the experience.

Are children or minors allowed?
The minimum drinking age is 18, but the experience can be enjoyed by anyone interested in regional culture and scenery.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded and personal exploration of Valpolicella’s wine heritage. You’ll visit two distinct wineries, taste multiple vintages of Amarone, and enjoy an authentic regional lunch—all led by passionate guides and hosted in historic settings.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious traveler wanting a taste of Italy’s famous reds, this experience delivers genuine value. It’s especially ideal if you prefer small-group settings that foster conversations, and if you’re eager to meet the people behind the wine. For those who want a scenic, educational, and delicious journey into Italy’s wine country, this tour hits all the right notes.