Wine Tasting Lunch in Spello withTruffle Tasting

Imagine wandering through the narrow, cobbled streets of Spello, a small hilltop town with medieval charm, and finding yourself in a cozy enoteca surrounded by the aromas of local delicacies. For about $106, you can enjoy a 2-hour experience that combines exceptional regional wines, truffle-infused dishes, and gourmet local products—all guided by a knowledgeable sommelier. It’s a chance to taste the best of Umbria’s culinary treasures in an intimate setting away from the tourist crowds.

What I love about this experience is the focus on hyper-local labels and rare products you’re unlikely to find outside Italy. The chance to sample olive oils used by top chefs worldwide and enjoy homemade pasta with truffles adds a special touch. Plus, the outdoor setting in Spello’s historic center offers a relaxed, authentic ambiance. One possible drawback? The tour’s timing and group size mean it’s best suited for those who enjoy a small, personalized experience in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

This tour is perfect for food and wine lovers eager to deepen their appreciation of Umbrian flavors, as well as travelers wanting a meaningful cultural experience. If you’re curious about regional specialties, enjoy pairing wines with local dishes, or simply want a scenic, delicious break in Italy’s heartland, this outing will suit you well.

Key Points

• Authentic regional focus: Tasting Umbrian wines and delicacies in a local setting.
• Expert guidance: A master sommelier explaining wine and food pairings.
• Unique products: Rare olive oils, truffles, and regional cheeses unavailable elsewhere.
• Intimate experience: Small group size ensures personalized service.
• Beautiful setting: Outdoor lunch in the charming medieval town of Spello.
• Gourmet menu: Homemade pasta, meats, cheeses, and desserts paired with four wines.

Discovering Umbrian Flavors: A Deep Dive into the Tour

The Town of Spello: An Authentic Backdrop

Starting in Spello, a town often bypassed by travelers rushing to Assisi or Perugia, this experience offers a genuine glimpse into Umbrian life. The town’s medieval streets and historic charm set a perfect stage for a food and wine journey. Unlike more commercialized tours, this experience keeps you away from the touristy trails, allowing you to savor a quieter, more authentic atmosphere.

The Venue: A Landmark Enoteca

Your tasting takes place in a beloved enoteca situated in the heart of Spello’s old town. This is no sterile tasting room—it’s a warm, inviting space that exudes local character. The setting allows you to fully appreciate the regional products and the expert guidance of the host, Luca, a sommelier who impresses with his excellent English and deep knowledge. As one reviewer noted, Luca “was an excellent sommelier with very good English,” making the experience accessible for international visitors.

The Food: A Gourmet Journey

The menu for the lunch is carefully curated to showcase local specialties. It begins with bruschette featuring two types of olive oil, one even highlighted by the New York Times and used by top chefs worldwide. These oils are considered some of the finest in Italy, offering a glimpse into Umbrian olive culture.

Next, you’ll enjoy homemade pasta, possibly with truffle or lasagna, both crafted in traditional ways that highlight local ingredients. The meat course, cheeses paired with honey, and a sweet dessert finish, followed by coffee and grappa, complete a well-rounded, flavorful meal.

The Wines and Olive Oils: A Lesson in Local Terroir

Throughout the meal, you’ll taste four different wines, carefully selected to match each stage of the meal. The tasting is led by Luca, who provides insights into the characteristics, regional history, and production methods of each label. As one reviewer put it, “The wine, olive oil, and food were wonderful,” emphasizing the quality of the offerings.

The olive oil tasting is particularly notable, with some oils so prized that they’re used by renowned chefs globally. This focus on hyper-local products adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers find rewarding.

The Truffle Experience

A highlight is the truffle tasting, which complements the pasta and cheeses. Umbrian truffles are celebrated for their aroma and depth, and experiencing them in this setting underscores the region’s reputation as a truffle hub.

Small Group, Personal Service

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour maintains a personalized atmosphere. Several reviews mention Luca’s impressive knowledge and friendly manner, making each guest feel appreciated and well-guided. The small group size also means you can ask questions freely and enjoy a more relaxed pace.

Flexibility and Convenience

The tour is available with a mobile ticket and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible choice for travelers who want a stress-free experience. The meeting point is in Spello, and the tour concludes back at the same spot, simplifying logistics.

Value for Money

For just over $100, you’re getting a full lunch, wine and olive oil tastings, truffle experience, and expert guidance—a package that delivers excellent value, especially considering the quality and authenticity of products.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback from past participants echoes the overall positive impression. Theresa praised the “impressive knowledge” and stunning outdoor setting, while George called Luca “an excellent sommelier.” One critic noted that the wines served varied slightly between tables, which could be a consideration if you’re looking for consistency, but it also reflects a flexible, possibly more personalized approach.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for culinary enthusiasts and wine lovers eager to explore regional specialties in a relaxed, authentic setting. It’s suited for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, as well as travelers interested in learning about local products directly from experts. If you’re seeking a memorable, flavorful break in Umbria—away from large tourist crowds—this tour offers genuine insight and delicious results.

The Sum Up

This wine tasting and truffle lunch in Spello offers a wonderful blend of local flavors, expert guidance, and scenic charm. It’s perfect for travelers who value authenticity, enjoy discovering regional delicacies, and love a good glass of wine paired with excellent food. The small size, knowledgeable guide, and focus on rare, high-quality products make it a standout experience for those wanting a taste of Umbrian life.

While it might not be ideal for those seeking a large-scale tour or a quick snack, it’s an excellent choice for serious foodies and curious travelers who want to deepen their understanding of Italy’s culinary soul. The delicious food, exceptional wines, and intimate setting will leave you with lasting memories—and perhaps a few bottles to take home from the shop.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you ample time to relax and enjoy each tasting.

What is included in the price?
You’ll enjoy a full lunch with homemade pasta, meats, cheeses, desserts, and coffee, along with wine tastings and olive oil sampling. Beverages like bottled water, alcohol, and grappa are also included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the tour suitable for non-English speakers?
The guide, Luca, speaks excellent English, making the experience accessible for international visitors.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are small, with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Are products available for purchase?
Yes, the tour includes products that are mostly unavailable abroad, with shipping options for those interested in bringing home olive oils, truffles, or cheeses.

This trip is a memorable way to explore Umbrian cuisine firsthand. Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile, a lover of fine foods, or simply curious about Italy’s gastronomic treasures, this tour offers a delicious slice of Italy’s soul in the charming town of Spello.