If you’re after a taste of authentic Lazio that combines history, landscape, and local flavor, this Winery Tour and Wine Tasting offers a compelling experience. For just $58 per person, you’ll explore organic vineyards perched at over 600 meters in the hills near Rieti, visit a 15th-century underground cellar, and sample four wines paired with artisanal cured meats. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a genuine glimpse into Italy’s rural wine traditions—without the tourist trap vibe.
We particularly love how this experience emphasizes sustainable farming practices and local heritage, revealing a different side of Italy that’s often overshadowed by more commercial wine routes. The chance to walk through mountain vineyards and taste rediscovered native grapes makes for a memorable outing. On the flip side, travelers should note that transportation isn’t included, so some planning is needed to reach the meeting point. This tour fits best for those who enjoy authentic rural settings, wine enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Italy’s indigenous grape varieties.
Key Points
- High-altitude vineyards at 610–650 meters offer unique microclimates for grape growing.
- Historic underground cellar from the 15th century provides a fascinating glimpse into traditional winemaking.
- Sustainable farming practices include organic cultivation and manual labor, promoting land care.
- Four wines tasting includes sparkling and red varieties paired with local cured meats.
- Cesanese di Castelfranco: a nearly lost, native grape variety recently rediscovered and preserved.
- Authentic rural atmosphere with mountain views and a quiet, timeless ambiance.
An Authentic Journey into Lazio’s Winemaking Heritage
When we think about Italy’s wine regions, places like Tuscany or Piedmont often come to mind. But this tour in the Rieti countryside offers a different perspective—one rooted in local tradition, natural land stewardship, and mountain scenery. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a more grounded, less commercialized experience that reflects Italy’s rural soul.
Our first impression was how much care is evident in these vineyards. The high-altitude terrain at over 600 meters (approximately 2000 feet) gives the grapes a distinctive character, often resulting in wines with lively acidity and nuanced flavors. The land is farmed organically, with no chemical herbicides or fertilizers—just manual labor and cover cropping. We loved walking among these biodiverse vines, feeling connected to the land and to the generations who cultivated it before us.
Keen to taste more of Rieti? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences
Exploring the Vineyards
The tour begins with a guided walk through the vineyards, which are carefully matched with grape varieties suited to this microclimate. The guides explain how the land’s minerals and ancient soils contribute to the flavor of the grapes—an aspect we found surprisingly tangible in the wines. The mountain breezes help keep the grapes healthy, reducing the need for chemical interventions.
One of the standout features here is the story of the native Cesanese di Castelfranco, a grape nearly lost to history, now revived thanks to dedicated local efforts. Recognized officially only since 2017, this variety yields a ruby-red wine bursting with wild berries, cocoa, and black pepper notes. Learning about the local grape revival adds a personal touch that elevates the tasting experience.
The guides’ explanations are engaging without being overly technical, making it easy to appreciate what makes these wines special. You’ll also hear about how the vineyard’s biodiversity and sustainable practices help regenerate the land—a cause that’s visibly important here.
The Historic Cellar
Next, we descend into the 15th-century underground cellar, where centuries of winemaking history are preserved in stone walls and ancient vats. It’s a quiet, cool space—perfect for aging wine and steeped in the quiet dignity of tradition. The recent restoration has kept the cellar’s authentic character, including the stone vats used for pressing and fermenting grapes.
Here, the focus is on sparkling wines made using the traditional method, where the second fermentation occurs directly in the bottle. We appreciated the timelessness of this process, which has been practiced here for hundreds of years. The cellar also houses oak casks where the wines develop depth and complexity, offering a glimpse into both history and craftsmanship.
The setting itself is a highlight—imagine standing in a space where generations of winemakers have worked, surrounded by stone and a sense of continuity.
The Tasting Experience
The final part of the tour is a dedicated tasting session where you get to try four carefully selected wines. Each wine is paired with artisanal cured meats made on-site, providing a perfect pairing that highlights regional culinary traditions.
The wines include sparkling, which showcases the traditional method, and a robust red made from Cesanese di Castelfranco. The guides share stories about each wine’s characteristics and pairing choices, enriching the tasting experience. We loved the way the cured meats complemented the wines—thoughtful pairings that showcase the local flavors.
This sensory journey is as much about storytelling as it is about drinking. The guides’ passion and knowledge help you understand the cultural significance behind each glass, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a culture.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Value
At $58 per person, this tour offers excellent value. The ticket includes the guided vineyard walk, historic cellar visit, wine tasting, and food pairing. What’s not included is transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point, which is straightforward but requires planning.
The tour has a small group format, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere—ideal if you prefer intimate experiences over large groups. It’s suitable for adults interested in wine, history, and local culture, but unfortunately, it’s not wheelchair accessible due to the terrain and cellar layout.
The tour is available in English and Italian, with flexible booking options allowing you to reserve now and pay later—a nice touch for those with fluctuating plans.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is especially suited for wine lovers eager to explore less-known Italian regions, nature enthusiasts interested in sustainable farming, and history buffs drawn to old cellars and traditions. If you enjoy authentic rural settings and want to learn about native grape varieties, this tour will resonate.
It’s also a perfect choice for those who appreciate a slow, thoughtful journey—away from the crowds and commercialized wine tours. The focus on local heritage, mountain views, and organic practices makes it a refreshing alternative for seasoned travelers seeking genuine experiences.
Final Thoughts
This Winery Tour and Wine Tasting in Rieti balances history, landscape, and taste in a way that feels honest and heartfelt. The combination of high-altitude vineyards, an ancient cellar, and native grape varieties creates an experience that’s both educational and deeply rooted in local tradition. The small group size and storytelling approach make it engaging without feeling rushed, and the pairing of wines with cured meats adds a delightful culinary dimension.
While transportation is an additional consideration, those willing to make the effort will find this tour well worth it—especially if you’re keen on discovering less commercialized, sustainable Italian wines. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply curious about Italy’s rural wine culture, you’ll come away with more than just a tasting—you’ll gain a richer appreciation for the land, the people, and the centuries of craftsmanship behind these bottles.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included. You’ll need to organize your own way to arrive at the venue.
What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in both English and Italian.
How many wines will I taste?
You will taste four wines, including sparkling and red varieties.
Are the wines paired with food?
Yes, each wine is paired with artisanal cured meats produced on-site.
Can I buy bottles during the tour?
Purchases are available separately but are not included in the price.
Is this tour suitable for kids or non-drinkers?
This tour is designed for adults interested in wine and local culture. It’s not suitable for children or those who do not consume alcohol.
How long does the tour last?
While not explicitly stated, tours typically follow a structured format and include vineyard walking, cellar visits, and tasting, generally lasting around a few hours.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, due to the terrain and historic cellar layout, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
What is the best way to book?
You can reserve online through the provider’s platform. You have the option to book now and pay later, providing flexibility.
This tour offers a genuine, flavorful taste of Italy’s lesser-known wine regions, perfect for those wanting to step off the beaten path and enjoy an authentic rural experience.
You can check availability for your dates here: