AMARONE: VERTICAL TASTING OF HISTORIC VINTAGES

Introduction

If you’re a fan of wine and find yourself in Italy’s Veneto region, this Amarone: Vertical Tasting of Historic Vintages tour could be a real highlight. It’s not just about sipping some of the best Amarone wines—though you’ll definitely do that—it’s about understanding what makes this DOCG wine so special. The chance to compare different vintages and learn about the traditions behind it? That’s rare and valuable.

What we love about this experience is how it combines educational insights with tasting. You get a behind-the-scenes look at the winery, and the opportunity to taste four historic Amarone vintages, along with a sweet Recioto to finish. Plus, the setting at a family-owned vineyard adds warmth and authenticity. However, a quick heads-up: this tour doesn’t include transportation, so planning your arrival is on you.

This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their knowledge, those interested in Italy’s winemaking traditions, and anyone curious about how vintage variation impacts wine character. It’s ideal if you like a more intimate, educational tour rather than a large group tasting.

Key Points

• Educational Focus: Learn about Amarone’s history, techniques, and local terroir.
• Vintage Comparison: Taste four different vintages and see how Amarone evolves over the years.
• Authentic Setting: Conducted at a family-owned vineyard, offering genuine insights and a cozy atmosphere.
• Food Pairings: Enjoy organic olive oil, cold cuts, cheeses, and bread that complement each wine.
• Price & Value: At $65, it’s a focused, reasonably priced experience for serious wine lovers.
• Accessibility & Flexibility: Includes a guided tour in English and Italian; note that transfers aren’t included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Venue and Initial Welcome

The tour begins at the Ca’ Besi vineyard, a family-run operation that immediately feels warm and authentic. As you arrive, you’re greeted by the host who introduces you to the land and the tradition behind Amarone. This personal touch is a major plus for those who want more than just tasting—this is about story and craft.

The Winery Tour

Next, you’re taken through the winemaking areas, including where the grapes are vinified and where aging occurs. Watching the process gives you a sense of the care and patience involved. For wine novices, this might be educational but not overly technical; for enthusiasts, it’s a chance to see authentic techniques in action. The host explains the land’s unique terroir, emphasizing how local conditions influence the wine’s character.

The Vertical Tasting: Four Vintages

The core of the experience is tasting four different Amarone vintages: 2010, 2015, 2018, and 2019. You’ll get to witness how each vintage differs—some showing more fruit-forward profiles, others more complex and mature. It’s fascinating to observe how Amarone evolves over time, especially when you compare a relatively recent vintage like 2019 with older ones like 2010.

The tasting room is cozy, with a curated selection of wines served alongside fresh bread and organic olive oil. The sommelier carefully matches each wine with a selection of cold cuts and cheeses, which enhances the tasting experience. As one reviewer noted, the “well-maintained snacks and the knowledge” make the visit memorable.

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The Final Touch: Recioto

To round out the tasting, you’ll sample a glass of Recioto della Valpolicella Classico DOCG Bio 2021, a sweet wine that’s made from the same grapes as Amarone but with a different process. The dessert is served with a lovely pairing of desserts, adding a sweet finale to a day of learning.

The Atmosphere and Service

Both reviewers praised the service and knowledge of the staff, noting that the experience felt personalized and genuine. It’s clear that the family’s dedication to quality and tradition shines through. The small-group atmosphere makes it easier to ask questions and engage deeply with the winemakers.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 3 hours, which is just enough time to enjoy the tasting without feeling rushed.
• Price: $65 per person, which includes the tour, tastings, and food pairings. Considering the quality of wines and the educational aspect, it’s a good deal.
• Availability: Tours run in English and Italian. For German or Spanish speakers, check availability in advance.
• Booking & Accessibility: You’ll need to book ahead and inform the vineyard about any allergies or special dietary needs. The tour is wheelchair accessible.

What’s Missing?

A key consideration here is transportation—the tour price doesn’t include transfers, so you’ll need to plan how to get there, especially if you’re staying in nearby towns or Verona. Also, if you’re looking for a casual drink or a large group tasting, this may not be the right fit; it’s more tailored to those with a genuine interest in wine.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re passionate about wine, especially Italian wines, this tour offers an intimate look at Amarone’s evolution over several years, which can be eye-opening. It’s perfect for those who enjoy learning about wine-making traditions and appreciate food pairings with their tastings.

It’s also great if you prefer smaller, more personal experiences over big tours—here, you’ll be hearing directly from the winemakers, not just following a guide. Couples, small groups, or even solo travelers will find this a rewarding way to spend an afternoon.

On the flip side, if you’re simply looking for a quick, casual tasting or don’t want to worry about transportation, you might find this experience a bit more formal or dedicated than some casual wine outings.

Final Thoughts

This vertical tasting of historic Amarone vintages provides a well-rounded, educational experience that adds depth to any wine lover’s trip through Veneto. It offers a genuine look into the land’s traditions, a chance to compare past and present vintages, and the opportunity to learn from passionate, knowledgeable hosts.

The setting of a family-run vineyard makes the experience feel authentic and personal, making it stand out from more commercial tastings. If you’re interested in understanding how wines develop over time and enjoy pairing wine with local foods, this is a lovely choice. The modest price point makes it accessible for those who want a quality, educational experience without breaking the bank.

This tour will suit travelers who value depth and authenticity, especially those with a real interest in Italian wine. It’s less about the Instagram-worthy photo ops and more about the story behind each bottle, making it perfect for wine aficionados or curious learners alike.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to and from the vineyard, so plan accordingly, especially if you’re coming from Verona or nearby towns.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 3 hours, giving plenty of time for a detailed visit, tasting, and food pairings without feeling rushed.

Are the tastings suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. While the focus is on historical vintages and techniques, the experience is designed to be accessible and engaging for all levels of wine knowledge.

Can I participate if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes. Please inform the vineyard when booking about allergies or dietary restrictions (gluten, lactose, vegetarian, vegan). They’re happy to accommodate.

What does the price include?
For $65, you get a visit to the vineyards, a tour of the winery, tastings of four vintages of Amarone plus a glass of Recioto, and food pairings like bread, cheese, cold cuts, and organic olive oil.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for those with mobility considerations to enjoy the tour.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially to ensure availability for your preferred date and language.

Can I do this tour in German or Spanish?
Yes, availability for tours in German and Spanish can be checked by contacting the vineyard ahead of time.

If you’re into wine and want to deepen your understanding of Amarone’s craftsmanship and history, this tasting offers a thoughtful, genuine experience. A perfect blend of education, flavor, and authenticity that’s worth considering if you’re in Veneto and craving a meaningful wine adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: