If you’re dreaming of a genuine taste of Tuscany, this lunch and wine tasting experience at Poggio ai Laghi in Chianti offers just that. It’s a delightful way to step into the world of Tuscan wines, paired with local cuisine and a knowledgeable guide to enrich the journey. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply want to savor the flavors of Tuscany in a relaxed setting, this tour could be a perfect fit.
What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines beautiful surroundings with educational insights — you’re not just drinking wine, you’re learning about its origins and the artistry behind each bottle. Another highlight is the pairing of wines with exceptional local oils and vinegars, elevating the tasting to something memorable. The only consideration? It’s a two-hour experience, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed but structured tasting without feeling rushed.
This experience works beautifully for those who want a taste of authentic Tuscan culture, especially if you appreciate a good story behind your wine and food. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable, informative, and flavorful afternoon that dives into the heart of Chianti’s wine heritage.
Key Points
- Authentic Tuscan ambiance with stone walls, soft lighting, and warm hospitality.
- Expert guidance that explores the art and history of winemaking, adding depth to the tasting.
- High-quality wines, oils, and vinegars thoughtfully paired with regional delicacies.
- A well-rounded meal including traditional Tuscan appetizers, lasagna, and a sweet finish with cantuccini and Vin Santo.
- Includes several wines and tastings—2 sparkling and 3 reds—plus olive oils and balsamic vinegars.
- Accessible and well-reviewed: praised for friendly guides, stunning views, and delicious food.
- Not a full estate tour—focuses mainly on tasting and dining, with no vineyard walk included.
- Value for money: at $59, it’s a comprehensive experience that offers more than just drinks and bites.
- Ideal for those wanting a relaxed, educational introduction to Chianti’s wine scene.
An In-depth Look at the Experience
The moment you arrive at Poggio ai Laghi, you’ll notice how warm and inviting the setting is. The winery’s stone walls and gentle lighting create a cozy, authentic atmosphere that feels like stepping into a Tuscan home rather than a commercial operation. This ambiance makes the experience feel more personal and special.
Guided by a wine expert, we found the tasting session to be both informative and engaging. The guide took time to explain the winemaking process — from vineyard to bottle — sharing stories behind each label and the inspiration from Donna Ava and her seven handmaids. This storytelling aspect adds a layer of appreciation, especially for those unfamiliar with Italian wine traditions.
The wines themselves are thoughtfully selected. You’ll sample a mix of sparkling and still wines, including the Arella Spumante Cuvée Extra Dry, Lucilla Chianti Classico DOC, Goletta Chianti Riserva DOCG, Aranda Supertuscan IGT, and Firmina Rosé Spumante. Reviewers consistently mention how delicious and well-balanced these wines are, with many opting to purchase bottles and oils to take home. One guest from Germany shared, “We ordered wine, vinegar, and oil to ship home, and we can’t wait for it to arrive.”
The pairing of wines with extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars really stands out. You’ll taste oils infused with white truffle and chili pepper, alongside balsamic vinegars with onion and Selezione Oro varieties. These accompaniments don’t just complement the wines—they elevate the entire tasting, making every sip and bite feel intentional.
As you progress through the meal, you’ll enjoy a Tuscan appetizer platter featuring cured meats, pecorino cheese, bruschetta with fresh tomato and basil, and toasted bread with olive oil. The main course of lasagna with Tuscan meat ragù is hearty and flavorful, and the dessert of cantuccini dipped in Vin Santo offers a sweet, satisfying end.
Several reviews highlight the quality of the food. One guest from the US pointed out the impressive variety of dishes, including pasta, veal, and roasted potatoes, which contribute to a feeling of a complete and satisfying meal. The experience isn’t just about the wine — it’s about savoring a well-crafted, authentic Tuscan lunch.
While the experience is primarily tasting and dining, some visitors appreciated the additional insights into Tuscan art and history shared by the guide, making each sip and bite feel more connected to the land and its traditions. And because it lasts around two hours, the pace is comfortable, allowing you to enjoy each moment without feeling hurried.
One of the most praised aspects is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Reviewers from Australia and Germany consistently mention how their guides made the experience fun, informative, and accessible. Accessibility is also noted, as the winery is wheelchair-friendly, which is an important factor for some travelers.
Keen to taste more of Monteriggioni? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences
What to Expect and Practical Details
The tour is straightforward: you’ll start with a warm welcome and a quick introduction to the winery’s story and wines. Then comes the tasting, which is guided but relaxed, allowing plenty of time for questions and discussion. The food is served alongside the wines, making it an interactive and flavorful experience.
The price of $59 per person is quite reasonable considering the quality and variety of tastings, the gourmet pairing, and the expert guidance. For those interested in bringing home a taste of Tuscany, the opportunity to purchase wines, oils, and vinegars adds a nice bonus.
Note that this experience does not include a vineyard or estate tour—it’s focused on the tasting and meal. Transportation to and from the winery isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you’re staying nearby.
The tour is accessible (in English), lasts about two hours, and has flexible cancellation policies—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes it a low-pressure option for flexible travelers.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for wine lovers wanting to broaden their understanding of Tuscan wines in a relaxed setting. Foodies will appreciate the pairing of local oils and vinegars with authentic Tuscan cuisine. It’s also a good choice for those interested in learning about the land, art, and history behind the wines, thanks to the engaging guide.
Because the tour is primarily tasting and dining, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a less physical experience than a full vineyard walk or estate tour. It’s also highly praised for accessibility, making it suitable for guests with mobility concerns.
It’s best suited for visitors who enjoy structured, educational experiences without the rush of larger group tours or the formality of a full estate visit.
The Sum Up
All in all, the Lunch with Wine Tasting at Poggio ai Laghi offers a well-rounded introduction to the essence of Chianti’s wine-making tradition. You get the chance to enjoy a delicious Tuscan meal, sample a variety of high-quality wines, and learn from a guide passionate about the land and its produce. The setting is charming, the wine and food pairing thoughtful, and the overall experience warm and welcoming.
It’s especially suited for those who want an authentic, intimate taste of Tuscany without the fuss of a lengthy tour. If you love good wine, hearty regional food, and engaging stories behind the labels, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding. Plus, the reviews consistently highlight how memorable and well-run it is, making it a safe bet for most visitors.
While it’s not a comprehensive estate tour, it offers enough depth to satisfy wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. For an afternoon that blends flavor, history, and scenery, Poggio ai Laghi hits the spot.
Classic: Lunch with Wine Tasting at Poggio ai Laghi Winery
FAQs
Is the experience suitable for non-Italian speakers?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English and is accessible for English-speaking travelers.
How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately two hours, making it a good choice for those with limited time or wanting a relaxed experience.
Does the price include the estate or vineyard tour?
No, this experience focuses on tasting and dining and does not include a vineyard or estate tour.
Can I purchase wine and oils to take home?
Absolutely. Many guests choose to buy wines, vinegars, and oils during the experience to ship home.
Is the experience family-friendly?
While not specifically tailored for children, the focus on tasting and the relaxed pace make it suitable for most adults. Check with the provider if traveling with children with special needs.
Is accessibility a concern?
The winery is wheelchair accessible, and reviews praise the friendly, accommodating guides.
What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is perfect. Since it’s in a warm Tuscan environment, dress appropriately for the weather.
Is gratuity included?
This isn’t specified, but tipping guides is customary if you enjoyed the experience.
Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The provided menu is standard Tuscan fare; contact the provider in advance if you have specific dietary needs.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.
If you’re craving a taste of Tuscany that combines good food, excellent wine, and a touch of local storytelling, this Poggio ai Laghi experience offers plenty to enjoy. It’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon—relaxed, flavorful, and full of the kind of warm hospitality that makes Tuscany so memorable.
You can check availability for your dates here:
