Genoa: Wine Tasting with Pesto, Focaccia Near Columbus House

If you’re considering a visit to Genoa and want a genuine taste of Liguria’s culinary soul, this wine tasting experience might just be what you’re looking for. Hosted by BioTigullio5Terre, it offers a relaxed, intimate chance to sample local wines, paired with the region’s beloved pesto, crispy focaccia, and artisanal cheeses. With an average rating of 5 out of 5 from eight enthusiastic reviews, it’s clear that many find this experience both memorable and authentic.

What we really love about this tour is how it combines delicious food and wine with storytelling from passionate local hosts—making it more than just a tasting, but a glimpse into Liguria’s traditions. The price of $52 per person for a small-group, seated experience in such a cozy setting feels like a fair deal, especially given the quality of the offerings. The only potential downside? If you’re not keen on indoor, seated experiences or have specific dietary needs, you’ll want to communicate that in advance.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy local food, wine, and culture in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of Genoa’s genuine flavors and a deeper understanding of Ligurian traditions—without the crowds or touristy vibes.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience with a focus on Ligurian wines and regional specialties
• Small, intimate group ensuring personalized attention and storytelling
• Paired tasting of 5 distinct Ligurian wines with pesto, focaccia, and cheeses
• Hosted by passionate locals who share insights into the region’s food and wine culture
• Cozy, historic setting inside a registered Bottega Storica near Columbus House
• Great value at $52 for a thoughtfully curated experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Tour All About?

This wine tasting isn’t a hurried affair—it’s a relaxed, seated experience inside a historic Ligurian shop just a few steps from Genoa’s Columbus House. It’s designed to give visitors a personal peek into Liguria’s wine and food traditions, with a focus on authenticity and storytelling.

The hosts, a dedicated family team from BioTigullio5Terre, have been sharing their love for Ligurian culture for over five years. Their passion shines through as they guide you through each sip and bite, sharing stories about the wineries, winemaking methods, and regional heritage. The setting itself is charming—a registered Bottega Storica, where every object and detail echoes Liguria’s long tradition of craftsmanship and local pride.

The Wines You’ll Taste

The highlight of this experience is sampling five Ligurian wines, each chosen to showcase the diversity and character of the region. We love that the lineup includes two Vermentinos from inland Lunigiana, showing different expressions of the same grape—one fruity and aromatic, the other drier and mineral. The inclusion of a rare Vermentino Nero from Fosdinovo adds a special touch, offering a glimpse into less common local varieties.

Other wines include a Cinque Terre blend, offering a white wine from a famous coastal area, and a smooth Ciliegiolo from Tigullio—making for a well-rounded tasting. Fans of regional wines will appreciate how each glass highlights a different aspect of Liguria’s terroir. As one reviewer pointed out, “every wine had so much flavor but with a distinct difference,” making it a true flavor journey.

The Food That Complements the Wines

Pairing plays a vital role here. Expect authentic basil pesto, which is the star of Ligurian cuisine—perfectly matched with the wines. The focaccia secca (crispy, dry focaccia) offers a satisfying crunch that balances the wines’ acidity and fruitiness. Accompanying these are artisanal cheeses from Val Graveglia, which add a creamy, savory contrast.

The food isn’t just filler; it’s thoughtfully selected to enhance the wine experience. Multiple reviewers mention how delicious and authentic everything was. Olga, for example, said, “the homemade pesto was delicious with focaccia bread and the five different wines,” emphasizing how well the flavors complement each other.

The Atmosphere and Guides

The small-group setting (limited to 7 guests) makes this feel like a gathering among friends rather than a tourist trap. The guides are local and passionate, offering insights in both English and Italian, which adds an inclusive touch. Elizabeth praised the “delicious local wine, cheese, pesto, and focaccia,” but also appreciated the “small group activity” for its intimacy.

Inside the shop, the ambiance is warm, inviting, and full of character. Every object in the shop tells a story—whether it’s vintage wine bottles or handcrafted local products. The environment encourages conversation and curiosity, making the experience more engaging than a generic tasting.

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Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, with the tasting itself about an hour long. The cost of $52 per person includes the five wines, the food pairings, and a small gift to take home. The experience is indoor and seated, so it’s ideal if you prefer a relaxed, comfortable setting.

Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to plan your arrival. The meeting point is inside the Bottega near Columbus House, and it’s wise to arrive at least 10 minutes early. The shop is easy to spot, with wooden shelves full of Ligurian wines and local products.

The experience is available in both English and Italian, catering well to international visitors. It’s also flexible with cancellations—full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers, foodies, or anyone wanting an authentic, relaxed taste of Liguria. It’s a great choice if you appreciate local storytelling and high-quality regional products. If you prefer quick, touristy tastings or are on a tight schedule, this might feel a bit slow-paced.

Travelers who enjoy small, intimate settings and want to learn about local wines and food in a friendly environment will find this especially enjoyable. It’s also suited for those looking for a cultural connection rather than just a tasting—these guides are passionate about sharing their regional heritage.

Final Thoughts

This Genoa wine tasting experience offers more than just sipping wines—it’s an engaging dive into Liguria’s culinary traditions. The pairings of regional wines with pesto, focaccia, and cheeses create a memorable flavor profile that captures the essence of Liguria’s food culture.

The small-group format and friendly guides ensure a personalized touch, making it suitable for travelers who value genuine, local encounters. While indoor and seated, the ambiance feels relaxed and authentic, perfect for those who prefer quality over quantity.

If you’re in Genoa and want a meaningful, flavorful experience that combines wine, food, and storytelling, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially great for those interested in regional wines and traditional Ligurian fare, and for anyone who enjoys a cozy, educational setting.

FAQ

Can I book this experience in English?
Yes, the guided tasting is available in both English and Italian, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference.

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians or people with allergies?
The tasting is indoors and seated, but you should inform the organizers in advance if you have allergies or specific dietary restrictions to accommodate your needs.

How long does the tour last?
The overall experience lasts approximately 2.5 days, with about an hour dedicated to the actual tasting.

Does the price include transportation?
No, transportation to and from the shop isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

What’s included in the $52 price?
You’ll get to taste five Ligurian wines, enjoy pesto, focaccia, and cheeses, plus a small gift to take home.

Is the setting indoors or outdoors?
The tasting takes place inside a historic, registered Bottega Storica, offering a cozy and authentic indoor environment.

Are children allowed?
The experience is designed for adults; there’s no mention of children or family-friendly features, so it’s best suited for adult guests.

Is the group size small?
Yes, limited to a maximum of 7 participants, which fosters a more personal and engaging atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Would this be a good gift?
Absolutely. It’s a thoughtful, local experience that makes for a memorable gift for wine and foodies.

This Genoa wine and food tasting is a wonderful way to connect with Liguria’s flavors in a relaxed, authentic setting. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious about regional cuisine, you’ll leave with new tastes, stories, and perhaps a deeper appreciation for Liguria’s culinary traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: