Montevarchi: tour of the estate and tasting of 5 wines, 1 oil

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed, authentic experience in Tuscany, this tour of the Fattoria di Caspri might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a chance to step into a family-run estate that’s been cultivating grapes biodynamically since 2006, just a short drive from Florence. While it’s not a huge, commercial operation, this intimate visit offers a genuine look at how passionate small producers craft their wines and olive oils, plus a tasting that really highlights their craftsmanship.

What we really love about this experience is the focus on biodynamic farming—no chemicals, herbal teas, and treatments that respect the land—and the fact that you’re visiting a family business, which adds a personal touch. The cellar tour offers a straightforward look at natural vinification, giving you a sense of the human effort behind each bottle. On the downside, it’s a relatively short experience (about 2 hours), so if you’re after a comprehensive wine tour, you might find it a bit light. But if you want a mellow, genuine taste of Tuscany with great wines and a welcoming atmosphere, this is a solid pick.

This tour is particularly suited to travelers who appreciate authentic, small-scale wine making, and those who want to connect with a land that’s cared for with respect and passion. It’s also ideal if you want a relaxed experience without the crowds, in a beautiful setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Family Business: Small estate with a warm, personal vibe
• Biodynamic Vineyards: Cultivated since 2006, chemical-free approach
• Comprehensive Tasting: Includes 5 wines and 1 olive oil, showcasing their land’s produce
• Cellar and Vineyard Tour: Friendly explanations about natural vinification
• Accessible Experience: About 2 hours, suitable for most travelers
• Convenient Location: Close to Florence, easy to reach by car

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Fattoria di Caspri: A Genuine Tuscan Visit

When you arrive at the estate, you’ll notice the impressive red iron gate leading into a landscape that feels both timeless and lively. This place was once the site of an old medieval village called Casperius, and later, a part of the lands of Count Bettino Ricasoli—one of the key figures in Tuscan wine history. The current owners, Suzanne Syz and Michelin-starred sommelier Bertrand Habsiger, revived this land with a fresh approach rooted in respect for nature. Their dedication to biodynamics isn’t just a marketing point—it influences every part of the experience.

The Setting and Approach

What makes this estate stand out is its commitment to biodynamic farming. Since 2006, they’ve avoided chemicals, instead using herbal infusions and plant preparations that promote soil health and vine vitality. We loved the way this approach feels less like a marketing story and more like a genuine care for the land. You’ll see lush vineyards that seem to thrive with life, and the explanation from the host is lively and accessible, making complex natural processes understandable and engaging.

The Vineyard Tour

The tour begins in the vineyards, where you’ll walk among vines cultivated without synthetic chemicals. It’s a quiet, almost meditative space, and you’ll get a sense of how lots of small touches—like herbal teas—are used to nourish the soil. We appreciated how the guide explained that this method allows the grapes to express themselves more freely—something you can taste in the wines themselves.

The Cellar Visit

Next, you’ll visit the cellar, a simple but inviting space where natural vinification happens. The use of old concrete and wooden vats creates a rustic, honest feel. The explanations are straightforward and passionate, giving you a clear picture of what it means to produce wine with minimal intervention. One review mentioned, “It’s not a fancy winery, but that’s part of its charm—it’s real and heartfelt.”

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Tasting Time: Wines and Olive Oil

The highlight of the experience is, of course, the tasting. You get to sample five different wines and their olive oil, all crafted from the estate’s land. The wines are praised for their excellent quality, with travelers noting that the varieties offer “a true reflection of the land.” The olive oil, rich and fragrant, complements the wines perfectly.

The tasting is conducted in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just curious. One visitor summed it up: “The wines were really good, especially considering they’re from a small family farm. It’s a very honest experience.”

Practical Details

• The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable stop even if your schedule is tight.
• It’s located at Via di Caspri, 1 Frazione Rendola, close to Montevarchi, about 15 minutes by car from the town center.
• The estate is only accessible by car, so plan accordingly. Free parking is available on site.
• The experience is available in English, French, and Italian, and the group sizes are typically small, ensuring a personal experience.
• Optional extras like lunch or an aperitif board can be added, but the core experience revolves around the tour and tasting.

What We Think: Is This Tour Worth It?

In terms of value, the cost reflects a genuinely authentic, locally rooted experience rather than a commercialized spectacle. You’re paying for a chance to see a working biodynamic estate, learn about natural wine-making, and taste some truly good wines that stand out for their quality. While the tour doesn’t include a lengthy or extensive cellar exploration, it offers enough depth to satisfy most wine enthusiasts looking for a meaningful connection to the land.

A notable plus is the excellent wine selection. Several reviews highlight that the wines are of high quality, with one reviewer saying, “The wines exceeded my expectations—particularly the reds, which tasted alive and vibrant.” Many guests appreciate the approachable, friendly atmosphere, which makes it easy to ask questions and really get a sense of the estate’s philosophy.

However, keep in mind that the experience is quite short, and it’s designed more as an introduction rather than an in-depth course—if you’re after a deep dive into winemaking techniques, you might find it a bit limited. Also, since the estate is small and family-run, visiting during busy times could mean a more intimate but possibly less flexible experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an authentic taste of Tuscany beyond the tourist crowds. If you’re intrigued by small, family-run wineries and natural, chemical-free farming methods, you’ll likely find this visit rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy wine tasting in a relaxed setting and are interested in the story behind each bottle.

Families with older children might find this a pleasant, educational outing, but it’s not specifically tailored to kids. The focus on natural farming and wine might appeal more to adults seeking a calm, genuine connection to the land.

Final Thoughts

The MonteVarchi estate tour offers a rare chance to step into a real small-scale biodynamic winery. The focus on natural practices, the friendly atmosphere, and the excellent wines make it a worthwhile stop for those seeking authenticity and quality. It’s not a huge, showy operation, but that’s part of its charm—you truly get a sense of the land and the people behind these wines.

While it’s not the most extensive or luxurious experience out there, the honesty, craftsmanship, and beautiful setting make this a memorable little gem. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just someone curious about natural farming, this tour provides a meaningful taste of Tuscany’s true spirit.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-Italian speakers?
Yes, the tour is offered in English, French, and Italian, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a day’s itinerary.

Can I visit the estate by public transport?
No, access is only by car, so plan accordingly. Free parking is available.

What is included in the tasting?
You will sample 5 wines and 1 olive oil, all produced on the estate.

Are there options to have lunch or food?
Lunch and an aperitif board are optional add-ons, not included in the basic tour.

Is the experience family-friendly?
While not specifically aimed at children, families with older kids might enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and educational aspect.

What makes the estate’s wines special?
They’re cultivated biodynamically, without chemicals, allowing the land and grapes to express themselves naturally.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible.

What is the best way to reach the estate?
Driving is necessary. It’s about 15 minutes from Montevarchi and up to an hour from Florence.

If you’re after a genuine, small-scale Tuscan experience that’s both educational and enjoyable, this estate visit delivers in spades. It’s a peaceful, flavorful slice of Tuscany that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: