San Gimignano: Wine and Food Tasting in a Family Winery

If you’re craving a genuine taste of Tuscany’s wines and culinary delights, this wine and food tasting experience at Casa Lucii might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally joined this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear that it offers an authentic, engaging, and delicious peek into a family-run winery’s world.

What really caught our eye are the passionate guides who bring the experience to life and the stunning setting, which promises those classic Tuscan vistas we all dream about. The tasting of eight organic wines paired with local farm produce sounds perfect for wine lovers and foodies alike. On the flip side, a possible snag is the location’s remote setting, meaning you’ll need to plan transportation in advance. This tour suits travelers who want a hands-on, relaxed day of tasting, learning, and enjoying the countryside—no cookie-cutter winery tour here.

Key Points

• Authentic family-run winery offering a personal experience
• Includes guided estate tour covering vineyards, cellar, garden, and olive grove
• Tasting of 8 organic wines paired with local cheeses, cold cuts, and garden produce
• Learn about organic and sustainable farming methods
• Beautiful Tuscan scenery enhances the tasting atmosphere
• Small group of limited participants for a more intimate experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Warm Welcome and a Scenic Setting

Right from the start, this experience feels inviting. The meeting point is Casa Lucii, a cozy spot in the countryside near San Gimignano. From the reviews, it’s clear that this family winery prides itself on warm hospitality and genuine passion. Once you arrive, you’ll be welcomed with an aperitivo—a casual, enjoyable way to kick off the three-hour session.

The setting alone is worth the trip. Travelers consistently mention the “beautiful setting” and “mozzafiato” (breathtaking) views that surround the estate. These scenic vistas offer an ideal backdrop for what’s to come—a detailed exploration of the estate’s various features.

Guided Tour Through the Estate

The core of the experience is the guided walk around the estate, which covers a lot of ground. We love the way this tour balances educational content with visual enjoyment. You’ll visit the vineyards, olive grove, vegetable garden, and orchard—each spot offering insights into organic farming practices and how they shape the wines.

A special highlight is the vinsantaia, where Vin Santo is aged in traditional barrels. The tour also includes a look into the historical cellar, featuring old tools and bottles, giving a tangible sense of the winery’s history. Guests mention the guides are knowledgeable and passionate, making complex topics like organic farming accessible and engaging.

Tasting 8 Organic Wines

The heart of this experience is, of course, the wine tasting. You’ll sample eight different organic wines—from crisp whites to bold reds, rosés, and a sweet Vin Santo. For example, the “Casa Lucii” DOCG Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a refreshing white that pairs well with local cheeses, while the “Arturo” IGT Tuscan Red is a standout, especially when paired with artisanal chocolates.

Guests have raved about the quality and variety of wines, noting that each is served carefully and with an eye for pairing. One reviewer loved that the “wine is squisito” (delicious) and that the pairings were thoughtfully curated—from cold cuts and cheeses from local farms to garden-produced vegetables and orchard fruits. The pairing with “tailor-made artisanal chocolate pralines” showcases the winery’s effort to create a refined tasting experience.

Tuscan Food and Olive Oil

The gastronomic component elevates this experience. It’s not just about wine—expect to taste local cheeses, salami, and other farm-produced treats. The food is described as generous, tasty, and authentic, giving a real flavor of Tuscany’s culinary traditions.

Particularly memorable is the pairing of “Arturo” with artisanal chocolates, which balances the wine’s boldness with sweet richness. The tasting concludes with DOC Vin Santo “Curato” and Tuscan Cantuccini—a classic pairing that many find satisfying and nostalgic.

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The Experience in Practice

Considering the duration of three hours, this experience offers a well-paced exploration without feeling rushed. The small group limit—capped at eight participants—ensures an intimate setting where everyone can ask questions and interact with the guides.

While the estate isn’t accessible by public transport, reviews mention that arranging transport in advance is essential. Some offers include pick-up and drop-off, which adds a layer of convenience.

What the Reviews Say

The overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with all 29 reviews rating it a perfect 5 out of 5. People praise the warm hospitality, knowledgeable guides, and delicious wines and food. One comment highlights how the outdoor setting under the pergola makes for a magical tasting atmosphere, emphasizing the “mozzafiato” views and the personal touch of a family-run operation.

Travelers also appreciate the educational aspect, learning about organic and sustainable farming, which adds depth to the tasting. Many reviews mention the generous quantities and careful pairings, making it both a fun and satisfying experience.

Practical Details

• Location: Casa Lucii, Località Santa Maria, 49/C, San Gimignano
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours
• Languages: English and Italian (guides are bilingual)
• Group Size: Limited to 8 participants
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Booking and Cancellation: Flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can reserve now and pay later, which is great for flexible planning.
• Transport: Not served by public transportation; pre-arranged transfers are recommended.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, genuine taste of Tuscany with an emphasis on organic wines and local cuisine. It suits travelers wanting a more personal, behind-the-scenes look at a family winery rather than a large, commercial operation. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy learning about sustainable farming and want to pair that knowledge with outstanding wines and food.

If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates good wine and authentic food, or if you’re a curious traveler eager to understand the process behind the wine in an intimate setting, this could be a highlight of your trip. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or anyone with mobility issues that prevent easy walking around the estate.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Not automatically. The estate is in the countryside and not easily reachable by public transport, so it’s best to arrange a transfer in advance.

How many wines will I taste? You’ll sample eight organic wines, from whites and reds to rosé and Vin Santo, each paired with local culinary specialties.

Can I join if I don’t speak Italian? Yes, guides are bilingual in English and Italian, so communication shouldn’t be an issue.

Is this tour suitable for families? It’s primarily geared toward adults interested in wine, but if your family includes older children or teenagers interested in Tuscany’s food and wine culture, they might find it enjoyable.

What’s the dress code? Casual and comfortable clothing is fine—just consider the outdoor setting and bring sunscreen or a hat if sunny.

Are the quantities of wine generous? Reviews consistently mention generous portions, so you’ll have plenty to taste and enjoy.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a personal, educational, and delicious glimpse into Tuscany’s wine and culinary traditions, this family winery tour in San Gimignano ticks all those boxes. The small group size and authentic setting mean you’ll get personalized attention, making it a memorable highlight. Plus, the combination of beautiful scenery, engaging guides, and excellent wines is hard to beat.

This experience is especially well-suited for those who value organic farming practices and want to learn how Tuscany’s wines are crafted from grape to bottle. It’s also a good pick if you’re after a relaxed, intimate vibe—away from the crowds and commercial tours.

In short, if you’re after a genuine taste of Tuscany, this tour offers a mix of learning, indulgence, and breathtaking views that many travelers find well worth the time and effort. Just remember to plan your transfer, arrive on time, and get ready for a delightful journey into Tuscany’s wine country.

You can check availability for your dates here: