Wine Tasting and Winery Visit near Asti and Turin

If you’re planning to explore the Piedmont region of Italy, a wine tasting tour like this one from Slow Travel offers a relaxed way to sample local wines while soaking in the scenery. While we haven’t personally experienced it, the description paints a picture of a well-rounded, authentic experience that could be a highlight of any trip to this part of Italy.

What really catches our eye is the guided tour of the winery and vineyard led by a local expert—someone with insider knowledge—and the chance to taste four different wines paired with local foods like cured meats, cheeses, and hazelnuts. Plus, the scenic walk through the vineyard, especially the Nebbiolo vineyard at Bric Carvè, promises a view as delicious as the wines themselves.

One thing to keep in mind is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to organize how to get to the starting point in Vallana, Albugnano. Also, the tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, so it’s a manageable outing if you’re juggling a full itinerary. It’s best suited for those who enjoy wine, beautiful landscape, and casual, guided experiences, rather than those looking for a full-day tour or a deep dive into wine-making techniques.

This is a tour that feels perfect for couples, small groups, or even curious travelers wanting a taste of Piedmont’s wines without a hefty commitment. If you love trying local flavors and prefer small, intimate groups, you’ll likely find this experience quite enjoyable.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Guided tour by a local wine expert offers genuine insights into Piedmont wines.
• Scenic views: The vineyard walk, especially at Bric Carvè, provides stunning hilltop scenery.
• Tasting variety: Sampling four different wines gives a good sense of the estate’s range.
• Food pairing: The inclusion of cured meats, cheeses, and hazelnuts complements the wines well.
• Flexible format: Duration of 1.5 hours makes it a relaxed, not overly time-consuming outing.
• Accessibility considerations: Not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Experience

The Starting Point and Arrival

The tour kicks off at Cantina Roggero Vini in Vallana, a cozy village in the heart of Piedmont. Located about 40 minutes from Turin and Asti, this spot feels like a genuine local find—less touristy, more authentic. Once you arrive, you’ll be welcomed in the courtyard of the farmhouse, which sets a friendly, casual tone for the experience.

The Vineyard Walk and Scenic Views

After the welcome, you’ll take a short 15-minute walk through the vineyards. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to visit the Nebbiolo vineyard at Bric Carvè, which offers views that are worth the walk alone. You’ll get a chance to see the vines up close, and the guide will likely point out different grape varieties and explain how they’re cultivated. The landscape here is a major part of the appeal—rolling hills, lush greenery, and the quiet beauty of rural Piedmont.

Guided Tour of the Winery

Next, you’ll follow the guide through the winery itself, which lasts around 15 minutes. This part lets you peek into the production process, from the tanks to the barrel rooms. It’s a behind-the-scenes look that adds context to the wines you’ll taste later. The guide, described as knowledgeable and enthusiastic, will probably share stories about the estate’s history and winemaking philosophy—adding depth to the tasting.

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The Tasting Session

The real highlight is the 30-minute tasting of four wines. Each wine is carefully selected from the estate’s production, allowing you to appreciate their differences and nuances. They’re paired with cured meats, cheeses, roasted hazelnuts, and breadsticks—simple, authentic accompaniments that enhance the flavors without overpowering them.

The review from Nicole captures the warmth of the guide—Marina—and the quality of the wines and food. She highlights that the wines were very good and the presentation was engaging, making it a perfect start to a Piedmont trip.

Final Moments and Return

After the tasting, you’ll head back to the starting point, completing the circular experience. The entire activity lasts roughly 1.5 hours, which fits well into a day of exploring the region.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $44 per person, this experience offers a lot of value. You’re not just paying for the wines, but also for the guided insight, scenic views, and local pairing snacks. Considering that wine tastings in Italy often run higher, especially with a guide and a tour, this price point seems fair—particularly if you’re looking for a laid-back, informative activity rather than a heavy-duty wine education.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy wine, want to learn about Piedmont’s regional varieties, or simply enjoy beautiful countryside views, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer small groups, personalized attention, and a relaxed pace. For those interested in local food pairing, the inclusion of cured meats and nuts adds an extra layer of enjoyment.

However, it’s not ideal for wheelchair users or pregnant women, as the vineyard walk and winery spaces might pose some accessibility issues.

Final Thoughts

This wine tasting tour near Asti and Turin offers a friendly, approachable experience that combines beautiful scenery with excellent wines and local snacks. The presence of a knowledgeable guide ensures you’ll leave with more than just a full glass—expect insights and stories that make the wines come alive.

While it’s not a deep dive into wine making or a full-day excursion, it’s perfect as a half-day activity or a relaxing interlude during your Piedmont travels. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned sipper, this experience provides a glimpse into the region’s best offerings without feeling overly commercialized.

In the end, it’s the combination of scenic views, good company, and tasty wines that makes this tour stand out. It’s a simple pleasure, but one that many will find memorable and worthwhile.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation to and from the estate is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way there.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because you’ll be walking in the vineyard and winery areas.

Can I participate if I’m pregnant?
No, this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, likely due to the wine tasting component.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not wheelchair accessible, so plan accordingly.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons.

What’s included in the price?
A guided tour of the winery, walk in the vineyard, tasting of four wines, plus cured meats, cheeses, roasted hazelnuts, and breadsticks.

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

Are the wines local to Piedmont?
Yes, the wines are produced at this estate within the Monferrato hills, showcasing regional varieties.

Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s best suited for adults due to the wine tasting aspect; it isn’t tailored for children.

If you’re curious about exploring Piedmont’s wines in a relaxed, authentic setting, this tour offers a wonderful taste of the region’s best. It’s not the most elaborate or exhaustive experience, but for those who enjoy good wine, lovely views, and friendly guides, it could be just right.

You can check availability for your dates here: