Tour through the vineyards and wine and olive oil tasting in Tuscany

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the Tuscan countryside while sampling some of Italy’s finest wines and olive oils, this tour at Villa La Ripa might catch your eye. From the glowing reviews and high ratings—an impressive 5.0 out of 5 from 87 travelers—it’s clear that many find this experience worthwhile. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a lover of art and history, or simply looking for an authentic taste of Tuscany, this tour offers a little bit of everything.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to explore a winery located in a beautiful setting near Arezzo, with stories about the estate’s history woven into the visit. Second, the tasting of four carefully selected wines paired with local cured meats, cheeses, and fresh Tuscan bread drizzled with award-winning extra virgin olive oil. On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour lasts about an hour and a half—so if you’re after a full-day experience, you might need to supplement it with other activities. That said, it’s well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed yet informative peek into Tuscany’s viticulture and olive oil craftsmanship.

In this review, I’ll walk you through what to expect from the tour, share insights from reviews, and help you decide if this is a match for your Tuscan itinerary.

Key Points

• Beautiful setting near Arezzo, with picturesque views of vineyards and a Renaissance villa
• Knowledgeable guides who bring the history and production processes to life
• Tasting experience includes four wines, local meats, cheeses, and award-winning olive oil
• Affordable price at around $40.64 per person, offering good value for the quality and depth of experience
• Small group size (up to 25 travelers), making it more intimate
• Easy to book with mobile tickets and most travelers booking about 25 days in advance

What is the Tour Like?

Imagine arriving at Villa La Ripa, a charming estate with a history dating back to 1558, just outside Arezzo. From the moment you step onto the grounds, the scenery takes over—rolling vineyards, a historic villa, and a vibe that’s quintessentially Tuscan. The tour kicks off with a visit to the winery itself, where a guide explains the production process, giving you a glimpse into what makes the wines and oils special.

The next part is a walk through the vineyards—weather permitting, of course. These walks are often highlighted as a favorite part by visitors, offering not just scenic views but also a deeper understanding of how the grapes are cultivated. As one reviewer notes, Virginia, a guide, shares her knowledge in an engaging way, making the experience both educational and fun.

This isn’t just about tasting; it’s about tasting with context. The guide carefully illustrates the production process of the award-winning extra virgin olive oil, which you get to sample to understand its organoleptic qualities. You’ll also learn about different wines produced on the estate, including reds and possibly sparkling varieties, with a tasting of four wines paired with local cured meats, cheeses, and Tuscan bread.

The Tasting Experience

The heart of this tour is the tasting. For around 40 dollars, you get to savor four wines, each paired with quality cured meats and cheeses that showcase local flavors. Many reviewers comment on the generosity of the tastings—some even mention they ended up purchasing bottles to take home, which speaks to the quality.

The wines are described as fabulous, with one reviewer calling the rosé sparkling wine “a beautiful work of art.” The tasting isn’t rushed; guides take time to explain the subtleties of each wine and how to appreciate their flavor profiles. A key part of the fun is learning how to recognize different aromas and tastes—a skill that wine lovers and novices alike can enjoy.

The olive oil tasting also stands out. The process of making the oil is explained, and the flavor is carefully appreciated, highlighting the freshness and quality of Villa La Ripa’s extra virgin olive oil. This component adds a lovely artisanal touch to the experience.

The Guides and Atmosphere

According to reviews, guides are a big highlight. Several guests mention how knowledgeable and enthusiastic the guides are, often sharing stories about the estate’s history or the family behind it. Virginia and Claudia are among those praised for their storytelling ability, making the experience memorable.

The atmosphere is relaxed but informative, and the small group size makes it feel personal. One guest notes, “A small tour but intimate,” which can be a real plus if you’re looking to ask questions and get personalized attention.

Practical Details: Booking, Duration, and Accessibility

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules. It starts at Villa La Ripa in Arezzo, with clear instructions for the meeting point. The booking process is straightforward, with mobile tickets available, and most travelers plan their visit about 25 days ahead.

It’s an accessible experience—service animals are allowed, and the activity is suitable for most travelers. The group size is capped at 25 people, helping keep things intimate and relaxed. While the reviews don’t specify if children are welcomed, the focus on tasting and walking suggests it’s best suited for older children or teens interested in wine and olive oil.

Value for Money

At just over $40 per person, many reviews emphasize that this tour offers good value. Considering the guided visit, the detailed explanations, and the generous tastings, it’s actually a pretty fair deal. Plus, many guests say they left with a newfound appreciation for Tuscan wine and olive oil—and often with a bottle or two in hand, which adds to the value.

Some guests note that the experience is not just about tasting but also about learning the story of Villa La Ripa and its commitment to quality and sustainability. This adds a layer of authenticity and depth often missing from larger, less personalized tours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers wanting to deepen their knowledge in a beautiful setting. Art and history buffs will also enjoy the connection to the Renaissance villa and the estate’s story. It’s perfect if you’re after a relaxed, well-organized tasting that feels genuine and not overly commercial.

Travelers who appreciate good value and small-group experiences will find this particularly appealing. If you want a taste of authentic Tuscan lifestyle with expert guides explaining every step, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

In essence, this vineyard and olive oil tasting at Villa La Ripa offers a well-rounded glimpse into Tuscany’s agricultural heritage. For a little over forty dollars, you get a scenic walk through vineyards, engaging stories from passionate guides, and plenty of tastings that highlight local craftsmanship. It’s a great way to add a genuine, educational experience to your Tuscan trip without breaking the bank.

While it might not be the best fit if you’re looking for a full-day adventure or a family activity with young children, it’s ideal for wine enthusiasts, couples, or anyone who appreciates beautiful scenery paired with authentic flavors. The small-group setting and dedicated guides make it feel personal and special—something you’ll remember long after you leave Tuscany.

FAQs

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Just make sure to do so online to receive a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it perfect for fitting into a day of exploring Tuscany.

Is the meeting point easy to find?
Yes, the tour starts at Villa La Ripa in Arezzo. Directions are clear, but a GPS is recommended if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Are children allowed on this tour?
While most travelers can participate, the reviews don’t specify if children are welcome. It seems best suited for adults or older teens interested in wine and olive oil.

What’s included in the tasting?
You’ll sample four wines, paired with local cured meats, cheeses, Tuscan bread, and extra virgin olive oil. The process of olive oil production is also explained.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most of the experience involves walking through vineyards and around the estate, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility concerns.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to book about 25 days prior, but availability is subject to change. The experience can be booked with a mobile ticket.

Can I buy wine or olive oil to take home?
Many guests do, and the tour guides often recommend purchasing bottles to enjoy later, which adds to the overall value.

This tour offers a taste of Tuscany that’s both beautiful and genuine. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious traveler wanting to learn more about Italian craftsmanship, Villa La Ripa’s tasting will likely leave you satisfied—and maybe a little more in love with Tuscany.