The art of Pasta & Wine tasting with local sommelier

Traveling through Florence offers endless delights—from its Renaissance art to its scenic streets. But one experience that really stands out is the Pasta & Wine Tasting with a local sommelier. This tour promises a chance to learn the craft of handmade pasta from a seasoned chef, paired perfectly with local Tuscan wines, all within an intimate group setting. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to add a bit of culinary flair to their Florence adventure.

What we particularly like about this experience is how hands-on and personalized it feels. With only six guests, you get plenty of individual attention, making it more than just a demonstration—it’s a true participatory class. Plus, the inclusion of take-home recipes and a free apron adds a nice touch for keeping the memories alive. On the flip side, the price per person at around $166 might seem steep for some, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Still, considering the included food, wine, and personalized instruction, many will find it well worth the splurge.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy cooking classes, wine tasting, or simply want to indulge in authentic Italian cuisine without the touristy feel. It’s also great for those who prefer small groups for a more relaxed, friendly vibe. If you’re skeptical about whether you’ll make perfect pasta or know much about wine, don’t worry—this class is designed to be approachable and fun, whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned home cook.

Key Points

• Exclusive small group size (max 6 guests) ensures personal attention and a friendly atmosphere
• Hands-on pasta-making guided by a Michelin-starred chef, offering practical skills you can use back home
• Expert wine pairing from a professional sommelier, highlighting the best local Tuscan wines
• Authentic, not touristy—crafted with real chefs and genuine ingredients, not mass-produced or generic dishes
• Includes take-home recipes and a free apron for keepsakes and future cooking adventures
• Ideal for food lovers and curious travelers looking for an immersive experience

The Experience: From Ingredients to Plate

When you arrive at the meeting point in Florence—V. Dell Agnolo—you’ll be greeted by the friendly team of Pasta Class Florence. The class begins with a quick introduction to the ingredients, setting the stage for what’s to come. What we loved here is how the chef explains each element, making the process accessible whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook.

Next, you’ll get your hands dirty—kneading, mixing, and rolling your dough from scratch. Under the guidance of your chef, you’ll learn the tricks to making perfect pasta, just like you’d see in a Michelin-star kitchen. The focus on proper technique and quality ingredients means this isn’t just about following a recipe but understanding the craft behind it. Several reviews, like one excited guest stating, “I made the best pasta I’ve ever had in Florence—and I did it myself,” highlight how satisfying this part is.

The class is designed to be interactive—participants are encouraged to ask questions, share tips, and help each other. After rolling out your pasta, you’ll learn how to cook different types of sauces and prepare a ragu, which will be served at the table alongside your pasta. The chef keeps the mood light and engaging, making it easy to learn without feeling overwhelmed.

The Wine Pairing: Sipping Through Tuscany

Once your pasta is ready, the real fun begins—the wine tasting. Guided by a professional Italian sommelier, you’ll sample three local wines: a white, a rosé, and a red—each carefully selected to complement your dishes. This part of the experience is where the tour truly stands out. Not only do you get to taste some excellent wines, but you also learn about how they’re made, what to look for when pairing wine with food, and the stories behind each label.

Reviewers have raved about the quality of the wines, noting that “the wines were flowing all evening,” and that even those who don’t usually drink wine found themselves enjoying the experience. The sommelier’s explanations are approachable, making this segment perfect for beginners who want to understand the basics without feeling in over their heads.

The culmination of the class is a three-course meal—featuring three different pasta dishes—each paired with a different wine. The atmosphere is convivial, with everyone sharing their creations and stories. You’ll leave not only with new skills but also with a deeper appreciation for Tuscan wines and Italian cuisine.

The Food: Authentic and Delicious

What really shines in this tour is the quality of the food. The pasta is freshly made, and the sauces are flavorful, showcasing the kind of home-style cooking you’d find in a genuine Italian trattoria. Reviewers frequently mention how “the food was phenomenal,” and how they enjoyed making dishes like Gorgonzola and leek pasta, which turned out to be a revelation.

The class emphasizes authentic dishes, prepared by real chefs with Michelin-star experience, avoiding tourist traps and mass-produced options. It’s clear that the goal is to teach you real skills and help you understand the nuances of Italian cooking. Plus, vegetarian options are available, making it accessible for different dietary preferences.

Logistics and Practicalities

The class lasts approximately three hours, starting at 7:30 pm. The small group size means that the experience feels intimate and relaxed. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, so getting there is straightforward.

The price of $166.16 per person includes all tools and ingredients, guidance from a top chef, the wine tasting, the three full pasta dishes, and the downloadable recipe book to recreate the experience at home. The inclusion of a free apron and recipes is a nice touch, especially for those who want to keep the memories—and the skills—alive.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, which offers some peace of mind if plans change unexpectedly. The group size is limited to six, making it perfect for those who prefer more personal interaction over large, noisy classes.

Authenticity and Customer Feedback

The overwhelmingly positive reviews—rated 5 out of 5 with 16 reviews—highlight the quality of the experience. Many guests mention that the instructors are knowledgeable, friendly, and make everyone feel comfortable. One reviewer called the instructor “spectacular,” and others praised the fun, relaxed atmosphere and the delicious food.

People also appreciated the balance of learning and fun. One reviewer shared: “This was the highlight of our time in Florence,” and another said, “It’s worth every penny.” Even guests who don’t usually drink wine or eat pasta found themselves enjoying the experience, showing how approachable and inclusive it is.

Is This Tour for You?

If you love food, wine, and hands-on experiences, this tour will likely tick all your boxes. It’s particularly well-suited for those seeking authentic, small-group activities that go beyond just sightseeing—adding a culinary skill or a memorable tasting to their trip. The class is lively and engaging, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy interactive learning.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more free-form exploring rather than structured classes, you might find this a bit pricey. Still, for the quality of instruction, the authentic dishes, and the expert wine pairings, many will find it offers good value.

FAQ

Is the class suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be approachable for all skill levels, from complete novices to experienced home cooks. The chef explains techniques clearly and encourages questions.

Are vegetarian options available?
Absolutely. Vegetarian dishes are always an option and can be accommodated throughout the experience.

How many people are in the class?
The class is small—maximum 6 guests—which allows for personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

What is included in the price?
All tools and ingredients, guidance from a Michelin-starred chef, wine tastings, three pasta dishes, a downloadable recipe book, and a free apron.

What kind of wines are served?
You’ll sample three local Tuscan wines: a white, a rosé, and a full-bodied red, all expertly paired with your pasta.

How long does the experience last?
Approximately three hours, starting at 7:30 pm.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to access.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Will I learn enough to cook pasta at home?
Yes, the class focuses on techniques that you can replicate in your own kitchen, and you’ll take home a recipe book.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed to families, the focus on learning and fun makes it suitable for adult travelers. Children over the appropriate age who enjoy cooking might also enjoy it, but the class is primarily aimed at adults.

Final Thoughts

This pasta and wine tasting tour in Florence offers a genuine taste of Italy’s culinary artistry. You’ll love the personalized attention, the chance to make pasta from scratch, and the expert guidance on wine pairing. It’s a well-organized, authentic experience that combines learning, savoring, and socializing—all within a cozy, friendly environment.

If you’re looking for a memorable evening that elevates your understanding of Italian cuisine and leaves you with new skills—and a few keepsakes—this class could be just the thing. Whether you’re a foodie or simply want to enjoy Florence through its flavors, it’s a tasty way to spend your evening.

Who should book this?
Travelers wanting an authentic, hands-on culinary experience with expert guidance. Perfect for those who enjoy small-group settings, quality food, and good wine. If you’re seeking a fun, educational night out in Florence, this tour hits the mark.

Who might want to skip?
If you’re on a tight budget or prefer exploring on your own, this might feel like a splurge. Also, those with specific dietary needs outside vegetarian options should confirm in advance.

Enjoy your trip to Florence—and maybe even bring a bit of Italy’s culinary magic back home!