Novi Ligure is a fantastic base for exploring the wines of Piedmont, thanks to its proximity to renowned vineyards and charming wineries. Unlike larger cities, Novi Ligure offers a more authentic experience, where you can get a taste of local life and wine craftsmanship. Among the many options, we’re particularly fond of the Tenuta San Lorenzo experiences for their panoramic views and family-run charm, as well as unique tastings that pair wine with chocolate. These tours give you a chance to learn about indigenous wines in a setting that’s both authentic and intimate. If you’re looking for a more traditional winery visit, there are also excellent guided tours that focus on the Cortese grape and Gavi DOCG wines.
Below, you’ll find a selection of the best wine tours in Novi Ligure, each offering a different experience—from food pairings to in-depth winery explorations. Whether you want a quick overview or a more comprehensive visit, this list will guide you to the right choice.
1. Tenuta San Lorenzo: Wine & Food Tasting Experience
At number 1, the Tenuta San Lorenzo: Wine & Food Tasting Experience offers a relaxed yet immersive way to explore Piedmont wines. For about $56.94 per person, this 2-hour tour is a top pick for those who love pairing wine with local delicacies. The experience includes a visit to a family-run estate just minutes from Novi Ligure, Gavi, and Serravalle Scrivia. The highlight is a tasting of 3 local wines in a panoramic tasting room overlooking the estate’s sprawling vineyards.
The tour is led by a WSET-certified sommelier who guides you through a wine and food pairing that showcases indigenous Piedmont wines, emphasizing their unique flavors. Visitors rave about the warmth and hospitality of the hosts, with reviews mentioning how “extremely hospitable” and “superb location” make this a memorable experience. The 45-minute guided tour of the estate provides context about the family business and local viticulture, while the 75-minute tasting deepens your appreciation for Piedmont’s wine heritage.
Bottom line — this tour is perfect for those seeking an intimate, high-quality tasting paired with regional foods and expert guidance. It’s great for curious travelers wanting to learn about Piedmont wines in a welcoming family atmosphere.
2. Novi Ligure: Guided tour of the winery with wine and chocolate tasting
Number 2 on our list is the Novi Ligure: Guided tour of the winery with wine and chocolate tasting. This 1.5-hour experience combines two local delights: wine and artisanal chocolate. While the price isn’t specified, it’s an appealing option for those wanting a taste of the region’s Gavi hills and Upper Monferrato, alongside a visit to their distinctive round vineyard.
The tour model is designed to give you a quick yet immersive look into the estate, with a guided walk through the cellar and a tasting of local wines matched with handcrafted chocolates. It’s a great way to experience the land of wine and chocolate, especially if you’re interested in pairing regional products. This tour is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to explore what makes Novi Ligure special.
Bottom line — this tour offers a unique combination of local wine and chocolate, perfect for food lovers wanting a memorable tasting experience that highlights the region’s artisanal skills.
3. Tenuta San Lorenzo: classic wine tasting and winery tour
Coming in at number 3, the Tenuta San Lorenzo: classic wine tasting and winery tour offers a straightforward, no-nonsense introduction to Piedmont wines for just $41 per person. It lasts around one hour and is ideal for those who want a quick but rich taste of the estate’s offerings. This tour includes a visit to the estate’s panoramic tasting room, where you can sample 3 local wines, including Gavi DOCG varieties, in a setting that’s both picturesque and informative.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the 20-minute guided tour covers the history of the estate, its viticulture practices, and the significance of indigenous Piedmont grapes. Guests consistently praise the “family-run business” for its approachable atmosphere and high-quality wines. The tasting itself, with a duration of about 70 minutes, focuses on showcasing the estate’s signature wines, with particular attention paid to the Cortese grape and the Gavi DOCG wine.
Bottom line — this tour strikes a good balance between value and depth, making it ideal for visitors who want an introduction to local wines without a lengthy commitment.
4. Tenuta San Lorenzo: wine tasting and winery tour
Finally, at number 4, the Tenuta San Lorenzo: wine tasting and winery tour offers a well-rounded experience at a reasonable price—around $43.27 per person. This 1-hour tour emphasizes the estate’s panoramic tasting room and the opportunity to learn about the Cortese grape and Gavi DOCG wines.
The tour begins with a guided 20-minute walk through the estate, followed by a 50-minute wine tasting led by a WSET-certified sommelier. Visitors love the intimate setting and the chance to explore the nuances of Piedmont’s flagship white wine. The focus on the Cortese grape offers a deeper understanding of Piedmont’s white wine excellence. The tour’s value is enhanced by its concise format, making it suitable for travelers who want a quick yet comprehensive tasting.
Bottom line — this experience is perfect if you’re interested in learning about the Cortese grape and Gavi wines in a relaxed, panoramic setting with expert guidance.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Novi Ligure
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you want an in-depth, food-paired experience, the Wine & Food Tasting at Tenuta San Lorenzo is your best bet. For a shorter, more casual introduction, the classic winery tour offers a quick overview without sacrificing quality. If your passion is pairing wine with chocolates, then the wine and chocolate tour provides a memorable, indulgent experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time. Think about whether you’re more interested in learning about indigenous Piedmont wines or simply sampling the region’s best. Each tour offers a taste of Piedmont’s winemaking tradition, but your choice depends on how deep you want to go.
Final Thoughts
Novi Ligure is a surprisingly rich wine destination, with options suited for every type of traveler—from the food-loving newcomer to the seasoned oenophile. The Tenuta San Lorenzo tours stand out for their panoramic settings, family-run charm, and focus on local wines like the Gavi DOCG. For a quick, enjoyable introduction, the classic or combined wine and chocolate tours are excellent choices.
No matter which experience you pick, early booking is smart—these tours fill up fast, especially during the harvest season. Just remember, the best wine tour is the one that matches your curiosity, schedule, and taste buds. Cheers to discovering Piedmont’s wine in Novi Ligure!
