Wine Tour of two Chianti wine estates on the hills of Florence

If you’re considering a wine-focused day outside Florence, this tour offering access to two celebrated Chianti estates might just be your cup of (or glass of) Tuscan wine. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what to expect. It’s a well-rated experience, especially for those who appreciate authentic, high-quality wines and want a deeper understanding of the Chianti region’s true character.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to visit two distinct, historic wineries that produce award-winning Chianti, offering a genuinely curated experience rather than a generic tasting. Second, the knowledgeable guides—professional agronomists and wine curators—who share insights in English, making it accessible and engaging.

A potential consideration? The price point, which is around $370 per person, might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, but it includes quite a lot—transfers, a full lunch, multiple tastings, and expert guidance. This might be more appealing if you’re after an immersive, educational experience rather than just a quick tasting.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to learn about Chianti wines, enjoy scenic drives through Tuscany’s rolling hills, and indulge in some top-tier wine and food. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a more personalized, less touristy wine experience away from the busier, commercial wineries.

Key Points

• Authentic Visits: The tour includes visits to two prestigious, historic Chianti estates, not just quick stops or tourist traps.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable agronomists lead the tastings, offering a conscious education on high-quality Chianti wines.
• Exclusive Tastings: You’ll taste about 10 wines, including reds, whites, and rosés, with a focus on award-winning, limited-production wines.
• Food Pairings: Each tasting is thoughtfully paired with typical Tuscan foods, including a full lunch and snacks, making the experience more than just wine-drinking.
• Private and Comfortable: The tour offers private transfers in air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring a relaxed journey with door-to-door service.
• Value for Connoisseurs: This isn’t a quick, superficial tasting—it’s a deep dive into the craftsmanship of Chianti wine-making, ideal for those wanting more than a standard tour.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point: The Charm of Florence’s Meeting Spot

The tour kicks off from a centrally-located meeting point in Florence—Piazza dei Cavalleggeri—making it easy to join from most accommodations in the city center. The private transfer in a sanitized, air-conditioned vehicle sets a comfortable tone for what’s ahead. This is not a crowded bus; it’s a tailored experience, which makes it feel special from the start.

First Stop: Agriturismo Ulivello in Chianti

The first estate is the Agriturismo Ulivello, situated among the vineyards of Chianti Classico. Here, you’ll be led privately by the owner into the modern cellar, set amid sprawling vineyards. This estate combines historic charm and contemporary wine-making techniques, giving you a sense of how tradition and innovation coexist in Tuscany.

The highlight is the private tasting in their wine shop, where an very knowledgeable enologist introduces you to between four and seven wines. They range from reds to whites and rosés, offering a well-rounded picture of what this estate produces. The wines are not just tasted; they are explained, with details about the grapes, aging process, and what makes each one special.

A reviewer describes it as a “very nice wine tastings and winery tours”, appreciating the pairing of wines with typical Italian foods. This pairing elevates the tasting experience, making each sip more memorable.

The estate’s location among the vineyards means you’re also soaking up the stunning views of rolling hills, perfect for photography or just relaxing with a glass in hand.

Second Stop: Castello di Volognano

After the first estate, the journey continues to Castello di Volognano. This historic castle estate adds a layer of Tuscan nobility and tradition to the day. Guided through the estate and its cellars, you’ll learn about the winemaking expertise that has likely been passed down through generations.

Here, a professional wine curator guides you through tastings of four Chianti Colli Fiorentini wines—both reds and whites—paired with carefully selected snacks. The pairings are thoughtfully curated, which enhances the tasting, and adds a layer of sophistication.

One reviewer noted that the wines are high quality and produced in limited ranges, making this a real treat for those seeking genuine, lesser-known Chianti wines. The experience is intimate and educational, perfect for wine lovers who want to go beyond the touristy.

Food and Olive Oil Tastings

Throughout the tour, you’ll also enjoy olive oil tastings, with two extra samples of extra virgin olive oil that complement the wines. The included Tuscan lunch offers further insight into regional cuisine—think local cheeses, cured meats, and traditional bread—adding to the authentic experience.

Having these accompaniments helps illustrate how wine and food are intertwined in Tuscan culture, making the tasting more engaging and satisfying.

Duration and Pacing

The tour lasts about five hours, with ample time at each estate for tasting, learning, and relaxing. The flexible schedule allows for an unhurried experience, and the private nature means you can ask questions and customize your experience a bit.

The price covers everything—from transfers to tastings, food, and taxes—making it straightforward. You won’t find hidden costs or surprises, and the attention to health and safety with sanitized vehicles and masks adds peace of mind.

How Do the Reviews Shape Our Perception?

Though the tour has only two recent reviews, they’re both glowing. One mentions that it’s a “pleasurable way to spend the day” with excellent wines served alongside traditional cheeses, salami, and bread. They appreciated the well-presented wines and the overall experience.

Another highlights the authenticity of the wine estates and the limited, high-quality wines produced there. The reviewer was surprised by how welcoming and intimate the visits were, contrasting with more commercialized winery tours.

These reviews reinforce that this experience offers something more genuine than a generic tasting, especially for those interested in niche, well-crafted Chianti.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At nearly $370 per person, this isn’t the cheapest wine tour around, but when you consider everything included—private transfers, expert guides, multiple tastings, food pairings, and olive oil samples—it’s a solid value for those seeking an immersive, educational experience.

If you’re a wine enthusiast or a traveler eager to understand what makes Chianti special, the quality and depth of this tour justify the cost. It’s also a good choice for those who want a personalized experience that’s not overwhelmed by large groups.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous wine lovers, couples, or small groups seeking insight into high-quality Chianti wines. It’s perfect if you’re interested in learning about the winemaking process, visiting historic estates, and enjoying authentic Tuscan cuisine.

It’s less suited for travelers on a tight budget, or those looking for a quick, light tasting—this is about quality, depth, and a meaningful connection to the land and the wines.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transfers by air-conditioned vehicle are included, with pick-up and drop-off at a designated meeting point in Florence.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts roughly five hours, with time allocated for visits, tastings, and lunch.

Are the wines explained during the tastings?
Absolutely. Guides are knowledgeable agronomists and curators who share insights into each wine’s characteristics, grapes, and production process.

Can I expect to taste different types of wines?
Yes, about 10 wines including reds, whites, and rosés from two different estates.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on wine and food suggests it’s best suited for adults.

What food is included?
A full Tuscan lunch and snacks are served, typically pairing well with the wines tasted.

Are olive oil tastings part of the experience?
Yes, two extra tastings of high-quality extra virgin olive oil are included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it a personalized experience.

What’s the best way to book?
Through authorized providers like Viator, which ensures reliable arrangements and customer support.

Final Thoughts

This Wine Tour of two Chianti estates offers an authentic look into Tuscany’s viticultural soul, paired with expert guidance, beautiful scenery, and delicious food. It’s a wonderful choice for those who want to see the real Chianti, taste its best wines, and learn about the winemaking process from passionate professionals.

While the price might be a consideration, the overall experience—especially the intimate visits and quality tastings—makes it a worthwhile splurge for wine lovers or anyone eager to deepen their appreciation of Tuscany’s wine heritage.

If you’re after a personalized, educational, and delicious day among the hills of Florence, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.