Private wine tour with sommelier – the magical Bolgheri (2 wineries)

If you’re considering a day in Tuscany that combines excellent wine, beautiful scenery, and some local flavor, then a private wine tour in Bolgheri might just be what you’re looking for. Based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, this experience offers a personalized approach to tasting some of the region’s finest wines, all led by a highly accomplished sommelier.

What we love about this tour is the chance to visit two well-chosen wineries in Bolgheri, renowned for their exceptional wines and stunning vineyard settings. Plus, having a sommelier guide like Simone Vergamini—who’s earned the title of Best Sommelier of Tuscany 2023—adds a layer of expertise and storytelling that makes the experience richer and more engaging.

One possible consideration is the price point—at around $347 per person, it’s an investment, but for many, the quality of the experience and access to exclusive visits justify the cost. This tour seems particularly well-suited for wine lovers who want a more intimate, educational, and relaxed day out, rather than a large group or generic tasting.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates personalized attention, enjoys learning about local traditions, and loves exploring a charming village like Bolgheri while tasting superb wines, this tour could be ideal. It’s perfect for those who want to combine wine, food, and scenery into a single day without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour with exclusive visits to 2 prominent wineries.
• Expert Guide: Led by Simone Vergamini, a highly accomplished sommelier.
• Beautiful Setting: Visits include vineyards, cellar tours, and tasting rooms in Bolgheri.
• Flexible Lunch Option: 2-hour stop in Bolgheri for a relaxed meal, with options to choose your restaurant.
• Value for Wine Enthusiasts: In-depth tasting with local products, including snacks and olive oil.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, pickup available, and all transportation is arranged.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Itinerary

This tour kicks off at 9:30 am, a solid start for a full day of exploration. You’re picked up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle—something that really makes a difference in the Tuscan heat—before heading to your first stop, Chiappini Winery. This visit lasts about an hour and a half, during which you’ll walk through the vineyards, visit the cellar, and taste wines produced right on site.

What makes Chiappini special, and what you’ll appreciate, is the chance to see how their wines are crafted from grape to bottle. Simone’s commentary on the area’s history, the vines, and the traditions involved adds depth to what might otherwise be just a tasting. Travelers have raved about the “amazing day” and the “great host,” emphasizing how Simone brings a wealth of knowledge and friendliness to the experience.

Next, you’re off to Tenuta Podere Grattamacco for another hour and a half of vineyard visits and tastings. This winery often impresses visitors with its picturesque setting and high-quality wines. The reviews highlight that the wine selection is excellent, and the visits are engaging without feeling rushed.

The Bolgheri Village & Lunch

After the winery visits, you’ll spend about two hours in Bolgheri, a charming village famous for its cypress-lined streets and historic charm. The highlight here is the lunch, which is not included in the tour price, giving you flexibility. The tour recommends a visit to the Tognoni wine shop or your preferred restaurant.

The reviews mention lunch as a top-notch experience, with “brilliant choice of vineyards” and “top quality” food. You might find yourself savoring local delicacies, cheeses, and fresh bread paired with local wine, all in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great way to digest the morning’s wine tasting and soak in the village’s ambiance.

What’s Included and What’s Not

In terms of value, the tour covers all transportation, bottled water, wines, and snacks like bread, cheese, salami, and local olive oil—a thoughtful touch that enhances the tasting experience. Since the admission tickets to the wineries are included, you won’t need to worry about extra costs there.

However, lunch isn’t included, which is a smart way to give you flexibility. You could opt for a casual meal at the wine shop or a sit-down in one of Bolgheri’s delightful restaurants. It’s worth noting that municipal taxes for larger groups might apply if your party exceeds nine people, and tips are optional.

The Guide & The Vibe

Simone Vergamini, who’s not just a guide but also a best sommelier, makes the experience stand out. His reviews show that he’s gracious, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing his love for Tuscany’s wines and traditions. Many travelers noted that his storytelling added real value, turning tasting sessions into educational moments.

The entire experience is private, which means you won’t be stuck in a crowded tour group. This allows for more questions, relaxed pacing, and a personalized journey through Bolgheri’s wine scene.

Is the Price Worth It?

While $347 might seem steep for some, considering the private nature, expert guidance, and exclusive winery visits, it’s a reasonable ask for serious wine enthusiasts or those celebrating a special occasion. The reviews consistently mention the quality of the wines, the lovely scenery, and the attention to detail, which indicate that most find the experience to be good value.

Plus, the full-day format—roughly 8 to 9 hours—means you’re not just ticking boxes but truly enjoying the essence of Bolgheri. The inclusion of snacks and bottled water also adds to the comfort level.

How Does It Compare?

Compared to other wine experiences, this tour’s private setup and the direct involvement of a top sommelier make it stand out. The opportunity to visit two wineries and explore Bolgheri’s village balances wine education with leisure, making it a well-rounded choice.

Final Thoughts

This private Bolgheri wine tour is especially suited for travelers eager to deepen their understanding of Tuscan wines in an intimate setting. If you love discovering new wines, enjoy storytelling from knowledgeable guides, and want to relax while exploring a beautiful village, this tour checks all those boxes.

While it’s not the cheapest way to enjoy Tuscan wines, the quality of the visits, the expertise of Simone, and the tailored experience justify the price for many. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a more personalized, less hurried experience compared to larger group tours.

Just keep in mind that the tour is quite full, so if you’re looking for a super relaxed, leisurely day, you might want to consider how the timing and pace suit your style. But if you love wine, beautiful scenery, and authentic experiences, this could be a highlight of your Tuscan trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience with exclusive visits.

What’s the meeting time?
The tour starts at 9:30 am, giving you a full day of exploration.

Are transportation and pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and offers pickup, making logistics easy.

What’s included in the price?
All winery admission tickets, tastings, bottled water, snacks, and transportation are covered.

Can I choose my lunch spot?
Lunch is not included in the price, so you’re free to pick your favorite restaurant or visit the recommended wine shop.

Are children allowed?
The experience is best suited for adults, but service animals are permitted. Check with the provider for specifics about children.

What is the wine and snack tasting like?
You’ll enjoy tastings of wines produced on-site, paired with local products like cheese, salami, and olive oil, giving you a real taste of the region.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the experience is outdoors and at wineries, poor weather might cause a cancellation or rescheduling, with full refunds or alternate dates offered.

This Bolgheri wine tour offers a lovely blend of education, scenic beauty, and local indulgence. Perfect for those who want to experience Tuscany’s renowned wines in a relaxed, personalized setting, guided by one of the region’s best.