Guided tour and tasting with platter.

If you’re dreaming of stepping into the world of Italian wine, especially in the storied region of Valpolicella, this tour promises a relaxed yet insightful experience. Based in Veneto, Italy, it’s an opportunity to visit a family-run winery with roots stretching back to the 1700s. As someone who’s explored many wine tours, I find that tours like this strike a wonderful balance—offering enough history and tasting without the overwhelming formality or excessive duration.

What I particularly like about this experience is the chance to get close to a family that’s been cultivating the same land for centuries. It’s not just about tasting wine; it’s about understanding the tradition behind every bottle. Another highlight? The inclusion of a limited-edition Amarone salami, which adds a delicious, local twist to the tasting that you won’t find anywhere else.

One thing to keep in mind is the duration—just two hours—which makes it perfect for those with a packed schedule or who prefer a shorter, engaging activity. However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 18, or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly. Overall, I think this experience is a good fit for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, or those wanting a taste of Veneto’s wine heritage without the fuss.

Key Points

• Family tradition: Operated by a family that’s been producing wine since 1931, always on the same land.
• Location: In the heart of Valpolicella Classica, surrounded by vineyards, olive, and cherry trees.
• Tasting lineup: Includes four wines—Valpolicella Superiore, Ripasso, Camponi IGT, and Beso IGT—paired with local cold cuts and cheeses.
• Unique tasting: Features an exclusive Amarone salami, a limited production delicacy.
• Accessible: Conducted in Italian, English, and Russian, and is wheelchair accessible.
• Duration: Just 2 hours, making it a manageable yet enriching experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Setting: A Slice of Veneto History

The winery is situated on a south-facing hill in a small, privileged area known as Valpolicella Classica. This designation isn’t just for show—it signifies a protected zone where Amarone, Recioto, and Valpolicella wines have been made long before the DOC and DOCG classifications expanded the region in 1968. That sense of tradition adds a layer of genuine authenticity to the tour that’s hard to find elsewhere.

The estate covers about 8 hectares, with vines, olive trees, and cherry trees cultivated with genuine care. Walking through the vineyards, you’ll probably feel the same sense of respect and love that the Bonazzi family has poured into this land for generations. The elevated position offers lovely views, and the setting itself feels intimate, not touristy.

The Tour: What Happens During Those 2 Hours

From the moment you arrive at the meeting point, at the parking villa Badin, you’re welcomed into a setting that’s both charming and informative. The guide, likely multilingual, will lead you through the winery and vineyards, sharing stories about the land, the family, and how their wines are crafted.

Expect to learn about traditional methods, with some insights into the specific grapes they grow and how their historic techniques have persisted over the years. It’s less about lecture and more about a friendly exchange—think of it as sitting with old friends who happen to make exceptional wine.

Tasting & Food Pairing

The tasting portion is thoughtfully curated, featuring four wines: Valpolicella Superiore, Valpolicella Ripasso, Camponi IGT, and Beso IGT. These represent a range of styles—from light, everyday wines to richer, more complex varieties. The wines are served alongside a platter of local cold cuts and cheeses, which complements the tasting beautifully.

What makes this even more special is the inclusion of the Amarone salami. This limited-production delicacy isn’t something you’ll find in many other places, and it’s a real treat for those who enjoy unique, local flavors. It’s a good example of how the winery celebrates its heritage through food as well as wine.

The Experience: Atmosphere and Value

Many reviews mention how personal and genuine the experience feels. One user said, “The guide was very friendly and informative, making it easy to understand the wine-making process.” The length and format make it accessible without feeling rushed, and the inclusion of multiple languages broadens its appeal.

In terms of value, considering you get four wines, a platter of local products, and the chance to learn from a family with over 90 years of tradition, it’s quite fair. Prices are not listed here, but compared to larger, more commercial wineries, this feels more intimate and authentic—a good deal for those wanting quality over quantity.

Practical Tips

• Availability: Check the schedule ahead of time since starting times vary.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women, so plan accordingly.
• Group size: Likely small, which enhances the personal feel.
• Booking: Reserve in advance with the option to pay later, adding flexibility to your plans.

This experience is ideal for wine lovers who appreciate tradition and family craftsmanship. It’s also perfect for anyone wanting a quick, yet meaningful peek into Veneto’s wine culture, especially if you’re already exploring Verona or nearby towns.

If you enjoy pairing wine with local foods and want to learn about the specific terroir of Valpolicella, this tour hits the mark. It’s less suited for families with very young children or those with mobility limitations, but for most adult travelers, it’s a charming, informative outing.

This guided tour at Corte Badin offers a genuine taste of Veneto’s wine-making heritage, all set in a stunning landscape filled with history and tradition. The combination of family-run charm, limited-edition tastings like the Amarone salami, and lush vineyard views makes it a memorable choice for those wanting to deepen their appreciation for Italian wines.

While it’s not the most extensive or elaborate wine tour you’ll find, its authenticity and warm atmosphere make it well worth considering—especially if you’re looking for a well-balanced experience that combines education, flavor, and scenery. If you’re in the Veneto region and want a taste of local craftsmanship, this tour makes a compelling case for itself.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour isn’t recommended for children under 18, as it’s focused on wine tasting and involves adult-only products.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider this before booking.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in Italian, English, and Russian, making it accessible for a diverse set of travelers.

How long does the experience last?
It runs for about 2 hours, perfect for a short, enriching activity.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample four wines: Valpolicella Superiore, Valpolicella Ripasso, Camponi IGT, and Beso IGT.

What food is included?
A platter of local cold cuts and cheeses accompanies the wines, along with the unique Amarone salami.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the parking villa Badin and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is this a private or group experience?
While not explicitly stated, the small-group nature typical of such tours suggests a cozy, intimate setting.

What should I consider before booking?
Check the starting times in advance, and ensure you’re comfortable with the tour’s restrictions if applicable to mobility or health.

All in all, if you’re exploring Veneto and want a genuine slice of local wine-making tradition, this tour offers a relaxed, friendly glimpse into the world of family-crafted wines.

You can check availability for your dates here: