Lucca – Wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli

Imagine wandering through rolling vineyards on the hills near Lucca, your senses awakening with the aroma of freshly pressed olive oil, honey, and ripe grapes. That’s what you get with the Wine Tasting at Tenuta Mareli, a private experience that promises more than just a sip of wine. It’s a chance to get up close with a family-run organic and biodynamic farm, learn about traditional winemaking, and taste some of Tuscany’s finest products—all in a relaxed, intimate setting.

We love how this tour combines a genuine educational element with the pleasure of tasting—so you walk away not just with a full glass but with new knowledge about natural wines, local food, and the passionate people behind it. Plus, the small-group format ensures you get personalized attention from the host, Francesca, who truly knows her stuff.

One thing to keep in mind: this experience lasts around 1.5 to more than two hours, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a leisurely pace and want to savor more than just the wine. If you’re after a purely sightseeing or high-energy adventure, this might feel a touch slow, but for those who appreciate food, wine, and stories, it’s a delight.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who love discovering authentic local flavors, are interested in organic and biodynamic practices, and enjoy a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. It’s also a fantastic choice if you want a meaningful, small-group experience in the Lucca area.

Key Points

• Authentic Family-Run Experience: You’ll learn about a genuine family business committed to natural and biodynamic practices.
• In-Depth Tasting: Four organic wines, local cheeses, olive oil, and honey served under a pergola—delicious and educational.
• Hands-On Insight: Depending on the season, you might see harvest, foot pressing, or bottling—an authentic look at traditional methods.
• Personalized Approach: The tour is private, so your group gets dedicated attention from Francesca, the passionate host.
• Great Value: At around $34, you get a substantial tasting experience that includes not just wine but also local delicacies and a personal story.
• Flexible Length: The experience can last from about an hour to over two hours, depending on your group and interest level.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Setting and Starting Point

The tour begins at a scenic spot in Montemagno, near Lucca, on the peaceful hills of Versilia. The meeting point is straightforward, close to public transportation, making it easier to reach without a car. Once there, you’re welcomed into a family-run farm that’s clearly passionate about organic and biodynamic farming. The setting is relaxed and inviting, perfect for travelers who prefer a more intimate experience over large, commercial tours.

What the Tour Entails

You’ll be taken on a tour of the vineyard surrounding the cellar, giving you a chance to see how the grapes are grown and harvested. The hosts are happy to share their farming philosophy—focusing on natural, chemical-free cultivation—and depending on the season, you might even witness parts of the harvest, foot pressing, or the bottling process. This behind-the-scenes look isn’t just interesting; it helps you understand why their wines are special.

Next, the group visits the internal rooms of the cellar, where all the magic happens. Here, you’ll hear about their winemaking techniques, emphasizing a respect for tradition and natural fermentation processes. It’s a lesson in patience and craftsmanship, especially appreciated by those curious about organic and biodynamic methods.

The Tasting Experience

The highlight is sitting under a pergola, surrounded by nature, and sampling four of their organic wines. These wines are accompanied by croutons and local cheeses, elevating the tasting and making it feel like a genuine Tuscan picnic. The wines aren’t just drunk—they’re explained. Francesca, the host, takes time to detail each wine’s organoleptic characteristics, sharing insights into what makes each one unique.

Guests also taste high-quality local products: extra virgin olive oil, honey from acacia, chestnut, millefiori, and pollen, and delicious local cheeses. The taste combinations, along with the peaceful setting, create an experience that’s both relaxing and educational.

The Passion Behind the Product

Guests consistently praise Francesca for her enthusiasm and deep knowledge. As one reviewer notes, “Francesca was such a delight. We had a wonderful experience with the wines and appetizers. But the conversations and involvement with her passion for wine, honey, and other aspects of this gathering was the best.” This personal touch makes the experience memorable and helps you truly appreciate the love and effort that goes into each bottle and jar.

The Value and Flexibility

For $34.39 per person, this tour offers an impressive combination of education, tasting, and atmosphere. The price reflects not just the products but also the personalized attention and the opportunity to see a working biodynamic farm. Since the tour is private, you get a tailored experience, which is a rare find at this price point.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates tasting authentic, well-made wines alongside delicious local food, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited to those interested in natural and biodynamic practices and wanting a deeper understanding of what makes their food and drink special. It’s also an ideal choice for travelers who enjoy small-group, relaxed experiences rather than large, hurried tours.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is the duration—at around 1.5 hours minimum, some might find it a bit leisurely if they prefer quick tastings. Also, this tour doesn’t include transportation or extensive sightseeing, so plan accordingly if you want a full day of activities.

The Bottom Line

This wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli provides a genuine taste of Tuscany’s organic side, offering more than just wine—it’s about connecting with the land, the family, and the traditions behind every bottle. The combination of beautiful scenery, knowledgeable hosts, and delicious products makes it a worthwhile experience for anyone interested in authentic local flavors.

It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a relaxed, educational outing and are willing to spend quality time sampling and learning. If you’re looking for a formal winery tour with lots of walking or a quick tasting, this might not be your top pick. However, if you want a meaningful, personal experience with great wines and stories, you’ll probably find this one of the highlights of your trip to Lucca.

FAQ

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 22 days ahead, and it’s recommended to book early to secure your preferred date.

How long does the tour last?
The experience generally lasts between 1 hour and more than two hours, depending on your group size and interest.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The description emphasizes wine tasting for those aged 18 and over, so children aren’t served alcohol but can attend for the experience and sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get a private tour, tasting of four wines, local cheeses, olive oil, and honey, along with some educational commentary.

Can I see the winemaking process?
Depending on the season, you might observe harvest, foot pressing, vinification, bottling, or labeling, all done manually.

Is this experience accessible by public transport?
Yes, it’s near public transportation, making it easier for travelers without a car to reach.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change unexpectedly.

In the end, if you’re after a sincere, hands-on experience that combines scenic beauty with local delicacies and heartfelt stories, the wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli stands out as a charming choice near Lucca. It’s not just about tasting wine—it’s about savoring Tuscany’s soul in every sip.