Vasto is a fantastic spot for exploring local flavors, especially if you enjoy wine, food, and authentic experiences. Unlike more touristy Italian destinations, Vasto offers a genuine taste of Abruzzo’s rich culinary traditions. We’re particularly fond of the Fontefico winery tours, which beautifully combine education, tasting, and a chance to see the landscape where this wine is born. If you’re interested in a deeper experience, the Fontefico Style offers a full afternoon of tasting and traditional dishes. This list rounds up the best options, so whether you’re into quick tastings or full-day culinary adventures, you’ll find something that fits.
Below, you’ll find two excellent tours—each highlighting different aspects of wine and food in Vasto. One offers a quick, insightful tasting perfect for a short visit, while the other provides a more comprehensive experience with a scenic winery visit and lunch. Both give you a chance to enjoy local products with knowledgeable guides and authentic flavors.
1. Fontefico: tour the winery and enjoy a guided tasting with local products
At number one on our list is the Fontefico guided winery tour and tasting, which lasts about 1.5 hours. This tour provides an intimate look at their organic vineyards and cellars, with a focus on sustainable winemaking. You’ll learn about Fontefico’s unique approach to organic farming, which emphasizes respect for the land and tradition.
During the tasting, you’ll sample several wines while learning about their production methods and what makes Fontefico’s wines stand out. The guide shares insights into the flavors and aromas specific to the Costa dei Trabocchi region, making this a perfect stop for wine enthusiasts or anyone curious about organic viticulture. This tour boasts great reviews for its friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, making complex wine concepts accessible. The tasting includes local products such as olive oil, cheeses, and cured meats, emphasizing the region’s culinary traditions.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a focused, educational opportunity without a lengthy commitment. It’s a perfect introduction to Fontefico’s wines and the local land, especially if time is limited but your interest in authentic wine experiences is high.
Bottom Line: A short, informative tour with tasting and local bites — perfect if you’re after a quick, immersive taste of Vasto’s wine scene.
2. The Fontefico Style: a guided tour of the winery and a tasting lunch
For around three hours, the Fontefico Style offers a full immersion into the region’s wine and culinary traditions. This experience combines a guided visit to the winery and vineyards with a delicious tasting lunch of traditional products and regional dishes. You can check out the winery’s cellars and vineyards firsthand, gaining a deeper understanding of Fontefico’s commitment to organic farming and terroir.
This tour stands out for its combination of education and hearty food, making it suited for travelers who want a more relaxed, day-long experience. The guided tasting showcases Fontefico’s range of wines, and the lunch features local specialties like cheeses, cured meats, and regional recipes – a true taste of Costa dei Trabocchi. Many reviews praise the tour for its friendly guides and authentic dishes, often describing it as a “culinary journey” rather than just a wine tasting.
If you’re interested in pairing wine with regional cuisine and enjoy a more leisurely pace, this tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for foodies, wine lovers, or anyone wanting to spend quality time learning about Abruzzo’s culinary heritage in an authentic setting.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded experience that combines wine, food, and culture in a scenic vineyard setting—ideal for those who want to savor Vasto’s flavors at a relaxed pace.
How to Choose Between These Tours
Choosing the best Vasto wine experience depends on your time, budget, and interests. If you’re pressed for time but want a quality introduction to Fontefico’s wines, the Fontefico guided tasting is a smart choice. It’s short, focused, and packed with insights. On the other hand, if you’re eager to indulge in a full day of wine and regional food, the Fontefico Style offers a more comprehensive experience—the perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon.
Consider your budget as well. The shorter tasting is often more affordable and suits travelers who want a quick taste of local wine without a large time investment. The longer tour includes a meal, making it a good value if you’re hungry and want to enjoy a true culinary outing. Also, keep in mind your fitness level; both tours involve walking through vineyards and cellars but are generally accessible for most.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season (spring and summer), as Fontefico’s tours tend to fill quickly. Most tours run rain or shine, but it’s always wise to confirm weather conditions if you plan an outdoor vineyard visit.
Final Thoughts
Vasto offers a wonderful variety of wine and food experiences, from quick tastings to full-day culinary journeys. The Fontefico winery tours stand out for their authentic approach, showcasing organic practices and regional flavors. If you’re short on time, the guided tasting is perfect for a quick yet enriching stop. If you want a deeper dive into the local wine and cuisine, the tasting lunch provides a relaxed, full-flavor adventure.
No matter which you choose, these tours give you a taste of Abruzzo’s rich agricultural tradition and warm hospitality. Book early to secure your spot, and enjoy your flavorful journey through Vasto’s best wineries.
