Pasta Making Class at a 12th Century Winery in the Tuscan Countryside

Imagine spending your day learning to make authentic Italian pasta in a historic setting, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards that have been part of Tuscany’s landscape for centuries. That’s essentially what this Pasta Making Class at a 12th-century winery offers — a chance to boost your culinary skills and enjoy a slice of Tuscany’s wine and food culture in one go.

We love that this experience combines interactive cooking with wine tasting in a setting that feels both special and authentic. The guide’s expertise shines through, making the class both educational and fun. Plus, the fact that you get to cook inside a centuries-old castle is pretty unforgettable.

On the flip side, this tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, which might be a consideration if you’re staying outside Florence’s city center. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized culinary adventure that offers insider access to Tuscan traditions, this could be just the ticket.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy hands-on activities, want to learn traditional recipes, and love pairing good food with wine. It’s also a standout choice for those looking to add a memorable accent to their Florence trip, especially if history, scenery, and authentic flavors are high on your list.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Expert guides help you learn authentic pasta-making techniques.
• Wine and olive oil tasting adds a delicious local touch to the experience.
• Historic location inside a 12th-century winery provides stunning surroundings.
• Includes lunch featuring your own pasta and homemade sauces.
• Transport is provided in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan from Florence.

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting Out: Convenient Meeting Point and Transport

The tour begins at Via dei Pandolfini in Florence at 10:00am. From there, a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan whisks you away to the countryside, making transportation one less thing to worry about — especially helpful if you’re not keen on driving in unfamiliar rural areas. It’s a short, scenic drive that adds to the anticipation of escaping the city buzz for a peaceful Tuscan setting.

Arriving at the 12th-Century Winery

Once at the winery, you’ll step into a piece of history. This ancient wine estate, dating back to the 12th century, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich vinicultural past. The guided tour through the winery’s cantina (cellar) allows you to see firsthand how wine is made today, which adds depth to the tasting experience that follows.

Guests consistently praise the winery’s charm — it’s not just a functional place but a scenic, atmospheric spot that amplifies the overall experience. As one reviewer shared, “The winery was quaint and cool,” emphasizing that the setting is a highlight.

Wine and Olive Oil Tasting

Before diving into the kitchen, you’ll be treated to tastings of the olive oil and wines produced on-site. A local guide takes you through the nuances of each product, explaining the craftsmanship behind them. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed sampling the wines — “the wine was very delicious,” as one guest said, which shows the quality you can expect.

This part of the tour isn’t just a palate-pleaser; it’s a cultural primer that gives context to the flavors you’ll enjoy later with your meal.

The Pasta-Making Class

The heart of this experience is, of course, learning to make real Italian pasta — something that takes beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Under the guidance of knowledgeable instructors, you’ll learn traditional techniques that are often lost in the rush of modern life.

What sets this apart is the hands-on approach. Guests often mention how engaging and fun the class is — “Alexa our guide was amazing,” and “the pasta making was so fun,” are common sentiments in reviews. You’ll be kneading, shaping, and creating pasta like Pici or other regional varieties, gaining skills you can bring home.

Once your pasta is ready, you’ll prepare a sauce to go with it. The process is relaxed, with enough time to ask questions and experiment. Expect to get your hands a little flour-dusted, but rest assured, it’s all part of the charm.

Lunch with Your Creations

After the cooking, it’s time to sit down and enjoy what you’ve made. The meal is served in a beautiful setting, perhaps in a rustic private room or a scenic outdoor table. It’s a satisfying moment — your own pasta, paired with local wines and olive oil, all enjoyed with new friends.

Guests rave about how delicious everything was. One review says, “We sat at a beautifully set table in a cool private rock room on a lower level of the winery,” capturing the intimate, memorable atmosphere of the meal.

Relaxed Ending and Return to Florence

The tour concludes back at the original meeting point in Florence, usually around 3:00pm, depending on the flow of the day. Though there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off included, the meeting point is straightforward, and the return trip is smooth.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cost of $173 per person covers the transportation, the guided tour, the pasta-making class, lunch, and wine tasting. This all-inclusive pricing makes it easy to enjoy a worry-free day. However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport if you’re staying outside Florence or prefer a door-to-door experience.

Dietary Options

There’s a vegetarian option available if you let the organizers know in advance, which is great for those with specific food preferences. Just a small note that any special dietary needs should be communicated at the time of booking.

Group Size and Booking

With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour maintains a cozy, intimate vibe. Most travelers book around 71 days in advance, signaling its popularity. The small group size ensures you get personalized instruction and can ask as many questions as you like.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a clear picture of why this tour is so favored. “A must-do,” writes Tammy, highlighting how the guides are outstanding and the experience unforgettable. Mark mentions that Alexa, the guide, was “amazing,” with a wealth of knowledge and friendliness that elevated the experience.

Many travelers emphasize the location’s beauty, the fun of cooking with others, and the quality of the wine and food. Holly loved that the “Tuscan countryside was amazing,” and others appreciate the authentic feel of the setting — “the old kitchen really created a great ambience.”

An Honest Look at the Downsides

While the experience is highly recommended, some considerations are worth noting. The tour doesn’t include hotel transportation, so if you’re staying outside Florence, you’ll need to arrange your own. The scheduled start time at 10:00am might be early for some, especially if you prefer a leisurely morning. Weather can also influence the experience — since it’s held at an outdoor-friendly location, poor weather might mean rescheduling or cancellations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is ideal for food lovers eager to learn traditional pasta recipes, those interested in Tuscany’s wine culture, or travelers looking for a memorable, scenic day outside the city. It’s perfect for small groups seeking an engaging, hands-on experience with a friendly guide.

The Sum Up

All in all, this pasta-making class at a historic Tuscan winery offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Italy’s culinary heritage. You’ll learn new skills, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, and share a delicious meal with friends old and new. The combination of wine, olive oil, and homemade pasta makes for a true Tuscan experience that’s both fun and flavorful.

If you’re after a relaxed, interactive day that immerses you in Tuscany’s food and wine traditions, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a historic setting, engaging guides, and the chance to create something delicious with their own hands.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, from the meeting point in Florence to returning after lunch.

What’s the cost?
It’s $173 per person, covering transport, the cooking class, lunch, and wine tasting — all in one package.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transport to and from the winery in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan is included. However, hotel pickup or drop-off is not.

Can I participate if I’m vegetarian?
Yes, vegetarian options are available; just advise at the time of booking.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for cooking — expect to get a little flour on your clothes, so dress accordingly.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly mentioned, the experience is suitable for most travelers interested in culinary craft; keep in mind the group size and the focus on adults.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 71 days ahead, especially if you want to secure a spot during busy seasons.

What happens if it rains?
Since the experience is held outdoors in a historic setting, poor weather might lead to rescheduling or a full refund.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, a maximum of 15 travelers ensures a personalized, intimate experience.

This tour combines authentic Tuscan flavors, engaging instruction, and a striking historic setting — it’s a rich experience for anyone eager to bring a taste of Italy home with them.