Exploring the Ciliegiolo: A Wine Tasting Journey in Pitigliano
If you’re into wine and exploring lesser-known varieties, this Ciliegiolo wine tasting in Pitigliano offers an authentic glimpse into Tuscany’s hidden side. While Tuscany is often associated with Chianti and Brunello, this experience focuses on the flagship grape Ciliegiolo, cultivated here since 1990. It’s a chance to taste wines crafted in many different ways and to understand how environment and vinification techniques influence flavor.
Two things we especially like about this tour are the personalized insight into organic and environmentally friendly practices and the opportunity to sample a diverse array of wines that showcase the versatility of Ciliegiolo. On the flip side, the 1.5-hour duration might feel a bit tight if you’re keen to linger over each wine or explore the surroundings more leisurely. Still, if you’re eager to dive into Tuscan winemaking beyond the usual labels, this is a tour worth considering.
This experience is ideal for those who want a deep dive into a specific grape variety and appreciate a combination of educational and tasting elements. It’s suited for curious wine lovers, travelers interested in organic practices, and anyone who enjoys pairing good wine with local snacks. Just keep in mind that the tour involves some walking around vineyards and cellar areas, so comfortable footwear will make your day more enjoyable.
Key Points
- Focus on Ciliegiolo: Learn about and taste this flagship grape through five distinct wines.
- Environmental Commitment: The winery has been certified organic since 1994, reflecting their eco-friendly approach.
- Diverse Vinification: Wines are made using various techniques—steel, wood, clay—and some are limited editions.
- Pairing with Savory Pastries: Each wine is thoughtfully paired with pastries from Flamigni, enhancing the tasting experience.
- Vineyard & Cellar Tours: Includes guided visits to both vineyard and underground cellar for a behind-the-scenes look.
- Approximate Duration & Cost: At around 1.5 hours and $71 per person, it offers a compact but enriching experience.
This experience made our article of 3 Best Tours In Sovana (With Prices).
The Experience in Detail
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Starting Point: Sassotondo’s Cellar and Vineyards
Your journey begins at Sassotondo, a well-regarded estate in Tuscany. Setting out from here, you’ll get a quick guided tour of the vineyards—about 15 minutes—where the focus is on the Ciliegiolo grape. The estate has been growing this variety since 1990, so they have decades of experience shaping its character.
During this initial walk, you’ll notice the vineyard environment, which likely reflects their environmentally conscious approach. As they’ve been certified organic since 1994, expect to see grape-growing practices that aim to reduce chemicals and promote soil health. The vineyard’s location on volcanic tufo rock adds a unique element, influencing the mineral notes you’ll find in the wines.
Visit to the Underground Cellar
Next, you’ll step into the underground cellar, which is as atmospheric as it is functional. This is where the magic of vinification happens, and the hosts are eager to share insights about their environmentally friendly practices in both vineyard and cellar. The cool, dark atmosphere is perfect for aging wines and provides a tangible connection to the craft of wine-making.
Tasting the Five Ciliegiolo Wines
The main event is the tasting of five distinct wines, each highlighting different aspects of Ciliegiolo’s potential:
- Lady Marmalade: An old-style rosé that offers a savory, slightly tannic profile, perfect for those wanting something different from typical rosés.
- Sassotondo Rosso: Their daily red, approachable and well-balanced, ideal for sipping without overthinking.
- Poggio Pinzo: Features long maceration on skins in terracotta vessels, giving it a unique texture and depth. This limited edition might appeal to those interested in traditional vinification methods.
- Monte Calvo: A more gentle vinification, with a peppery edge, highlighting the grape’s versatility.
- San Lorenzo: The flagship, prize-winning old vine Ciliegiolo, often described as an icon—rich, complex, and a true reflection of their terroir.
Each wine is paired with savory pastries from Flamigni, adding a gastronomic element that enhances the tasting. Reviewers have appreciated how these pairings elevate the experience, emphasizing the importance of matching wine and food.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Technical Side: Vinification and Aged Techniques
One thing that stands out is the diversity of vinification techniques. Some wines are made in steel tanks, others in wood or clay—each method imparts different characteristics. For example, the Poggio Pinzo’s long skin contact in terracotta vessels results in a wine with more complexity and earthy notes, while Monte Calvo’s gentle approach aims for a softer, more peppery profile.
This variety demonstrates the estate’s commitment to exploring all facets of Ciliegiolo, and you’ll find that tasting these side by side really underscores how environment and process influence flavor.
The Environment and Sustainability
Throughout the visit, the hosts emphasize their eco-friendly practices—from organic certification to sustainable vineyard management. This transparency adds value for travelers who prioritize sustainability in their choices, making the experience more meaningful.
Shop & Takeaways
After tasting, there’s a brief window for shopping—you can purchase your favorite bottles directly from the estate. Many visitors appreciate being able to bring home a piece of the experience, especially limited editions or organic wines that are hard to find elsewhere.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is particularly suited for wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of a specific grape, especially if you’re interested in organic viticulture. It’s also a good pick for those curious about traditional vinification techniques or who enjoy pairing wine with local artisanal snacks.
While it’s not designed as a full-day tour or a casual tasting for those just wanting a quick sip, it’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate depth and storytelling about the wines they taste. The setting in rural Tuscany, combined with the focus on environmental practices, makes it both educational and responsibly conscious.
Practical Tips
- Wear comfortable outdoor clothing and shoes, especially since some parts involve vineyard and cellar visits.
- Consider the weather; tastings might be under the patio or indoors, depending on conditions.
- Budget around $71 per person for a comprehensive yet intimate experience.
- Check the schedule in advance to confirm availability, as the tour times vary.
- If you’re a fan of unique wine styles, be sure to inquire about the limited editions.
Final Thoughts
For those looking to venture beyond the typical Tuscan wine scene, this Ciliegiolo tasting offers a genuine, engaging experience. You’re not just drinking wine; you’re learning about a specific grape’s journey, the impact of terroir, and environmentally friendly practices that shape each bottle.
It’s a smart choice for travelers who appreciate thoughtful wine-making, love pairing local food, or want to support organic and sustainable winegrowers. While the tour might be a bit short for those craving an in-depth exploration, the quality and authenticity make it a memorable stop.
If you’re in the area and enjoy discovering smaller wineries with a story, this experience deserves a spot on your itinerary. It combines education, flavor, and scenery in a way that’s both honest and enjoyable—just the way good wine tasting should be.
Pitigliano: Ciliegiolo Grape Wine Tasting
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for someone new to wine tasting?
Yes, absolutely. The hosts are welcoming and will guide you through each wine, making it approachable whether you’re a novice or a seasoned wine lover.
How long is the tasting experience?
The entire tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including vineyard and cellar visits, plus the tasting. It’s a compact but thorough experience.
Are the wines organic?
Yes, the winery has been certified organic since 1994, and they take pride in their environment-friendly practices.
Can I buy the wines at the end of the tour?
Yes, there’s a shopping opportunity where you can purchase bottles, including some limited editions.
What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the vineyard and cellar visits, tasting of five wines made with Ciliegiolo, and paired savory pastries from Flamigni.
Is transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included. It’s recommended to arrive by car or arrange your own transport to Sassotondo in Pitigliano.
Whether you’re a dedicated wine lover or just curious about Tuscany’s lesser-known varieties, this Ciliegiolo tasting offers an authentic taste of the region’s craftsmanship. It’s a thoughtful experience that balances education, flavor, and a healthy respect for sustainability—an ideal way to spend a relaxing afternoon in the Tuscan countryside.
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