Private Tuscan Pinot Noir Tour with Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Tuscany and have a soft spot for wine—especially something a bit off the beaten path—you might find this Private Tuscan Pinot Noir Tour with Lunch appealing. It promises a relaxed day exploring two boutique wineries, tasting exclusive wines, and enjoying a traditional Tuscan meal. While it’s not your typical wine tour, it offers a personalized experience that can really deepen your appreciation for this lesser-known variety.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines intimate visits to family-run wineries with a good dose of local history, all while keeping the atmosphere friendly and unpretentious. Plus, the focus on Pinot Noir, a grape not traditionally associated with Tuscany, adds an interesting twist. That said, it’s not all smooth sailing—the tour is quite specific in its focus, and if you’re not a fan of wine or are traveling with young children, it might not be the best fit.

For those who enjoy discovering local specialties, savoring good food, and prefer a more tailored experience over crowded group tours, this could be just the ticket. However, travelers looking for a rundown of Tuscany’s wine scene or wanting more flexibility might want to consider other options. Now, let’s get into the details.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Visit two intimate, family-run boutique wineries in Mugello, away from the crowds.
• Focused on Pinot Noir: Discover rare, top-quality Pinot Noir wines grown in the Medici land.
• Cultural Context: Learn about the region’s history—Etruscan, Roman, and Longobard influences—intertwined with wine-making.
• Tasty Lunch Included: Enjoy a traditional Tuscan meal paired with wine tasting, making it a full sensory experience.
• Private Group: The experience is tailored for a private group, adding to the personalized feel.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserve now with the option to pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience and Its Highlights

Getting to Know Mugello and the Medici Connection

This tour kicks off in Florence, with a convenient pickup—usually from your hotel or a nearby location. The roughly hour-long drive takes you into Mugello, a scenic hilly part of northern Tuscany that’s historically linked to the Medici family.

Mugello isn’t your typical Tuscan tourist hotspot; it’s more of a quiet, authentic corner of Italy. The region’s ties to the Medici are evident in the villas and castles still standing today, hinting at its noble past. As you drive, you might find yourself appreciating the landscape’s lush rolling hills, which provide the perfect backdrop for wine grapes.

Visiting Boutique Wineries

Once you arrive, you’ll spend about two hours at the first winery, which is family-run and prioritizes quality over quantity. Here, the hosts are passionate and eager to share their craft. Expect a tour of the vineyards and wine cellars, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how these unique Pinot Noir wines are made and aged.

According to reviews, visitors have been impressed by the honesty and enthusiasm of the winemakers. One comment mentioned, “We loved the way they explained the process, and the wines were truly special.” This personalized approach is what makes this tour stand out from more commercialized options.

The second winery, which you’ll visit after a short drive, continues the theme of intimate, family-focused wine-making. Here, you’ll taste a selection of Pinot Noir wines that showcase the region’s potential for this varietal, which is still somewhat hidden outside Italy.

Tasting the Wines

The wine tastings are a major highlight. Given the focus on top-quality Pinot Noir, you’ll likely sample wines with distinct profiles, perhaps more delicate and fruity than the bold reds Tuscany is famous for. Many reviews note that the wines are “remarkably refined” and that the hosts are generous with their pours.

The wine tastings are complemented by explanations about production and aging—perfect for anyone interested in the technical side of wine-making. It’s a chance to taste wines that you might not find elsewhere, especially since these wineries are boutique and prioritize quality.

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The Traditional Tuscan Lunch

Halfway through the day, a hearty Tuscan lunch is served, paired with more wine tastings. The meal is described as authentic and flavorful, often including local specialties that highlight the region’s culinary traditions. This meal rounds off the experience nicely, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Some guests remarked that the lunch was “simple but delicious,” and that it paired beautifully with the wines. It’s an ideal way to balance the day—sipping wine and enjoying good food amidst beautiful scenery.

Return to Florence

After lunch, the tour wraps up with a scenic drive back to Florence, giving everyone a moment to reflect on the day. The entire experience lasts around six hours, making it a manageable but enriching escape from the city.

Practical Considerations

• Transportation: The tour uses a private van, making the trip comfortable and flexible. The journey time is about an hour each way, so it’s not too long but enough to settle in.
• Group Size: As a private experience, it offers a more personalized touch—fewer crowds, more tailored attention.
• Accessibility: It’s stroller-friendly, but not wheelchair accessible, and infants need to sit on laps.
• Children: While children are allowed, it’s best suited for grown-ups interested in wine and culture.
• Dietary Needs: If you have special dietary requirements, be sure to inform the provider beforehand.
• Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

What We Think: The Strengths and Limitations

Strengths:
The intimacy of visiting small, family-run wineries is a real plus. You get genuine stories and personal touches that large tours often lack. The focus on Pinot Noir offers a different perspective on Tuscan wines—more delicate and nuanced than the typical Sangiovese-based reds—and for wine lovers, it’s a real treat.

The inclusion of a traditional lunch adds a warm, local flavor to the day, making it more than just tastings. The driver and guide are knowledgeable and friendly, making the entire process smooth and enjoyable.

Possible Drawbacks:
The main limitation is the narrow focus on Pinot Noir. If you’re not a fan of this grape or prefer a broader tour of Tuscany’s wines, you might find the experience a bit limited. Also, since this is a private tour, it’s priced higher than many group experiences—though you do get more personalized service in exchange.

Some reviews have noted that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants cannot be accommodated in car seats, so families with very young children should plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to explore a lesser-known region-specific grape, or those interested in a more private, curated wine experience. It’s also well-suited for couples or small groups who enjoy good food and a relaxed pace. If you’re after a deep dive into Tuscan culture paired with quality wines, this tour hits the right notes.

However, if your main goal is to see a broad swath of Tuscany or to sample multiple varieties, you might want to look elsewhere. Also, travelers with mobility issues should consider accessibility limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children are allowed, but the tour is primarily designed for adults interested in wine. Infants need to sit on laps, and there are no infant seats available.

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

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from most hotels or apartments in Florence is included, and it starts about 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

How long is the drive each way?
The drive to Mugello is approximately one hour each way, making it a comfortable journey without feeling rushed.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample signature Pinot Noir wines crafted from top-quality grapes, with an emphasis on regional character and finesse.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Tuscan lunch is part of the experience, and it is paired with wine tastings.

What’s the group size?
Since it’s a private tour, you’ll be grouped just with your party, ensuring a personalized experience.

If you’re looking for an authentic, intimate look into Tuscany’s lesser-known wine side—specifically its Pinot Noir—this private tour offers a unique opportunity. It combines scenic drives, heartfelt stories from passionate winemakers, and delicious regional food. The focus on boutique wineries means you’re getting quality and individuality over mass-produced wines, which many travelers appreciate.

While it’s not the best choice if your main goal is a broad tasting of all Tuscany’s wines or for those with mobility concerns, it’s perfect for wine lovers wanting a quiet, personalized day out in Mugello. It’s a chance to learn, taste, and enjoy in a setting that’s relaxed and full of character.

If you value craftsmanship, intimate visits, and regional stories, this tour could become one of your favorite memories from Tuscany. Just be sure to set your expectations accordingly—this is a focused, quality experience, not a comprehensive wine tasting tour of the entire region.

You can check availability for your dates here: