Tour of the cellar and tasting of 6 wines

Exploring the Charm of a Wine Cellar Tour and Tasting at Cantalici in Lucca

If you’re dreaming of experiencing authentic Chianti wines while exploring the historical charm of Tuscany, a visit to Cantalici might just be what you need. This tour offers a chance to get behind the scenes of a family-run winery, learn about their passion for wine-making, and taste six carefully selected wines. It’s a straightforward, well-reviewed experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and good wine—all in about an hour and a half.

What we love about this experience is how personal and intimate it feels, thanks to the small group size and the knowledgeable guides. Plus, the chance to see a brick kiln from the 1500s adds a special historical touch that elevates the visit from just a wine tasting. One potential downside? It’s a non-refundable experience, so if your plans change, you might need to think carefully before booking. This tour is perfect for lovers of wine who appreciate a more laid-back, educational vibe and want to enjoy some great local flavors.

Key Points

• Authentic Family Atmosphere: Experience a warm, genuine environment that reflects the passion of a family-run winery.
• Historical Element: The tour includes a visit to a 1500s brick kiln, adding a fascinating historical layer.
• Quality Tasting: Six wines are sampled, accompanied by local snacks like crackers, taralli, and bruschetta with extra virgin olive oil.
• Educational Content: Guides provide insights into the wine-making process, history, and company philosophy.
• Value for Money: At around $35 per person, it’s a reasonably priced way to enjoy a well-rounded wine experience in Tuscany.
• Group Size & Booking: Max 40 travelers with bookings typically 10 days in advance, making it accessible but still intimate.

What to Expect from the Cantalici Cellar Tour

The tour begins at the Cantalici winery in Castagnoli, a charming spot just outside Lucca. From the start, it feels like visiting friends rather than a commercial operation. You’ll be guided through the vinification cellar, where the process of transforming grapes into wine is explained clearly and with enthusiasm. The guide’s knowledge makes all the difference—many reviewers praise guides like Vanessa for their passion and clarity.

The next stop is the aging cellar, where you get a glimpse of the tools and barrels used to develop the wines’ character. But the highlight? Visiting an ancient brick kiln dating back to the early 1500s, which adds a tangible sense of history and continuity to the experience. This kind of historical detail isn’t just about old bricks; it’s about connecting the past with the present of Tuscan winemaking.

After the tour, you’ll settle in for the tasting session. Here, you get to sample six different wines, each with its own story and flavor profile. The wines are paired with local snacks—crackers, taralli (a traditional Italian snack), and bruschetta topped with premium extra virgin olive oil—adding some crunch and richness to the tasting. Many reviewers comment on the quality of the wines, describing them as delicious and authentic.

The Experience in Detail: Walking Through the Itinerary

Starting Point: Cantalici Winery in Castagnoli

Your journey begins at the winery’s main location. The setting itself is picturesque, with well-maintained vineyards and a welcoming atmosphere. The tour takes you through the vinification cellar, where the guide explains how the grapes are transformed into wine. This part is particularly valued by guests for the clarity and passion of the guide, with one reviewer mentioning that Vanessa “gave us so much information surrounding the winery” and was “obviously very passionate.”

The visit continues into the aging cellar, where barrels line the walls and showcase the traditional methods used. Seeing these aging wines up close helps you understand the care and patience involved in creating quality Chianti.

The Historical Brick Kiln

One of the most unique aspects here is the discovery of an ancient brick kiln from the early 1500s. This feature bridges the past and present, making the experience more meaningful. It’s not just about drinking wine but understanding the long history behind the land and the building techniques. Travelers often find these details fascinating, adding depth to what could otherwise be a standard tasting.

The Tasting Session

The final part of the tour is the tasting of six different wines. These are accompanied by a selection of local snacks—crackers, taralli, and bruschetta with extra virgin olive oil—that perfectly complement the wines. The tasting is relaxed and educational, allowing guests to compare and savor each wine’s nuances. Reviewers frequently mention the wines’ quality, with one describing them as “very good wine” and appreciating the passion behind them.

Many find this part especially enjoyable because it’s not rushed. The guide explains each wine’s background, making the tasting both educational and pleasurable. The inclusion of olive oil and snacks enhances the experience and highlights local flavors.

Additional Perks

• Local Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Tasting the olive oil alongside the wines is a bonus, giving you a taste of true Tuscan flavors.
• Snacks: The crackers, taralli, and bruschetta help cleanse the palate and enrich the tasting experience.

The Practicalities: Booking and Costs

At around $35 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the guided nature, the historical elements, and the quality of wines and snacks included. It’s a pretty accessible price point for a dedicated wine experience in Italy. Since most bookings are made about 10 days in advance, it’s wise to plan ahead if you’re on a tight schedule.

The tour lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours, making it manageable even if you’re on a packed itinerary. It’s designed to be a relaxed experience—no rushing, just enough time to learn, enjoy, and savor.

Note that this experience is non-refundable, so double-check your plans before booking. The tour is suited for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 40, which keeps the experience intimate enough to ask questions and connect with the guide.

The Real Reviews: What Visitors Say

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially praising Vanessa for her passion and thorough explanations. One traveler said, “We had a wonderful tour guide, Vanessa… very passionate about the business & winemaking.” Others note how beautiful the winery is, describing it as a “beautiful place,” with many comments on the high quality of the wines and the friendliness of the staff.

Interestingly, one reviewer mentioned that the German-language tour made it easier for children to understand, showing how approachable and adaptable the guides can be. This reflects the inclusive nature of the experience, making it suitable for curious travelers of all backgrounds.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and those looking for an authentic, family-driven atmosphere. If you enjoy learning about local traditions while sampling delicious wines and snacks, you’ll find this tour satisfying. It’s also a good choice if you want a relaxed, intimate activity that doesn’t involve complicated logistics or long hours.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Cantalici cellar tour and tasting stand out as a well-balanced experience—informative, authentic, and enjoyable. It offers a genuine glimpse into Tuscan wine-making, with the added bonus of historical intrigue. The guide’s passion and the quality of wines and food make it a worthwhile stop during your visit to Lucca and the Chianti region.

While it’s not a large-scale production, that intimacy and attention to detail create something special. The price point is fair, especially given the personal touch and the depth of the experience. Just remember, since it’s non-refundable, plan your schedule accordingly.

If you’re looking for a simple yet genuine wine adventure that combines history, family passion, and good flavors, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Cantalici Wine Tour

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers of all ages participate, the tour is primarily focused on wine and the historical aspects of production. The reviews mention a German-language tour that helped children understand better, so it might be approachable for older kids or teens interested in learning about wine and history.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 1 hour to 1.5 hours, making it suitable for fitting into a larger day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
You get a guided tour of the cellar, tasting of six wines, along with local extra virgin olive oil and snacks like crackers, taralli, and bruschetta. It’s a straightforward package with no hidden fees.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
This experience is non-refundable and can’t be changed once booked, so make sure your plans are firm before booking.

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book about 10 days ahead to secure their spot, especially during peak seasons.

Are drinks served during the tour?
Yes, the main feature is the tasting of six wines, accompanied by small snacks to enhance the flavors.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 40 travelers, which keeps it intimate but lively enough for socializing.

Is transportation provided?
No, the meeting point is at Via Della Croce, 17/19, Castagnoli. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the winery.

What’s the best way to dress?
Casual, comfortable attire is perfect—there’s no formal dress code, but you might want to wear layers in case of cooler weather.

Can I purchase wine after the tour?
While not explicitly mentioned, most wineries offer the option to buy their wines on-site, which could be a nice souvenir or gift.

If you’re eager to explore Tuscany’s wine traditions in a friendly, informative setting, this tour at Cantalici offers a great balance between education and enjoyment. It’s a lovely way to connect with local craftsmanship and savor some truly good wine in a setting that feels authentic and welcoming.