Wine tasting in Lucca “at home” with expert sommelier – 5 wines

If you’re visiting Lucca and love wine, you might have come across this highly-rated private tasting experience led by Simone Vergamini, Tuscany’s Best Sommelier 2023. Instead of the usual winery visits or group tastings, this experience brings the wine directly to wherever you’re staying—be it a hotel, your holiday home, or even a cozy spot in the city center.

What makes this tour special? First, the personalized attention from an expert who really knows his stuff, and second, the chance to enjoy five carefully selected organic wines paired with local bread, cheese, and oil. We also love that it’s a flexible experience—perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate session rather than a big, noisy tour.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is that if you’re looking for a more extensive or winery-focused day, this might feel a bit short at just an hour and a half. But if your goal is to deepen your appreciation of wines in a comfortable setting, this will suit you well.

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, or small groups wanting a fun, educational, and delicious evening in Lucca. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate a touch of elegance and local authenticity, without the hassle of organizing anything themselves.

Key Points

• Personalized experience hosted at your location, not a typical wine tour.
• Led by Simone Vergamini, Tuscany’s Best Sommelier 2023, ensuring expert guidance.
• Includes five organic and small-producer wines, with local bread, cheese, and oil.
• Flexible location options within Lucca or nearby hills.
• Professional service, with glasses provided and bottles left uncorked for enjoyment later.
• Value for money, with reviews highlighting the quality of wines and host expertise.

The Experience in Detail

A Personal Touch from a Top Sommelier

What immediately stands out about this experience is the host’s credentials. Simone Vergamini isn’t just any sommelier—he’s recognized as Tuscany’s best in 2024 and has placed third in Italy multiple times. His background lends a lot of credibility and makes this feel like a truly curated experience. You’re not just tasting wine; you’re learning from someone who deeply understands the nuances and stories behind each bottle.

Custom Locations and Flexibility

One of the best parts? The flexibility of location. Whether you’re staying in a hotel, at a private residence, or even in the historic city center of Lucca, Simone can arrange to come to you within a 15 km radius. For those staying in the surrounding hills, a small surcharge might apply, but the convenience is worth it.

This setup means you can enjoy a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere—comparing wines with friends or family in your own space rather than a busy cellar or restaurant. Plus, the fact that the experience is private means you get Simone’s undivided attention and tailored insights.

What’s Included

The tasting is designed to be both educational and delicious. Simone will guide you through an introduction to wine tasting basics, sharing insights about the history of the region and the small producers he works with. These are mostly organic-certified wineries, which adds an extra layer of appreciation for those interested in sustainable practices.

The five wines are served alongside local bread, cheese, and oil, all sourced from small producers who are passionate about their craft. Based on reviews, people tend to find the wines unique and memorable—”delicious” and “special” are common themes.

The Quality of the Wines and Food

Guests consistently praise the quality and variety of wines selected. Megan describes the experience as “wonderful,” noting Simone’s wealth of knowledge and excellent teaching skills. Marlene highlights the deliciousness and uniqueness of the wines Simone chose.

You’ll find the tasting table thoughtfully prepared, with professional glasses, tasting tablecloths, and a welcoming setup. At the end of the session, Simone leaves you with the bottles uncorked—if not finished—so you can savor them during your stay.

The Price and What You Get

Priced at $77.14 per person, this experience offers good value considering the personalized service, quality wines, and the educational element. It’s not a large group affair; it’s just your party and Simone, which makes it feel more like a private lesson with wine than a tour.

Many reviews point out the great value for money, especially given the chance to purchase wines afterward. People enjoy the opportunity to take home bottles of their favorites, adding a tangible memory to their trip.

Duration and Booking

With a duration of about an hour and a half, this isn’t the most time-consuming activity, making it easy to slot into a busy itinerary. Booking in advance is recommended—most people reserve about 55 days ahead—highlighting its popularity.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tasting will appeal most to wine lovers who want a personal, behind-the-scenes view of Tuscan wines. It’s perfect if you’re after a relaxed, educational experience and enjoy pairing wine with local foods. It’s also a great choice for small groups or couples looking for a memorable, intimate activity in Lucca.

If you’re staying in the city and want to skip the busier winery tours, this at-home style tasting offers a nice alternative. Family groups with older children or those interested in learning about wine in a casual setting will find it particularly engaging.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Lucca and eager to explore its wine scene without leaving your accommodation, this experience offers a blend of expertise, comfort, and local charm. Led by a highly acclaimed sommelier, you’re guaranteed a tailored, fun, and insightful journey through five organic wines paired with local flavors.

The flexibility to host the tasting in your own space, along with the chance to purchase wines afterward, makes it a practical and memorable choice. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to elevate your trip with some good wine and good company, this experience fits the bill.

Just keep in mind that if you’re craving a longer or more extensive wine day, you might want to supplement this with additional activities or visits. But for a well-rounded, enjoyable evening, it ticks all the right boxes.

FAQ

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private experience, so only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Where can the tasting be held?
Simone can organize it at your home, hotel, or holiday residence in Lucca or nearby hills, within 15 km of the city center.

How long does the tasting last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect afternoon or early evening activity.

What wines are included?
Five wines are selected from small, mainly organic producers, offering a mix of local flavors and unique profiles.

Are the wines served with food?
Yes, the wines are accompanied by bread, cheese, and local oil, which complement the tasting nicely.

Can I buy wines after the experience?
Absolutely, many guests enjoy purchasing their favorite bottles to enjoy during their stay.

Is this experience suitable for children or families?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, service animals are allowed, and it’s generally tailored for adults interested in wine.

What is the price per person?
It’s around $77.14, which includes the guided tasting, wine, food, glasses, and the host’s expertise.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 55 days ahead is recommended, as most people plan ahead for this popular experience.

What if the weather is bad?
Since it’s a “at home” style experience, weather isn’t a concern unless you opt for an outdoor setting that’s not available. If canceled due to poor weather, a different date or full refund is offered.

If you’re looking to add a personal touch to your Lucca trip with a genuine, expertly guided wine experience, this one’s a winner. It’s intimate, relaxed, and full of local flavor—just the way a wine tasting should be.