Wine tasting THE CLASSICS

If you’re heading to Lipari and considering a wine experience, the Wine Tasting THE CLASSICS at Tenuta di Castellaro is often recommended and garners glowing reviews. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the consistent 5-star ratings and enthusiastic feedback suggest this tour offers a genuine taste of local culture, wines, and scenery. It’s a short, two-hour journey that combines a guided vineyard walk, informative insights from a passionate sommelier, and plenty of opportunities to savor Lipari’s best.

What really caught our eye is the spectacular setting—imagine sipping local wines with views of the sea and neighboring islands like Salina, Alicudi, and Filicudi. Plus, the knowledgeable guides, especially Natasha, seem to elevate the experience with warmth and expertise. On the flip side, some might find the price a bit steep if you’re just after a quick taste, but considering the quality and scenery, many say it’s worth it. This tour suits travelers who appreciate good wine, scenic vistas, and a relaxed pace of discovery.

Whether you’re a wine newbie or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll likely enjoy the intimate, well-paced experience here. Just keep in mind that it’s a group activity, so if you love personalized attention, arriving early or booking in advance helps. This experience is a lovely addition to your Lipari itinerary—especially if you’re keen on tasting local wines in a setting that feels both scenic and authentic.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas of Lipari and neighboring islands during your tasting.
• Knowledgeable Guides: The guides, praised for their friendliness and expertise, make the experience engaging.
• Quality Wines: The tasting features three wines, including Lipari DOC and Sicilian varieties, with positive reviews about their quality.
• Beautiful Setting: The vineyard’s scenery and volcanic soils add a unique charm to the experience.
• Value for Money: Many travelers say that at around $52, this is well worth the price, especially given the scenic context and guided expertise.
• Flexible Booking: It’s available daily at 12:30 PM; booking ahead is recommended, usually 12 days in advance.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Setting the Scene: Lipari’s Unique Terroir

Lipari isn’t just about beaches and hiking; its volcanic soils produce some pretty interesting wines, and the Tenuta di Castellaro makes a fine showcase of that. The vineyard is perched in a location that provides dramatic views of the sea and neighboring islands, giving you a sense of the island’s natural beauty even before you sip your first glass.

The tour begins with a guided walk around the vineyard, where you can see the vines up close and learn how volcanic soils influence the flavor of the grapes. Many reviews highlight the visual appeal of the location, describing it as scenic and well-kept, with some noting the sustainability efforts like solar and wind power, which adds a modern touch to this traditional landscape.

What’s Included and How It Works

Your ticket, costing about $52.14 per person, grants you a 2-hour guided tour that’s accessible every day at 12:30 PM. The experience starts with a short walk in the vineyard, where your guide—often named Natasha—explains the organic and sustainable aspects of the winery, which many appreciate.

Then, the wine tasting kicks off, featuring three glasses:
– Bianco Pomice Terre Siciliane Bianco IGT — a fresh, citrusy white that pairs well with the local vegetables.
– Nero Ossidiana Terre Siciliane Rosso IGT — a robust red with volcanic character.
– Malvasia delle Lipari DOC passito — a sweet, aromatic passito that’s often a highlight.

Alongside the wines, you get a selection of cold cuts, cheeses, artisanal sesame biscuits, and other local gastronomic treats. The tasting experience is often described as informative and friendly, with Natasha or other guides sharing stories behind each wine, making the tasting more than just sipping, but a small lesson in Lipari’s viticulture.

The Wines and Tasting Experience

Several reviews mention that the wines are high quality, with some describing them as “spectacular” or “delicious.” One reviewer even called it the “creme de la creme” of wine tastings they’d experienced worldwide. The Malvasia passito, in particular, seems to impress with its sweetness and aroma, making it a perfect finish.

You’ll also appreciate the scenic backdrop during your tasting—many reviewers rave about the stunning sunset views, making this a memorable way to wind down your day or enjoy a special evening.

The Guides and Atmosphere

It’s clear from reviews that the guides—especially Natasha and Ortensia—are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, making everyone feel comfortable and engaged. Many mention how Natasha’s explanations make complex wine topics accessible, even for those new to wine tasting.

The atmosphere is relaxed but professional, with plenty of time for questions and tasting at your own pace. Some travelers mention being the only ones in their group, which makes for an even more personalized experience.

Group Size and Booking

The tour is capped at 30 travelers, but many reviews note that it often feels intimate, especially if you book ahead or are lucky enough to be part of a small group. Since bookings are recommended 12 days in advance, plan early if you want to secure a spot, especially in peak season.

Value and Practical Considerations

Many reviews praise the value for money given the quality of the wines, the scenic setting, and the overall experience. While $52 might seem a bit high for a short tasting, most agree it’s justified by the scenery, guide expertise, and the quality of the wines.

Note that private transportation isn’t included, so plan your trip accordingly—many visitors find it easiest to arrange their own transport or join a group from their accommodation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to taste authentic Liparian and Sicilian wines in a scenic setting. It’s also perfect if you appreciate a relaxed, informative atmosphere with stunning views. Travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions and sustainable practices will find this especially rewarding.

While families with older children might enjoy the scenery and relaxed pace, the minimum age is 18, so it’s not suitable for younger kids. If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, the friendly guides and intimate group size make for a great social experience.

FAQs

Is booking required for this tour?
Yes, booking in advance (about 12 days ahead on average) is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 12:30 PM daily.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get a guided vineyard walk, three wines, bottled water, and a selection of local cold cuts, cheeses, and artisanal biscuits.

Are there any additional costs?
Private transportation isn’t included, so you should plan how to get to the vineyard. Extras such as additional tastings or purchases are up to you.

Is the tour accessible for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Be aware that the tour involves walking outdoors on vineyard paths.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours before the experience. Less notice means no refund.

Is the experience suitable for non-Italian speakers?
Absolutely. The tour is available in English and other languages, and guides are praised for their clarity and friendliness.

What kind of wines will I taste?
Expect three wines: a white, a red, and a sweet passito, all of which are highly rated for their quality and connection to the local terroir.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-curated, scenic, and educational wine experience on Lipari, Tenuta di Castellaro’s Wine Tasting THE CLASSICS hits the spot. The combination of stunning views, friendly guides, and quality wines makes it a worthwhile addition to your island adventures. It’s particularly suited for those who want a relaxed, intimate experience that marries natural beauty with authentic local flavors.

While it’s not the cheapest activity, many find that the overall value and ambiance justify the price—especially when paired with satisfying food and spectacular sunset views. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply enjoy a good story behind each sip, this tour offers a lovely taste of Lipari’s unique charm.

Happy sipping and exploring!