Authentic Piedmont wine tour with a local Sommelier

Explore Monferrato’s Authentic Wines with a Private Sommelier

This full-day Piedmont wine tour costs $249.23 per person and lasts approximately 7 hours. It departs from Asti, Italy, and offers an intimate experience, with only your group participating. The tour is led by a knowledgeable private Sommelier, who guides you through the region’s best native grapes and wines, making it ideal for anyone eager to deepen their understanding of Piedmont’s wine heritage.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on authentic Monferrato, an area celebrated for its history and unique wines. The experience includes visits to small organic wineries, a traditional Piedmontese restaurant, and panoramic drives through scenic hilly landscapes. The full package includes private transportation, all wine tastings, and lunch reservations, providing convenience and a well-rounded day.

While the tour is quite comprehensive, it’s worth noting that lunch is not included in the price and will be paid separately. This setup allows flexibility for guests to choose their preferred dining options. This tour suits those who appreciate personalized guidance, regional authenticity, and a relaxed pace to enjoy Monferrato’s hidden wine treasures.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $249.23 per person for 7 hours of immersive wine tasting.
• Expert Guide: Led by a private Sommelier with local expertise.
• Region Focus: Explores Monferrato, a key part of Piedmont known for native grapes and small organic wineries.
• Stops and Highlights: Visits Vignale Monferrato, Moncalvo, and Cocconato, with panoramic drives along picturesque hills.
• Inclusions: All wines tasted during visits and private transportation are included; lunch is booked separately.
• Booking: Usually booked 67 days in advance and features pickup service from Asti.

Starting Point at Piazza Vittorio Alfieri in Asti

The tour begins at Piazza Vittorio Alfieri in Asti, a central location easily accessible by public transportation or private transfer. The guide picks up guests at 10:00 am, ready to start the day exploring Monferrato’s scenic landscapes and vibrant wine culture.

This meeting point ensures a smooth start, with the private transportation taking the group to the first stop, Vignale Monferrato, just 30 minutes away.

Visiting Vignale Monferrato: The Heart of Native Grapes

The first stop is Vignale Monferrato, a hilly area renowned for its native grapes and distinctive wines. This two-hour visit provides an inside look into the organic cellar of a small producer. Here, the guide introduces guests to local wines and shares insights into the region’s winemaking traditions.

Guests have the chance to meet the producer and learn about the history of their winery. The visit highlights the best native grapes and regional specialties, giving a genuine taste of Monferrato’s wine craftsmanship.

Lunch in Moncalvo with a View of Vineyards

Next, the tour moves to Moncalvo, a historic town situated in the core of the Piedmont wine region. Here, a local osteria offers a traditional Piedmontese lunch with a view over hilly vineyards. The one-hour stop allows guests to enjoy regional dishes in a setting that complements the scenic surroundings.

While lunch is not included in the tour price, the restaurant reservation service ensures a smooth dining experience, so guests can relax and savor local flavors in a cozy, authentic environment.

Discovering Cocconato’s Charm and Native Wines

The afternoon features a visit to Cocconato, another beautiful hilltop town just 30 minutes from Asti. This two-hour stop is dedicated to exploring local wineries and tasting native wines such as Barbera, Moscato, Freisa, and Grignolino.

Guests get to see how families produce these important regional wines, with the guide sharing stories about denominations and historical vines. This stop emphasizes the authenticity of Monferrato’s wine culture and offers an opportunity to purchase wines for shipment, with the organizer assisting with wines purchased during the day.

Scenic Drives and Panoramic Views of Monferrato

Throughout the day, the tour includes beautiful drives along panoramic roads, showcasing the most stunning corners of the region. The guide points out fascinating sights and provides insights into local history and culture, making the journey as enjoyable as the stops.

These drives allow for relaxation and photo opportunities, highlighting vineyards, villages, and rolling hills, all part of Monferrato’s charm.

In-Depth Wine Tasting at Family Wineries

The core of the experience is the wine tastings at small, family-run wineries, where guests sample native Piedmontese wines like Barbera, Moscato, Freisa, and Grignolino. The private Sommelier offers detailed explanations of each wine, including production methods and regional significance.

Guests gain a deeper understanding of the region’s native vines and their distinguishing features, making these tastings both educational and flavorful.

The Role of the Private Sommelier

The guide is a local Sommelier who provides personalized insights throughout the day. Reviews praise Nicola’s knowledge and connection with the local industry, making the experience engaging and informative.

This personal touch ensures that questions are answered thoroughly, and guests receive tailored recommendations for wines to buy or local products to try later.

Practicalities and Additional Services

Included in the tour are private transportation, all wines tasted at the cellars, and guidance by the private Sommelier. The restaurant reservation service simplifies lunch arrangements, and there is an option to organize wines purchased for shipment after the tour.

Cancellation is free if canceled 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in case plans change.

Who Will Enjoy This Piedmont Wine Tour?

This private tour is tailored for wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic experience. Its focus on native grapes, small organic wineries, and personalized guidance makes it ideal for those who want to learn about Piedmont’s wine culture in a relaxed, scenic setting.

It’s a good choice for small groups or couples who appreciate local authenticity and regional storytelling. The pacing and itinerary suit those comfortable with walking and moderate driving.

Final Thoughts: Authenticity and Personal Touch

This full-day Piedmont wine tour offers a personalized, educational, and relaxed way to explore Monferrato’s wines. The expert guidance and focus on small wineries create a genuine connection to the region’s heritage.

While lunch is not included, the restaurant reservation service ensures a local dining experience that complements the wine tastings. The beautiful scenery, native grape varieties, and small-scale producers make this tour a rich, immersive journey into Piedmont’s wine country.

Ideal for wine lovers wanting expert insights and authentic regional visits, this tour delivers a balanced blend of scenic drives, tastings, and cultural storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this wine tour?
The tour costs $249.23 per person, covering 7 hours of guided visits, tastings, and transportation.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Piazza Vittorio Alfieri in Asti at 10:00 am and returns to the same location.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price but can be arranged through the restaurant reservation service.

How long are the visits at each stop?
Vignale Monferrato and Cocconato each get about 2 hours, while Moncalvo is a 1-hour stop for lunch.

What wines will I taste?
You will taste native Piedmont wines such as Barbera, Moscato, Freisa, and Grignolino.

Is transportation private?
Yes, private transportation is included, ensuring an exclusive experience for your group.

Can I purchase wines during the tour?
Yes, there’s an opportunity for wines to be shipped after the visit, with assistance from the tour organizer.

How knowledgeable is the guide?
The guide is a local Sommelier praised for extensive knowledge and personalized attention.

Are children or non-drinkers allowed?
The tour is suitable for most travelers; service animals are allowed, but the focus is primarily on wine tasting.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance.