Small-Group Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Tour – White and Red Wines

Discover the Intimate Small-Group Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Tour

This 7-hour wine adventure from Florence offers an up-close look at two of Tuscany’s celebrated wine regions. Priced at $328.43 per person, the tour is designed for small groups capped at just eight people, ensuring a relaxed and personalized experience. It departs daily from Piazza dei Cavalleggeri at 9:30 am, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a leisurely day out with expert guidance and authentic tastings.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on both white and red wines—not just the famous Chianti, but also the Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a traditional white wine. Travelers are often booked 181 days in advance, reflecting strong interest. The tour combines wine tastings, historic visits, a scenic town walk, and a Tuscan two-course lunch, all with the convenience of transport in a climate-controlled minivan. It’s perfect for lovers of wine, history, and authentic Italian cuisine looking for a manageable yet immersive experience.

Key Points

• Small-group size ensures personalized attention and avoids crowds.
• Visits to two wineries: one historic Chianti estate and one local Vernaccia producer.
• Includes tastings of red and white wines, paired with snacks and a two-course Tuscan lunch.
• Exploration of San Gimignano allows for free time in this charming medieval town.
• The tour starts at 9:30 am from Piazza dei Cavalleggeri and lasts approximately 7 hours.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility.

The Tour Begins at San Michele a Torri, One of Chianti’s Oldest Wineries

The journey kicks off at San Michele a Torri, a winery with a storied history in the Chianti region. Known for producing Chianti Classico Riserva and Supertuscan Murtas, this estate provides a chance to taste high-quality wines that showcase the aging potential and craftsmanship of Tuscany’s wine makers. Visitors spend about 3 hours here, exploring the vineyards, cellars, and enjoying a wine tasting paired with Italian snacks.

This stop emphasizes tradition and quality, with admission free for the tasting. The guide explains the wine-making process, offering insights into what makes Chianti wines unique. The setting’s historic charm and the chance to sample acclaimed wines make this an essential part of the tour.

Free Time in the Medieval Town of San Gimignano

After the winery visit, the small group has about an hour to explore San Gimignano. This medieval town is famous for its tower-filled skyline and well-preserved architecture. Visitors can stroll through the piazza della Cistena, admire the medieval walls, and sample the town’s renowned gelato.

The short free time is perfect for soaking in the atmosphere, browsing local shops, or simply taking photos of the stunning views. This stop offers a relaxed break and a chance to experience authentic Tuscany beyond the vineyards.

Lunch at Cappella Sant’Andrea with Vernaccia di San Gimignano Tasting

The tour’s highlight is a 3-hour visit to Cappella Sant’Andrea, a small winery run by a young couple. Here, guests enjoy a two-course Tuscan lunch paired with a tasting of Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a traditional white wine known for its crispness and elegance.

The lunch includes local dishes designed to complement the wines, providing a delicious and authentic Tuscan meal. The wine tasting features Vernaccia, which is a specialty of this region, offering a chance to appreciate its qualities alongside a typical Tuscan culinary experience.

Comfortable Transport and Expert Guidance

Transport for the tour is in an air-conditioned minivan, making the day comfortable regardless of the weather or traffic. The small-group setting ensures that the local guide can provide personalized attention, share detailed stories about each winery, and answer questions along the way.

The guide leads the group through each step of the experience, explaining the history, winemaking techniques, and regional significance of the wines tasted. This interactive approach enhances the overall enjoyment and understanding of Tuscany’s wine culture.

Practical Details: Meeting Point, Duration, and Accessibility

The tour departs from Piazza dei Cavalleggeri at 9:30 am. The transport duration between stops is approximately 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, making it suitable for those seeking a full but manageable day trip.

This experience is designed for adults aged 18 and over, with vegetarian options available if requested in advance. The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so guests should arrange their own transportation to the meeting point. With most travelers being able to participate, it’s accessible for a broad range of visitors.

The Quality and Reception of this Wine Tour

With a perfect 5.0 out of 5 rating from 17 reviews, the tour is highly regarded. Reviewers particularly praise the knowledgeable guides, with one describing the experience as “incredible” and mentioning Andrea as an exceptional guide. The small-group size enhances the experience by allowing for more intimate discussions and attention.

The balanced itinerary—visiting historic wineries, exploring San Gimignano, and enjoying a full meal—delivers a comprehensive taste of Tuscany’s wine and culture. The flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour adds reassurance for booking.

Who Will Love This Tour

This tour suits wine enthusiasts eager to taste both white and red wines from Tuscany’s renowned regions. It’s ideal for those who prefer a small group setting over large, crowded tours. The combination of historic wineries, medieval town exploration, and authentic Tuscan cuisine offers a well-rounded experience.

Travelers seeking a relaxed pace, with plenty of time for tastings, learning, and dining, will find this tour particularly satisfying. It’s suitable for adults 18+, and the inclusive nature makes it accessible for most visitors looking to enjoy Tuscany’s wine scene in a friendly, intimate environment.

The Sum Up: Authentic Tuscany in a Compact Day

The Small-Group Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Tour provides a rewarding taste of Tuscany’s rich viticultural tradition. The visits to historic wineries, the walk through San Gimignano, and the delicious Tuscan lunch make this a comprehensive experience for wine lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

While the small-group size might limit the number of visitors, it guarantees personalized attention and in-depth explanations. The price point reflects the quality of wineries visited and the overall experience. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic, guided day focused on wine, history, and local cuisine.

This tour is especially suited for adults interested in wine tasting and medieval towns. If you value small-group intimacy and expert guidance, this 7-hour journey from Florence offers a memorable way to enjoy Tuscany’s famed wine regions without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes local guide services, local taxes, transport in an air-conditioned minivan, wine tastings, alcoholic beverages, a 2-course lunch, and snacks.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Guests meet at Piazza dei Cavalleggeri in Florence.

What wines will I taste?
You will taste Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a white wine, at the Cappella Sant’Andrea winery, and Chianti Classico Riserva and Supertuscan Murtas at San Michele a Torri.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a small and intimate experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, offering peace of mind when booking.

How long is the drive between stops?
Transport between stops takes about 1 hour, though timing depends on traffic conditions.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available if advised at the time of booking.

Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
No, the minimum age is 18 years due to alcohol tasting restrictions.

What kind of guide leads the tour?
An expert local guide accompanies the group, sharing insights about the wineries, towns, and wines.

What makes this tour stand out?
The small-group format, authentic wine tastings, distinct visits to historic wineries, and the opportunity to explore San Gimignano all make this tour a compelling choice for a memorable Tuscan day.