Wine tasting in Versilia with sommelier – 5 wines and local products

A wine tasting in Versilia designed by Simone Vergamini, the Best Sommelier of Tuscany 2023, offers a refined yet accessible way to explore the flavors of the Lucca region. For $87.24 per person, this 1 hour 30-minute experience combines expert guidance with local products, making it perfect for those seeking a tailored, high-quality tasting. The tour is flexible, with options to enjoy it at your home or at your hotel in Lucca or Forte dei Marmi, with pickup available and the possibility to reserve in advance—usually booked 36 days ahead.

While modest in duration, this experience delivers a comprehensive introduction to wine tasting, regional history, and small producer wines. The focus on organic-certified wines from passionate local vineyards enhances authenticity. A notable strength is the full service provided by Simone, including professional glasses, tasting tablecloths, and the chance to take home unfinished bottles. This makes it especially appealing for visitors who want a personal, hassle-free journey into Tuscan wines.

Key Points

• Personalized wine tasting led by Simone Vergamini, a highly awarded sommelier
• Includes 5 wines paired with local bread, cheese, and oil
• Flexible location options: at your home, hotel, or in Lucca
• Duration of about 90 minutes, with pickup offered
• Wines are mainly from small, organic producers in Lucca
• Full service with professional glasses and tasting setup

Lucca’s Expert Guide: Simone Vergamini

This tour is led by Simone Vergamini, who has earned titles such as Best Sommelier of Tuscany 2023 and achieved third place at the Best Sommelier of Italy competitions in 2018, 2021, and 2022. His expertise shines through, offering an engaging explanation of each wine’s background and significance. Simone’s friendly approach makes the experience inviting, even for those new to wine tasting.

He manages all the details, from setting the tasting table with professional glasses and tablecloths to serving the wines and leaving bottles uncorked for later enjoyment. His flexibility extends to scheduling, accommodating at-home tastings and center-of-Lucca locations. This personalized service ensures a stress-free experience, with all logistics handled professionally.

The Selection of Wines from Small Organic Producers

The five wines selected for this experience come primarily from small, organic-certified producers within the Lucca province. These wines are chosen for their quality and connection to the local terroir, reflecting the region’s dedication to sustainable practices. During the tasting, you’ll learn about the history of the territory and the wineries behind each bottle.

The focus on local, certified organic wines adds a layer of authenticity, highlighting producers who love their craft and their land. The wines are accompanied by locally made bread, cheese, and olive oil, offering a true taste of Lucca’s culinary identity.

Flexible Locations and Convenient Pickup

This private tour is highly adaptable to your needs. You can opt for a home tasting, where Simone will bring the experience directly to your residence or hotel, or enjoy it at a location in Lucca. The pickup service is available, making logistics simple and comfortable.

The tour begins at a meeting point in Forte dei Marmi, in the province of Lucca, with the understanding that it concludes back at the same spot. This convenience allows visitors to fit the tasting into their schedule without hassle.

The Tasting Experience: Structure and Atmosphere

The 90-minute experience involves an engaging introduction to wine tasting techniques, emphasizing the history of the Lucca area and its wineries. Simone guides participants through each of the five wines, describing their flavor profiles, production methods, and unique traits.

The setting is made special by professional glasses and tasting tablecloths, creating a refined atmosphere. The wines are served uncorked at the end if not finished, enabling guests to enjoy the bottles later during their holiday.

Local Products Paired with Wines

Each wine tasting is complemented by locally produced bread, cheese, and olive oil, all sourced from small producers. These pairings enhance the tasting experience, illustrating the culinary traditions of Lucca and the region’s emphasis on organic, artisanal goods.

This thoughtful pairing underscores the authenticity and quality of the experience, making it more than just a wine tasting but a taste of local culture.

Safety and Compliance

The tour is performed in accordance with Covid-19 regulations, ensuring a safe environment for all participants. The private setup and group size limited to your reservation contribute to a controlled and comfortable experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations are typically made 36 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The experience allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, providing peace of mind in case of change of plans. Any cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, and changes less than 24 hours prior are not accepted.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts seeking a personalized sampling with a top-tier sommelier. It’s also perfect for small groups or couples wanting an intimate introduction to Tuscan wines and local products. Visitors who appreciate organic wines and sustainable practices will find this particularly appealing.

Final Thoughts on the Versilia Wine Tasting

The private, guided wine tasting with Simone Vergamini offers a sophisticated yet approachable way to explore Lucca’s wine scene. Its focus on small, organic producers and the personalized service make it stand out. The flexibility to host the experience at your location or in Lucca adds to its convenience.

While it’s a relatively short session, the quality of wines and the expertise of Simone ensure a memorable and educational outing. This tour suits those eager to learn about Tuscan wines in a comfortable, exclusive setting, whether during a holiday or a special occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this wine tasting be organized at my hotel or home?
Yes, the tour can be arranged at your residence or hotel, with pickup offered for added convenience.

What wines are included in the tasting?
Participants enjoy 5 carefully selected wines from small, organic producers in Lucca, accompanied by local bread, cheese, and oil.

How long does the experience last?
The tasting lasts approximately 90 minutes, providing a focused yet relaxed introduction to the wines and local culture.

Is the experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Simone offers an introduction to wine tasting, making it accessible for those new to wine, as well as enjoyable for enthusiasts.

What is the booking process and cancellation policy?
Reservations are typically made 36 days in advance, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.