Pagus Wine Tours® – Two Amarone wineries – Half day wine tour

Explore Verona’s Wine Heritage with Two Amarone Wineries

This half-day wine tour from Verona offers an engaging taste of the Valpolicella region’s legendary wines, including Valpolicella, Ripasso, Amarone, and Recioto. For $139.63 per person, you receive a 4-hour experience that combines expert guidance, comfortable transport, and generous tastings at two distinguished wineries. The tour starts at Corso Castelvecchio and includes convenient pickup and drop-off within central Verona, making it accessible and easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

One of the key strengths of this tour is its focus on Amarone, a celebrated wine from the area, with visits to two wineries where you sample at least four wines accompanied by bread, cheese, or salami. The guided experience is led by a local English-speaking tour leader and sommelier, who shares insights into the winemaking process and regional traditions. While the tour features limited walking and air-conditioned transport, it is important to note that access to some cellars may involve stairs and the temperature remains steady at 15°C (59°F).

Key Points

• Visit two Amarone wineries in Valpolicella with tastings of at least four wines per winery
• Enjoy expert commentary from a local guide and winery staff
• Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan with pickup and drop-off in central Verona
• Taste a variety of wines including Valpolicella, Ripasso, Amarone, and Recioto alongside snacks
• Tour duration is approximately 4 hours, starting at 2:00 pm

Starting Point and Easy Access from Central Verona

The tour begins at Pagus Wine Tours’ shop on Corso Castelvecchio. Here, visitors receive a warm welcome and have the chance to purchase wines at cellar prices as well as other regional products. This initial stop lasts about 10 minutes and is free of charge. Conveniently, this location is near public transportation, simplifying access without the need for additional transfers.

The meeting point is well-placed for those exploring Verona city center, and the tour ends back at the same location. The scheduled start time is 2:00 pm, allowing for a relaxed afternoon of wine tasting without rushing.

Visiting the First Winery: A Major Producer with Impressive Wines

The first stop takes you to a major winery that impresses with its scale and quality. Visitors get a rundown of how Amarone and other regional wines are produced. The winery staff provide detailed explanations, making this stop especially valuable for those interested in understanding the winemaking process.

The tasting session here includes at least four wines, paired with bread, cheese, or salami. These snacks complement the wines and enhance the tasting experience, giving guests a fuller appreciation of the flavors. The impressive production methods and wine quality at this winery receive high praise from previous reviewers.

Visiting the Second Winery: A Startup with a Personal Touch

The second visit features a smaller, newer winery that brings a different vibe to the tour. While some may find this startup winery less experienced compared to the first, it still offers a personal and engaging experience. Guests enjoy informative interactions with the hosts and get to sample another set of four wines with snacks.

Despite some differences in experience, this stop provides insight into wine innovation and the diversity within Valpolicella wineries. The guide’s role in ensuring smooth transportation and engaging commentary remains a consistent highlight.

Comfortable Transport and Guided Expertise

Traveling between the wineries, guests enjoy a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned minivan. The local English-speaking tour leader and sommelier are available throughout, sharing stories about the wines and answering questions. Their knowledge adds depth to the experience, making the tasting more meaningful.

The small group size — limited to 8 travelers — ensures a personalized atmosphere. The guide’s friendly and engaging style is often praised, making the journey both informative and enjoyable.

Practical Tips for Tour Participants

Guests should wear comfortable shoes since some cellar areas may involve stairs. The constant 15°C (59°F) temperature in the cellars suggests bringing a sweater or jacket. Since the tour involves tasting alcohol, travelers should be aged 18 or over and drink responsibly.

The tour does not include hotel pickup, so travelers are encouraged to meet at the designated location on Corso Castelvecchio. If you have food or wine allergies, or mobility limitations, it is advised to inform the tour operator in advance to ensure a smooth experience.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Booking Flexibility

At $139.63 per person, this tour offers good value for those interested in Valpolicella’s Amarone wines. Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received immediately after reservation. The free cancellation policy allows canceling up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

The tour is most popular, often booked 19 days in advance, indicating strong interest among wine enthusiasts visiting Verona.

Highlights of the Tour Experience

From expert-guided tastings to visits at both a major and a smaller winery, this half-day experience packs in regional wine education and delicious samples. The personal attention from guides and hosts, combined with comfort and convenience, makes this a compelling choice for wine lovers.

While it does involve some walking and cellar access considerations, the overall relaxed pace and small group size make it suitable for most travelers. The focus on Amarone and regional wines provides a well-rounded introduction to Valpolicella’s famous wine heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport by air-conditioned minivan between the meeting point and the wineries.

Can I buy wines at the shop before the tour begins?
Yes, guests can browse and purchase wines at cellar prices at the Pagus Wine Tours shop on Corso Castelvecchio before starting the tour.

What should I wear during the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since some cellar areas may involve stairs. Bringing a sweater or jacket is advised due to a constant 15°C (59°F) cellar temperature.

Is the tour suitable for food allergies or mobility issues?
Guests should inform the tour operator in advance if they have food/wine allergies or mobility limitations, as some cellars have stairs and food sensitivities may affect tasting options.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations later than that are not eligible for refunds.

This half-day tour from Verona offers a rich tasting experience of Valpolicella’s renowned wines with the guidance of knowledgeable hosts, making it an excellent choice for those eager to explore Italy’s famous wine region in style.