Lucca – Wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli

If you’re exploring Tuscany’s Versilia region and have a taste for authentic, natural wines, Lucca’s Tenuta Mareli offers an engaging experience worth booking. For $34.39 per person, you get a 1.5-hour private tour of a family-run organic and biodynamic farm, complete with a vineyard visit, cellar tour, and a tasting session featuring four wines, olive oil, and local honeys. The tour is ideal for those curious about natural wine production, traditional farming methods, or just seeking an intimate, educational tasting in a scenic setting near Lucca.

This experience is highly rated, earning a perfect 5.0/5 based on 9 reviews, with visitors praising the delightful wines, knowledgeable guides, and delicious local food. It tends to be booked about 22 days in advance, making it a popular choice for travelers planning ahead. With a focus on family history, organic farming, and craftsmanship, the tour provides an authentic taste of Tuscany’s natural wine culture. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those who appreciate a relaxed pace and engaging storytelling, although it may involve some manual harvesting or production depending on the season.

Key Points

• Private, 1.5-hour tour of a family-run organic and biodynamic farm near Lucca.
• Includes vineyard and cellar visits with explanations of traditional and natural wine-making processes.
• Tasting of four organic/biodynamic wines, plus local oils and honey under a pergola.
• Guided by Francesca, whose passion for the craft enhances the experience.
• Food pairing with local cheeses, croutons, olive oil, and honey adds a tasty local touch.
• Availability is limited, so booking about 3 weeks in advance is recommended.

Visiting the Organic and Biodynamic Farm on the Lucca Hills

The tour begins at SP1, 5, Montemagno, where you’ll meet your guide for an authentic experience on the Versilia hills. The farm is a family-run operation dedicated to organic and biodynamic farming practices. Visitors are shown around the cellar and warehouse, where they can see the manual processes involved in harvest, foot pressing, vinification, bottling, and labeling, depending on the period.

This part of the experience offers insight into traditional winemaking techniques, emphasizing natural fermentation and minimal intervention. Francesca, the guide, shares stories about the farm’s history and philosophy, helping visitors understand the passion and love poured into every bottle.

Vineyard and Cellar Tour Near Lucca

Following the introduction, the group moves to the vineyard surrounding the cellar. The terrain on the Lucca hills provides a stunning backdrop for the vines, which are cultivated using biodynamic methods. The guide explains harvesting practices, manual labor, and sustainable farming techniques that contribute to the unique qualities of the wines.

The cellar tour reveals the natural aging process and the care taken during each step, giving visitors a deeper appreciation of the authenticity and craftsmanship behind each bottle. This intimate look at small-scale production distinguishes Tenuta Mareli from larger wineries.

Wine Tasting Under the Pergola with Local Food Pairings

The highlight of the experience is the tasting session under a pergola, where visitors sample four distinct organic/biodynamic wines. These wines are characterized by their organoleptic properties, which Francesca explains in detail, along with the history of the family business.

Complementing the wines are croutons, local cheeses, and the farm’s own extra virgin olive oil, plus a selection of honey varieties including acacia, chestnut, millefiori, and pollen honeys. This pairing enhances the tasting and offers a genuine taste of regional products.

Guests also learn about the manufacturing processes of the honey and olive oil, with the possibility of witnessing some steps if visiting during certain seasons. The passion for natural, handcrafted products shines through in every sip and bite.

The Guide: Francesca’s Passion and Knowledge

Many reviews highlight Francesca’s engaging storytelling and warm approach. She sits at the table during tastings, explaining the history, philosophy, and production techniques behind each wine, oil, and honey. Her enthusiasm and expertise significantly enrich the experience, making complex topics accessible and enjoyable.

Visitors appreciate how Francesca answers questions, shares personal anecdotes, and demonstrates genuine passion for natural wines and regional specialties. Her presence makes the experience both educational and personable.

Practical Details: Meeting Point & Accessibility

The tour begins at SP1, 5, Montemagno, in close proximity to public transportation options, making it accessible for most travelers. The activity is private, so your group enjoys exclusive attention. The duration varies from an hour to more than two hours, depending on group size and season.

The experience is open to most travelers, with service animals allowed. Guests must be at least 18 years old to sample alcohol, but the tour itself is suitable for all. Confirmation is received immediately upon booking, and full refund is available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Why This Tour Stands Out Among Tuscany Wine Experiences

Unlike mass-market tastings, Tenuta Mareli offers an intimate, family-driven experience that emphasizes sustainability and craftsmanship. The combination of vineyard tour, cellar visit, and tasting provides a comprehensive look at natural wine production.

The inclusion of local honey and extra virgin olive oil elevates this experience, giving visitors a broader taste of regional flavors. The personalized attention from Francesca and the scenic farm setting make it a memorable outing for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those interested in sustainable agriculture.

While the price is modest for such a detailed experience, it’s important to book early due to its popularity. The tour’s educational focus and authentic approach set it apart from more commercial offerings.

Lucca’s Organic and Biodynamic Winery Tour: A Genuine Taste of Tuscany

This tour offers an authentic look at Tuscany’s natural wine culture within a peaceful vineyard setting. The personal storytelling, hands-on farm visits, and local food pairings make it ideal for travelers seeking meaningful connections with regional producers.

The experience’s strength lies in its authenticity, passion, and focus on natural farming. Visitors leave with a deeper understanding of biodynamic practices, plus a collection of delicious wines, oils, and honeys to enjoy later.

While it doesn’t include large-scale tasting rooms or commercialized procedures, it more than compensates with warm hospitality and genuine craftsmanship. This is a tour best suited for those who love learning about and sampling regional, handcrafted products in a relaxed environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Yes, non-drinkers can still enjoy the vineyard and farm visits, but alcohol is served only to visitors aged 18 and above.

How long does the tour last?
The tour generally lasts from one to more than two hours, depending on the group size and the season.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking around the vineyard and cellar are recommended. No specific attire is required, but outdoor clothing is advisable.

Can I see the manufacturing of honey and olive oil?
Depending on the period of visit, you might observe some of the manual manufacturing processes for honey and olive oil.

Is transportation provided?
The activity begins at the specified meeting point, which is accessible by public transportation, but there is no mention of transportation being included.

What is the booking policy?
Booking is recommended about 22 days in advance, and free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the tour.

This Lucca wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli combines educational insight, delicious regional flavors, and personal storytelling. It remains a top pick for those seeking an authentic, small-scale experience with a family feel, deepening their appreciation for Tuscany’s natural and handcrafted wines.