Cortecorbo Irpinia-wines: tour of the vineyards- Cooking class- wine tasting

Discover the charm of Irpinian wines on this 8-hour tour departing from Sorrento, Italy. For $173.27 per person, this experience offers a blend of vineyard visits, a hands-on cooking class, and wine tastings that highlight the region’s rich tradition. Led by a genuine Irpinian wine-maker, the tour showcases Taurasi DOCG, the “wine-diamond of the south,” and a variety of other local wines. The tour includes pickup service and a mobile ticket for easy access. With an average booking window of 70 days, it’s clear this tour appeals to those eager to explore authentic Italian wine culture in a scenic countryside setting.

While the day involves a fair amount of driving from Sorrento, reviews highlight that the experience is well worth the journey. The tour’s focus on family tradition, local cuisine, and wine craftsmanship makes it suitable for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those seeking a relaxed day out in Italy’s countryside. Expect a long countryside lunch, interactive cooking, and plenty of opportunities to deepen your understanding of Irpinian wine and its history.

Key Points

• Authentic Irpinian wine experience with vineyard walking and wine tastings
• Includes a hands-on cooking class making pizza and traditional pasta
• Taurasi DOCG featured as the highlight wine, suitable for aging 30-40 years
• Scenic countryside setting near Sorrento, with a 70-day booking lead time
• Private tour with a local wine-maker guide providing personalized insights
• Includes transport from Sorrento and a generous countryside lunch

Tour Start and Pick-up in Sorrento

The tour begins at Piazza Tasso in Sorrento, a convenient and central starting point. From there, a roundtrip transfer takes you through Italy’s lush Irpinian landscape all the way to Montemarano, where Cortecorbo winery is located. The tour is designed to be private, ensuring a personalized experience with just your group participating. This setup is perfect for those who prefer an intimate setting and expert guidance throughout the day.

Walking Through Cortecorbo Vineyards and the Cantina

The journey into Irpinia’s wine roots starts with a guided tour of the Cortecorbo vineyards. The guides offer a sensory and historical overview, sharing stories behind Taurasi DOCG and the family’s long-standing tradition in winemaking. Visitors learn about the ancient origins of Irpinian wines and how local terroir influences flavor profiles.

Next, the cantina tour reveals the wine production process. Here, a real wine-maker explains each step, from grape harvest to fermentation and aging. Guests get to taste different harvests and observe the effects of wood barrel aging, which adds depth to the wine tasting experience. The atmosphere is described as suggestive, enhancing the appreciation of local winemaking techniques.

Hands-On Cooking Class with Pizza and Handmade Pasta

A highlight of this tour is the interactive cooking class. Participants learn how to make pizza dough and “Maccaronara”, a traditional handmade pasta from Irpinia. The experience emphasizes learning through fun, with the opportunity to try your hand at traditional techniques.

The pizza is cooked in a wood oven, giving it an authentic flavor that can be tasted immediately after preparation. The pasta lessons are designed to be enjoyable and educational, giving insight into regional culinary traditions. This part of the tour offers a satisfying chance to connect with local food culture while enjoying the fruits of your labor.

Tasting Six Wines Paired with a Countryside Lunch

The culinary culmination involves a long countryside lunch, featuring local dishes carefully selected to complement the wines. During the meal, six different wines from Cortecorbo winery are sampled: three reds—including Taurasi DOCG 2016—and three whites such as Fiano di Avellino DOCG 2020.

The lunch menu includes hand-made pizza, two types of pasta, along with local cheese, salumi, meat, and dessert. This pairing creates an authentic taste of Irpinian gastronomy, with each dish designed to highlight the characteristics of each wine. The experience is described as one of hospitality and happiness, reflecting local warmth and generosity.

Discovering Taurasi DOCG, the South’s Wine-Diamond

The tour emphasizes Taurasi DOCG, regarded as the most important red wine in southern Italy. Known for its long aging potential, 30 to 40 years, Taurasi is celebrated for its complex flavors and deep character. The guide explains the significance of Taurasi in regional culture and its unique production standards.

Guests gain a better understanding of the aging process by tasting wines at different stages and learning how wood barrels influence flavor. This focus on Taurasi helps guests appreciate why it’s considered a wine-diamond, and why collectors prize it.

The Role of Local Family Tradition and Hospitality

A recurring theme in this experience is the story of the Cortecorbo family, who have maintained a long-standing tradition of winemaking. The guides share personal stories and family history, fostering a warm, welcoming environment.

The hospitality and local products are central to the tour’s appeal. Visitors enjoy authentic local cheese, meats, and desserts, emphasizing quality and regional pride. The personal touch from the family and guides elevates the experience beyond just tasting wine.

Logistics: From Sorrento and the Private Experience

This tour departs from Piazza Tasso in Sorrento, with roundtrip transportation included. The private nature of the experience ensures exclusive access and personalized guidance. Although the journey involves some driving, reviews indicate that the long drive is justified by the quality of the experience.

The duration is approximately 8 hours, making it a full but well-paced day. Guests should be prepared for a long countryside lunch and engage actively in the cooking and tasting activities.

The Unique Appeal of This Irpinia Wine and Cooking Tour

What sets this tour apart is the combination of vineyard exploration, hands-on culinary activity, and wine tasting in a scenic rural setting. The expert guidance of a local wine-maker enriches the understanding of Irpinian winemaking traditions.

Participants consistently praise the warm hospitality, especially the guides Antonia and Antonio, for making the day memorable. The long drive is a common consideration, but the authenticity, quality of wines, and delicious food make this opportunity a worthy adventure for those interested in regional Italian culture.

The Sum Up: A Rich Taste of Irpinia in Sorrento

This Cortecorbo wine and cooking tour offers a robust glimpse into Irpinian wine culture, combined with interactive culinary lessons and local hospitality. The private experience with expert guides makes it a personalized and in-depth day that appeals to wine lovers, foodies, and curious travelers alike.

While the drive from Sorrento is notable, the authenticity and quality of the experience more than compensate. This tour suits those seeking a genuine taste of southern Italy’s winemaking heritage, paired with hands-on cooking and delicious local cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour features roundtrip transportation from Sorrento to Montemarano.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, providing ample time for vineyard visits, cooking, and tasting.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is often booked 70 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

What wines will I taste during the lunch?
You will taste three reds (including Taurasi DOCG 2016) and three whites (such as Fiano di Avellino DOCG 2020), all from Cortecorbo.

Can I participate if I don’t cook?
Participation in the cooking class is integral, but the experience offers flexibility and is designed to be fun regardless of skill level.

Are the guides knowledgeable about wine?
Yes, the guides are local experts and wine-makers, providing insightful explanations about Irpinia’s wine tradition.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While primarily focused on wine and food, the interactive activities and scenic countryside can be enjoyed by all, but wine tasting may be limited based on age.

What is the price of the tour?
The experience costs $173.27 per person, offering a comprehensive day of wine, food, and culture.

Is cancellation possible?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of vineyard exploration, family stories, hands-on cooking, and a focus on Taurasi DOCG makes this experience unique and highly praised.

This Cortecorbo Irpinia wine and cooking tour provides a well-rounded, authentic day in Italy’s renowned wine region, ideal for those eager to learn, taste, and enjoy in a warm, welcoming environment.