Florence: Cheese and Wine Tasting in Local Market

Florence’s Cheese and Wine Tasting in the Local Market offers a delicious glimpse into authentic Tuscan flavors. This 2-hour experience takes place in Sant’Ambrogio Market, away from the busy Central Market, and is perfect for those eager to explore Florence’s everyday food scene. Led by Georgia, a passionate local foodie and certified sommelier originally from the USA, this tour combines tasting, learning, and shopping in a small group of up to 6 participants. It’s an ideal choice for curious food lovers who want a more intimate, insider experience of Florence’s local markets and artisanal products.

While the tour emphasizes regional cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal delicacies, it also features local wines and an introduction to wine tasting techniques. The focus on seasonal produce and genuine Tuscan products makes this a practical and authentic experience. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for those with food allergies or lactose intolerance. This experience provides a relaxed, friendly environment to taste and learn, making it especially appealing for travelers who want to go beyond the typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• Duration: 2 hours, in Sant’Ambrogio Market in Florence
• Led by: Georgia, a certified sommelier and local foodie
• Focus: Tasting regional cheeses, cured meats, artisanal delicacies, and local wines
• Unique feature: An insider look at where the Florentine locals shop daily
• Small group size: Limited to 6 participants for a personalized experience
• Shopping opportunity: Visitors can buy quality products to take home

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Exploring Florence’s Sant’Ambrogio Market with a Local Guide

This cheese and wine tour centers around Sant’Ambrogio Market, a less touristy alternative to Florence’s Central Market. The experience begins with a meet-up in front of L’Ortone restaurant, on the east side of the market, where Georgia greets each guest. She is a passionate guide who shares her knowledge of Tuscan food culture and wine basics throughout the tour.

The market itself is lively and authentic, with cheesemongers, butchers, fishmongers, and fresh produce vendors. Visitors get to sample a variety of regional cheeses, learning about aging times and production styles. Georgia introduces the concept of pairing cheeses with local wines and extra virgin olive oil, emphasizing seasonal fruits and vegetables that Tuscans use in everyday cooking.

This tour provides a more local perspective, showcasing the everyday ingredients used by Florentine families. The relaxed pace allows plenty of time for tastings, questions, and socializing with Georgia and the market vendors. This is a great way to experience Florence’s culinary culture without the crowds.

Savoring Tuscan Cheeses and Cured Meats

A major highlight of this tour is the chance to taste a variety of regional cheeses. Georgia explains the differences in production styles and aging processes, making each cheese tasting a mini-lesson in Tuscan dairy craftsmanship. You’ll also sample curing meats, discovering their flavors and how they complement the cheeses.

The pairing of cured meats and cheeses is accompanied by local wines, with Georgia teaching the basics of tasting wine like a pro. This practical instruction helps participants maximize their enjoyment and understand what makes Tuscan wines unique. The experience enhances appreciation for local food and drink combinations.

Plus, extra virgin olive oil is available for tasting, giving insight into what makes Tuscan olive oil distinctive and high quality. The combination of savory foods and wine creates a well-rounded experience focused on authentic Tuscan flavors.

Meet the Passionate Market Suppliers

Beyond tasting, the tour creates an opportunity to meet the local suppliers behind the products. Georgia introduces participants to cheesemongers, butchers, fishmongers, and other vendors, who passionately explain their craftsmanship and seasonal ingredients.

This interaction provides a deeper understanding of Florentine food traditions and local sourcing. Georgia’s friendly approach and knowledge make the market feel welcoming and authentic, transforming it from a simple shopping spot into a cultural experience.

Learning Wine Tasting Techniques from a Certified Sommelier

Georgia’s expertise in wine tasting adds a valuable educational component to the tour. She offers easy-to-understand tips on how to evaluate color, aroma, and taste, helping participants get more out of each glass.

The focus is on Tuscan wines, giving visitors a foundation for appreciating regional varieties. Georgia’s approachable style makes wine tasting accessible even for beginners, while providing enough insight to enhance future wine experiences in Tuscany.

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Shopping for Authentic Tuscan Products to Take Home

As the tour winds down, there is an opportunity to purchase quality products directly from the vendors. This includes cheeses, cured meats, oils, and other artisanal foods—perfect for sharing with friends or preserving as souvenirs.

Georgia guides guests on selecting the best products and the proper way to store and enjoy them at home. This shopping aspect adds a practical twist, turning the experience into a chance to bring a piece of Tuscany back.

Practical Details: How to Join and What to Expect

The tour takes place in the mornings or early afternoons, with check availability for specific times. It is wheelchair accessible and ideal for small groups of up to 6 people, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Participants should bring an appetite for tasting and be prepared to try a variety of foods. Since food allergies and lactose intolerance are not accommodated, this tour suits those without such restrictions.

The meeting point is easy to find, right outside L’Ortone restaurant, providing a convenient start to the experience.

Value and Flexibility of Booking

Booking can be rescheduled or canceled with full refund up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travelers’ plans. The ability to reserve now and pay later makes it simple to plan without immediate payment.

The cost reflects the value of guided tasting, local insights, and the opportunity to shop for high-quality products, all within a small group setting.

Why Choose This Food Market Tour in Florence

This experience is perfect for food lovers who want to explore authentic Tuscan flavors in a local setting. The small group size and personalized guidance from Georgia create an intimate and educational atmosphere.

While it doesn’t include a full meal or extensive wine list, the focus on quality tastings, learning, and local interactions makes this a rich, practical introduction to Florence’s culinary scene. Travelers who appreciate small-group tours and authentic markets will find this especially rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with food allergies?
No, it is not suitable for people with food allergies or lactose intolerance, as the tastings include cheeses and cured meats.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts 2 hours, from start to finish.

Where does the tour meet?
Participants meet in front of L’Ortone restaurant, on the east side of Sant’Ambrogio Market, at the specified coordinates.

Can I purchase products during the tour?
Yes, there is an opportunity to buy high-quality food products directly from the vendors to take home.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Who is the guide?
The tour is led by Georgia, a certified sommelier and local foodie with a passion for Tuscan food and wine.

What should I bring?
Bring an appetite for tasting and a curious mind about Tuscan food and wine.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, full cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with full refund.

This cheese and wine experience in Florence’s Sant’Ambrogio Market offers a genuine taste of Tuscany, complemented by local stories and expert guidance. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic, relaxed, and educational food tour that brings the flavors of Florence directly to your palate.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby