Florence: Wine Tour with Cheese Tasting & Lunch at Butcher

Key Points

• Seven-hour small-group tour limited to 8 participants for an intimate experience
• Visit two renowned wineries in the Chianti Classico region with private tastings
• Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch at Dario Cecchini’s in Panzano in Chianti
• Discover the terroir and heritage behind Chianti Classico wines
• Includes guided visits, cheese tasting, and scenic drives through Tuscany’s rolling hills

You can check availability for your dates here:

Personalized Wine Tours in the Heart of Tuscany

This tour offers a seven-hour journey into the Chianti Classico region, departing from Florence. It is designed for those who want a more exclusive, tailored experience with a small group limited to eight guests. The tour features visits to two distinguished wineries, where private tastings provide insight into the region’s exceptional wines. You’ll also enjoy a hearty Tuscan lunch at Dario Cecchini’s, a legendary butcher known for his rustic, meat-focused dishes.

The tour is ideal for wine lovers and foodies seeking an authentic, personalized encounter with Tuscany’s renowned flavors. The itinerary balances wine exploration, culinary delights, and scenic drives, making it a comprehensive introduction to the Chianti landscape and its vinicultural heritage.

Meeting at the Grape Tours Office Next to Formaggioteca Terroir

The meeting point for this tour is conveniently based at Via dei Renai 19, right next to Formaggioteca Terroir, a cheese and wine shop that serves as the Grape Tours office. From this location, a 45-minute van ride takes the group into the Chianti hills, setting the scene for a day filled with tastings and scenic views.

The small-group format ensures personalized attention from expert guides who are well-versed in the region’s wine and culinary traditions. This setup allows for a relaxed pace and the chance to directly engage with the guides about Tuscany’s wine heritage.

Exploring the Scenic Chianti Hills with Guided Wine and Cheese Tasting

The first stop involves a guided tour in the Chianti Hills, where the group spends around 1.5 hours. During this time, visitors enjoy a private wine tasting of typically representative Chianti Classico wines. Alongside, there is a cheese tasting, offering a chance to sample local dairy products that pair beautifully with the wines.

The guides lead you through the unique terroir that makes Chianti Classico special, explaining how factors like soil and climate influence the flavor profiles of the wines. The surrounding scenery provides a perfect backdrop for this immersive experience, with rolling hills and vineyards emphasizing the region’s charm.

Visiting Two Renowned Wineries with Private Tastings

Next, the tour includes a 30-minute van ride to reach a second renowned winery. Here, the focus remains on private wine tastings, where the group can savor a selection of wines directly from the producers. These visits are designed to shed light on winemaking techniques and the heritage of each estate.

The small group size allows for meaningful conversations with the winery staff, making this part of the tour both educational and engaging. The tasting experience highlights the distinctive qualities of Chianti Classico wines, often praised for their balance and complexity.

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Lunch at Dario Cecchini’s in Panzano in Chianti

After the winery visits, the group travels 15 minutes by van to Dario Cecchini’s in Panzano in Chianti. Known for his passion for Tuscan meats, Dario Cecchini’s restaurant offers an authentic meat-lover’s feast in a rustic yet lively setting.

The hearty lunch features a selection of traditional Tuscan dishes, prepared with a focus on high-quality local ingredients. Dario’s reputation as a legendary butcher makes this meal a memorable highlight, perfect for those who enjoy robust, flavorful foods paired with the region’s wines.

Scenic Drive and Final Wine Tasting in Greve in Chianti

Following lunch, the group takes a short van ride to Greve in Chianti, a charming town well-known for its market square and wine shops. Here, participants have about 1.5 hours to explore or indulge in a final wine tasting at a local wine shop.

This stop offers a relaxed opportunity to browse local products or pick up some bottles of Chianti Classico to take home. The drive back to Florence is about 45 minutes, with scenic views of Tuscany’s vineyards and countryside.

Practical Details: Group Size, Timing, and Cancellation

This 7-hour tour operates with a live English-speaking guide and is limited to just 8 guests, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour begins at the Grape Tours meeting point, which includes a free cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes and water, as there is walking involved during the vineyard visits. The tour is not suitable for children under 18 and not allowed to consume alcohol excessively.

How the Tour Stands Out from Other Chianti Experiences

What truly sets this tour apart is its small-group format, which ensures more personal engagement with the guides and winery staff. The private tastings at two different wineries give a deeper understanding of winemaking craftsmanship. Plus, the lunch at Dario Cecchini’s adds a gastronomic highlight that complements the wine experience perfectly.

The scenic drives, combined with educational and tasting sessions, make this tour an ideal choice for those who want a balanced blend of culture, food, and wine. Its flexible cancellation policy and pay later option add to its appeal for travelers seeking flexibility.

Limitations and Considerations for Travelers

While the tour offers a rich experience, it involves a fair amount of driving and walking during vineyard visits. Participants should be prepared for scenic outdoor environments and rustic dining. The limited group size means booking in advance is recommended to secure a spot.

Because the tour emphasizes wine tasting and food, it may not be suitable for those avoiding alcohol or children under 18. It also requires comfortable shoes and water for comfort during the day.

The Sum Up: A Personalized Taste of Tuscany’s Wineries and Cuisine

This seven-hour wine tour from Florence offers a deep dive into Chianti Classico, combining private winery visits, a traditional Tuscan lunch, and guided cheese and wine tastings. Its small-group setting provides a personal and educational experience that highlights regional terroir and winemaking artistry.

Perfect for wine aficionados and food lovers who value authenticity and intimacy, the tour balances scenic drives, culinary delights, and wine education. While it involves some driving and walking, the overall experience delivers a genuine taste of Tuscany’s gourmet heritage in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 and alcohol consumption restrictions apply.

How long is the total activity?
The entire tour lasts 7 hours, starting from the meeting point in Florence.

What is included in the lunch at Dario Cecchini’s?
The lunch features traditional Tuscan meats and rustic dishes prepared in Dario Cecchini’s signature style, complementing the wine tastings.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund through the flexible cancellation policy.

How many participants are in the group?
The tour is limited to 8 guests for a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes and water for the day.

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