Half-Day Chianti Tour to 2 Wineries with Wine Tastings and Meal

Exploring Chianti’s renowned wines and stunning countryside becomes effortless with this half-day tour departing from Florence for just $278.66 per person. The tour offers a seamless journey through two traditional wineries, each with guided tastings of Chianti Classico, rosés, and regional reds. An expert guide manages all logistics, so participants can relax and indulge in day drinking without the worry of driving.

The experience lasts about 5 hours 30 minutes, making it perfect for those with limited time but eager to taste Tuscany’s best wines. While the small-group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere, it’s important to note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. This tour appeals most to wine lovers and visitors who want a relaxed, guided exploration without the hassle of renting a car.

Key Points

• Includes visits to two Chianti wineries with guided tastings of regional reds and rosés
• Price of $278.66 offers a comprehensive experience lasting approximately 5.5 hours
• Includes a delicious Tuscan meal featuring antipasti, pasta, and almond biscotti, paired with estate wines
• Led by an experienced guide who takes care of all logistics and provides live commentary
• Small-group size (maximum of 8 participants) ensures personal attention and a cozy atmosphere
• No hotel pickup, so participants meet at the designated Italian Wine Shop meeting point in Florence

Starting Point Near Ponte Vecchio

The tour begins at the Italian Wine Shop, located at Via dei Renai, 23R in Florence, with meeting at 10:15 am. From here, a comfortable coach transports guests out of the busy city and into the rolling hills of Tuscany. The small size of the tour group, capped at 8 travelers, helps maintain a relaxed pace and personalized experience.

Scenic Ride through the Tuscan Countryside

The journey from Florence takes around 20-30 minutes, passing through olive groves, vineyards, and scenic Tuscan landscapes. This scenic drive sets the tone for a day immersed in the region’s natural beauty and wine-making heritage. The guide provides commentary along the way, highlighting points of interest and setting expectations for the stops ahead.

Visit to Fattoria Montecchio or Castello Sonnino

The first vineyard stop introduces two well-regarded wineries: Fattoria Montecchio or Castello Sonnino. Both offer a rich understanding of Chianti’s heritage and focus on their unique vineyard varietals. Visitors get to learn about olive farming and vineyard cultivation, as well as sample three different wines and rich olive oil, setting the tone for quality tastings.

Tour of Historic Cellars at Casa Sola or Fattoria Poggio Capponi

Next, the tour visits a second winery—Casa Sola or Fattoria Poggio Capponi—where guests explore historic wine cellars. The guide explains the tradition of barrel-aging, providing insights into winemaking techniques. Tasting includes another three wines, featuring Chianti Classico and other regional reds, giving a well-rounded view of the area’s wine diversity.

Learning the Art of Food and Wine Pairing

The third stop, either Casa Emma or Podere Dell’Anselmo, emphasizes Tuscan culinary traditions. Here, participants enjoy a farm-to-table lunch with antipasti like pecorino cheese, prosciutto, salami, and bruschetta, along with homemade pasta. During the meal, estate wines—including Super Tuscans—are carefully paired to enhance each dish, offering a true taste of Tuscan gastronomy.

Tasting at the Farm with Organic Methods

The final winery visit features organic farming practices at a rural vineyard, where the owner shares stories about wine production and family history. Visitors may even pick a grape straight from the vine to sample. The family-style lunch at this stop is a highlight, with plentiful wine and delicious food, creating a warm, convivial atmosphere.

Return to Florence by Early Afternoon

After the lunch and tastings, the tour concludes back at the Italian Wine Shop around 3:30 pm. The return trip offers one last chance to enjoy the countryside views and reflect on a day filled with wine knowledge and Tuscan scenery.

Flexibility in Stops and Wineries

The itinerary features three winery stops: Poggio Capponi, Podere Dell’Anselmo, and either Casa Sola or Fattoria Poggio Capponi. The variation in visits allows guests to experience different vineyard styles and scenic settings. Each provides a unique perspective on Chianti’s winemaking.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to partake. It operates rain or shine, so appropriate dress is recommended based on weather. The tour’s mobile ticket offers convenience, and the group size ensures a cozy experience. Since hotel pickup is not included, guests should plan to meet at the designated starting point.

The Experience of the Guide

Reviews highlight Ben and other guides as knowledgeable, personable, and well-spoken, making complex topics accessible and engaging. The guides are praised for their wine-tasting tips, stories about the region, and warm demeanor, adding a personal touch to each visit.

Value for Money and Overall Satisfaction

With 55 reviews and a 5.0-star rating, this tour consistently earns high marks for quality, scenery, and tastings. Many reviewers note that the lunch exceeds expectations, with plentiful food and excellent wines. The small-group setting is valued for its intimacy and personalized attention.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This half-day Chianti experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, culture seekers, and those who appreciate beautiful landscapes and authentic Tuscan food. It suits travelers who prefer guided tours that handle logistics and offer guided tastings. The lack of hotel pickup makes it best suited for those based centrally in Florence or staying nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, the tour starts from the Italian Wine Shop in Florence, and transportation is provided by a coach between stops.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, from meeting at the start point to returning in Florence.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, a vegetarian option is available upon request, ensuring dietary needs are accommodated.

What wines will I taste?
Guests sample regional reds, rosés, Chianti Classico, Riserva, and Super Tuscans across the three wineries.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions. It’s advisable to dress appropriately for the forecast.

Are hotel transfers provided?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; participants meet at the designated Florence meeting point.