Private wine tour on the magical hills of Lucca (2 wineries)

A private wine tour on the hills of Lucca offers an intimate experience of Tuscany’s renowned wine scene. Priced at $208.99 per person, this tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours and includes visits to two carefully selected wineries representing different denominations of the Lucca province. Led by Simone Vergamini, a “Best Sommelier of Tuscany 2023”, this tour promises personalized attention, in-depth wine education, and a chance to enjoy several tastings paired with local snacks.

This tour is ideal for those seeking an authentic, relaxed exploration of Tuscan wines with a knowledgeable guide. It offers pick-up options, group discounts, and a mobile ticket system. While most locations within 15 km of Lucca are included, a supplement applies for pickups farther afield. The high 5-star reviews underscore the consistent quality and personalized hospitality offered.

Key Points

• Expert guide: Led by Simone Vergamini, a top-rated sommelier and passionate storyteller
• Two winery visits: Touch vineyards, explore cellars, and taste wines from different denominations
• Tastings included: 4-6 wines at each winery, totaling 8-12 wines, paired with seasonal local products
• Flexible options: An optional “Light lunch” includes lunch + 8 or 12 wines
• Private experience: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention
• Convenient logistics: Air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, snacks, and pickup offered (extra fee outside Lucca)

Introduction to the Lucca Hills Wine Adventure

This private tour invites you to explore the beautiful hills surrounding Lucca, famous for their scenic vineyards and charming rural landscapes. The experience combines wine tasting, vineyard visits, and cultural insights shared by Simone, a highly awarded sommelier dedicated to showcasing the region’s best wineries. The tour balances educational storytelling with relaxed tasting sessions, making it suitable for novices and wine connoisseurs alike.

Travelers particularly appreciate Simone’s warm, knowledgeable approach, which enhances each visit with stories about the area’s vineyards, harvests, and wine production. The tour’s 4 to 5-hour duration offers a manageable, unhurried pace that allows plenty of time to savor wines, enjoy local delicacies, and soak in the stunning landscape.

Visiting Two Distinct Wineries in Lucca and Montecarlo

The itinerary features visits to two wineries, each selected for their quality and regional significance. The first stop in Lucca involves touring the cellar and vineyards, with the opportunity to taste 4 to 6 wines alongside a selection of seasonal local products. The focus is on understanding the production process and regional characteristics that influence each wine.

The second stop takes place in Montecarlo, a renowned wine-producing area. Here, the cellar tour and tasting follow a similar format, with another set of 4 to 6 wines and seasonal snacks. Both visits provide a personalized experience, as only your group participates, and wine representatives explain the history and specifics of their wineries.

Travelers find these stops particularly engaging because each winery offers a different style and variety of wines, ensuring a diverse tasting experience. The beautiful vineyard landscapes and the chance to see how wines are made add to the overall appeal.

What to Expect During the Wine Tastings

Each winery tasting includes 4 to 6 wines, with the possibility of tasting 8 to 12 wines if the “Light lunch” option is selected. The wines are paired with seasonal products such as cured meats, cheeses, bread, and extra virgin olive oil, creating a well-rounded tasting experience.

The tastings are designed to be educational but relaxed, with Simone sharing insights into vineyard harvesting, regional terroir, and wine notes. The reviews highlight the variety and quality of wines, noting that both wineries offer delicious wines and outstanding service.

Most importantly, visitors appreciate the personalized attention at each stop, often commenting on how Simone’s knowledge and friendliness make the experience memorable. The pairing of wines with local foods enhances the tasting, making it both flavorful and authentic.

The “Light Lunch” and Its Role in the Tour

The “Light lunch” option is a highlight for those wanting a more complete experience. It includes lunch plus 8 or 12 wines, making it a perfect choice for foodies or those looking to combine sightseeing with a full tasting experience.

The lunch features local delicacies like bruschetta, cured meats, cheeses, and extra virgin olive oil, all paired thoughtfully with the wines. Reviewers praise the quality of the food and the way it complements the wine tastings, turning each winery visit into a culinary delight.

Choosing the “Light lunch” option allows guests to enjoy a more filling experience without extending the tour duration excessively. It is especially suitable for those eager to indulge in Tuscan flavors while exploring the region’s wines.

Logistics and Transportation: Comfort and Convenience

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride between wineries in the Tuscan landscape. Bottled water and snacks such as bread and local nibbles are provided throughout.

Pickup is offered for locations within 15 km of Lucca, but a supplement applies for pickups farther away, payable in advance. This flexibility caters to visitors staying outside the immediate city center. The tour operates with a mobile ticket system, and most travelers can participate, including those with accessibility needs.

The private nature of the tour guarantees a personalized experience, without the pressure of large groups. The 4 to 5-hour duration balances sightseeing, tasting, and conversation, making it a highly manageable and enjoyable outing.

The Role of Simone Vergamini as Your Guide

Simone Vergamini, the “Best Sommelier of Tuscany 2023”, leads this tour with enthusiasm, expertise, and warmth. His extensive knowledge of the region’s wines and vineyards shines through as he explains harvesting details, wine notes, and regional traditions.

Reviewers repeatedly praise Simone’s personable style and ability to make everyone feel welcomed and well-informed. His storytelling makes each stop engaging, and his passion for wine is evident. His ability to answer questions and share regional insights transforms the tasting into an educational experience that enriches every sip.

Flexibility, Booking, and Cancellation Policies

This private tour can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable, so planning ahead is advised.

The tour requires good weather to proceed, but if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date is offered. The booking window averages 81 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among visitors planning their trip to Tuscany.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This private wine tour suits wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those wanting a relaxed, personalized experience in Tuscany. It’s especially appealing for visitors who appreciate expert guidance, authentic vineyard visits, and regional delicacies.

Travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes, learning about wine production, and tasting a variety of local wines will find this tour highly rewarding. Since the tour is private, it’s also ideal for couples, friends, or small groups seeking an intimate exploration with customized attention.

Final Thoughts on the Lucca Hills Wine Experience

The private wine tour on the hills of Lucca offers a well-rounded, high-quality introduction to Tuscany’s wine culture. Led by Simone Vergamini, the tour delivers personalized service, expert storytelling, and tastings that showcase the region’s diversity.

While the price point is justified by the small-group focus, tastings, and local food pairing, travelers should plan to book well in advance given its popularity. The scenic vineyard visits, excellent wines, and Simone’s hospitality make this a memorable addition to any trip to Lucca.

This tour is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, insightful, and flavorful journey into Tuscany’s renowned wine scene, with the bonus of beautiful landscapes and cultural insights along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour fee covers visits to two wineries, tastings of 8 to 12 wines, local snacks, an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and the services of Simone Vergamini.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, providing a relaxed pace to enjoy vineyard tours, tastings, and local delicacies.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience with only your group participating, ensuring personalized attention.

Are pick-ups available?
Pickup is offered for locations within 15 km of Lucca. For pickups beyond 15 km, a supplement applies, payable in advance.

Can I include lunch?
Yes, there is an “Light lunch” option that includes lunch plus 8 or 12 wines, served with local foods like bruschetta, cured meats, and cheeses.

What is the guide’s background?
The tour is led by Simone Vergamini, renowned as “Best Sommelier of Tuscany 2023”, who shares detailed knowledge about wine, the region, and local traditions.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start. Less notice results in a non-refundable fee, so booking in advance is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While primarily focused on wine tasting, the tour’s educational and scenic aspects may appeal to a wide audience, but it is mainly designed for adults.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 81 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and limited availability.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of top-rated guide, two distinct wineries, personalized service, and local food pairing makes this tour a standout choice for exploring Lucca’s wine culture.

Can I customize the experience?
Since this is a private tour, additional customizations can likely be arranged directly with the provider, WINEAFTERWINE.