SMALL GROUP Chianti 2 wineries & meat feast @ Dario Cecchini

This small-group tour from Florence offers a taste of Tuscany’s renowned wine and culinary traditions. Priced at $359.16 per person and lasting approximately 7 hours, the experience takes visitors to two organic wineries in Chianti and includes a memorable lunch stop at Dario Cecchini’s famous butcher shop. The tour is ideal for those who want to explore authentic Chianti wine-making and indulge in local meats without the hassle of planning, as the group size limits to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of wine tastings, cultural stops, and a hearty meat feast—all conveniently organized from Florence. The small group setting ensures attentive guides and a more intimate atmosphere, which is highly praised in reviews. However, travelers should note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so planning transportation to the meeting point is necessary. This tour appeals most to wine enthusiasts and food lovers seeking an authentic, guided taste of Tuscany’s most cherished flavors.

Key Points

• Price: $359.16 per person for a full-day experience
• Duration: About 7 hours from Florence
• Group size: Limited to 8 travelers for a more personal experience
• Highlights: Visits to two organic Chianti wineries, wine tastings, and a lunch at Dario Cecchini’s butcher shop
• Guide: Knowledgeable and passionate, with praised personalities like Clemente and Matteo
• Includes: Around 10 wines, lunch, and alcoholic beverages; admission tickets to each stop

Starting Point and Overall Tour Structure

The tour begins at Via dei Renai, 19, Florence, where guests meet 15 minutes before the scheduled start. It concludes back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward for those staying in Florence. The itinerary features a visit to Grape Tours’ office as the initial gathering spot, followed by a wine tour and tasting at Casa Erta – Fattoria Corzano e Paterno. Visitors then stop for lunch at Antica Macelleria Cecchini, renowned for its meat feast, before enjoying a brief stroll in Greve in Chianti.

Visiting Grape Tours in Florence

The tour kicks off at Grape Tours’ office, where guests check in and receive their admission tickets for the day’s activities. This initial meeting ensures smooth coordination and sets the stage for the day’s wine-focused adventure. The small group size means attentive service and a relaxed start, allowing everyone to settle in comfortably before heading into the Tuscan countryside.

Exploring Casa Erta – Fattoria Corzano e Paterno

The first winery stop is Casa Erta, operated by Fattoria Corzano e Paterno. This organic vineyard offers a guided tour and wine tasting session lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Here, visitors learn about the concept of terroir, which is a key element in Tuscan wine production, particularly in Chianti and Chianti Classico. The tasting involves sampling around 10 wines, giving a broad view of the estate’s offerings and the unique qualities of their organic wines.

This winery is praised for its welcoming atmosphere and the guides’ expertise, making it an engaging stop for those interested in wine-making processes and wine characteristics. The visit offers insights into local wine traditions and a chance to savor excellent wines in a scenic setting.

Lunch at Dario Cecchini’s Famous Butcher Shop

The next highlight is a lunch stop at Antica Macelleria Cecchini, a well-known butcher shop run by Dario Cecchini. The meat feast lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes and features a variety of Tuscan cured meats and other traditional dishes. Although Dario Cecchini is not present during the tour, the experience at the shop is highly regarded despite some comments about less attentive service from the wait staff.

The lunch is a hearty complement to the wine tastings, showcasing local flavors and culinary craftsmanship. It’s a true foodie highlight for those eager to indulge in Tuscan meats and regional specialties.

Strolling Through Greve in Chianti

Following lunch, the tour includes a 15-minute stop in Greve in Chianti for a brief walk in this picturesque town. The stop provides an opportunity to enjoy scenery and local ambiance but is a free, optional part of the itinerary. It’s perfect for stretching legs and soaking in the charm of Chianti’s heartland.

The Personal Touch of the Guides

Reviews consistently praise the guides’ passion, knowledge, and friendly demeanor. Guides like Clemente and Matteo receive commendations for their enthusiasm, storytelling, and ability to make learning about wine approachable. Their infectious joy enhances the experience, making the wine and food tastings more engaging and informative.

The Wines and Tasting Experience

Participants sample around 10 wines throughout the day, mostly from Chianti and Chianti Classico regions. The focus on organic wineries adds a layer of authenticity and sustainability to the experience. The wines are described as beautiful, approachable, and representative of the Tuscan landscape.

The tastings are well-paced, allowing plenty of time to appreciate the wines and ask questions. The guide’s explanations help in distinguishing wine characteristics and understanding local wine-making techniques, adding depth to the tasting.

The Unique Experience at Dario Cecchini

The stop at Dario Cecchini is often highlighted as an experience in itself, even if Dario himself isn’t present. Visitors enjoy seeing the famous butchery, sampling local meats, and experiencing the lively atmosphere that Cecchini’s shop is known for. Despite some comments about service, most agree that the meat feast and culinary atmosphere are worth the visit.

Logistics and Group Size Benefits

The small group size of up to 8 travelers ensures a more personal and relaxed experience. The organized itinerary minimizes downtime and maximizes time at each stop, making the day feel well-paced and manageable. The tour does not include hotel transportation, so participants should plan accordingly to reach the meeting point.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is suited for wine lovers eager to learn about Chianti’s wine production and organic wineries. It also appeals to foodies interested in Tuscan meats and culinary traditions. The group setting and knowledgeable guides make it ideal for those seeking a relaxed, educational day in the Tuscan countryside.

Final Thoughts on the Chianti Wineries & Meat Feast Tour

The small-group format and the combination of wine, food, and scenic stops make this tour a well-rounded introduction to Tuscan culture. The wineries are praised for their welcoming atmospheres and excellent wines, while the lunch experience offers a casual yet hearty taste of regional specialties.

While the lunch at Dario Cecchini might be underwhelming in terms of service for some, the overall experience remains highly praised for its authenticity, organization, and guide expertise. This tour is especially recommended for those who want an intimate, educational, and delicious taste of Tuscany’s wine and culinary traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour starts and ends at the designated meeting point in Florence.

What is the minimum age? Participants must be 18 years or older.

How long is the tour? The experience lasts approximately 7 hours.

What is included in the price? The tour includes wine tastings (around 10 wines), lunch, and admission tickets to each stop.

Are drinks other than wine included? Yes, alcoholic beverages are part of the tasting experience.

How many people are in each group? Groups are limited to 8 travelers for a more personal experience.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol? Since wine tastings are a core part of the tour, participation is generally for those 18 and older, but specific dietary restrictions are not detailed.

What are the stops during the tour? The stops include Grape Tours’ office, Casa Erta – Fattoria Corzano e Paterno, Dario Cecchini’s butcher shop, and a short walk in Greve in Chianti.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels? The tour involves some walking and standing, but no strenuous activities are specified.

Can I cancel or modify the booking? The tour is non-refundable, and cancellations are not allowed once booked, unless minimum group size is not met.

This small-group Chianti wine and meat tour offers a memorable, authentic glimpse into Tuscany’s wine-making and culinary scene. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and delicious tastings, it promises a delightful day out for food and wine enthusiasts.