Tour of the cellar and tasting of 6 wines

Discover the Charm of Cantalici Winery in Lucca

The Tour of the cellar and tasting of 6 wines at Cantalici offers a straightforward yet enriching experience for wine lovers. Priced at $34.73 per person, this tour lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours and provides an excellent opportunity to explore Chianti Classico wines in a family-run setting. The tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from 5 reviews, highlighting its consistent quality and popularity.

The experience is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with most bookings made 10 days in advance, and it features a mobile ticket for easy access. It begins at Via Della Croce, 17/19, in Castagnoli, Italy, and concludes back at the same meeting point. The tour offers a well-balanced mix of wine tasting, historical discovery, and local food — perfect for those wanting a taste of authentic Tuscany.

Key Points

• Family atmosphere and personalized explanations make the visit special.
• Six wines are sampled, accompanied by crackers, taralli, and bruschetta with extra virgin olive oil.
• The tour includes a guided walk through the winery’s vinification and aging cellars.
• A discovery of an ancient brick kiln from the 1500s adds historical intrigue.
• The experience is highly rated for its informative guides and authentic ambiance.
• Suitable for most travelers, with most bookings 10 days in advance.

Guided Tour of Cantalici’s Historic Cellars and Family Philosophy

The guided tour starts at Cantalici Winery, where a knowledgeable guide leads visitors through the vinification cellar. Here, the focus is on explaining the production processes and sharing the family’s story and philosophy behind their wines. Visitors also get to see the aging cellar, where the wines develop their character over time.

This tour emphasizes the personal touch of a family-run operation. The guides take their time to answer questions and provide insight into the long-standing traditions that shape Cantalici’s wines. The visit is not just about tasting but also about understanding the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

Exploring the 1500s Brick Kiln and Historical Elements

A standout feature of this tour is the discovery of an ancient brick kiln, dating back to the early 1500s. This historical structure adds a layer of depth to the visit, connecting the past, present, and future of the winery. Visitors learn how the kiln fits into the landscape and the history of local craftsmanship.

This element gives a tangible sense of the region’s historical landscape and long-standing traditions. It’s an unusual and memorable aspect that sets this tour apart from more typical wine tastings, appealing especially to history enthusiasts or anyone curious about the local heritage.

Tasting of Six Wines with Local Snacks

The culmination of the tour is the tasting session, featuring six wines from Cantalici’s selection. Each wine is paired with crackers, taralli, and bruschetta topped with extra virgin olive oil. The tasting is designed to highlight the diversity of Chianti Classico wines, allowing guests to compare different styles and flavors.

The wines are praised for their quality and authenticity, with reviews pointing to delicious flavors and the winery’s passion for producing good wine. The snacks complement the wines well, adding a local touch that enhances the tasting experience.

The Flavor of Local Extra Virgin Olive Oil

An added highlight is the opportunity to taste local extra virgin olive oil, served with simple snacks. This provides a taste of regional produce and enriches the overall experience. The pairing emphasizes the culinary traditions of Tuscany, making the tasting more than just about wine.

This part of the experience is appreciated for its authenticity and for giving guests a chance to sample local flavors in a relaxed setting.

Logistics: Easy Meeting Point and Group Size

The meeting point is at Via Della Croce in Castagnoli, conveniently located for travelers exploring the Lucca area. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and groups are limited to a maximum of 40 participants, ensuring a comfortable and engaging atmosphere.

The duration is just enough to enjoy a thorough visit without feeling rushed, making it ideal for a half-day activity or a relaxed afternoon.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Lucca’s Wine Scene

What makes the Cantalici tour especially appealing is the combination of quality, history, and family passion. The knowledgeable guides, including a praised guide named Vanessa in reviews, take the time to explain the wine-making process and answer questions, making the visit educational and engaging.

Guests consistently mention the beautiful setting, the delicious wines, and the passion of the staff. The authentic atmosphere and local storytelling create a memorable tasting that feels personal and genuine.

Pacing and Overall Experience

The 1 to 1.5-hour duration strikes a good balance, providing enough time to explore the winery, see the historic kiln, and enjoy the tastings without feeling overly long. The pace is relaxed, allowing guests to savor each wine and engage with the guides.

The experience is well-suited for those interested in authentic Tuscan wine production, history, and local foods. It’s a great choice for first-time visitors to the Lucca area who want a taste of Chianti without a full-day commitment.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This wine tasting is perfect for beginners and connoisseurs alike, especially those who value family-run wineries with a sense of tradition. It suits travelers looking for an authentic, educational experience and those interested in local history.

The tour’s affordable price and small group size make it an accessible and intimate option, ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to learn about Chianti wines within a relaxed environment.

Final Thoughts on the Cantalici Wine Tour

The Tour of the cellar and tasting of 6 wines at Cantalici offers a high-quality introduction to Chianti Classico wines, combined with a touch of history and local flavor. The knowledgeable guides and authentic setting make this experience stand out, especially for those seeking a personal and informative visit.

While the tour does not include a full meal or extensive time, it provides great value for its price and focus. Most visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for Tuscan wine traditions and a taste of the region’s heritage. This tour is recommended for anyone wanting an authentic, well-rounded wine experience in Lucca.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for families, with children understanding most explanations, especially if given in a language they comprehend.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short activity for a relaxed afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a guided tour of the cellar, a tasting of 6 wines, extra virgin olive oil, and snacks such as crackers, taralli, and bruschetta.

Are food options available beyond the snacks?
Lunch is not included in this experience, so plan accordingly if you want a more substantial meal afterward.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 10 days in advance, and the experience offers a mobile ticket for convenience.

What makes this tour different from others in Lucca?
Its combination of historical discovery, family atmosphere, and quality wine tasting in a small-group setting makes it stand out. The ancient kiln adds a unique historical element not common in typical wine tours.