Tufaio Winery: Winery Tour and Tasting with the Producer

The Tufaio Winery offers a 2-hour experience in Lazio, Italy, for $56.94 per person. This tour combines a walk through historic vineyards, a visit to a 17-meter underground cave, and a tasting of three distinct wines, including their celebrated Spumante. Led by Nicoletta, the guide shares her family’s long history dating back to 1881 and explains the unique process behind their classic method sparkling wine.

This experience is ideal for those interested in authentic Italian winemaking and learning about traditional techniques. It’s accessible for wheelchairs, offers flexible booking, and includes local cold cuts, cheeses, bread, and oil to complement the tastings. This tour provides a personalized insight into Lazio’s wine culture combined with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic family-run winery with origins dating back to 1881
Includes a visit to a 17-meter underground cave for wine aging
Tastings of three wines, including Spumante metodo classico
Tasting is paired with local cold cuts, cheeses, bread, and oil
Led by Nicoletta, who shares her family’s story and expertise
Flexible booking options and full refund policy up to 24 hours in advance

Keen to taste more of Rome? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences

The Historic Roots of Tufaio Winery

The Tufaio Winery has a history that begins in 1881 with the creation of the oldest vine on the farm. The winery passed through six generations, starting from ancestors who built the farmhouse and dug the underground cave in volcanic soil. Originally, the family supplied light, low-alcohol wine to the Roman market, often sold in piazzas and taverns by carters traveling from the countryside.

Under Nicoletta’s grandparents, the focus was on satisfying local demand. When her parents took over, they shifted toward producing quality wines. Her father became a pioneer of Spumante metodo classico in Lazio, starting production in 1983 after extensive research. This historical background enriches the experience, offering a glimpse into how traditional practices evolved into modern quality wine making.

Nicoletta’s Personal Touch and Cultural Approach

Nicoletta welcomes visitors by introducing the oldest vine, which remains a symbol of the family’s enduring legacy. She emphasizes the organic approach she uses today, including working the soil naturally and relying on spontaneous fermentations. Her goal is to connect guests with the wine-making process on a cultural level, making the tour feel like visiting friends at home.

She shares her love for the heritage and work behind each bottle, making the experience more than just a tasting. The tour fosters an authentic and intimate atmosphere, helping visitors feel part of the family’s journey.

Exploring the Underground Cave in Volcanic Soil

One of the highlights is a visit to the underground cave, dug in the late 1800s in volcanic terrain. At 17 meters deep, this space maintains a steady temperature of 12/14°C, ideal for slow, natural aging of sparkling wines through refermentation in the bottle. This process results in a refined, persistent perlage characterized by elegance and creaminess.

While touring, Nicoletta explains the aging process of classic method Spumante and highlights how it differs from Prosecco. The cave offers a unique setting to observe traditional wine aging techniques that contribute to the distinctive quality of Tufaio’s sparkling wines.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tasting the Signature Wines of Tufaio

The tasting session includes three wines:
– Spumante Tufaio pas dosè
– Casale Tiberio, a Merlot
– Tufaio, a white wine crafted from indigenous grape varieties

Nicoletta guides guests through a brief lesson on wine tasting, focusing on sight, smell, and taste. The pairing with local cold cuts, cheeses, bread, and olive oil enhances the experience, offering a genuine taste of Lazio’s culinary heritage.

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Rome

Practicalities and Meeting Arrangements

The tour begins at Zagarolo station, accessible by train from Rome termini. Guests are picked up from this station, with train schedules provided upon booking. The experience ends back at the same meeting point, making it convenient for visitors staying in Rome.

Comfortable clothing is recommended, as the tour involves walking through the vineyards and the underground cave. The group size remains manageable, encouraging an interactive and personalized environment.

The Organic and Cultural Philosophy

Nicoletta’s passion for organic farming and spontaneous fermentations shines through during the tour. She aims to foster a connection between visitors and authentic Italian wine traditions, making it more than just a tasting. The cultural approach helps guests understand the history, techniques, and environment that shape each bottle.

This focus on tradition and sustainability appeals to wine lovers interested in natural processes and local heritage. It’s a chance to see Lazio’s wine scene from a family perspective, emphasizing quality over quantity.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience suits those curious about traditional Italian wine production, especially sparkling wines made with classic method techniques. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an intimate, authentic tour with educational value. The tour’s relaxed pace and inclusion of local food pairings make it ideal for food and wine enthusiasts.

It’s also suitable for wheelchair users and those with flexible schedules, thanks to the booking options and full refund policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts on Tufaio Winery Tour

The Tufaio Winery experience offers a genuine glimpse into Lazio’s wine heritage, with an emphasis on traditional methods and family history. The underground cave and guided tasting provide memorable insights into sparkling wine production, while the local pairings add a flavorful touch.

While the price is reasonable for a comprehensive experience, guests should be prepared for a moderate physical walk and indoor cave visit. The personal storytelling from Nicoletta and the authentic atmosphere make this tour a meaningful choice for those interested in cultural and natural aspects of Italian wine.

✨ Book This Experience

Tufaio Winery: winery tour and tasting with the producer

4.9

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Tufaio Winery tour?
The tour lasts 2 hours.

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes tastings of 3 wines, a board of cold cuts and cheeses, and bread and oil from the winery.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Zagarolo station, where guests are picked up.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Are there options to book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

What wines will I taste?
Guests taste Spumante Tufaio pas dosè, Casale Tiberio (Merlot), and Tufaio (white wine).

What makes the underground cave special?
It maintains a steady temperature of 12/14°C, ideal for slow aging and developing refined bubbles in the sparkling wine.

Who is the tour suitable for?
It’s great for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those interested in traditional Italian winemaking.

Is there an option for transport?
Transportation is included from Zagarolo station; train tickets are not included if traveling without a car.