Valpolicella: Gourmet Evening Wine Tasting in Valpolicella

Valpolicella: Gourmet Evening Wine Tasting in Valpolicella

This $34-per-person wine tasting in Valpolicella offers an engaging 2.5-hour experience in the heart of Veneto, Italy. Hosted by Castrum Wine Relais, this tour combines wine tasting, gourmet local products, and rich historical stories in the picturesque Castelrotto old village. Travelers who appreciate a blend of culture, art, and fine wine will find this experience especially appealing, though those seeking a more extensive exploration of the region may find it more relaxed.

While the focus is on Valpolicella wines from the PLATINUM collection, the tour also emphasizes local cheeses, cold cuts, and the art-inspired labels dedicated to Innocenzo Fraccaroli. The setting in Casa Fraccaroli, an estate built in 1790, adds a sense of history and charm. It’s worth noting that the experience is suited for adults over 18, and a visit to the cellar is possible until 18:30.

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Key Points

• Affordable Price at $34 per person for a 2.5-hour experience
• Includes tastings of Valpolicella wines from the Borghetti Giampiero winery
• Paired with gourmet local cheeses and cold cuts for a light dinner
• Located in Castelrotto old village, offering a romantic, historic setting
• Guided by knowledgeable hosts who explain the wines, art, and history
• Option to visit the cellar until 18:30, or stay longer in the wine bar and bistro

The Setting of Casa Fraccaroli in Castelrotto

The tour takes place at Casa Fraccaroli, one of the oldest manors in the area, constructed in 1790. This Venetian villa combines a cellar, rustic countryhouse, and large olive grove, painting a picture of traditional Valpolicella life. The estate has remained in the family for generations, and its history is woven into the experience.

Guests are hosted in various charming locations: the old cellar, the stone rooms of the Castrum Wine Bistro, or the terrace overlooking Castelrotto. The atmosphere is intimate and elegant, perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed, scenic environment. The location in the square of Castelrotto adds to the authenticity and photograph-worthy backdrop.

Tasting the Valpolicella Wines from the Borghetti Winery

The core of this experience is sampling Valpolicella wines from the PLATINUM collection—specifically, the CASTRUM line. The bottles are distinguished by art labels, each paying homage to sculptor Innocenzo Fraccaroli. The wines are paired with carefully selected local cheeses and cold cuts, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.

Guests get to taste wines dedicated to masterpieces of sculpture, adding an artistic dimension to the tasting. You can expect a variety of wines crafted with Amarone flavor, providing a taste of the region’s winemaking tradition. The pairing with gourmet products elevates this tasting beyond just wine, turning it into a culinary experience.

Exploring the Art-inspired Labels and Fraccaroli’s Legacy

Each wine label in the CASTRUM line is a tribute to Innocenzo Fraccaroli, born in Casa Fraccaroli in 1805. This artistic connection is woven into the experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of sculpture alongside Valpolicella wines. It’s an intriguing way to combine art and wine, making the tasting memorable for those interested in cultural stories.

The labels serve as visual homage, and the wines themselves aim to reflect the masterpieces of the artist. This theme offers a distinctive twist compared to standard tastings, transforming each sip into a tribute to Valpolicella’s artistic heritage.

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The Guided Experience and Historical Insights

The host provides explanations in English, Italian, or Spanish, ensuring clarity and engagement. The guide shares stories about the region’s history, the winemaking process, and the evolution of the estate, enriching the tasting with context.

Guests also have the opportunity to visit the cellar until 18:30. The cellar tour reveals the winemaking techniques and storage methods, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the Borghetti Giampiero winery. The hospitality and knowledge of the hosts are highly praised, making the experience both educational and warm.

The Unique Atmosphere of Castelrotto Old Village

The setting in Castelrotto adds to the romantic charm of this tasting. The village is characterized by narrow streets, historic buildings, and a peaceful ambiance that invites leisurely sipping and conversation. The terrace overlooking the village provides stunning views, especially at sunset.

Guests can choose to remain after the tasting to enjoy the wine bar and bistro, which remains open year-round. The relaxed pace and beautiful environment make it ideal for a romantic evening or a peaceful break from sightseeing.

Logistics and Practical Details

The meeting point is at the Castrum Wine Bar & Bistro. The experience is available as a private group, with guided commentary in multiple languages. It is wheelchair accessible, accommodating a variety of guests.

Cancellation is flexible, allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance. The tour lasts for 2.5 hours, with start times available based on availability. Visitors should note that this tour is not suitable for children under 18.

Value and Overall Impression

At $34 per person, this wine tasting offers excellent value for an experience that combines wine, art, history, and gourmet food. The inclusion of local cheeses and cold cuts enhances the flavor experience, and the guides’ expertise helps deepen understanding of the region’s winemaking culture.

The setting, artistic labels, and opportunity to learn about Innocenzo Fraccaroli give this tour a distinctive character. The relaxed pace and beautiful environment suit those who enjoy a leisurely, cultural tasting in a historic village.

While some reviews indicate that the overall experience may vary depending on expectations, the quality of explanations and wine pairings are consistently praised. For lovers of Valpolicella wines and art-inspired labels, this tour provides a memorable and elegant experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this wine tasting suitable for children?
No, this experience is designed for guests over 18 years old.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes Valpolicella wine tastings, paired gourmet cheeses and cold cuts, and access to the cellar until 18:30. The visit to the cellar is optional.

Can I stay afterwards?
Yes, after the tasting, you can choose to remain in the wine bar and bistro to enjoy the ambiance.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Italian, and Spanish.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

What makes this tour different from other tastings?
The focus on art-inspired labels and the connection to Innocenzo Fraccaroli, along with the historic villa setting, set this experience apart.

Can I visit the winery?
Visitors can visit the cellar until 18:30, which is included in the experience.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $34 per person, making it an affordable yet enriching option.

Is cancellation flexible?
Yes, cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

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