If you are planning a trip to Italy this year and looking to take in some wine tasting, here is a handy guide that you may find useful. As with most things in life, opinions vary, but from our perspective this is Wine Tasting at its best!
1) Chianti Classico wine tour
The name alone sounds smooth and sophisticated and Chianti Classico is truly one of the best red wines that Italy has to offer. What’s more it is made in the scenic area of Tuscany where you will find incredible panoramas in every direction. The wine tours often depart from the beautiful cultural city of Florence, a national treasure in itself, and aim to fit in two wineries in a day. For instance you could try some bottles of the famous Riserva and then move on to the heady delights of the IGT Super Tuscan.
Arriving at the San Casciano winery in the AM, you will be amazed at the play of the morning light on the rolling hills around. Tasting the wines usually means just that and if you spit them out then you can drive yourself without problems. If you prefer to drink the wine then an organised tour may be better for you. Chianti Classico is made from the Sangioviese grape.
2) Montepulciano wine tour
Another distinct grape, another distinct Italian town. Because there is a chance to taste this rich, reddish brown wine first thing in the morning it will make the afternoon walk through the medieval streets of Montepulciano all the more enjoyable.
Afterwards you get an insight into how this special wine is made with a guided tour and some explanations about the local viticulture processes.
3) Montalcino wine tour
Similar sounding but quite unique. This one is a real collector’s item so consider investing in some wine when you take your tour here. The Montalcino wine is made by Brunellodi Montalcino and he has created one of the few DOCG wines which are prized by collectors for their depth of flavour and tasty tannins.
By law the wine must be aged for four years before it is sold. Another great advantage of the way that the wine is made is that it will last for at least 10 years so there is no rush to drink it.
4) Valpolicella wine tour
Located near to Romeo and Juliet’s Verona, the Valpolicella wine is sure to bring out the romantic in you. This red wine tastes as good as it sounds and it is made from a variety of grapes which are unique to the region. Indeed Valpolicella means ‘The Valley of Cellars’ so there is no limit to how much time you could spend here. Try visiting the cellar at Accordini which is in the village at Pedemonte for some unforgettable wine tasting.
5) Barolo wine tour
Barolo’s picturesque villages are home to an array of vineyards which produce this DOCG wine. To get here you will leave from Milan, either with your own transport or as part of an organised tour. There are numerous wineries here to try including the famous Serralunga cellar. Allow a whole day to see the best wineries and enjoy Barolo itself.
Guest Post by Rhinocarhire.com – providing low cost car hire in Italy.
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