The history of Amarone: tour and vertical tasting of 3 decades

The history of Amarone: tour and vertical tasting of 3 decades offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Italy’s most iconic wines in a setting that mixes tradition with expertise. While we haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, the detailed descriptions and rave reviews paint a picture of an experience that’s perfect for wine aficionados and curious travelers alike.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to taste three vintages spanning 20 years, giving visitors an understanding of how climate, land, and winemaking techniques influence Amarone’s evolving character. The in-depth winery tour, guided by knowledgeable staff, promises a behind-the-scenes view of the process from vineyard to bottle. Plus, the chance to sample a young Amarone straight from the barrique adds an exclusive touch few tours can match.

However, one consideration is the price—at nearly $900 for a group of six, it’s an investment. This experience is best suited for serious wine lovers, collectors, or those eager to deepen their knowledge of Amarone’s longevity and subtleties. If you enjoy detailed tasting sessions and want a private, intimate setting in Verona, this tour is a standout choice.

Good To Know

• Authentic Vertical Tasting: Experience three vintages from 1998, 2008, and 2018, plus a young Amarone from the barrique.
• Deep Dive into Winemaking: The tour covers every stage, from vineyard to bottle, including fermentation and aging.
• Expert-Guided Journey: Led by staff who are passionate and knowledgeable—well-reviewed for their friendliness and expertise.
• Exclusive Access: Tasting a wine directly from the barrique offers a rare peek into the aging process.
• Beautiful Location: The vineyard behind the winery is close to Lake Garda, making for a scenic backdrop.
• Premium Price, High Value: While costly, the personalized, comprehensive experience appeals to those seeking an authentic, educational wine adventure.

Exploring the Tour Experience in Detail

Why This Tour Stands Out

This 2-hour experience isn’t just about sipping wine; it’s about understanding what makes Amarone special. The tour begins at the Lenotti Cellars in Bardolino, a well-known family winery with a reputation for quality. The route starts with a walk through the Vigneto Santa Cristina, a vineyard just a few hundred meters from Lake Garda. As you wander through the vines, you’ll notice the landscape and soil conditions that influence the grapes—an insight that enhances your appreciation for the wine.

The guided walk continues into the reception area for grapes, where you can observe the initial stages of processing. The guide explains the importance of grape selection and harvest timing, key factors in creating the balanced complexity of Amarone. From there, you are taken into the fermentation cellar, where the process of drying grapes and fermentation is explained in detail. This stage is vital in developing Amarone’s characteristic richness and intensity.

The Underground Barrel Cellar

One of the highlights, as reflected in reviews, is the underground barrel cellar. Here, the historic aging process unfolds in a cool, dark environment that’s full of character. The guide tends to share insights about aging techniques, barrel selection, and how climate variations over decades influence the wine’s evolution. Visitors love this part—not just for the ambiance but for the stories and knowledge imparted by the passionate staff.

Bottling and Packaging

Next, the tour moves to the bottling room and storage warehouses. Here, each bottle is carefully packaged, and details about how the winery maintains quality control and preserves the integrity of its wines are shared. The tour’s thoroughness allows guests to see every step, making it clear how much craftsmanship and care go into each bottle.

The Star Tasting: Three Decades of Amarone

The final, unforgettable part of this experience is the vertical tasting of three vintages—1998, 2008, and 2018. The 1998 wine is described as warm, mature, with soft tannins and harmonious structure, offering a glimpse into the aging potential of Amarone. The 2008 vintage is fresher and more complex, characterized by lively acidity and prominent red fruit notes. The 2018 is described as elegant and youthful, promising potential for the future with finesse and a long finish.

Adding an extra layer of exclusivity, participants get to sample a young Amarone straight from the barrique. This provides a rare opportunity to taste a wine that’s still evolving and to understand how time influences aroma, flavor, and tannins.

Why the Reviews Matter

One reviewer called it a “simply wonderful and unforgettable experience,” highlighting the warmth and kindness of the staff and the immersive nature of the tasting. The fact that the guide is both knowledgeable and friendly makes a notable difference, turning a standard tasting into a memorable educational journey.

Another reviewer appreciated the personalized, private format—perfect for groups seeking an intimate experience. The small group size (up to 6 people) allows for plenty of interaction and tailored explanations, which is often lacking in larger tours.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Tour Duration and Pricing

The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable and immersive activity without being overwhelming. The cost is $894.38 per group, which includes up to six people. While not cheap, the price reflects the exclusivity of the tour, the in-depth nature, and the access to multiple vintages.

Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins at Lenotti Cellars, located at Via Santa Cristina, 1, Bardolino, a scenic spot close to Lake Garda. Starting at 3:00 pm, the timing allows you to enjoy the vineyard’s beauty in the afternoon light. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, making it easy to plan your visit.

Accessibility and Other Considerations

The tour is private, which means only your group participates. Service animals are allowed, making it accessible for those traveling with support pets. Since the experience is focused on education and tasting, travelers should be comfortable with walking and standing for short periods during the guided portions.

Cancellation Policy

A full refund is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Amarone’s aging process and evolution. It’s perfect for those who appreciate detailed, behind-the-scenes stories and are willing to invest in a memorable, intimate tasting. If you enjoy exploring local Italian wine traditions in authentic settings, this tour hits the spot.

It’s also suited for small groups and private outings, where a personalized approach makes all the difference. Keep in mind that the price point is on the higher side, so it’s best suited for travelers seeking a premium, educational experience rather than a casual tasting.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers more than just wine tasting; it’s a journey through decades of winemaking artistry. From vineyard walks to barrel cellars, every step is designed to deepen your understanding of Amarone’s complexity and longevity. The guide’s passion and knowledge shine through, making each vintage come alive with personality and history.

While the cost may seem high, the level of detail, exclusivity, and access to rare tastings justify the price—especially for those serious about wine. It’s a rare chance to see how climate, land, and craftsmanship shape one of Italy’s most celebrated wines over time.

If you’re visiting Verona and have a keen interest in wine, this experience promises to be both educational and memorable. It’s a chance to connect deeply with the heritage of Amarone in a welcoming, authentic setting.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While it’s primarily geared toward wine lovers with some interest in Amarone, beginners who are eager to learn will also find it valuable. The guide explains each stage clearly, making it accessible.

How long does the tasting last?
The entire experience is approximately 2 hours, including the tour and tastings.

Can I participate if I only want to taste the wines?
This is a private, guided tour, so the focus is on both understanding and tasting. The detailed process and behind-the-scenes access are integral to the experience.

Is the wine tasting conducted at the end of the tour?
Yes, after the tour of the winery, the vertical tasting occurs, featuring the three vintages and the young Amarone from the barrique.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the guided tour, the vertical tastings of three vintages plus the young wine, and a platter of cold cuts, cheeses, and local products.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly mentioned, wine tours generally require participants to be of legal drinking age.

Is the tour accessible for people with physical limitations?
The tour involves some walking through vineyards, cellars, and production areas. It’s best to inquire directly with the provider about accessibility options.

In summary, this tour offers an in-depth look at Amarone’s evolution over the decades, guided by passionate professionals in an authentic setting. It’s a perfect pick for serious wine enthusiasts or those curious about Italy’s winemaking traditions who want a memorable, educational experience in Verona.