Valeggio: Perlage d’Autore, a journey through bubbles of excellence

Imagine walking into a peaceful village, surrounded by rolling vineyards and centuries-old stone buildings, and then being taken on a sparkling wine journey that feels both personal and deeply rooted in tradition. That’s what you can expect from Corte Fornello’s Perlage d’Autore tour in the Valeggio area of Vicenza. This experience offers more than just tasting wines; it’s a chance to learn, savor, and connect with Italy’s sparkling wine craft in an intimate setting.

What we love about this tour is the personalized attention from the owners, the chance to visit an 18th-century cellar, and the excellent selection of sparkling wines. It’s crafted for those who truly want to understand what makes Italian bubbles special, whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned enthusiast. The only thing to keep in mind is that this is a small-group experience—meaning you’ll want to book in advance. Ideal for lovers of fine wine, culture, and authentic stories about Italy’s rich wine-making heritage.

Good To Know

• Intimate, guided experience with the owners of Corte Fornello, adding a personal touch.
• Visit to an 18th-century cellar, providing a glimpse into historic wine-making surroundings.
• Carefully curated tasting of some of the winery’s best sparkling wines, paired with local snacks.
• Authentic, relaxed environment ideal for wine lovers and curious travelers.
• Small group size (max 15 people) ensures personalized attention.
• Includes bottled water and snacks like salami, cheese, and bread for a full sensory experience.

An in-depth look at the Perlage d’Autore Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Corte Fornello’s Perlage d’Autore is not your typical winery visit. It’s a thoughtfully designed experience that emphasizes authenticity and personal engagement. The owners are directly involved, guiding visitors through their passion for sparkling wines, which instantly makes the whole experience feel genuine and heartfelt.

The tour’s highlight is the visit to an 18th-century cellar, a lovely spot to soak in the history and charm of traditional wine storage. It’s a chance for visitors to enjoy a sense of stepping back in time, surrounded by barrels and stone walls that have witnessed generations of winemaking. For history buffs and lovers of old-world ambiance, this aspect adds a layer of depth many other tasting experiences lack.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The experience begins at Corte Fornello, a welcoming estate situated in the tranquil village of Fornello. The first part is a guided tour lasting about 40 minutes, where you’ll learn the secrets behind the production of sparkling wines, from grape to bottle. The owners share stories and insights, making it clear that their approach combines tradition with a personal touch.

Following this, the focus shifts to the tasting session, which lasts about 80 minutes. Here, you’ll sample some of the best wines the winery has to offer, paired with local delights—salami, cheese, and bread—creating a perfect balance of flavors that enhance the tasting experience. Reviewers have described this part as a moment of “taste and relaxation immersed in tradition,” emphasizing the quality of the wines and the thoughtful pairing.

What Do You Receive?

The tour includes bottled water and the snacks, adding value and comfort, especially on warm days. The price of $57.79 per person is reasonable considering the detailed guided experience, the personal attention, and the exclusive visit to a historic cellar. It’s a well-rounded package designed to give a genuine taste of Italy’s sparkling wine culture.

The Experience’s Pacing and Group Size

With a max of 15 travelers, you’ll find the group small enough for personalized engagement but large enough for lively group dynamics. The two-hour duration is just right, allowing plenty of time to absorb information and savor the wines without feeling rushed.

What Do Past Guests Say?

One reviewer had the chance to experience the tour with Maria, who explained the journey of sparkling wine from vine to bottle. They noted that the guide’s explanation of each production stage was both clear and engaging, providing insight into what makes these wines unique. The reviewer said, “It was wonderful to learn about the different stages of production” and appreciated the passion Maria shared.

Practical Considerations

• The tour begins at Località Fornello, 6—easy to reach if you’re already exploring Vicenza or nearby.
• It’s accessible for most travelers; service animals are allowed.
• You must be 18+ to enjoy the wine, but soft drinks are available for minors.
• Transportation is not included, so plan your arrival accordingly—most likely a short drive or taxi.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

For travelers interested in experiencing Italy beyond the usual sights, this tour offers a genuine insight into the craft of sparkling wine. The combination of historical cellar visits, personal guidance from passionate owners, and excellent wine makes it a memorable and valuable outing.

Compared to larger, less personal winery visits, this experience provides small-group intimacy that enhances learning and enjoyment. The attention to dietary needs and the thoughtful pairing of local snacks underscore the tour’s commitment to a well-rounded sensory journey.

Bonus: Authenticity and Local Charm

The setting in Fornello, away from tourist-heavy areas, adds to the sense of authenticity. You’ll feel like a guest in someone’s private cellar rather than just another tour participant. The owners’ passion is palpable, and their willingness to answer questions makes it a very engaging experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re a wine enthusiast intrigued by Italian sparkling wines, this tour is a must. It also suits those looking for a relaxed, educational experience with a personal touch. Travelers who enjoy discovering local traditions and history will find the visit to the 18th-century cellar especially captivating. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or curious solo travelers who want quality time with knowledgeable hosts.

FAQs

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point at Località Fornello.

Are soft drinks available for minors?
Yes, minors will be served soft drinks, as only guests 18 and older can taste the sparkling wines.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately two hours from start to finish.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes guided visit, wine tasting of the winery’s best wines, bottled water, and snacks like salami, cheese, and bread.

Is the experience suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, those under 18 will only be served soft drinks.

What makes the cellar visit special?
The cellar is from the 18th century, offering a glimpse into traditional wine storage, adding a historic touch to your experience.

How personalized is the tour?
With a maximum of 15 participants, the experience offers personalized attention and the chance to ask questions directly to the owners.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample some of the finest sparkling wines the winery produces, carefully curated for this tasting.

Final thoughts

This Perlage d’Autore tour at Corte Fornello delivers a well-balanced blend of history, craftsmanship, and genuine hospitality. The small-group format ensures you receive personal attention and a deep dive into Italy’s sparkling wine artistry. The visit to the historic cellar and the chance to taste some excellent wines paired with local fare makes this experience stand out from typical winery visits.

It’s an ideal choice for wine lovers seeking an authentic, educational, and relaxed outing. The value lies not just in the wines but in the chance to connect with passionate hosts and experience a piece of Italy’s sparkling wine legacy firsthand.

For travelers exploring Vicenza or nearby regions, this tour offers a meaningful, flavorful, and memorable highlight—one that will leave you with more than just a taste of wine, but an appreciation for Italy’s craftsmanship and tradition.