Boutique Winery Tour & Tasting in North Tuscany

If you’re searching for an authentic, intimate experience that captures the heart of Tuscany’s wine culture without the crowds, this Boutique Winery Tour & Tasting in North Tuscany might just be your perfect match. While I haven’t done this specific tour myself, I’ve gathered detailed insights to help you understand what makes it special—and whether it fits your travel style.

What we love about this experience is its small-group intimacy, the chance to learn directly from passionate local guides, and the opportunity to enjoy small-batch wines made with native grapes. Plus, the scenic walk through vineyards and the visit to the barrel room add a tangible sense of place. The only thing to consider is that it’s a relatively short tour—lasting about 1.5 hours—so if you’re seeking a longer, more comprehensive wine tour, you might want to explore additional options.

This experience caters best to lovers of authentic wine experiences, scenic countryside, and culinary pairing. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or even solo travelers who appreciate learning about the winemaking process in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Good To Know

• Intimate Small-Group Setting: Limited to 10 guests, offering personalized attention
• Focused on Native Grape Varieties: Wines made with local grapes like Merlot, Pinot Noir, Vermentino, and Chardonnay
• Two-Part Experience: Vineyard walk and visit to the barrel room deepen your understanding
• Tastings & Food Pairings: Four wines paired with cheeses and cured meats
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable family staff who share stories about the winery’s history and methods
• Affordable Value: At just over $50, it offers a genuine taste of Tuscany’s boutique wine scene

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point: Podere Fedespina

Your journey begins at Podere Fedespina, a charming countryside estate located near La Spezia and Massa, on the border between Cinque Terre and Tuscany. The location itself is a highlight, with lush vineyards and a peaceful setting that instantly transports you away from city noise. Guests are greeted by the friendly family staff who run the winery, setting a warm tone for the experience.

Vineyard Walk & Barrel Room Visit

The tour includes a 10-minute walk through the vineyards, which is a relaxing way to soak in the rolling Tuscan landscape. During this walk, guides share stories about the history of the estate—some of which tie back to the Malaspina Marquises—and highlight how the surrounding terrain influences the wines. You’ll also get to visit the barrel room, where the aging process takes shape. The real value here is seeing how tradition and craftsmanship come together to produce these small-batch, carefully crafted wines.

Wine Tasting & Food Pairings

The core of the experience is a 45-minute tasting of four wines made from indigenous grapes, including Spinorosso IGT Toscana Rosso, Fedespina IGT Toscana Rosso, Ca’ IGT Toscana Rosso, and Bianco Fedespina IGT Toscana. Each offers a unique story—ranging from medieval roots to territory expression—accompanied by local cheeses and ham.

Leonie, one reviewer, described it as “very interesting and the wine was great,” appreciating how the family’s friendly, helpful attitude made the tasting even more enjoyable. Another guest, Davide, mentioned how “walking in the rows of vineyards” and discovering the story behind each wine was a “spectacular” part of the experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Additional Visit & Tasting

Following the initial tasting, there’s a second stop—another 35-minute session—which allows more time to explore, ask questions, and savor the wines. The guides discuss the winemaking process—de-stemming, crushing, fermentation, and aging—all explained in a way that’s accessible even if you’re new to wine.

Wrap-Up & Return

The tour concludes back at Podere Fedespina, leaving you with a richer understanding of the wines and the land. Water is provided throughout, and the experience is designed to be relaxed and engaging.

The Value of the Experience

At $53.01 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized attention, the quality of wines, and the inclusion of food pairings. The small-group setting ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guides’ local knowledge makes all the difference—both in storytelling and in answering questions.

The focus on native grape varieties and traditional winemaking practices means you’re not just tasting wine—you’re learning about the land, history, and culture that shape each bottle. The fact that the wines are made with minimal sulfites and respect for the environment adds to their authentic appeal.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers eager to understand small-batch, regional wines. It’s also well-suited for travelers wanting a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of storytelling. Because of its intimate size and relaxed pace, it’s great for couples, families, or small groups who value quality over quantity.

If you’re looking for a more extensive or high-energy tour, this might feel a bit brief. But for those wanting a genuine, unhurried look into Tuscany’s boutique winemaking, it hits the spot.

Everything You Need to Know

Duration: 1.5 hours—check availability for specific start times.
Price: $53.01 per person, including four wine tastings and food pairings.
Location: Podere Fedespina, near La Spezia and Massa.
Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
Languages: Tours are conducted in Italian and English.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, but not suitable for pregnant women.
Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the experience is mainly focused on tasting wines and learning about winemaking, it’s best suited for adults or families with older children, as it involves walking and tasting.

Can I buy extra wines during the tour?
Yes, guests can purchase additional wines separately after the tasting.

How long is the drive from La Spezia or Massa?
It takes about 40-45 minutes by car from either city, making it a convenient half-day trip.

Are the wines locally produced?
Absolutely. The wines are made at Podere Fedespina using native grapes and traditional methods.

Will I learn about the winemaking process?
Yes, guides will explain steps like de-stemming, crushing, fermentation, malolactic fermentation, and aging—ensuring you leave with knowledge, not just tasting notes.

Is the tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Tours are offered in Italian and English, so language support is available.

What is the best way to book this experience?
It’s recommended to reserve in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and confirm availability.

Final Thoughts

This boutique winery tour offers a genuinely charming look into the heart of North Tuscany’s small-scale wine production. You’ll enjoy a peaceful walk through vineyards, engage with passionate local guides, and taste a selection of carefully crafted wines paired with regional delicacies—all in a setting that feels both intimate and authentic.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate quality, storytelling, and a slower pace. If you’re after a true taste of Tuscany’s winemaking soul without the crowds, this experience offers great value and memorable moments.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply exploring Italy’s rich wine landscape, this tour provides a lovely balance of education, scenery, and flavor—crafted for those who cherish authentic, unpretentious experiences.

You can check if your dates are available here: