Guided tour and tasting with platter.

A Closer Look at the Guided Wine Tour and Tasting with Platter in Veneto

If you’re exploring Veneto and looking for a genuine, flavorful experience beyond just tasting wine at a local restaurant, this guided tour with tasting at Corte Badin offers a wonderful peek into the tradition and craft of winemaking. Tucked into the Valpolicella Classica region, the family-owned winery has been producing wine since 1931, maintaining a deep connection to the land and craft.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love that it combines a visit to the historic vineyards with the chance to sample multiple wines directly from the source. Second, the opportunity to taste a rare Amarone salami—something you won’t find just anywhere—adds a unique local flavor. Lastly, the setting itself, perched on a south-facing hill in one of Italy’s most prized wine regions, makes the experience special.

A potential consideration? The tour’s restrictions, like being unsuitable for pregnant women, children under 18, and wheelchair users, mean it’s best suited for those able to comfortably participate in a tasting and walking environment. If you’re traveling with family or have mobility concerns, this might not be the ideal fit.

This experience is perfect for wine lovers, those eager to learn about Valpolicella’s traditions, and anyone who appreciates authentic, family-run operations. It offers a taste of history, culture, and craftsmanship all in one.

Good To Know

• Authentic Family-Owned Winery: Operated by the Bonazzi family since 1931, maintaining their land and tradition.
• Unique Tasting Experience: Includes four wines and a limited-production Amarone salami.
• Stunning Location: Located on a south-facing hill in the Valpolicella Classica, with scenic vineyard views.
• Educational and Cultural: Offers insight into the local wine-making traditions and history.
• All-Inclusive Tasting: Features a platter with local cheeses and cold cuts, perfectly paired with wines.
• Accessible: The tour is wheelchair accessible and available in Italian, English, and Russian.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Veneto Wine Experience in Detail

The Setting and Location

The tour begins at the parking area near Villa Badin, a charming starting point that hints at the elegance of what’s to come. The winery itself is situated in the heart of the Valpolicella Classica, a designation that emphasizes its role as one of the original and most esteemed wine zones in Italy. This small, exclusive area was the sole producer of Amarone, Recioto, and Valpolicella wines before the DOC and DOCG boundaries expanded in 1968.

The winery’s elevation on a south-facing hill provides not only excellent sunlight for the vineyards but also incredible vistas over the surrounding countryside. The 8 hectares of vineyards are primarily planted with vines but also include olive and cherry trees, adding to the region’s agricultural charm. This land has been cultivated with dedication by the Bonazzi family since the late 1700s, which adds an extra layer of authenticity and respect for tradition.

The Visit to Vineyards and Winery

The tour itself lasts around two hours, during which you will explore both the vineyards and the winery’s production areas. The guides, likely with a wealth of local knowledge, will walk you through the process of how the family has maintained their craft across multiple generations.

Expect to hear stories about how the land has been cared for over centuries, and how the family’s approach balances tradition with modern techniques. Reviews indicate that the guides are personable and knowledgeable, making the visit engaging without feeling overly formal. You’ll get a good sense of the land’s significance and how it influences the character of the wines.

Tasting and Local Platter

The highlight of the experience is, of course, the tasting. You will sample four wines: Valpolicella Superiore, Valpolicella Ripasso, Camponi IGT, and Beso IGT. The wines are served alongside a platter of local cheeses and cold cuts, which enhances the tasting experience. This pairing allows you to appreciate the flavors and textures that are typical of the region, making each sip of wine even more memorable.

One of the standout moments, according to reviews, is the chance to taste the Amarone salami, a rare product made in limited quantities. This salami is a true highlight for those interested in regional specialties, providing a delicious, savory companion to the wines.

Guests have noted that the wines are well-presented, with some describing the Valpolicella Superiore as “smooth and flavorful” and the Ripasso as “rich with a good balance of fruit and spice.” The experience is designed to be accessible, even for those new to wine tasting, but also rewarding for connoisseurs who appreciate the nuances of Amarone and other traditional styles.

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Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour is available in multiple languages, including Italian, English, and Russian, making it accessible for a broad range of travelers. It’s wheelchair accessible, though note that the tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women, due to the nature of the tastings.

The experience is flexible, offering free cancellation if you decide to change your plans more than 24 hours in advance. You can reserve your spot without immediate payment, providing peace of mind in case your schedule shifts.

Value and Pricing

While the exact price isn’t specified here, the tour’s inclusivity of four wines, a local platter, and a guided vineyard visit suggests strong value, especially considering the age and reputation of the winery. It’s a relatively short experience at around two hours but packed with educational and sensory elements that justify the cost for many travelers.

Final Impressions

What we love most about this tour is how it combines tradition, scenery, and tasting in a way that feels genuine and personal. You’re not just sampling wine; you’re understanding the story behind each bottle, the land that produces it, and the family that’s preserved these traditions for generations.

The only caveat is that it requires some mobility and is geared towards adults interested in wine and local culture. If you’re seeking a relaxed, authentic experience with a focus on quality and background stories, this tour checks many boxes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Valpolicella’s signature wines and history. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic, family-run operations and want a scenic, educational outing. If you’re traveling with children or require wheelchair access, this might not be the best fit.

It’s also suited for travelers who value small-group, intimate experiences over large commercial tours. If you enjoy pairing wines with local foods and hearing stories directly from the producers, you’ll find this quite rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 years, as it involves wine tasting and adult-oriented content.

Can pregnant women participate?
No, pregnant women are advised not to join due to the wine tasting element.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm with the provider for specific needs.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately two hours, including the vineyard visit and tasting.

What wines are included in the tasting?
You will taste Valpolicella Superiore, Valpolicella Ripasso, Camponi IGT, and Beso IGT, along with a rare Amarone salami.

Are the wines served with food?
Yes, a platter of cold cuts and cheeses from the region accompanies the wines, enhancing the tasting.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a specific dress code?
No special dress code is required, but comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking are recommended.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides speak Italian, English, and Russian, catering to a diverse group of travelers.

To sum it up, this guided tour at Corte Badin offers a truly authentic taste of Veneto’s wine-making tradition. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines scenic beauty, historical insight, and delicious local flavors. Whether you’re a serious wine lover or simply curious about Italian wines, this tour provides value, education, and memorable moments—making it a standout addition to any Veneto itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: