Exploring the Amarone Vertical Tasting of Historic Vintages in Veneto
Recently, we came across a compelling experience for wine lovers: a 3-hour tour that offers an in-depth look at one of Italy’s most celebrated wines, Amarone della Valpolicella. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the details paint a picture of a thoughtful, immersive journey into the heart of this DOCG wine’s world—perfect for those eager to understand its evolution over years and what makes it truly special.
What really caught our attention are three things: the chance to compare multiple vintages side-by-side, the insight into traditional winemaking techniques, and the opportunity to taste a rare selection of organic Amarone and Recioto. A potential drawback? The experience is quite focused on wine education, so if you’re expecting a lively, party-style tasting, this might feel more intimate and scholarly.
This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their knowledge, visitors interested in Italian winemaking traditions, or anyone wanting a meaningful, relaxed experience that combines history with tastings.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Historical Vintage Comparison: See how Amarone develops over different years.
- Authentic Production Process: Tour the winery’s vinification and aging areas.
- Gourmet Pairings: Enjoy organic bread, olive oil, cold cuts, cheeses, and dessert.
- Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable guides, with content available in English and Italian.
- Authentic, Organic Focus: The estate emphasizes sustainable, organic practices.
- Value for Money: A well-rounded experience for $65 including tastings and food.
Enjoying the local flavors? More Negrar Di Valpolicella food experiences we've written about
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
Starting Point: The Vineyard and Winery Tour
The experience begins at the Ca’ Besi vineyard, where you’ll meet your guide and get a behind-the-scenes look at the land that produces these legendary grapes. The estate offers a glimpse into organic farming practices, which appeal to eco-conscious travelers and add an extra layer of appreciation for the wine. The tour continues through the vinification and aging areas, giving you a visual understanding of how Amarone is crafted—from grape to bottle. Visitors often comment on the well-maintained facilities and the guide’s ability to explain complex processes simply, making it accessible for wine novices and aficionados alike.
Tasting of Historic Vintages
The heart of the tour is the vertical tasting of four distinct Amarone vintages: 2010, 2015, 2019, and 2018. Each vintage offers a different story, and tasting them side-by-side reveals how aging and climatic conditions influence flavor profiles. The 2010, for example, might be more developed and complex, while the 2019 could still be lively and fresh.
The selection includes both classic and bio-certified Amarone, highlighting the estate’s commitment to organic practices. The 2018 Austernia vintage, a more recent release, provides insight into current winemaking trends and styles. The tasting concludes with a sweet Recioto della Valpolicella 2021, which pairs beautifully with desserts, and is served with a glass to finish the experience on a high note.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyFood Pairings and Presentation
We appreciate that the experience incorporates local, high-quality food pairings. Guests are welcomed with fresh bread, organic extra virgin olive oil, and a carefully curated selection of cold cuts and cheeses. These are chosen to complement each vintage, enhancing the tasting. Desserts served with the Recioto are a thoughtful touch, offering a full sensory experience.
The food offerings are well thought out, balancing flavors without overpowering the wines. Guests with allergies or specific dietary needs are encouraged to communicate ahead of time—this winery seems keen on accommodating special requirements, which adds value especially for those with dietary restrictions.
The Guide and Atmosphere
The tour is led in English and Italian, making it accessible to a diverse group. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the friendly, family-run atmosphere — one reviewer from the Netherlands said it’s a “bijzonder familie wijnhuis,” noting the personal touch that makes the visit memorable. The tour’s atmosphere is relaxed, educational, and intimate, perfect for those who prefer quality over quantity.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For $65, you get a comprehensive experience: the vineyard and winery visits, four vintage tastings, a glass of Recioto, and high-quality food pairings. However, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan your own transfer—something to consider if you’re coming from afar or not staying nearby.
The tour lasts about 3 hours, which balances enough time to savor the wines and learn, without feeling rushed. Group sizes are not specified, but reviews hint at a personalized experience rather than a large, noisy crowd.
Why This Experience Offers Great Value
The $65 price point might seem modest given the depth of the tasting and educational content. It’s a solid investment for wine enthusiasts eager to see how Amarone ages and evolves—something rare to find outside of a professional cellar visit or a dedicated wine region experience. The inclusion of organic wines and authentic pairings adds to its value, especially for travelers seeking genuine, well-rounded tastings.
The Experience’s Strengths
- Educational focus: Perfect for those wanting to learn, not just taste.
- Authentic production insights: You get a view into traditional winemaking and aging.
- Tasting of multiple vintages: Helps understand the impact of different years.
- Organic wines and sustainable approach: Appeals to eco-aware visitors.
- Quality pairings: Enhances the tasting with local flavors.
- Family-run atmosphere: Adds warmth and authenticity.
Possible Considerations
- No transportation included: May require extra planning.
- Focused experience: Not suitable for someone seeking a lively party atmosphere.
- Language availability: Content mainly in English and Italian, so check your preferred language beforehand.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This structured, immersive experience is best suited for wine aficionados who want a deeper understanding of Amarone’s nuances. It’s ideal for those interested in Italian wine traditions and organic practices, as well as travelers eager to learn from passionate local producers. If you prefer casual, fast-paced tastings, this may feel a little slow, but for anyone wanting to really grasp what makes Amarone special, this tour offers a rewarding glimpse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included in the tour?
No, the tour price does not include transfers. You will need to arrange your own transportation to and from the vineyard.
Can I participate if I don’t speak Italian or English?
The tour is offered in both English and Italian, so check availability for your language when booking.
What does the tour include?
It includes a visit to the vineyards and winery, tastings of four different Amarone vintages, a glass of Recioto, and food pairings with organic bread, olive oil, cold cuts, and cheeses.
Are there any special accommodations for dietary restrictions?
Yes, the winery asks that you inform them of allergies or special requirements when booking, and they will try to accommodate.
How long is the experience?
The entire tour lasts roughly 3 hours, allowing sufficient time for sightseeing, tasting, and learning.
Is this suitable for children or pregnant women?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on wine tasting and alcohol consumption suggests it’s best suited for adults. Check with the provider directly if you have specific concerns.
Final Thoughts
For travelers who appreciate a thoughtful, authentic approach to wine tasting, especially those interested in historic vintages and traditional winemaking techniques, this Amarone experience presents excellent value. It combines education, authentic production insights, and quality pairings into a compact, memorable session. Though it’s not a party scene, the warm atmosphere and knowledgeable guides make it a worthwhile detour into Italy’s esteemed wine culture.
Ideal for serious wine lovers, curious travelers, or those who want to understand Amarone’s complexity, this tour promises a meaningful exploration of one of Italy’s most iconic wines—and a chance to taste history in a glass.
You can check if your dates are available here: