Brindisi: Wine tasting in the cellar

If you’re exploring Puglia, a wine tasting at Cantine Risveglio in Brindisi promises more than just sipping your favorite reds. It offers a chance to uncover the land’s rich viticultural heritage, guided by a passionate sommelier in an intimate, historic setting. While the experience is priced at $33 per person, it packs in plenty of value—especially for those looking to connect with authentic local flavors without a hefty price tag.

What truly sets this experience apart? First, the chance to taste five single-varietal wines—including Negroamaro and Susumaniello—each telling a story of Puglia’s terroir. Second, the warm, welcoming atmosphere of the winery, where no prior wine knowledge is needed. Third, the opportunity to buy wines directly from the cellar and have them shipped worldwide. A potential consideration? The tour doesn’t include transportation or food, so planning ahead is key.

This tasting suits anyone with an interest in wine, culture, or Italy’s less touristy side. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just wine-curious, you’ll enjoy the sensory journey that connects each glass to the land, history, and passion of Puglia.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Guided tasting of 5 single-varietal wines in a historic Brindisi winery
• Educational & Sensory: Learn about grapes and terroir without needing technical knowledge
• Atmosphere: Intimate cellar setting fostering genuine connection with winemakers and land
• Cost & Value: Just $33 per person, with options to purchase wines to take home
• Accessibility: Suitable for beginners, with multilingual guides and wheelchair access
• Cultural Focus: Combines wine tasting with storytelling about land and tradition

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Heart of the Experience: What You Can Expect

Stepping into the Risveglio Cellars, you’re immediately embraced by a sense of history and craftsmanship. The cellar ambiance is cozy and evocative, perfect for slowing down and truly savoring each sip. Led by Angelo Brandi, a professional sommelier, the tasting is designed to be accessible and engaging, regardless of your prior wine knowledge.

The Guided Tasting of Five Wines

The core of the experience is a guided tasting of five carefully selected single-varietal wines: Negroamaro, Susumaniello, Nero di Troia, Riserva DOC Brindisi, and Verdeca. Each wine is presented with stories that connect its flavor profile to the land and climate of the region. For example, Negroamaro, known for its deep, earthy character, embodies the rustic charm of Apulian vineyards. Susumaniello, a lesser-known grape, surprises visitors with its lively acidity and vibrant color, as one reviewer noted, “It was fascinating to taste a variety I’d never heard of before.”

The Role of the Sommelier: Angelo Brandi

Angelo’s expertise shines through as he guides guests through the aromas, colors, and emotions each wine evokes. His approach is unpretentious and warm, making the experience suitable for those just beginning to explore wine. According to reviews, Angelo shares stories and insights that deepen appreciation, like how the vineyards’ proximity to the sea influences the wines’ minerality.

The Winery Tour & Atmosphere

Beyond tasting, you’ll enjoy a brief tour of the winery facilities. While not a full production visit, it provides a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind each bottle. The setting is intimate, fostering conversations and questions. Guests mention how the welcoming atmosphere makes it feel like visiting a friend’s cellar rather than a commercial operation.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Final Touch: Wine Purchase & Shipping

One of the unique perks is the chance to buy your favorite bottles directly from the winery. With options for worldwide shipping, this makes the experience tangible beyond the tasting room. Several reviewers appreciated this convenience, noting that “it’s rare to find such authentic wines available for delivery straight from the source.”

Analyzing Value: Price, Duration, and Content

At $33 per person, this tasting provides excellent value, especially considering the quality of wines, guide expertise, and the intimate environment. The experience lasts about an hour, making it a manageable addition to a day of exploring Brindisi.

While transportation isn’t included, the location is accessible for most travelers staying in Brindisi. The inclusion of five distinct wines ensures a well-rounded introduction to Puglia’s grape varieties, each linked to a story about the land and its history. For beginners, the lack of technical jargon is a bonus—just come with curiosity and an appetite for new flavors.

What Makes This Tasting Stand Out?

The authenticity of this experience is its biggest draw. Unlike large, commercial tastings, here you’re immersed in a personal dialogue with a local expert. The wines are showcased in their purest form, emphasizing terroir and tradition.

Guests often mention how the stories shared about each grape and vineyard deepen their connection to the region. One reviewer appreciated how Angelo’s explanations made the tasting more meaningful: “It wasn’t just about drinking wine, but understanding what makes Puglia special.”

The Wines and Their Stories

• Negroamaro: Known for its deep, robust flavor, representing the rustic soul of Puglia.
• Susumaniello: A lesser-known grape, lively and vibrant, often described as “a hidden gem” in reviews.
• Nero di Troia: Offering a complex profile with hints of dark berries and spice, a favorite among enthusiasts.
• Riserva DOC Brindisi: An elegant, aged wine showcasing the region’s capability for refinement.
• Verdeca: The white grape variety, providing a refreshing contrast with floral and citrus notes.

Guests have remarked that tasting these wines side-by-side offers a broader understanding of Puglia’s diversity. The stories behind each grape, combined with Angelo’s engaging narration, transform the tasting from mere drinking into an educational journey.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Plan your arrival: Since transportation isn’t included, consider how you’ll get to the winery—whether by taxi or local transit.
• Time your visit: Check the availability and starting times in advance—tastings are typically scheduled for a specific 1-hour window.
• Bring curiosity: No prior wine knowledge is needed, but approaching with questions or a desire to learn will enhance your experience.
• Wines to buy: If you find a favorite, take advantage of the opportunity to purchase and ship wines home—ideal for those wanting a taste of Italy once back home.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair access is available, but it’s wise to confirm with the provider for any special needs.

Who Is This Experience Perfect For?

This tasting suits travelers who want more than just a sip—those eager to learn about the land, the grapes, and the culture behind Puglia’s wines. It’s especially ideal for beginners or casual wine enthusiasts who appreciate storytelling and authenticity.

It’s also a great choice for small groups or couples seeking an intimate, cultural activity that offers genuine connection without a steep price. If you’re short on time but want a meaningful taste of Puglia’s wine scene, this experience provides a perfect slice of local flavor.

FAQs

Is transportation included? No, transportation to and from the winery is not included, so plan your own way to reach Brindisi’s Risveglio Cellars.

How long does the tasting last? The experience generally lasts about one hour, offering enough time for tasting, storytelling, and a brief tour.

Can I buy wines during the experience? Yes, guests have the opportunity to purchase wines directly from the winery, with worldwide shipping available.

Is this experience suitable for beginners? Absolutely. The tasting is designed to be accessible, with no technical knowledge required, and Angelo’s friendly approach makes it easy to follow.

Are there any restrictions? The experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women or children under 18. Also, audio recording isn’t allowed.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible? Yes, the cellar is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm any specific needs with the provider.

What varieties will I taste? Expect to sample five single-varietal wines: Negroamaro, Susumaniello, Nero di Troia, Riserva DOC Brindisi, and Verdeca.

What’s included in the price? Guided tasting of five wines, an introduction to their history and the land, a winery tour, and the chance to purchase wines.

What languages are available? The experience is offered in Italian and English, ensuring clear communication.

Final Word

This wine tasting at Cantine Risveglio offers an authentic taste of Puglia’s viticultural soul in a setting that feels welcoming and genuine. With expert guidance, a focus on storytelling, and the chance to purchase wines to take home, it provides a well-rounded and memorable experience for those curious about Italy’s lesser-known wine regions. Whether you’re a casual sipper or an aspiring wine connoisseur, this journey into Apulia’s flavors is a worthwhile addition to your Italian adventure.

Ideal for travelers eager to explore regional culture through wine, those wanting a relaxed yet educational activity, and anyone who appreciates authentic, personal experiences in Italy.

You can check if your dates are available here: