Classic: Lunch with Wine Tasting at Poggio ai Laghi Winery

A Taste of Tuscany: Lunch and Wine Tasting at Poggio ai Laghi Winery

Imagine sitting amidst the stone walls and soft lighting of a traditional Chianti winery, savoring Tuscan fare while discovering the stories behind each glass of wine. That’s exactly what you get with the Classic Lunch with Wine Tasting at Poggio ai Laghi, a popular experience in Tuscany that scores an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from dozens of reviews.

This experience isn’t just about drinking wine; it’s about connecting with the land, its flavors, and its traditions. We love its knowledgeable guides, the quality of the wines and food, and the chance to learn about the art of winemaking in a relaxed setting. One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t a full estate tour, so if you’re eager to see the vineyard, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Perfect for wine lovers and those eager to enjoy authentic Tuscan flavors without a full-day commitment, this experience offers a taste of the region’s soul.

Good To Know

• Authentic Tuscan atmosphere with warm hospitality and traditional decor
• Expert-guided tasting of premium Poggio ai Laghi wines, oils, and vinegars
• Delicious paired menu including local cured meats, cheeses, and classic lasagna
• Educational insights into winemaking, inspired by Tuscan legends and art
• All-inclusive tasting experience with balsamic, olive oils, and appetizers
• Wheelchair accessible and suitable for short visits with flexible cancellation

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes This Experience Stand Out

This tour offers a compact yet rich immersion into the heart of Chianti’s wine culture, perfect for travelers who want a meaningful taste of Tuscany without spending an entire day on the road. At just $59 per person for two hours, it provides excellent value, especially considering the high-quality wines, expert guidance, and thoughtfully paired foods.

The setting is charming, with stone walls and soft lighting creating an inviting atmosphere that feels both refined and authentic. The experience is led by a knowledgeable wine expert who not only guides you through tastings but also shares stories about the legend of Donna Ava, the muse behind Poggio ai Laghi’s labels, adding an extra layer of cultural interest.

The Itinerary in Detail

Arrival and Welcome

Guests are greeted warmly, often by guides like Donatella or Marco, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. The focus is on creating a convivial atmosphere where learning and tasting go hand in hand. You might find yourself surrounded by other like-minded wine enthusiasts, but groups are usually intimate enough to foster engaging conversations.

Wine and Olive Oil Tasting

The core of the experience is a guided tasting of five Poggio ai Laghi wines, starting with Arella Spumante Cuvée Extra Dry and Lucilla Chianti Classico DOCG. You’ll get to nose and sip these wines, with explanations of what makes each unique. Reviewers mention that the sommelier is “informative and goes above and beyond,” making the tasting both educational and enjoyable.

Alongside wines, you’ll sample premium olive oils like Truffle, Chili Pepper, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil, which are crafted to highlight the land’s flavors. The inclusion of balsamic vinegars—notably the Modena IGP Selezione Oro and Lacrime Viola Onion-flavored Vinegar—adds another layer of complexity to your tasting journey.

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The Food Pairings

The lunch menu is designed to complement the wines beautifully. It features Tuscan cured meats such as salami, finocchiona, and prosciutto crudo, paired with pecorino cheese and bruschetta topped with fresh tomato and basil. The main course is a hearty lasagna with Tuscan meat ragù, which reviewers describe as “delicious” and “perfectly paired” with the wines.

For dessert, you’ll enjoy Cantuccini with Vin Santo, a classic Tuscan pairing that completes the meal effortlessly. The quality of the ingredients and the careful pairing elevate what might otherwise be a simple lunch into a memorable culinary experience.

Additional Tasting Highlights

Guests often comment on the high quality of the balsamic vinegars—especially the Onion-flavored Vinegar, which adds a surprising twist—and the olive oils, particularly the White Truffle and Chili Pepper varieties, which provide flavorful accents to the meal.

The Legend and Art of Poggio ai Laghi

A standout aspect, praised in multiple reviews, is the story behind the wines. The labels are inspired by Donna Ava and her seven handmaidens, symbolizing strength and harmony. The guide shares this legend, along with insights into the art and history that influence the winery. It adds a storytelling dimension that deepens the tasting, making each sip more meaningful.

What to Expect from the Experience

This experience is designed to be both educational and relaxing. It lasts about 2 hours, making it manageable even for tight schedules. While it doesn’t include a full estate or vineyard tour, the guided tasting of wines, oils, and vinegars offers a detailed look into the craftsmanship and traditions of Poggio ai Laghi.

Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, often mentioning how much they learned about the winemaking process, from vineyard practices to bottling. The wheelchair accessibility means that a broad range of travelers can enjoy this experience.

Practical Considerations

• Timing & Duration: It’s a short but impactful experience, perfect for an afternoon break or as part of a broader Tuscany itinerary.
• Price & Value: At $59, you receive a comprehensive tasting, a delicious Tuscan meal, and expert guidance—making this quite good value.
• Inclusions & Extras: The tasting includes 2 sparkling and 3 red wines, with oils and vinegars that you may want to purchase to take home (many reviewers do).

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re a wine enthusiast eager to learn about the Chianti region’s wines and stories, you’ll appreciate the detailed guidance and high-quality tastings. Food lovers will enjoy the carefully curated pairing menu, especially if you like authentic Tuscan flavors like cured meats, cheese, and lasagna.

Travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate setting with meaningful cultural insights will find this experience rewarding. It’s also ideal for those with limited time in Tuscany but who still want an authentic, memorable taste of the region’s wine and culinary heritage.

The Sum Up

The Poggio ai Laghi Lunch with Wine Tasting offers an authentic slice of Tuscany in a cozy, elegant setting. Its combination of excellent wines, paired local foods, and storytelling from passionate guides creates an experience that feels both educational and convivial. The inclusion of oils and vinegars adds a delightful extra dimension, perfect for tasting and souvenir shopping.

This tour excels at delivering value—great wines, delicious food, and engaging insights—all within a compact two-hour window. It’s best suited for wine lovers, foodies, and anyone wanting a taste of Tuscan tradition without a full-day commitment.

While not a full estate tour, it compensates with a genuine focus on the sensory pleasures and stories that make Tuscany special. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a delightful afternoon, this experience provides a memorable, flavorful snapshot of Chianti’s charm.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for different mobility needs.

How long does the experience last?
It typically lasts about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each part of the tasting comfortably.

Are the wines included in the price?
Yes, the tasting includes 2 Spumante and 3 Red Wines, plus oils and vinegars.

Can I purchase wines or oils to take home?
Absolutely. Many guests buy bottles of wine, vinegar, and oil after the tasting, often mentioning how much they enjoyed the quality.

Is there a full estate or vineyard tour?
No, this experience focuses on tasting and storytelling rather than a full tour of the vineyard.

What is the menu like?
The food features Tuscan cured meats, pecorino, bruschetta, lasagna with meat ragù, and a dessert of Cantuccini with Vin Santo.

Is transportation included?
No, the experience does not include pick-up or drop-off, so plan your transport accordingly.

Is this experience suitable for children or teenagers?
While mainly aimed at adults, the tasting nature may not be ideal for very young children, but teenagers with an interest in wine and food should enjoy it.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Embark on this flavorful journey to discover the heart of Tuscan wine and cuisine—an experience packed with stories, flavors, and genuine hospitality that will leave you with lasting memories of Chianti.

You can check if your dates are available here: