Greve in Chianti: Cooking Class with Chianti Wine Tasting

Greve in Chianti: Cooking Class with Chianti Wine Tasting — An Authentic Taste of Tuscany

If you’re dreaming of a true Tuscan experience, this cooking class in Greve in Chianti might just be what you’re looking for. Set on a family-run farm, it combines the joy of cooking with the pleasures of wine, all in a peaceful countryside environment. Although we haven’t tried it personally, reviews highlight its warm atmosphere, delicious food, and expert hosts making it a memorable way to connect with Tuscany’s culinary roots.

What we love about this experience? First, you get to learn how to craft traditional Tuscan dishes in an ancient kitchen, adding a layer of authenticity to every bite. Second, the opportunity to taste Chianti Classico wine directly from a cellar, paired with your meal, offers a genuine taste of local craftsmanship. Third, the picturesque setting—surrounded by vineyards and olive trees—makes every moment feel like a postcard. A possible drawback? You’ll need to arrange your own transportation since the farm isn’t accessible by public transit, which is worth considering if you’re relying on local buses or taxis.

This tour is perfect for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see a more authentic side of Tuscany beyond the usual tourist spots. It suits travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences and soaking up local culture in a relaxed, rural setting.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Tuscan Cuisine: Learn to prepare traditional dishes like homemade pasta, peposo, and tiramisu using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Beautiful Setting: The farm’s garden offers an idyllic backdrop of vineyards and olive groves, perfect for dining al fresco.
• Family-Run Farm: Meet the hosts, Elena and Lorenzo, and get insights into their farm’s production of Chianti wine and extra virgin olive oil.
• Expert Guidance: The hosts are knowledgeable, sharing stories about Tuscan food and wine, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
• Wine & Food Pairing: Taste Chianti Classico directly from the cellar, and enjoy your meal paired with local wines.
• Small Group: Limited to just 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Exploring the Experience Step-by-Step

Arrival at Podere Somigli and Welcome

The adventure begins at Podere Somigli, a family-run farm in the Chianti countryside. Though transportation isn’t provided, the location is reachable by car, and we recommend self-driving for maximum convenience. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by Elena, the lively and passionate host, who moved to this rural idyll after marrying Lorenzo. Her warmth sets the tone for a friendly, engaging experience.

In the initial moments, Elena shares stories about the farm’s history, giving you a glimpse into rural life and the importance of local ingredients. She explains the day’s schedule, setting expectations for both cooking and wine tasting, before guiding you into the ancient kitchen—a charming space full of rustic charm and historical character.

Learning to Cook Tuscan Classics

You’ll start by preparing fresh, seasonal ingredients — a key to authentic Tuscan dishes. The recipes include homemade pasta, which is always a highlight and surprisingly simpler than it looks once you get the hang of it. Elena and her team provide clear, straightforward instructions, making it accessible even for beginners.

A reviewer, Carlos, commented that the hosts, Elena and Nona, were “great hosts” and that instructions were “easy to follow”. As you roll out pasta and simmer stews, you’ll hear stories about the dishes’ origins and their significance in Tuscan cuisine.

Next, you’ll explore preparing peposo, a hearty Tuscan beef stew flavored with black pepper, cooked slowly to develop deep, comforting flavors. For dessert, expect tiramisu, crafted with fresh ingredients, which you’ll get to assemble yourself.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tasting Chianti & Visiting the Cellar

While your dishes simmer or bake, you’ll explore the farm’s cellar, where Lorenzo’s family produces Chianti Classico. The guided visit offers insights into the vinification process—how grapes are transformed into wine—and the chance to sample different vintages. You’ll learn about what makes Chianti Classico unique, from grape varieties to aging techniques.

Guests frequently praise the quality of the wine, with many noting that they enjoyed a genuine taste of Tuscany’s noble red. A review highlights “amazing views of the surrounding countryside” and a “great experience” tasting wine directly from the source.

Dining in the Garden

The culmination of your efforts is a four-course meal enjoyed outdoors, in the farm’s garden. Imagine sitting amid vines and olive trees, with the lush landscape stretching to the horizon, enjoying your homemade pasta, peposo, and tiramisu, all paired with local Chianti wine. The weather generally cooperates, and unless it rains, you’ll dine al fresco—an experience that truly captures the soul of Tuscany.

One guest, Carlos, described it as “an excellent experience,” emphasizing the amazing views and the delicious food. It’s a perfect way to relax after a day of hands-on cooking.

The Practicalities and Value

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a well-balanced experience that isn’t overly long but offers plenty of engagement. Limited to 10 participants, the small group size ensures personalized attention, making it feel more like a gathering than a tour.

Cost and Value

At $152.93 per person, the price includes the full meal, wine, water, and all cooking equipment and recipes. For those who enjoy culinary experiences, this offers great value, especially considering the inclusion of wine tasting and a farm visit. You’re not just paying for a meal, but for a behind-the-scenes look at local food and wine production, which adds a level of authenticity and education.

Transportation and Accessibility

The farm isn’t reachable via public transport, so self-driving is the most straightforward option. The venue isn’t wheelchair accessible, and travelers with dietary restrictions should inform the hosts in advance.

Weather & Seasons

Weather permitting, the outdoor dining experience is particularly enjoyable in spring and summer, with the possibility of dinner in the evening upon request. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and dress accordingly—bring sun protection, a camera, and comfortable clothing.

Authentic Experiences & Genuine Insights

Real reviews reveal how much guests appreciate the knowledgeable hosts and the stunning countryside views. Carlos, for example, appreciated the fun and the easy-to-follow instructions from Elena and Nona, which made the experience not only educational but also a lot of fun.

Another highlight is the chance to learn directly about the farm’s wine and olive oil production, offering a deeper appreciation for the local products you’re enjoying. This isn’t just a cooking class; it’s a window into rural Tuscan life and its culinary traditions.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for food lovers who enjoy hands-on activities and want to understand the roots of Tuscan cuisine. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the wine cellar visit and tastings, while those seeking a relaxed, scenic environment will find the farm’s setting irresistible. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone eager to try their hand at authentic Tuscan cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
No, transportation isn’t provided. It’s recommended to self-drive or arrange your own transfer, as the farm is only reachable by car.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. Weather permitting, you’ll dine outdoors, so dress appropriately.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Guests should inform the activity provider of any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance, though specific accommodations aren’t detailed in the description.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, from arrival to the end of the meal.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the cooking class, all ingredients, the four-course meal, wine, water, and written recipes.

Can I join in spring or summer evenings?
Yes, afternoon sessions ending with dinner are available in spring and summer upon request.

Is the experience suitable for wheelchair users?
No, the farm isn’t wheelchair accessible, and guests should be able to navigate uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This Greve in Chianti cooking class offers a delightful blend of culinary education, wine tasting, and scenic beauty. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to connect with Tuscany’s authentic food culture in a cozy, farm setting. The hosts’ warmth, the fresh ingredients, and the stunning landscape combine to create an experience that feels both special and genuine.

If you’re looking for a relaxed yet engaging way to spend a few hours in Chianti, this tour delivers on all fronts. From learning traditional recipes to sipping Chianti amid vineyards, it’s a rewarding taste of Tuscany that you’ll carry home long after the plates are cleared.

In summary, this experience is perfect for foodies, wine lovers, and travelers craving an authentic slice of Tuscany’s rural charm. While it requires self-driving, the intimate setting, expert guidance, and delicious food make it a worthwhile splurge. It’s a chance to step into the heart of Tuscany’s culinary traditions and come away with new skills, beautiful views, and a full belly.

You can check if your dates are available here: