Imagine wandering through the rolling hills of Piedmont, where ancient cellars and modern vineyards come together to produce some of Italy’s most distinctive wines. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, scenery, and tasting that makes it a compelling choice for wine lovers and curious travelers alike. While the experience is just an hour and a half, it delivers a taste of authentic Monferrato that’s hard to beat.
Our review highlights three things we love about this tour: the passionate introduction by Alemat, the chance to explore the historic Infernot, and the opportunity to sample three unique wines in a peaceful garden setting. One thing to consider is that the tasting takes place outdoors, so weather can influence your experience. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy small-group, authentic wine encounters coupled with scenic views and a touch of history.
Good To Know
- Authentic Monferrato experience: Combining modern winery visits with ancient cellars.
- Rich history: Tour of the Infernot, dug over 200 years ago, offers a glimpse into local traditions.
- Diverse wine selection: Sampling three wines, including Grignolino, Riesling, and Monferace.
- Beautiful setting: Tasting outdoors in a lush garden with optional cheese and cold cuts.
- Affordable: At $44 per person, it provides solid value for a cultural and wine experience.
- Multilingual guides: Available in English, Italian, and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers.
What to Expect from the Tour
From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by Alemat, whose energetic personality and enthusiasm for Piedmont wines quickly set a friendly tone. His nickname, meaning “he’s crazy” in Piedmontese dialect, is fitting—he’s genuinely passionate and loves sharing his knowledge. Expect a warm welcome and a story behind the winery that paints a vivid picture of local wine traditions.
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Tour of the Modern Winery
We start indoors, where the staff walks us through their production process, touching on what makes their wines distinctive. This part is especially helpful if you’re new to wine but still want to appreciate what goes into a good bottle. The guides are friendly, informative, and speak multiple languages, which is a big plus for international visitors.
Exploring the Infernot: The Historic Cellars
Next, the tour takes you underground into the Infernot—the ancient cellars dug into the hills of Monferrato over 200 years ago. Here, you’ll see the clever architecture used to store wine in optimal conditions and learn about its importance in local traditions. The cool, dark environment contrasts beautifully with the outdoor scenery, and many reviews note how atmospheric and quiet the cellars feel, adding a layer of authenticity to the experience.
The Tasting Experience
The final part of the tour unfolds in the winery’s garden, an inviting space filled with greenery and tranquility. Here, you’ll taste three wines: Piemonte Riesling Doc, Piemonte Grignolino Doc, and Monferace Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese DOC. The tasting is complemented by breadsticks, which are a simple yet classic accompaniment, and you can opt to add a platter of cold cuts and cheese for an extra charge.
One reviewer describes it as “the perfect way to end a short visit,” highlighting how the outdoor setting enhances the wine’s flavors. Even if the weather isn’t ideal, a cozy indoor tasting room is available, ensuring you won’t miss out.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Practical Side: Value and Logistics
At just $44 per person, this tour offers a lot for your money. The inclusion of a guided visit, historic cellar exploration, and three wine tastings makes it a well-rounded experience. The duration of approximately 1.5 hours fits comfortably into a day of sightseeing in Piedmont, especially if paired with other local activities.
The tour is flexible, with the ability to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours beforehand. Groups tend to be small, allowing for a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. The tour is also wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for different travelers.
What Travelers Should Know
Timing varies based on availability, so checking the schedule in advance is recommended. The guides speak English, Italian, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference. If you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll find plenty of interesting details to appreciate, especially about the traditional Infernot cellars.
Why This Tour Stands Out
This experience hits the sweet spot for travelers who want more than just a tasting. It combines local history, scenic landscape, and authentic wine production, all within the UNESCO-listed Monferrato area. The personal touch of Alemat and his team make it feel warm and genuine, rather than commercialized.
While some might find the outdoor tasting limited in bad weather, there’s comfort in knowing a cozy indoor space is available. The focus on Grignolino, a somewhat rarer Piedmontese wine, adds a special touch for those interested in exploring varieties beyond the standard Italian reds.
Who Will Love This Experience?
If you’re into authentic wine experiences that blend history with scenic beauty, this tour should be high on your list. It’s perfect for small groups or couples seeking a relaxed, educational outing without the crowds. Wine enthusiasts curious about local varietals like Grignolino will find it especially rewarding. Travelers with limited time in Piedmont will appreciate how efficiently the experience delivers a snapshot of the region’s wine culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the visit to the winery, the Infernot, and the tasting.
What wines are included in the tasting?
You’ll sample three wines: Piemonte Riesling Doc, Piemonte Grignolino Doc, and Monferace Grignolino del Monferrato Casalese DOC.
Is the tour suitable for non-Italian speakers?
Yes, guides speak English, Italian, and Spanish, making it accessible for a broad audience.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.
Is the outdoor tasting affected by weather?
While the outdoor garden is the usual setting, there is a cozy indoor tasting room available in case of bad weather.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the winery visit, the historic Infernot, and the wine tasting, with breadsticks provided. Optional cheese and cold cuts are available for purchase.
Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity.
How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $44 per person, offering good value for a cultural and wine experience.
Is it suitable for children or non-drinkers?
This experience is primarily focused on wine tasting, so it’s best suited for adults. However, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic and historical aspects.
Final Thoughts
This wine tour in Monferrato offers a delightful mix of history, scenery, and authentic wine tasting all in one compact experience. The guided visit to the historic Infernot and the chance to sample unique varietals like Grignolino provide genuine insight into Piedmontese wine culture. The relaxed outdoor setting creates an inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for couples, small groups, or curious travelers wanting a taste of Italy’s lesser-known wine traditions.
For travelers seeking a well-priced, authentic, and scenic introduction to Piedmont’s wine scene, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate a personal touch, historical context, and the chance to enjoy a quiet moment amidst beautiful countryside. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply want a memorable experience off the beaten path, this visit to Alemat’s winery is worth considering.
Note: For similar experiences or to compare options, check out other wine tastings in Monferrato and Piedmont via the provided links.
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