Benvenuto! Join us in our lovely Milanese home and discover some of the greatest Italian wines around. From Barolo to Brunello, taste and learn about wine with two professional sommeliers. Plus enjoy some traditional Italian bites on the side.
Want to see the most authentic side of Florence? Look no further, it is at the Oltrarno district! Explore the most charming area of the historic center of Florence, away from the touristy crowds, on a private tour. Artisans, local hotspots, wine and bohemian vibes along the way!
Time for a New Taste of Italy: Tour for Craft Beer Lovers
133 reviews
2 hours | wine & beer tours | Venice
Are you a hop lover or a classic lager drinker? No problem! I am a craft beer enthusiast and know all the best bars for a thirst-quenching craft beer!
With over 700 craft breweries in Italy, all taste buds can be satisfied!
While Bologna’s foodie traditions are well-known, the wonderful wines that have always accompanied it are less high profile. We’ll go back in time to see just how important wine has always been and try four regional wines at the most atmospheric and historic wine-bars of the centre along the way.
Explore the heart of Emilia Romagna and get to know more about the region's wonderful wines in a stunning medieval castle location and at a leading winery. Stroll around the art-filled village and stretch your legs on the wine trail stopping at a family-run winery.
What a great day we had with Sarah. She contacted us in advance and put together a bespoke experience that was the highlight of our trip. We felt like we were spending the day with an old friend!
Wine, walk and culture day!
Carolyn
About local
Great evening in Bologna!
My friends and I had the best tasting experience! We enjoyed four lovely local wines tailored to our preferences in lovely and interesting local small wine bars and cafes paired with wonderful cheeses and snacks. We could not have had a better evening. Thank you Sarah for such a wonderful experience.
Tour of Bologna’s historic wine spots
Alphonse
About local
A Hidden Gem of Italian Winemaking
Nestled in the enchanting Italian countryside lies Cantina Tufaio, a winery that transcends the typical vineyard experience and offers visitors a magical journey through history, culture, and exquisite flavors. Our recent visit to this remarkable establishment was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, we felt a profound sense of welcome and warmth, a testament to the family's dedication to hospitality and their passion for winemaking.
A Warm Welcome
As we approached Cantina Tufaio, the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape set the tone for what was to come. Vineyards stretched out as far as the eye could see, bathed in the golden glow of the afternoon sun. The air was filled with the subtle scent of grapes, promising a day of indulgence and discovery.
We were greeted by the young daughter of the winery, affectionately known as Nicoletta. Her warm smile and gentle demeanor immediately made us feel at home. Nicoletta, with young youthful zest and profound knowledge of winemaking, was more than just a guide; she was the heart and soul of Cantina Tufaio. Her stories of the vineyard's history, passed down through generations, added a rich layer of depth to our tour. They were so nice to accomodate our young 7 year old son as well!
The Tour: A Journey Through Time
Our tour began with a stroll through the lush vineyards. Each row of vines told a story, meticulously cared for and nurtured to produce the finest grapes. The highlight, however, was the visit to the wine caves. These ancient, 70-meter deep caves were a marvel of engineering and tradition. Carved into the hillside, they provided the perfect environment for aging wines. The cool, constant temperature and the unique microclimate of the caves have been harnessed for centuries to create wines of unparalleled quality.
As we descended into the depths, the ambiance changed dramatically. The dim lighting and the cool, humid air created an almost mystical atmosphere. It was easy to imagine the generations of winemakers who had toiled here, perfecting their craft. The sight of row upon row of barrels, each holding the promise of future delight, was awe-inspiring.
A Culinary Delight
No visit to Cantina Tufaio would be complete without experiencing the culinary delights prepared by Nonna herself. After our tour, we were treated to a sumptuous lunch in a charming, rustic dining room overlooking the vineyards. The meal was a testament to the Italian tradition of farm-to-table dining, with each dish showcasing the freshest local ingredients.
Nonna's cooking was nothing short of a revelation. We savored every bite of homemade pasta, fresh garden vegetables, and artisanal cheeses. Each dish was a perfect harmony of flavors, lovingly prepared and beautifully presented. It was evident that Nonna poured her heart and soul into her cooking, just as she did with the wines.
The Wines: A Symphony of Flavors
Of course, the true stars of Cantina Tufaio were the wines. Each bottle was a treasure, crafted with care and precision. We began our tasting with their method champenoise sparkling wine. This elegant wine dazzled our palates with its fine bubbles and delicate notes of citrus and brioche. It was a perfect aperitif, setting the stage for the delights to come.
Next, we sampled the Merlot, a robust and full-bodied wine that enveloped our senses with its rich flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and a hint of spice. The balance and complexity of this wine were truly remarkable, a testament to the skill and dedication of the winemakers.
The Pinot Blanc was a revelation, offering a crisp and refreshing contrast to the Merlot. Its vibrant acidity and subtle notes of pear, apple, and floral undertones made it a delightful accompaniment to Nonna's culinary creations. Each sip was a reminder of the unique terroir of Cantina Tufaio, capturing the essence of the land in every bottle.
An Unforgettable Experience
Our visit to Cantina Tufaio was an unforgettable experience, a rare find that exceeded all our expectations. The combination of stunning scenery, heartfelt hospitality, exquisite food, and world-class wines made it one of the best winery visits we have ever had. Every aspect of our day was meticulously curated to create a memorable and enriching experience.
What truly set Cantina Tufaio apart was the sense of family and tradition that permeated every corner of the winery. This was not just a business; it was a labor of love, a legacy passed down through generations. Nonna's presence and her personal touch in every aspect of the winery made us feel like we were part of something special, a privileged glimpse into a world of passion and dedication.
Cantina Tufaio is more than just a winery; it is a testament to the enduring art of winemaking and the rich cultural heritage of Italy. For anyone seeking an authentic and unforgettable wine tour, this hidden gem is a must-visit. Whether you are a seasoned oenophile or a casual wine lover, Cantina Tufaio offers an experience that will linger in your memory long after the last sip.
As we reluctantly said our goodbyes and made our way back through the vineyards, we knew that Cantina Tufaio had left an indelible mark on our hearts. It was a place where time seemed to slow down, where the simple pleasures of life were celebrated, and where the beauty of the land was captured in every bottle of wine. Our visit was a rare and precious experience, one that we will cherish for years to come.
Wine Tasting at an Authentic Family Winery with a native winemaker!
Scott
About local
You Will Be So Glad You Signed Up For This
If you are looking for a nice day trip outside Bologna, like to see the countryside, and try local wines, spending a day with Sarah is not to be missed. This is not your typical US wine tour where you are shuttled from place to place in a car, belly up to the tasting bar, and head off to the next place. Slow down. You will be glad you did. Sarah meets you at the train station in Bologna, tickets in hand, and rides with you about 30 minutes outside the town of Dozza. From there, she has arranged a ride up to the hillside outside Dozza. Depending on your group, she will take you on an off-road walk down the hill or will adjust for you. Our group walked the road, but the view and walk were still wonderful. Sarah shared local history and stories on the walk down. We stopped first at a family run farm winery, Cenni & Assirelli, about halfway down the hill. We were greeted by one of the owners and treated to 4 different local wines as well as plates of local salumi, cheeses, and bread. Our view was a bit hazy on our day but still beautiful. Save some room in your suitcase to grab a couple of bottles to bring home. Next, we proceeded down the hill into the town of Dozza where we were treated to many painted murals which are proudly displayed throughout town. We opted for a short visit to a local trattoria for some appetizers and little more local wine. We also visited the castle in town, with Sarah sharing the local history of the area and the castle. In the basement of the castle, the local wine consortium has a tasting room where we tasted several more local wines. Finally, we were picked up and driven outside the town a few miles to another family-owned winery, Branchini. We were running a bit late, but Sarah called ahead, and the owner as well as the winemaker stayed late to host us and let us walk through their cellars as well as sample their wines. Again, we tasted 4 wines and had more of the local salumi and aged parmesan. Finally, a ride back to the train station where Sarah has your return tickets and makes sure you are on the train back to Bologna. Sarah’s cost for the day for each person covers the train tickets each way, the various rides, the tasting fees at the wineries, and the tasting in the castle. Lunch and/or snack in Dozza is optional, but a nice pause in the day. There are many “canned” tours in Bologna where you are herded from place to place in a group. This is NOT that tour. Sarah contacts you before the day to understand your particular needs and is willing to adjust/modify the day to accommodate. Sarah is knowledgeable and eager to share her special part of Italy with you. We highly recommend spending the day with Sarah.
