Wine and food tasting in an organic family winery

Getting a taste of Tuscany’s true spirit often means venturing beyond tourist hotspots and visiting small, family-run farms. This wine and food tasting tour at Casa Lucii promises just that—an intimate, genuine experience at a traditional organic estate near San Gimignano. With a perfect 5-star rating from 148 reviews and consistent glowing praise, this tour combines scenic beauty, excellent wines, and farm-to-table delights into a memorable two hour 45 minute journey.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is quite popular, with bookings typically made about 40 days in advance. The cost, around $105 per person, might seem on the higher side for some, but considering the personalized attention and quality of the experience, many deem it a worthwhile investment.

What we really love about this tour is its authentic approach—you’re visiting a family’s private estate, not a commercialized winery. Plus, the diverse tasting of eight organic wines paired with farm-produced olive oil, cheeses, and cold cuts offers a real taste of Tuscany that many visitors find delightful. An aspect to consider is that the tour is offered starting at noon, making it a perfect midday activity, but you’ll want to plan accordingly for your day’s itinerary.

Highlights of the Experience

• Intimate setting: A visit to a family-managed organic farm just outside San Gimignano offers an authentic and personal glimpse into Tuscan wine-making traditions.
• Comprehensive estate tour: Walking through the garden, orchard, vineyard, olive grove, and a traditional “vinsantaia”—a room for aging vinsanto—gives you insight into the farm’s sustainable practices.
• Wine tasting: Sample eight carefully selected organic wines, including reds, whites, and rosés—some described as fresh and crisp—paired with farm-produced olive oil and local specialties.
• Culinary pairings: Expect cheeses, cold cuts, and a variety of regional bites—including a noteworthy pairing of Sangiovese with artisanal chocolates, as well as the celebrated Vin Santo del Chianti with Tuscan cantucci biscuits.
• Personalized service: The tour is private, meaning you receive tailored insights and an experience that feels more like a visit to a friend’s home than a commercial stop.
• Scenic views: Located just outside San Gimignano, the estate offers picturesque countryside vistas that enhance the sensory journey.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

From the moment you arrive at Casa Lucii—a cozy, inviting farmhouse—you’re welcomed with a glass of local aperitivo, setting a warm tone. The guide or host is attentive and eager to share the family’s story, emphasizing their commitment to organic farming.

The visit begins with a leisurely stroll through the vegetable garden, orchard, vineyard, and olive grove—each spot revealing small-scale, sustainable farming methods. You might find that the hosts take pride in explaining their practice of organic cultivation, which translates into healthier, flavorful grapes and produce. As one reviewerd it, “The family is so passionate about their history and vineyards,” which adds a heartfelt touch to the entire experience.

Next, the “vinsantaia”—an aging room specifically for vinsanto—serves as a highlight for those interested in Tuscan wine traditions. A tour of the historic cellar and collection of agricultural tools further deepens your understanding of the estate’s history and craftsmanship. Visitors appreciate hearing stories of the farm’s evolution since the 16th century, giving a sense of continuity and pride.

The wine tasting itself is thoughtfully curated, with eight wines from the estate’s own production. Expect to try several types of wines, with some reviews praising the crispness of their rosé and the depth of their reds. One guest mentioned a “delicate, lovely rosé,” while others appreciated exploring different vintages that complement a diverse cheese and cold cut platter.

Each wine is carefully paired with local cheeses, cold cuts, and organic vegetables—highlighted by the pairing of Sangiovese “Arturo” with artisanal chocolates, which seems to surprise and delight visitors. Dessert lovers will enjoy the Vin Santo “Curato,” a sweet, nutty wine served alongside traditional Cantuccini biscuits.

The experience wraps up with a relaxed tasting session on a beautiful outdoor patio or terrace, allowing guests to soak in the sweeping views of rolling Tuscan hills. Many reviewers say this makes for a peaceful, almost meditative introduction to Tuscany’s viticultural bounty.

Value and Pricing Analysis

At roughly $105 per person, this experience is priced competitively considering the personalized nature, the quality of the wines, and the included food pairings. When you factor in the extensive estate tour, it’s clear that you’re paying for more than just wine—you’re enjoying the family’s history, practices, and landscape.

Given the rave reviews highlighting the guides’ knowledge and warmth, many mention that the tour feels like a visit among friends rather than a commercialized tasting. Several reviewers—like those describing it as “the best day in Italy” or “the highlight of the trip”—indicate that for wine lovers and those seeking an authentic Tuscan experience, this offers substantial value.

On top of that, the experience’s exclusivity, being a private booking, makes it ideal for couples, families, or small groups wanting a tailored, intimate encounter away from the busier tourist sites.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you appreciate authentic family-run establishments, this tour will delight you. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy learning about sustainable farming, regional wine-making, and tasting genuine local products. The scenic estate and personal connection with the hosts make it especially appealing for romantics, foodies, or those celebrating a special occasion.

Those interested in organic wines, Tuscan culinary traditions, or simply want a peaceful break in the countryside will find this experience rewarding. Travelers with limited time will appreciate that it’s a relatively short, yet comprehensive glimpse into Tuscan food and wine culture.

However, if your priority is a high-energy tour with extensive walking or if you’re on a tight budget, you may want to consider other options. This experience is about quality over quantity and offers a genuine, relaxed setting that encourages conversation and connection.

The Bottom Line

This tour offers an exceptional blend of personalized service, authentic Tuscan flavors, and stunning scenery. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who want more than just a tasting—they get the full experience of a family’s dedication to organic farming and wine-making, wrapped in warm hospitality.

For wine enthusiasts, the opportunity to sample eight organically farmed wines in a scenic estate is a real treat. For lovers of Tuscan culture, the chance to explore a historic farm and learn about local traditions is priceless. And for anyone seeking a peaceful, enriching escape from busy sightseeing, this intimate tour provides just the right amount of education, taste, and tranquility.

In essence, this experience isn’t merely about drinking wine—it’s about connecting with a family’s passion, enjoying the landscape, and savoring the flavors of Tuscany in a setting that feels like visiting friends. A true highlight for those looking to taste Italy with heart.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the experience is exclusive to your group, providing a more personalized and intimate setting.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and concludes at Casa Lucii, located at Santa Maria, 49/C, San Gimignano. The tour starts at 12:00pm.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.

What is included in the tasting?
You’ll taste eight organic wines—reds, whites, and rosés—paired with olive oil, local cheeses, cold cuts, and desserts like Vin Santo and cantucci.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking outdoors are best; expect to stroll through vineyards, gardens, and farm areas.

Can children join?
Most travelers can participate, though the experience is primarily aimed at adults interested in wine and food.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are welcome.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 40 days ahead, given its popularity.

What makes this tour worth the price?
The combination of an authentic farm visit, high-quality organic wines, personalized guidance, and scenic beauty offers compelling value.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation is not included. You meet at Casa Lucii, but the guide shares insights during the estate visit and tastings.

This wine and food tour at Casa Lucii provides a genuine taste of Tuscany’s organic wine-making traditions with warm hospitality and breathtaking views. Whether you’re a wine lover, foodie, or simply seeking an authentic experience, it promises memories that linger long after the last sip.