Orvieto, a main wine hub, is the quintessential Italian city, a most enchanting and unspoiled destination endowed with an array of gorgeous architecture in one of the most spectacular sites in Italy. Orvieto’s cliff-top position means that visitors walking through the city are rewarded with countless sudden views of the surrounding countryside and vineyards – a wine lover’s paradise indeed. The city is nestled high above the hills in Southwestern Italy, in the wine regions of Orvieto and Orvieto Classico in Umbria.
Historically, it was known for producing crowd-pleasing quantities of white wine based predominantly on the local Trebbiano Toscano grape (aka Procanico) and Grechetto – perfect for those long summer evenings. However, the area is also renowned for its delicious, late-harvested sweet styles, an ideal match for local desserts and cheeses. Quality-conscious producers have also increasingly been making wines from international varieties, such as Chardonnay, with impressive results. Despite the ancient vineyards and heritage that winemakers strive to respect, this is not a region that is resting on its laurels. Expect a few surprises!
On this private chauffeured wine tour of the region, you will visit the beautiful estates of Decugnano dei Barbi and Famiglia Cotarella – Falesco, set in the most exquisite landscape of Umbria, evoking Tuscany with its rolling hills and olive groves. Be prepared to taste an exciting array of wines, from sparkling to Orvieto’s premium Chardonnay. We can think of no better introduction to the wines of this stunning region.
Signature journey
Highlights include Private Tour at the best wine estates in Orvieto, Gourmet tasting lunch at a wine estate with wine pairings, and Chauffeured Mercedes and VIP service.
Day 1Orvieto
Decugnano dei Barbi Winery
Morning: Your chauffeur and accompanying wine guide will collect you from your cruise ship (or your hotel or villa in Rome). The journey to your first destination takes you through the magnificent Umbrian countryside, arriving at the historic Decugnano dei Barbi property just in time for a wine tasting. The estate enjoys an excellent hilltop position with breathtaking panoramic views over the vineyards of Orvieto.
After your arrival and a tour of the estate, a selection of delicious wines will be presented for you to enjoy. Highlights will include the sparkling Spumante Brut, the famous Maris Chardonnay, Il Decugnano Rosso, and the terrific Pourriture Noble.
Lunch: Wine tasting can work up an appetite, so you will be delighted to know that we have organized lunch for you at the next wine estate, the highly rewarded Famiglia Cotarella- Falesco. Founded by the brothers Riccardo and Renzo Cotarella (both highly respected winemakers; Riccardo is perhaps Italy’s best-known wine consultant, and Renzo is the chief enologist and chief executive officer at Marchesi Antinori), it is now run by their daughters Dominga, Marta, and Enrica. Enjoy a sumptuous tasting menu in their delightful barricaia. Begin with a selection of classic Umbrian antipasti, like croutons with black truffle and salami to whet your appetite; an accompanying glass of sparkling wine would do nicely! Then perhaps a mouth-watering pasta dish, like Umbricelli (handmade thick spaghetti), paired with an intense, full-bodied white. For the main course, we suggest the roast lamb paired with the Marciliano Falesco; both are divine. Leave room for a selection of local cheeses or dessert, paired with Passirò, a creamy, full-bodied, and harmonious passito wine made with the local Roscetto grape.
Afternoon: Enjoy the rest of your afternoon exploring Orvieto at your leisure. One of Italy’s most captivating and beautiful smaller cities, Orvieto has a rich cultural heritage, ranging from medieval streets and churches to the mighty Duomo Cathedral. The views across Umbria are worth seeing alone. Make sure to visit this stunning monument to the city’s past, founded in 1290 by Pope Nicholas IV.
Visit Civita di Bagnoregno, browse the delightful artisanal shops, then take a final espresso in the Piazza to say farewell and enjoy the journey back to your cruise or hotel in Rome.
Hope you had a stellar time in the wine country today; alla salute!
Cellar Tours private itineraries include chauffeur-led transportation, carefully selected hotels, winery appointments, restaurant planning, and practical support before and during your journey.
Depending on the destination and proposal, your tour may also include private guides, tastings, special experiences, cultural visits, regional transfers, and dining reservations.
Your custom proposal will clearly show what is included, what is optional, and what is not included.
Our custom itineraries include chauffeur-led transportation, carefully selected hotels, private winery appointments & tastings, restaurant planning, and support before and during your travel.
International flights, travel insurance, personal expenses, optional spa treatments, gratuities and meals or tastings not listed in your itinerary are usually not included unless specifically stated.
All itineraries are private and pre-arranged for your party.
Yes, 100%. Share mobility considerations, allergies, dietary preferences, and pacing needs early so we can adapt hotels, transport, restaurants, and visits wherever possible.
