Unforgettable private Grand Tour of Italy for food and wine lovers

Italy Gourmet Tours

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Unforgettable Private Grand Tour of Italy for Food and Wine Lovers
Our Gourmet Grand Tour of Italy is the ultimate food lovers tour of Bellissima
Italia! Taking in the absolute best of Lombardy, Emilia Romagna and the Veneto,
you will enjoy outstanding VIP gourmet experiences, all with your own private
driver guide. Youll stay in luxurious boutique hotels; tour by comfortable
chauffeured Mercedes; see how Italys exquisite Culatello Ham and other
prosciuttos are produced; visit a Parmigiano cheese maker; learn how to make
homemade pasta in Bologna; taste historic Balsamic Vinegars in Acetaias in
Modena; tour castles and fine wine estates in Piacenza; indulge in velvety
Amarones and Franciacorta bubblies; delight in special private guided walking
tours of various cities such as Verona, Bergamo, Bologna and Venice; and dine in
carefully selected trattorie and ristoranti. Sound delicious?
The tour begins in Milan and heads southwest into the wine country of Piacenza,
then further south to the gourmet paradise of Parma, Modena and Bologna,
stopping for a fun visit at the Galleria Ferrari, then veers east to Byzantine
Ravenna and north on up to gorgeous Ferrara, and romantic Venice. After a few
unforgettable days in La Serenissima, head west to Roman Verona, and into
Valpolicella. Continue west towards Lake Garda, stopping in Franciacorta near
Lake Iseo to sleep in a wonderful Relais & Chateaux set amid the vineyards. The
historic and little known art city of Bergamo is next with a few nights in
spectacular Lake Como to complete the magnificent gourmet journey through
some of Italys most beautiful towns and villages. We have created this itinerary
for foodies also looking for luxury, spectacular scenery and culture. Taste the
best of Italy on this private chauffeured gastronomic tour of a lifetime, contact us
for more info!
We have created this itinerary for foodies and wine lovers also looking for luxury,
spectacular scenery and culture. Taste the best of Italy on this private
chauffeured gastronomic tour of a lifetime, contact us for more info!
Tour Highlights:
Balsamic, Parmigiano, Culatello tastings
Amarone, Piacenza and Franciacorta wine tours
Sightseeing in Bologna, Ferrara, Verona, Venice, Bergamo, Lake Como
Cheese tour to Parmigiano
Visit Castles and Historic Wineries
Galleria Ferrari visit
Mosaics of Ravenna
Private Mercedes and Art Guides
For Your Personalized Quote!
Below is a suggested Day By Day Itinerary for your private Gourmet Grand Tour
Day One - VIP Wine Tasting at Torre Fornello & Lunch in Historic Trattoria

Wine Tasting, Piacenza

Wine Tasting, Piacenza
This morning your own private driver will pick you up at your Milan hotel or at the
airport this morning, by private chauffeured Mercedes. Let the Italian Gourmet
Grand Tour commence!
You will head south into the Ancient Roman winemaking region of Piacenza,
known for its sweet malvasias and juicy Gutturnio based reds. Youll first visit will
be to one of the emblematic wineries of Piacenza such as beautiful Torre Fornello.
Youll have a private VIP tour of the estate and vineyards, in English of course,
and finish with a tasting of their best wines.
After a morning of wine tasting, youll be famished and lunch is in a medieval
village near the Rivalta Castle in a historic trattoria. Enjoy various local dishes,
paired wine great wines from the Piacenza region. After lunch, take a walk
around the pretty little hamlet to get some fresh air. Youll next head for
Bologna, which is where youll be based for the next few nights. Bologna is one
of Italys most fantastic cities with a real bohemian atmosphere and youll love
the array of charming restaurants and wine bars. Free evening on your own with
our suggestions for dining.
Overnight: 4* Charming Hotel in historic Bologna
Meals Included in Price: Lunch with wines, wine tasting Piacenza, welcome
gourmet gift
Transfers: Milan- Piacenza region- Bologna
Day Two - Culatello Ham Tasting
Culatello Ham
Priceless Culatello Ham
- Today you will taste a little slice of heavan- Culatello ham, the Crme de la
Crme prosciutto of Italy.
- Head towards Colorno in Parma province and visit a small and upmarket
producers Culatello cellar and finish with an elegant lunch focusing on local
specialties. Sample dishes include crema ai carciofi (artichoke soup), flan alle tre
ricotte e salsa alla carbonara (Cheese and cream custard), Culatello di Zibello
d.o.p. e selezione di salumi da noi prodotti e stagionati (a selection of the best
charcuterie including culatello) and Risotto con radicchio veronese, Montasio e
aceto balsamico (Risotto with chicory, cheese and real balsamic). Superb wines
will be chosen for you from the encyclopedic wine list
- After lunch enjoy a digestive passeggiata in Parma, a small gourmet town
that was also the home of Italys famed composers Giuseppe Verdi and Arturo
Toscannini. Dont miss the wonderful Duomo.

- Before returning to Bologna, you have a fun visit in store at the Galleria Ferrari
in Maranello, an actual museum dedicated to Ferrari (this is the birthplace of this
mythical car!) Learn all about the prancing horse and visit the museum, which
is quite large and you can see over 40 real models such as Formula 1 racecars
from many different decades. For Ferrari-philes, there is also a Ferrari shop!
- Return to your hotel and the evening is yours to explore Bologna on your own. It
s a fantastic city to just enjoy a stroll, it is small and easy to maneuver and
there are endless churches, palaces, and charming squares to find on your own.
Overnight:4* Charming Hotel in historic Bologna
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast, elegant lunch with wines, ham tasting
Transfers: Bologna- Colorno- Parma- Maranello- Bologna
Day Three - Parmigiano & Balsamic Vinegar Tastings
Beautiful Bologna
Beautiful Bologna
- Early bird breakfast this morning! This morning, you will leave Bologna extra
early in order to get to an authentic Parmigiano Reggiano producer by
cheesemaking time (roughly 8AM). There are dairies in an array of cities and you
ll visit a dairy in Reggio Emilia, about one hour from Bologna. The visit is
complete and you will be an expert by the end of the cheese tour. Youll see all
elements of the Parmigiano production from the processing of milk in the vats,
the moulding of the curd, the salting and then the ageing process of the
photogenic cheese wheels.
- After this fascinating visit youll you will head into the wealthy little town of
Modena for a visit to the 11th century Unesco heritage preserved Duomo, and
relax over an aperitif of bubbly or vino bianco, outside if weather permits.
- Lunch today is at the avant-garde 2 Michelin * La Francescana, right in Modena.
A complete contrast to the traditional cuisine youve had until now, this exciting
restaurant is a unique experience. This will be a convivial nearly three-hour
affair, so sit back, relax and dig in!
- After lunch, you will probably want to enjoy a short little digestive walk! Before
heading back to Bologna, you will visit a beautiful Acetaia, a real Aceto
Balsamico cellar, where youll learn about the interesting history and production
of this liquid gold and taste a few aged balsamics. This is a treat!
- Arrive back to Bologna in the early evening and enjoy free time on your own.
Overnight: 4* Charming Hotel in historic Bologna
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast, Michelin starred lunch with wines, cheese
tasting, Balsamic tasting
Transfers: Bologna- Reggio Emilia- Modena- Bologna

Day Four - Cooking Class in Bologna including Paste Making

Making Pasta in Bologna
Making Pasta in Bologna
- Enjoy a later start today, and around 11AM youll have your very own pasta
making class right in Bologna. Learn how to make pasta such as the famed local
specialty of Tagliatelle al rag (this is an ancient Bolognese recipe). Other local
specialties include Lasagne al rag, Tortellini in Brodo, Tortelloni Burro e Oro,
Cotolette alla Bolognese (Veal Cutlets), and then for desserts- Torta di Mele
(stunning homemade apple pie) and Raviole stuffed with Mostarda (a kind of
jam made with quince, pears, sultanas, almonds, dried prunes, etc.)
- After a private cooking class, sit down and enjoy the results of your efforts!
- After some free time, you will enjoy a private guided walking tour of Bologna
with a local art guide to take in some of the highlights such as the Two Towers,
the Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno, the Jewish Ghetto, and the
fascinating 16th century Anatomical theatre of the ancient university (your guide
will have a lot of anecdotes during this visit!). The evening is yours to enjoy the
wonderful osterie of Bologna, many with live jazz music.
Overnight: 4* Charming Hotel in historic Bologna
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast, Cooking Class and Lunch with local wines
Transfers: Walking Tour of Bologna
Day Five - Excursion to Ravenna & Michelin Starred Lunch
Mosaics in Ravenna
Amazing Mosaics in Ravenna
- Today you have an amazing lunch and exquisite mosaics in store for you! After
a free morning in Bologna to get in some last minute gourmet shopping or
sightseeing, youll dip south towards Imola and home to one of the regions best
and most refined restaurants, San Domenico. This is a gourmet gem and youll
indulge in a superb tasting menu.
- Carry on to the sleepy town of Ravenna where you will be taken aback by the
breathtaking 6th and 7th century mosaics, all with your own private art guide.
These are some of the most gorgeous mosaics in the world. Located close to the
Adriatic Coast, Ravenna is a town with a whole lot of history! The Roman
Emperor Octavian Augustus built a port here, denoting the strategic importance
of Ravenna and later the city was one of the main hubs of Byzantine culture in
Italy. Youll learn all about the towns history and visit some major highlights
such as the mosaics of 5th century Galla Placidia (daughter of Emperor
Theodosius), the Saint Francesco Basilica with Dantes Tomb, the Basilica of San
Vitale (with some of the best early Christian art in Italy) and more.

- In the evening, after an interesting tour of Ravenna, youll head about an hour
and fifteen minutes northwest to beautiful Ferrara, your base tonight. Free
evening with our suggestions. The city is beautiful at night when the castle is lit
up, enjoy a nice walk.
Overnight: 5* Relais and Chateaux in historic Ferrara
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast, Michelin starred lunch with wines
Transfers: Bologna- Imola- Ravenna- Ferrara
Day Six - Privately Guided Tour of Ferrara & Arrive in Venice
Ferrara Castle
Ferrara Castle
- Today you will head to Venice, but first discover beautiful Ferrara with your own
private art guide. This walled town was built by the Dukes of Este and the town is
lovely, unspoiled and know for being the Bicycle City as it has one of the
highest amounts of cyclists in Europe. Youll enjoy a walking tour this morning
and take in the best of Ferrara from the Castello Estense to the magical Via delle
Volte.
- After an invigorating morning walk, you will head to Venice this morning, a
nearly two-hour drive (although you can stop enroute to Padua if youd like to
break up the journey with a coffee and couple photos).
- Upon arrival to Venice, you will say goodbye to your driver for a few days and
board your own private water taxi to your hotel, a luxury Palazzo right on the
Grand Canal. Check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure,
with our many suggestions for dining, sightseeing, etc.
Overnight: 5* hotel Venice
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast
Transfers: Ferrara- Venice private water Taxi to hotel in Venice
Day Seven - Relax and Savour the delights of Venice
Romantic Venice
Ultra Romantic Venice
- This morning, wake up at your leisure, and enjoy a free day until the afternoon
in Bella Venezia, with our suggestions. If this is your first time in Venice then you
will want to definitely tour the Grand Canal (easily done by vaporetto) and see all
of the stunning palaces on the water, check out the picturesque market under
Rialto bridge, get lost in the narrow cobblestoned laneways, have a coffee on the
outdoor terrace at Cafe Florian in Saint Marks Square, and there is only one
place to have a Bellini aperitif- at the elegant Harrys Bar, where it was invented.

- Lunch is on your own with our suggestions.

- In the late afternoon, our art guide will meet you at your hotel and you will
embark on a fun two hour walking tour, full of anecdotes and legends, from
Marco Polo to Casanova.
- The evening is yours to enjoy on your own, we recommend a private Gondola at
sunset!
Overnight: 5* Luxury Hotel, Venice
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast
Transfers: Walking tour in Venice
Day Eight - Wine Tasting at Allegrini & Private Tour of Verona
Valpolicella Wine Tasting
Valpolicella Wine Tasting
- From Venice today you will head west to the Valpolicella wine region, home to
the one and only Amarone. The wine region is nestled in a cozy valley just east of
Lake Garda and north of wonderful Verona. You will visit a top winery such as
Allegrini or Villa Monteleone, and after a private tour of the estate indulge in a
hedonistic tasting of various wines from Amarone to Recioto.
- Lunch is up next at a traditional and warm trattoria in wine country, this will be
a special treat and apart from the fine wines selected for your meal, youll finish
off with a digestive Grappa.
- From Valpolicella you will head into Verona where you are staying tonight. You
are based in a lovely hotel, full of antiques in an ancient palazzo. Enjoy some free
time to freshen up, take a walk, etc.
- In the late afternoon, your own private art guide will take you on a short but
interesting walking tour of Verona to show you the Best of from the marvelous
Roman amphitheatre (where the opera festival is hosted each summer) to the
numerous pretty piazzas in Verona. The evening is yours to enjoy on your own,
and we will give you suggestions for many wine bars and top restaurants.
Overnight: 5* Historic Palazzo, Verona
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast, traditional lunch with wines
Transfers: Venice private water taxi- Venice- Valpolicella wine country- Verona
Day Nine - Wine Tasting in Franciacorta & Lunch at Wine Country Trattoria
Ca del Bosco Winery, Franciacorta
Ca del Bosco Winery, Franciacorta

- Today you will taste the Champagne of Italy! Franciacorta is an ultra high-end
wine region producing traditional method sparkling wines and from Verona you
will head into Franciacorta wine country to see for yourself how fantastic these
wines are. The vineyards and wineries are sprinkled around the tiny Lake Iseo
near the town of Brescia and you will visit a fine producer such as Ca del Bosco,
Mosnel or Bersi Serlini.
- Enjoy a morning of wine tasting and follow with lunch at a darling wine country
trattoria with vaulted brick ceiling, the food here is just fabulous.
- After lunch, head to your hotel, a beautiful Relais and Chateaux literally located
in a vineyard. There is a great spa here, and you will have the rest of the day at
leisure to take in spa treatments, head to Lake Iseo with your driver for a walk
around the lago or a boat ride, etc. The evening is yours and we highly suggest
the hotels gourmet Michelin starred restaurant run by the mythical Gualtiero
Marchesi.
Overnight: 5* Relais and Chateaux Franciacorta Wine Country
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast, Traditional lunch with wines
Transfers: Verona- Franciacorta wine country- Erbusco to hotel
Day Ten - Excursion to Bergamo & Lake Como
Bellisima Bellagio
Bellisima Bellagio
- Today you are headed for the magnificent Lake Como, and enroute you will stop
for a short walking tour of beautiful Bergamo, one of Italys least known art
cities.
- Your day begins when your private driver will escort you to Bergamo, known as
the Renaissance Citadel. The new part of Bergamo below is modern and
uninteresting but the Citta Alta (high city) is delightful with beautiful squares,
palaces and romantic fountains. Youll enjoy a short walking tour with your own
private art guide, visiting the most beautiful palaces, churches, squares, etc.
Enjoy an aperitif here, tasting wines from just outside Bergamo.
- Carry on tour next port of call, Lake Como! One of the most beautiful places in
earth, you will marvel at the dramatic scenery and charming lakeside villages.
Your base for these last few nights in Bellagio, a historic and beautiful town
located right in the middle of Lake Como (the lake is shaped like an upside down
Y), across the waters from pretty Tremezzo. Check into your luxurious hotel
which faces the lake, and enjoy lunch on your own in Bellagio and the rest of the
day is at leisure to take in some shopping, walking and sightseeing.
Overnight: 5* Luxury hotel, Bellagio in Lake Como
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast

Transfers: Erbusco- Bergamo- Bellagio

Day Eleven - Private Cruise on Lake Como & Michelin Starred Lunch
Lake Como
Lake Como
- After a free morning, you will love the relaxing private cruise we arrange today,
taking in the panoramic views of the mountains hovering over the lake, all from
your own boat. Remember to bring the camera!
- Youll make a few stops for example to the divine gardens at Villa Carlotta.
Todays lunch is a gourmet extravaganza at a Michelin starred restaurant in
Bellagio. Unwind and sit down to a superb food and wine pairing. This is the good
life!
- The rest of the day is yours to enjoy Bellagio. Enjoy a nice walk down to the
Punta Spartivento where youll have amazing views, and settle into a charming
wine bar in the evening for your aperitif.
- Free evening in Bellagio.
Overnight: 5* Luxury hotel, Bellagio in Lake Como
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast, Michelin starred Lunch with wines
Transfers: Private cruise on Lake
Day Twelve - End of Tour
Villa Carlotta, Lake Como
Villa Carlotta, Lake Como
- Alas, your Gourmet Grand Tour has come to an end. This morning at your
preferred time you will transfer into Milan for your outbound flight, or to your
hotel if you are staying on another evening.
- We hope you have enjoyed the mix of beautiful towns and villages, wine tasting
and gourmet dining and amazing scenery featured on this tour.
- Until the next time, arrivederci!
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast
Transfers: Bellagio- Milan
Customer Testimonial:

La Perla showed us the fascinating process of parma ham. It was amazing to see
50,000 hams hanging in the building. The tour was conducted by the owner's
daughter (Sylvia), who had a complete understanding of the process. The
location was so pastoral and we enjoyed just sitting out on the patio tasting,
drinking wine and looking over the fields. Sylvia told us that she and her mother
were going to pick porcini mushroom tomorrow. I really wanted to stay and join
them, great experience! The simplicity of the parmigiano process at Latteria
Ducale is revealing. Nothing is added except salt in the water and it ages in cave
temperatures, aided by technology of course. At Acetaia del Cristo (Balsamico),
this was the one I was really looking forward to for I couldn't understand the fuss
over vinegar. I was impressed. The process is incredibly complicated and
involved. From the summer heat under the eaves to the winter processing I was
interested in the process. And of course the result is amazing. The tasting was
the most surprising of all. Al Vedel was a totally unique experience. I think we
had six or seven course, four different wines, and pampering for two plus hours.
Erba del Re was "fantistico". Ambience is wonderful, artfully decorated. Paula
was a great guide for us in Bologna. She took us to all the interesting places and
answered our million questions. In a brief conversation with a friend of mine he
said "that is exactly what I want to do with my wife". So I plan to give him my
keepsake to look at and make his plans. We had a great time and perhaps will do
this in Spain in 2011.
Ray Burnett, Brainerd, MN.
What's Included:
Accommodation for 11 nights in luxurious 4 and 5* Hotels
11 Full breakfasts
Private Airport Transfers and all transfers as per the itinerary by luxury Mercedes
E Model and English speaking chauffeur
Private Water Taxi transfers in Venice
All VIP Winery Visits and Wine Tastings: 3 Boutique and Premium wineries in
Piacenza, Valpolicella and Franciacorta
Professional Wine Tasting Presentations with winemakers/Owners/top staff
1 Culatello Visit and Tasting
1 Parmigiano Reggiano Visit and Tasting
1 Aceto Balsamico Visit and Tasting
1 Private Cooking Class
1 Visit to Galleria Ferrari
Private guided walking tour and art guide in Bologna
Private guided walking tour and art guide in Ravenna
Private guided walking tour and art guide in Ferrara
Private guided walking tour and art guide in Venice
Private guided walking tour and art guide in Verona
1 Private Cruise Lake Como
8 Fabulous Lunches with wines including three Michelin starred eateries
Various Wine Gifts
All Entrance Fees to Cultural Sites (Art museums, etc)
Detailed Itinerary of Tour- Keepsake Book
Keepsake personalized menus
Welcome gift
Michelin map Italy
Bottled water and snacks available during the drives

All Local taxes

What's Not Included:
Flights
Meals and Drinks not Specified
Personal Expenses such as Telephone, Minibar, etc
Tips and Gratuities (Guides, Restaurants, etc)
Travel Insurance (Strongly recommended)
Cancellation Insurance
Prices:
This is a SAMPLE TOUR ITINERARY. Please note that our private chauffeured
luxury tours are totally customized to your needs and price varies according to
the number of people in your group (please note tours require minimum 2
guests), specific suppliers included, number of services included,specific dates,
transport type etc. Contact us today for more information and we would be
delighted to get started on a tailor made detailed itinerary with pricing for you.
Final price depends on chosen style of accommodation and dining. Please
contact us with your group size (minimum 2 guests, no maximum group size),
travel dates and preferences and we will send you custom pricing.
Discounts available for larger groups
Please note that our tours are available upon demand for PRIVATE GROUPS and
are not scheduled tours for mixed groups.
More Information:
If you would like Cellar Tours to customize a Culinary Tour in Italy or Luxury
Gourmet Day Excursion in Italy, contact us with your requirements, and we can
send you a free itinerary and quote with no obligations. We offer luxury food and
wine tours throughout Italy for private groups. All of our private, chauffeured
tours are available year round upon request for your group of minimum 2 people.
The ultimate gastronomic tour of Tuscany for discerning guests
Luxury Culinary Tours Tuscany
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Tuscany is a food lovers dream come true, offering a dazzling array of culinary
treats like Pecorino cheese from Pienza, fresh Ricotta di Pecora from Siena, extra
virgin Olive Oil from Lucca, truffles from San Miniato, Cantucci from Prato and
Salame di Cinghiale (wild boar sausage) to name but a few. Some of Italys
finest wines are also made here including the Brunello wines of Montalcino,
Chianti, the noble wines of Montepulciano and of course the Super Tuscans of
Bolgheri and the Maremma. Tuscany is also quite simply, one of the most
beautiful places on earth, home to many wonderful art cities, such as Siena,
Florence, San Gimignano, Volterra, Arezzo, and Cortona. These historic towns
boast a startling abundance of artistic treasures like sculpture, architecture,
paintings, and mosaics.
We have designed this private tour of Tuscany for foodies and wine enthusiasts
interested in tasting their way through the beautiful Tuscan countryside.

Regardless if you are an amateur or professional chef, wine enthusiast or expert,

you will enjoy this epicurean tour immensely. You begin the tour in Florence, the
most spectacular Renaissance city in the world. Over the next few days youll
have some fabulous experiences such as fine dining at Fabio Picchis Cibro;
chocolate tasting at De Bondt in Pisa; private Tuscan cooking classes with a
charming chef in his villa; wine tasting in Chianti; and visiting the celebrity
butcher Dario Cecchinis Antica Macelleria. Your base in Florence is a luxurious
small palazzo, exquisitely decorated with the perfect balance of antiques and
stylish, contemporary design. While in Florence youll visit the breathtaking Uffizi
Gallery, where you can admire the masterpieces of Michelangelo, Botticelli,
Rubens, Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and countless more.
The next part of this culinary tour in Tuscany is in the southeast, bordering
Umbria. Youll stay in a sumptuously decorated and elegant 14th century villa
estate near Sinalunga. These last few days will be spent enjoying activities like
private cooking classes with a published chef near Chiusi; tasting Vino Nobile di
Montepulciano ("noble wine" that has indeed been favored by the aristocracy for
centuries); truffle hunting with local Cercatore di Tartufi and an artisan cheese
tasting near Siena. Taste local dishes like Tortelli alla Lastra, Ribollita, Fagioli all
Uccelleto, Gnudi & Pici Pasta, Tortello di Patate, Fusilli con Pomodori Acerbi, and
homemade Tiramis, Learn about Tuscanys native grape varietals like
Sangiovese. Explore the captivating streets and piazzas of medieval hamlets.
And sleep in elegant and ultra charming historic hotels. Your farewell dinner is at
the magnificent 3 Michelin starred Pinchiorri, an amazing way to conclude the
tour.If you are looking for a relaxing food and wine vacation in the Italian
countryside, then contact us for more information on this fabulous tour.
Tuscany Culinary Tour Highlights:
Private Cooking Classes in Tuscany
Truffle Hunting
Cheese Making Visit
Chocolate Tour
Unique "Foodie" Experiences
Idyllic Italian Villages & Luxury Hotels
For Your Personalized Quote!
Below is a suggested Day By Day Itinerary for your private Tuscan Culinary
Day One - Private Tours of Uffizi Gallery & Gourmet Florence
Tondi Pasta with Taleggio Cheese
Tondi Pasta with Taleggio Cheese
This morning, arrive to Florences airport where your private chauffeur will be
waiting for you. Head into downtown Florence and your driver will drop you off at
your luxurious palace hotel to freshen up and get ready for your day. Your private
art guide will meet you in the hotel and youll enjoy an entertaining walk to the
Uffizi gallery. Gallery is something of a major understatement as this museum
has one of the most incredible art collections in the world with nearly all the
great European masters represented. A few of the many highlights include
Sandro Botticellis Birth of Venus, Albrecht Drers Adoration of the Magi,

Caravaggios Bacchus, and Jacopo Tintorettos Portrait of a Venetian Admiral.

Your guide will bring the paintings to life, while relaying local legends and
anecdotes.
Your walking tour continues on through the gourmet shops of Florence and youll
learn about art and Florences fascinating history while having a Campari Fizz
aperitif at the literary caf "Giubbe Rosse"; nibbling on some gourmet goodies at
the gorgeous Procacci deli, dating back to the late 1800s; and sipping on Tuscan
wines at the Enoteca Pontevecchio run by the exuberant Tony Sasa. In the late
afternoon your guide will walk you back to your hotel to freshen up and relax
before dinner. Tonight you will have a superb welcome dinner at the mythical
Cibro. A tasting menu with surprise wine pairings await, this is a great way to
start your culinary tour of Tuscany!
Overnight: 4* Luxury Palace, Florence
Meals Included in Price: Gourmet Welcome dinner with wine pairings
Transfers: Florence airport- hotel- walking tour
Day Two - Cucina Povera Private Cooking Class in Chianti
Fig and Mascarapone Dessert
Fig and Mascarapone Dessert
Enjoy a fantastic breakfast in your palatial boutique hotel and after coffee, your
driver will collect you and take you into the countryside to a beautiful home in
Tavarnelle Val Di Pesa. This morning you have a private cooking class with chefs
Leonardo and Monica in the countryside, with an emphasis on traditional Tuscan
cooking, Cucina Povera. Simple ingredients, extraordinary tastes- this is the
essence of Tuscan cuisine. Dishes you might cook today include Crostini di
polenta fritta con salsa di fegatini (Fried polenta with chicken liver pt),
Pappardelle alluovo con sugo di cinghiale (Pappardelle pasta with wild boar
sauce), Pici allanatra (Pici pasta with duck sauce), Bistecca alla fiorentina con
fagioli allolio (Florentine steak with white beans in olive oil), Agnello allaceto
balsamico e menta (Lamb with balsamic vinegar and mint), Polenta alla erbe con
baccal e porri (herbed polenta with cod and leeks) and Risotto radicchio, zucca
e scamorza (risotto with chicory, pumpkin and scamorza cheese).
After the cooking class, sit down with your chef and taste the fruit of your labors.
It will be a three course meal, squared off with delicious homemade Biscottini
washed down with Vin Santo, delicious! After lunch, enjoy a digestive walk
through Chiantis lovely hamlets like Castellina and Gaiole. Before returning to
Florence, stop into a beautiful wine producer like Capannelle to taste some top
wines. The night is yours in Florence, we recommend the Borgo San Jacopo for
dinner.
Overnight: 4* Luxury Palace, Florence
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast- Cooking Class lunch with wines

Transfers: Florence- Chianti countryside- Florence

Day Three - Beconcini Wines & Chocolate at De Bondt, Tuscan Chocolate Valley
Chocolate Tasting
Chocolate Tasting
Today you have a fantastic day of wine tasting, chocolate tasting and sightseeing
in store! Begin your day by driving west of Florence towards San Miniato, to the
wonderful small wine producer Beconcini Leonardo. Beconcini is a passionate
third generation winemaker making DOCG Chianti wines. Youll have a private
tour and tasting at this tiny little estate before carrying on to the beautiful
hamlet of Vinci for a short visit. Vinci is where Leonardo da Vinci was born. You
can visit the castle which houses the Museo Leonardiano, and more than 50
original models of the artists craziest inventions and futuristic ideas. Lunch is up
next in pretty San Miniato, where a hug annual truffle festival takes place.
Todays lunch is in a stylish and contemporary setting at Pepe Nero, with very
scenic views and creative cuisine.
After lunch, enjoy a digestive walk around the village before heading to Pisa for a
chocolate tasting at the revered De Bondt artisan chocolate maker. This area of
Tuscany is called the Chocolate Valley and apart from De Bondt, many other
stellar chocolate makers like Roberto Catinari and Amedei can be found here.
Taste unusual chocolates spiced with black pepper, and award winning chocolate
likes the de Bondt Ry- chocolates made with a delicious Passito dessert wine
made in Pantelleria Island by the Sicilian Donnafugata estate. On your way back
to Florence, youll stop in Pisas Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) to
admire the one-and-only Leaning Tower. The rest of the evening is at leisure in
Florence. Try the Lounge for dinner, a trendy setting serving Italo-GastroTapas.
Overnight: 4* Luxury Palace, Florence
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast- Gourmet lunch with wines
Transfers: Florence- wine country- San Miniato- chocolate valley- Pisa- Florence
Day Four - Volterra & San Gimignano Touring- Private Pasta Making Class
Pasta Making Class
Pasta Making Class
San Gimignano and Volterra, two of Tuscanys loveliest cities, are on the program
today. Youll enjoy a mix of sightseeing, cooking and wine tasting today- all at a
relaxed pace with your own private driver. From Florence this morning you will
drive southwest to the craggy Balze cliffs of Volterra, an unusual but stunning
town. Most of Volterras architecture is medieval, although there is an Ancient
Roman Theatre. Before the Romans, the Etruscans lived here and mined
Alabaster. There are still quarries and alabaster is made by master craftsmen
whose techniques have been passed down generation to generation.

Youll have some free time to explore Volterra on your own, before heading on to
majestic San Gimignano. This medieval village is one of the most perfectly
preserved medieval hamlets in the world. Its nicknamed the medieval
Manhattan as it had do many towers they appeared like a mini skyline in their
day.Lunch awaits in a charming trattoria in San Gimignanos medieval centro.
Taste local dishes like Fettunta, Pappa al Pomodoro, Panzanella, Buristo salami
and perhaps a Fiorentina steak if the weather is cooler.
After lunch, youll have free time to do some sightseeing and shopping on your
own in San Gimignano. If you like art there are a few small galleries with
beautiful and very original pieces. From San Gimignano, you will head back
towards Florence, stopping at the absolutely beautiful Badia Passignano, a tiny
hamlet with an ancient abbey surrounded by vineyards. This is one of Antinoris
estates and you have a great evening in store. With the master chef at their
Osteria, youll have a private cooking class including a pasta making lesson. This
is a lot of fun and easygoing. Before sitting down to the elegant dinner (your own
dishes), youll visit their historic wine cellar and taste some of the top wines like
Tignanello and Solaia. This is one of the highlights of this tour, have fun! Your
driver will take you back to your hotel in Florence after dinner.
Overnight: 4* Luxury Palace, Florence
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast- Cooking Class Dinner with wines
Transfers: Florence - Volterra - San Gimignano - Chianti - Florence
Day Five - Visit Dario Cecchini & Private Pecorino Cheese Tasting
Pecorino Cheese Tasting
Pecorino Cheese Tasting
This morning you will check out of your hotel in Florence, as tonight youll be
changing hotels to an alluring Tuscan countryside villa tucked away in a quiet
corner near Sinalunga. Start your day with a scenic drive to the little village of
Panzano in Chianti. You are going to meet one of Tuscanys most interesting
culinary personalities- Dario Cecchini. This superstar butcher, called the world's
most famous butcher by the Los Angeles Times, is passionate about his meat!
You are going to try his Mac Dario light lunch today, tasting his specialties like
Sushi del Chianti, Tonno del Chianti, and Arista in Porchetta. Great food,
great atmosphere, and great showman.
Have a walk around pretty Panzano before heading further south to one of our
favorite cheese producers- Fratelli Sanna. They are most loved for their fabulous
Pecorino cheeses. Youll enjoy a visit to the ripening rooms, learn about the
process of Tuscan cheesemaking and of course enjoy a tasting of their cheeses
accompanied by spectacular onion based jams they make small quantities of.
This is an informal and authentic experience, and always a favorite on our tours.
After a gourmet morning, youll enjoy some fresh air and a walk. Carry on to
Siena, one of Italys most magnificent art cities. With your own private guide,

specialized in art and history and extremely charming, youll discover Siena on
foot. Learn all about the origins and legends of the medieval Palio festival, visit
the mind boggling Duomo, and soak up the atmosphere of this refined,
prosperous and happy town. In the early evening, after a fantastic day of great
food and sightseeing, youll head to your romantic hotel in the countryside.
Check in and enjoy a free evening to dine on your own at the estates fine
restaurant.
Overnight: 4* Luxury Countryside Hotel, Sinalunga
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast, Lunch with wine and Cheese Tasting
Transfers: Florence- Panzano- Siena- Sinalunga
Day Six - Private Gelato Cooking Class in Chiusi & Avignonesi Winery Tour
Gelato making with published chef
Gelato making with published chef
Relax over breakfast this morning at a leisurely pace. Mid morning, your driver
will take you near the town of Chiusi to meet Pamela Sheldon, a famous
published chef who now lives in Tuscany offering lucky guests private cooking
classes. You will be welcome like family at Pamelas home. Then, you will take a
visit to an antique frantoio, an olive pressing mill, for a demonstration and
tasting of oils. Lunch is a hands-on cooking class using fresh and artisan
ingredients. A gelato demonstration will be included, and depending on the day
you will also get the chance to visit a local market.
After lunch, explore this corner of Tuscany with your driver. Youll first head to the
prestigious Avignonesi winery Montepulciano, known for their world class Vino
Nobile and Vin Santo. One a private tour of the estate youll tour the cellars
and villa, admire the vineyards and conclude with a tasting of their flagship
wines. On your way back to the hotel, stop into Montepulciano town for some
sightseeing. This quaint medieval village has great views, appealing churches
and quaint medieval laneways. Tonight is yours at leisure at your pretty hotel.
Overnight: 4* Luxury Countryside Hotel, Sinalunga
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast- Cooking Class lunch with wines
Transfers: Sinalunga- Chiusi- Montepulciano- Sinalunga
Day Seven - Truffle Hunting & Visit Arezzo
Antiques Shopping in Arezzo
Antiques Shopping in Arezzo
Perhaps Italys most famous gourmet product is the truffle and today you have
an exceptional gastronomic experience to look forward to- a private truffle hunt
followed by a cooking demo with truffles and a tantalizing lunch. From Tuscany
this morning you dip into Umbria, the wonderful adjoining region (home to the

art cities of Assisi, Orvieto and Perugia). Drive northeast to the town of Citt di
Castello and arrive to Tartufi Bianconi. This is one of the best truffle companies in
Italy and apart form arranging truffle hunts they make a wider array of truffle
based products, very tempting! Spend the morning learning all about the truffle,
including a walk in the woods with the truffle hound. Finish the morning off with a
fabulous truffle-studded lunch.
Before leaving this section of Tuscany, it would be a crime to miss Arezzo. While
certainly not the prettiest town in Tuscany (it was heavily bombed in WWII), it
has a lovely medieval core and is also home to Piero della Francescas
Leggenda della Vera Croce (Legend of the True Cross) fresco cycle. This
Renaissance masterpiece is one of the finest in Tuscany and well worth the visit
here if you are an art lover. From Arezzo, youll head back into Florence for your
last evening before your departing flight. Freshen up at the hotel and get ready
for your farewell dinner. Tonight you will dine in Tuscanys most famous
restaurant- the 3 Michelin starred Enoteca Pinchiorri. This is a great way to end
your gastronomic tour, and youll enjoy a tasting menu paired with top Tuscan
wines. Enjoy!
Overnight: 4* Luxury Palace, Florence
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast- Cooking Class lunch with wines
Transfers: Sinalunga- Citt del Castello- Arezzo- Florence
Day Seven - Truffle Hunting & Visit Arezzo
Tuscan Wine Country
Tuscan Wine Country!
This morning your driver will take you to Florences international airport for your
outbound flight. We hope you have had an unforgettable time in Tuscany with us
on this culinary tour, and we look forward to seeing you again!
Meals Included in Price: Full breakfast
Transfers: hotel- Florence airport
Customer Testimonial:
FANTASTIC! The organization of the tour was perfect. We were very impressed
with every winery you selected. All of the wines were exceptional and the people
were very friendly. My personal favorite was Roagna. It was a real treat to sit
down and have lunch with Luca. They made us feel like part of the family. His
passion for his wine was very infectious. We received gifts from every winery and
we especially appreciate the bottle of '86 Roagna Barbaresco. We had a GREAT
time with our driver Gianluca! He was funny, helpful, and a delight to know.
Every meal was absolutely fabulous. Our art guide Emanuela was wonderful,
knowledgeable and very personable. We had a great time with her. We've

already recommended you to a couple we know. They are interested in taking

the same tour. Thanks again for everything, you did a wonderful job!
Ross & Teri Crane, Mission Viejo, California.
What's Included:
Accommodation for 7 nights in luxurious 4* Hotels
7 Full breakfasts
Private Airport Transfers and all transfers as per the itinerary by luxury Mercedes
E and English speaking chauffeur
Bottle of Italian wine in your room upon arrival
Five high quality lunches with wines
Four Private Cooking Classes
Exceptional welcome dinner with wine pairings
Farewell dinner at 3 Michelin starred restaurant, with wine pairings
4 private cooking classes
1 Truffle hunt
1 Chocolate tasting
1 Cheese tasting
5-6 Professional and VIP Wine Tasting Presentations with Winemakers/Owners/top
staff
Tastings of Cru Wines and Personalized Wine Sheets
Private guided walking tour of Florence with art guide
Private guided walking tour of Siena with art guide
1 keepsake itinerary with maps and ample information on Italy, food and wine,
and all locations visited
Gourmet Gift
Welcome bottle of wine in room
All Local taxes
What's Not Included:
Flights
Meals and Drinks not Specified
Personal Expenses such as Telephone, Minibar, etc
Tips and Gratuities (Guides, Restaurants, etc)
Travel Insurance (Strongly recommended)
Cancellation Insurance
Prices:
This is a SAMPLE TOUR ITINERARY. Please note that our private chauffeured
luxury tours are totally customized to your needs and price varies according to
the number of people in your group (please note tours require minimum 2
guests), specific suppliers included, number of services included,specific dates,
transport type etc. Contact us today for more information and we would be
delighted to get started on a tailor made detailed itinerary with pricing for you.
Final price depends on chosen style of accommodation and dining. Please
contact us with your group size (minimum 2 guests, no maximum group size),
travel dates and preferences and we will send you custom pricing.
Discounts available for larger groups

Please note that our tours are available upon demand for PRIVATE GROUPS and
are not scheduled tours for mixed groups.
More Information:
If you would like Cellar Tours to customize a Culinary Tour in Italy or Luxury
Gourmet Day Excursion in Italy, contact us with your requirements, and we can
send you a free itinerary and quote with no obligations. We offer luxury food and
wine tours throughout Italy for private groups. All of our private, chauffeured
tours are available year round upon request for your group of minimum 2 people.
A Small Taste of Provence
Print Email
(Options: Longer Stays)
Provence, France - 2 or more nights
Available March to June, September to December
Welcome to Provence! You will be greeted by your hosts in their beautiful 19th
century mas. The village where you will be staying is famous for its ros wine,
being the first in France. It is located within 15 minutes from Avignon in the
middle of the vineyards and is the perfect escape for a short break.
You will have time to discover the surrounding area which is rich in historical
attractions such as Avignon, the Popes Palace and the Roman aqueducts.
Fabulous landscapes, exceptional light (there was a reason van Gogh came to
the South!) and the singing of the cicadas will bring you peace and offer an
appreciation of this exquisite region of France. You will be charmed by the
colorful markets and warm people. Discover the French way of life with a sunny
twist!
You will partake in a hands-on Provenal cookery class based on sun-kissed
vegetables and fruits, thyme, rosemary, garlic and basil. Groups are small, two to
six people, to offer more personal attention. You will prepare your own dinners in
a way all Provenal women (and men) do, without professional equipment but
with a Provenal heart. The dishes prepared will be a pleasant, more than
expected, discovery in flavour - "Frenchy" but easy to re-create once back home .

SAMPLE ITINERARY
DAY ONE
Meet your hosts between 5:30pm-7:30pm in this quaint village in France which is
the worldwide capital of rose wine. Discover your room and have a rest.
Option until 7pm - Visit on your own to one of the wine cellars to taste and
purchase some wines.
7:30pm - Welcome drink and traditional Provenal dinner

DAY TWO
9am - Breakfast. Individual departure for a regional market, free time to buy
products and discover the ambiance. Free time and lunch on your own.
4:30pm - Picking of fresh thyme and rosemary in the surrounding hills followed
by your cookery lesson where you will prepare your own Provenal dinner.
Time to rest and relax. Typical aperitif and dinner (1/4 liter of wine included).
DAY THREE
9:00am - Breakfast. Check-out before 11am for those who are departing.
For those who feel like visiting the village, you can take a stroll through the
narrow streets, followed by a climb to the top of the valley to view the
orientation table to have an impression of the production area of the villages
vineyards.
After discovering this area, you may want to stay here longer and if so the
following activities are available:

More hands-on cookery classes (Inquire about Four Night Stay)

Wine tastings, vineyard and wine cellar visits
Visits to Provenal markets
Visit of an olive oil factory
Cheese and wine evenings
Visits to beautiful authentic villages
Historical sightseeing such as the town of Avignon or Le pont du Gard (12th
century Roman aqueduct)
Provenal Christmas tradition (November and December only- gala dinner with 7
traditional dishes and 13 desserts)
A talk with the baker at the village
GROUP SIZE
A minimum of 2 participants is required to run this tour and the tour is limited to
a maximum of 6 participants.
(The number of participants refers to how many persons are required to run the
tour, not to how many persons you must have in your party. Please inquire.)

HOW TO ARRIVE
Closest Airports/Train Stations:
Marseilles - 80km from Tavel

Avignon Airport - (but through Paris Orly Airport only) - 20 km from Tavel
Avignon Train Station - From Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport take TGV High Speed
Train (2.5 hours) to Avignon. (Clients can rent a car in train station).
*These details are provided as additional information. Please check below to see
if transfers are included in this tour.

BOOKING INFORMATION
2016 Fees Per Person
Deposit
2016 Dates
Included
Double Room/US$475 (Queen Size Bed only)
Single Supplement/US$175
*Pricing may vary depending on market fluctuation

For further inquiries or to register, click here.

Click here to return to top of page.

CANCELLATION POLICY
Please contact us for cancellation policy information. Travel insurance is highly
recommended.
CLIENT REMARKS
Remarks furnished upon request.
Click here to return to top of page.

MAP*
This exciting region is depicted below. You can also access Google MapsTM by
clicking HERE.

*In some cases mapping may give clients a general sense of location due to
changes in venue. Please inquire about specific location.
Click here to return to top of page.
A Small Taste of Provence

Print Email
(Options: Longer Stays)
Provence, France - 2 or more nights
Available March to June, September to December
Welcome to Provence! You will be greeted by your hosts in their beautiful 19th
century mas. The village where you will be staying is famous for its ros wine,
being the first in France. It is located within 15 minutes from Avignon in the
middle of the vineyards and is the perfect escape for a short break.
You will have time to discover the surrounding area which is rich in historical
attractions such as Avignon, the Popes Palace and the Roman aqueducts.
Fabulous landscapes, exceptional light (there was a reason van Gogh came to
the South!) and the singing of the cicadas will bring you peace and offer an
appreciation of this exquisite region of France. You will be charmed by the
colorful markets and warm people. Discover the French way of life with a sunny
twist!
You will partake in a hands-on Provenal cookery class based on sun-kissed
vegetables and fruits, thyme, rosemary, garlic and basil. Groups are small, two to
six people, to offer more personal attention. You will prepare your own dinners in
a way all Provenal women (and men) do, without professional equipment but
with a Provenal heart. The dishes prepared will be a pleasant, more than
expected, discovery in flavour - "Frenchy" but easy to re-create once back home .

SAMPLE ITINERARY
DAY ONE
Meet your hosts between 5:30pm-7:30pm in this quaint village in France which is
the worldwide capital of rose wine. Discover your room and have a rest.
Option until 7pm - Visit on your own to one of the wine cellars to taste and
purchase some wines.
7:30pm - Welcome drink and traditional Provenal dinner
DAY TWO
9am - Breakfast. Individual departure for a regional market, free time to buy
products and discover the ambiance. Free time and lunch on your own.
4:30pm - Picking of fresh thyme and rosemary in the surrounding hills followed
by your cookery lesson where you will prepare your own Provenal dinner.
Time to rest and relax. Typical aperitif and dinner (1/4 liter of wine included).
DAY THREE

9:00am - Breakfast. Check-out before 11am for those who are departing.
For those who feel like visiting the village, you can take a stroll through the
narrow streets, followed by a climb to the top of the valley to view the
orientation table to have an impression of the production area of the villages
vineyards.
After discovering this area, you may want to stay here longer and if so the
following activities are available:

More hands-on cookery classes (Inquire about Four Night Stay)

Wine tastings, vineyard and wine cellar visits
Visits to Provenal markets
Visit of an olive oil factory
Cheese and wine evenings
Visits to beautiful authentic villages
Historical sightseeing such as the town of Avignon or Le pont du Gard (12th
century Roman aqueduct)
Provenal Christmas tradition (November and December only- gala dinner with 7
traditional dishes and 13 desserts)
A talk with the baker at the village
GROUP SIZE
A minimum of 2 participants is required to run this tour and the tour is limited to
a maximum of 6 participants.
(The number of participants refers to how many persons are required to run the
tour, not to how many persons you must have in your party. Please inquire.)

HOW TO ARRIVE
Closest Airports/Train Stations:
Marseilles - 80km from Tavel
Avignon Airport - (but through Paris Orly Airport only) - 20 km from Tavel
Avignon Train Station - From Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport take TGV High Speed
Train (2.5 hours) to Avignon. (Clients can rent a car in train station).
*These details are provided as additional information. Please check below to see
if transfers are included in this tour.

BOOKING INFORMATION

2016 Fees Per Person

Deposit
2016 Dates
Included
Double Room/US$475 (Queen Size Bed only)
Single Supplement/US$175
*Pricing may vary depending on market fluctuation

For further inquiries or to register, click here.

Click here to return to top of page.

CANCELLATION POLICY
Please contact us for cancellation policy information. Travel insurance is highly
recommended.
CLIENT REMARKS
Remarks furnished upon request.
Click here to return to top of page.

MAP*
This exciting region is depicted below. You can also access Google MapsTM by
clicking HERE.

*In some cases mapping may give clients a general sense of location due to
changes in venue. Please inquire about specific location.
Click here to return to top of page.