Italian Wine Tasting & Food Como Lake

A Detailed Look at the Italian Wine Tasting & Food Experience in Como Lake

If you’re spending time in Como and want to add a genuine, educational touch to your trip, the Italian Wine Tasting & Food experience offers a delightful one-and-a-half hours exploring wines, paired with tasty local snacks. Offered by Capitan Drake, this tour promises a small-group, intimate setting—limited to just 12 participants—that’s perfect for wine lovers who enjoy a relaxed, chatty atmosphere. It’s priced at $76.17 per person, booked on average 26 days in advance, making it a well-regarded choice for those wanting to deepen their appreciation of Italian wine without breaking the bank.

What I really love about this experience is the personal touch provided by the sommelier, often Sandu or Giuseppe, who creates an engaging environment where you’ll learn about each wine’s story—from the grape varieties to the wineries—while enjoying generous tastings. The second highlight is the thoughtful pairing of Italian snacks like prosciutto, cheese, and buffalo mozzarella, which elevate each sip and make every tasting feel more like a cozy dinner than a typical wine stand. Plus, the tasting notes provided afterward ensure you’ll remember the wines long after you leave Como.

One small consideration is the group size—while limited to 12, the experience might feel a bit crowded during peak times or weekends. Also, if you’re expecting a full wine-blending class or a visit to a vineyard, know that this experience takes place inside a single, elegant wine shop, focusing on tasting and education rather than touring wineries or vineyards. Still, many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide and the excellent selection, making it a worthwhile addition to your Como itinerary.

Key Points

• Intimate, small-group setting ensures personalized attention and lively discussion.
• Learn from a professional sommelier about wines’ origins, grape varieties, and production methods.
• Generous tastings of 4-5 different wines provide variety and depth.
• Excellent food pairings enhance the tasting experience with Italian cheeses, meats, and mozzarella.
• Tasting notes help you remember your favorites and share your experience back home.
• Highly praised guides like Sandu and Giuseppe are known for their friendly, engaging explanations.

In-Depth Review of the Experience

The experience begins at Capitan Drake, a charming wine shop conveniently located near Como’s old town. The start time is punctual, and the host—often Sandu, a local sommelier—welcomes the small group with warmth, setting a friendly and relaxed tone. Because the group is limited to just 12 people, conversations flow naturally, and everyone gets a chance to ask questions, which many reviews confirm as a major plus. As one traveler put it, “Sandu is now our go-to. Her presence, presentation, and selections are phenomenal.”

The tasting kicks off shortly after the meeting, with the sommelier describing each wine, sharing insights about the wineries, and giving tasting notes. This isn’t just about sipping; it’s about understanding. You might find yourself learning that the wines are carefully selected to focus on Italian regions and grapes, with some international options as well. These details appeal to those who love to connect what they’re drinking with a broader context of Italian viticulture.

Throughout the session, expect to sample four to five glasses, with options to upgrade if you want to taste more. The wines are described as “excellent” in reviews, with guests often mentioning that the wines are “quaffable” and of high quality. Pairings include local cheeses like buffalo mozzarella, prosciutto, and a cheese selection, which serve as perfect complements to the wines and help cleanse your palate. Many reviews praise the quality and variety of these snacks, noting that they’re generous enough to feel like a small meal.

One highlight that travelers mention often is the wine knowledge of the guides. For example, one review states, “Giuseppe selected some excellent wines and provided great commentary on the wine-making process,” making the experience not only delicious but educational. Sharing stories about the regional grapes and wine production themes makes the tasting accessible and engaging, even for those new to wine.

The value here is notable: for under $80, you get a solid education, a tasting of several quality wines, and delicious Italian food—an experience many see as more than worth the price. The notes you receive afterwards help keep the memory alive, and many guests leave with new favorites and a better understanding of Italian wine.

The ambiance of the shop adds to the overall charm, with a tasteful decor that feels cozy yet sophisticated. Critics agree that this environment, combined with the knowledgeable host, makes for a memorable experience—something that can be hard to find in larger, more commercial tastings.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you’re genuinely interested in Italian wines, appreciate good food, and enjoy a relaxed, sociable setting, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small groups who want to learn without feeling rushed. Those with limited time in Como will appreciate how this pairs well with sightseeing, as the experience is relatively short but packed with substance. If you’re traveling with friends who enjoy a good glass of wine and conversation, they’ll also be delighted.

However, if you’re after a full vineyard tour or a large-scale tasting, you might find this experience narrower in scope. Still, it’s a perfect fit for those looking for an authentic taste of Italian hospitality combined with quality wines and local bites. Plus, the small size means you can ask plenty of questions and really get a sense of the regional wine culture.

FAQ — Practical Questions About the Experience

How long does the wine tasting last?
It runs approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a great addition without taking up your whole afternoon.

Where is the meeting point?
The tasting begins at Capitan Drake, located at Via Francesco Benzi, 19, in Como. It’s easily accessible near public transportation.

What is included in the price?
Expect 4-5 glasses of high-quality wine, along with Italian snacks such as prosciutto, cheese, and buffalo mozzarella. The tasting notes are provided afterward to help remember your favorites.

Can I buy wine after the tasting?
Yes, many guests mention being tempted to ship wine home after the experience, with some opting to purchase bottles directly on-site.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The experience is limited to just 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere conducive to learning and conversation.

Are tips or extra wine included?
Tips are not included in the price, and additional wine beyond the tasting can be purchased separately if desired.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While primarily a wine tasting, the focus on education and food pairing might still make it enjoyable for those who prefer not to drink, but it’s primarily geared toward wine enthusiasts.

What should I wear?
There’s no strict dress code, but casual smart is recommended, especially considering the cozy yet elegant environment.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The experience is flexible with full refunds if canceled on time.

How do I know if I should book in advance?
Most travelers book about a month ahead. The tour is popular, with an average booking window of 26 days, so securing your spot early is wise, especially during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

This wine tasting experience in Como pairs a tasteful selection of Italian and international wines with local snacks and expert guidance. The small-group format ensures a friendly, interactive environment where questions are encouraged. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned drinker, you’ll appreciate the approachable, educational style of the hosting guides.

The value for money is evident when considering the amount and quality of wine tasted, combined with the food pairings and engaging commentary. The overall reviews highlight how much guests enjoy the warmth and knowledge of the guides, making it clear this isn’t just a tasting, but an authentic glimpse into Italy’s wine world.

If you’re in Como and want to try something relaxed yet deeply informative, this experience offers a memorable way to enjoy Italian hospitality. Perfect for travelers who value small-group settings, excellent wine, and local flavors, this tasting will certainly add flavor to your lakeside visit.

Summary & Final Recommendations

This small-group wine tasting in Como offers a rare chance to learn about Italian wines from passionate guides in a cozy, welcoming setting. The generous tastings, paired with top-notch snacks, make it a good value, especially for those looking for a relaxed, educational experience. It’s most suited for small groups or couples seeking authentic local flavors, friendly guides, and a taste of Italian hospitality. Expect engaging stories, quality wines, and satisfying bites—all wrapped into a memorable, well-organized experience.

If you’re curious about Italian wines, want to meet fellow travelers, or simply enjoy good food and drink in a charming environment, this tour deserves a spot on your Como itinerary.

Remember: Book early, arrive eager to learn, and prepare to enjoy some of Italy’s best wines in a setting that feels like visiting a friend’s cozy wine cellar. Cheers!