Wine and Extra virgin olive oil tasting in Lucca, Tuscany

Wine and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Tasting in Lucca, Tuscany — A Flavorful Journey into Authentic Tuscan Cuisine

This small-group tasting tour in Lucca offers a genuine taste of Tuscany’s culinary treasures, led by Fausto Borella, founder of the Lucca Olive Oil Academy. For about two hours, you’ll enjoy a carefully curated experience that combines expert insights with delicious food and scenic vistas. Hosted in an 18th-century apartment overlooking the city’s medieval walls, this tour isn’t your typical tourist fare—it’s a hands-on, intimate look at the art of olive oil and wine making.

What I particularly love about this experience is the personal touch Fausto brings, making complex topics like olive oil cultivars and health benefits accessible and interesting. Plus, the combination of tasting exquisite extra virgin olive oils alongside regional wines, all while enjoying a spectacular view of Lucca’s historic skyline, elevates this beyond just another tasting. The delicious light lunch with traditional Tuscan dishes really seals the deal, offering a satisfying conclusion to a memorable hour and a half.

One potential consideration is that the activity is scheduled for just a limited window from noon to 2 PM, which may require some planning around your sightseeing schedule. Also, while the small group size enhances intimacy and learning, it might mean availability depends on advance booking, as most travelers book around 41 days ahead.

This experience works best for those who appreciate authentic culinary experiences, enjoy learning about local food traditions, or simply want a relaxing, educational break from more touristy activities. It’s especially suited for travelers who value expert guidance—Fausto speaks multiple languages including English, French, and Spanish—and who are keen to enjoy spectacular views alongside their tastings.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic Tuscan experience with a focus on local olive oils and wines
• Small group size of up to 15 people ensures personalized attention
• Expert guidance from Fausto Borella, a professional sommelier and olive oil specialist
• Spectacular views of Lucca’s medieval walls and historic landmarks from the 18th-century apartment
• Educational insights into olive oil cultivars, production secrets, and health benefits
• Delicious light lunch featuring traditional Tuscan dishes, perfectly complementing the tastings

Exploring the Heart of Tuscany’s Flavors

When you step into the charming 18th-century apartment hosting this tour, you immediately sense the sense of history and careful restoration. The views of Lucca’s medieval walls, the VIII-century cathedral bell tower, and the historic Theatre make the setting more than just a backdrop—they’re part of the experience. This backdrop sets the tone for what’s to come: a relaxed, in-depth exploration of Tuscany’s culinary gems.

Fausto Borella leads the tour personally, guiding guests through a tasting of four distinct extra virgin olive oils. His expert commentary makes the often-mysterious world of olive oil cultivation approachable. You’ll learn about cultivars—the different olive varieties—and the subtle differences in flavor, aroma, and texture. The emphasis on health benefits, such as the antioxidant properties of extra virgin olive oil, adds a practical dimension that makes your tasting more meaningful.

The oil tasting is followed by a carefully curated wine tasting. The selection includes regional wines that pair beautifully with the oils and the light Tuscan lunch. As Lori J noted in her review, “the olive oil tasting was very interesting and informative,” and she appreciated the combination of great appetizers, pasta, and dessert. The meals are traditional yet refined, giving you a true taste of local Tuscan cooking.

Why the Small Group Makes a Difference

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the small group size, maxing out at 15 guests. This setup allows Fausto to provide personal attention and tailored insights, making it suitable for those who want to really understand the nuances of Italian wines and oils. Reviews highlight the fabulous hosts and the fabulous lessons on olive oil—a testament to the personalized approach.

The tour operates only during a limited window (Monday to Wednesday from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM), which makes it important to plan your schedule accordingly. Most bookings are made well in advance, typically around 41 days, reflecting its popularity. The mobile ticket format adds convenience, especially for travelers who prefer digital access.

The Value of Authenticity and Learning

At $116.36 per person, this tour offers much more than just a tasting. You’re paying for an educational experience that deepens your understanding of Tuscan culture, food traditions, and regional specialties. Being guided personally by Fausto, a food and wine consultant, greatly enhances the experience, as his insights shed light on how olive oil and wine are made, and how they fit into Tuscan life.

Most reviews agree that you get great value for the price—especially considering the quality of the delicious food, spectacular views, and the personalized attention. One guest described the overall experience as “OUTSTANDING,” highlighting the interesting and informative nature of the olive oil tasting, along with the great lunch and coffee.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour suits foodies eager to understand the finer points of Italian olive oils and wines, as well as travelers wanting a more authentic, local experience away from touristy spots. If you enjoy learning while tasting and appreciate spectacular scenery, you’ll find this a worthwhile addition to your Lucca itinerary.

It’s especially ideal for those who value expert hosts and want a relaxed, intimate setting to deepen their appreciation of Tuscan culinary traditions. If you’re looking for a short, meaningful culinary adventure with beautiful views and delicious food, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Price and Logistics

While $116.36 per person might seem a bit steep at first glance, you’re paying for an expert-led session, a personalized experience, and high-quality tastings with beautiful views. The inclusion of a light Tuscan lunch and the opportunity to learn about olive oil production and regional wines adds significant value.

The activity’s duration of roughly two hours makes it manageable even for tight schedules. Its central location in Lucca (Corso Garibaldi 52) is easy to reach, and the near public transportation options are convenient. Plus, the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This tasting tour is perfect for travelers who want a more authentic, educational experience that goes beyond just sipping wine or sampling olive oils. You’ll get a hands-on look into the production process, paired with a delicious meal and stunning views that make Lucca special.

If you’re curious about olive oil cultivars, health benefits, or regional wines, and you enjoy learning from a passionate guide in a cozy, historic setting, this tour delivers. It’s also a great way to meet fellow food lovers and gain a new appreciation for Tuscany’s culinary riches.

Whether you’re a wine aficionado, a culinary enthusiast, or simply someone eager for an authentic Tuscan experience, this tour offers a memorable taste of Lucca’s flavors and traditions.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the tour includes a light Tuscan lunch that is vegetarian-friendly, with traditional ingredients.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately two hours, making it easy to fit into a busy day of sightseeing.

Do I need to book in advance?
Most travelers book around 41 days ahead, as the tour is popular and limited in size.

Are the tastings suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best suited for adults or older children who enjoy tasting and learning about food.

What language is the tour conducted in?
Fausto Borella hosts the tour in English, French, and Spanish.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point is accessible via public transportation in Lucca.

What makes this tour stand out from other food experiences in Lucca?
The personalized guidance, spectacular views, and comprehensive focus on olive oil and wine make it uniquely immersive and informative.

This small-group tasting experience in Lucca is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to learn, savor, and enjoy Tuscany’s culinary heritage in a beautiful, authentic setting.