Montepulciano Caveau di Evelina Experience 3 old vintages tasting

A Unique Journey Through Time in Tuscany’s Underground Cellar

If you’re seeking an experience that combines history, exceptional wine, and a touch of Tuscany’s mystical atmosphere, the Montepulciano Caveau di Evelina tasting might just be your perfect match. This two-hour tour takes you beneath the streets of the charming hilltop village into the underground cellar of Croce di Febo, a biodynamic winery known for its old vintages of Nobile di Montepulciano. Unlike a typical visit to a modern winery, this tasting focuses on three historic vintages, offering a rare glimpse into the evolution of the same grape, soil, and tradition across different eras.

What I particularly love about this experience is the magical, almost secretive ambiance of the cave vault—something straight out of a wine lover’s dream. The knowledgeable guides, such as Evelina herself, blend professionalism with friendliness, making you feel like you’re visiting a friend’s private cellar. Also, the pairing of delicious local foods like charcuterie, traditional panzanella salad, and cheeses heightens the tasting, turning it into a lively, convivial event.

A potential consideration is the small group size—limited to just eight participants—which ensures intimacy but requires booking well in advance. Also, keep in mind that this experience is not suitable for children under 18, and the underground setting calls for a long-sleeved shirt to stay comfortable. If you’re expecting a large commercial operation or a boisterous crowd, this might feel more exclusive than some prefer. But for those craving authenticity and a meaningful connection to Tuscany’s winemaking roots, this tour hits the mark.

Key points / Takeaways

• Exclusive access to a historic, biodynamic cellar—a rare peek into Tuscany’s past vintages.
• Expert-guided tasting led by friendly, knowledgeable staff, including Evelina.
• Pairings include local foods—charcuterie, panzanella, cheeses, and local extra virgin olive oil—adding depth to the tasting.
• Small group size (up to 8 participants) ensures intimacy and personalized attention.
• Atmosphere is truly magical—the underground vaults, bottles from decades past, and evocative setting.
• Great value for the price considering the quality of wines and the exclusive experience.

Exploring the underground: The setting that makes this experience special

The tour begins at Amoremio wine shop in Via di Voltaia Nel Corso, which is a lovely starting point to get acquainted with the local vibe. From there, you’ll head to the cellar, a tunnel carved into the earth that houses an incredible museum of bottles from various vintages. I love how the cellar is more than just a storage space—it’s a living record of the vineyard’s history, with each bottle telling a story of growing seasons, soil, and winemaking techniques.

The experience is designed to be intimate, with guides like Evelina offering detailed insights into each vintage, explaining how the same grape, grown in the same soil, can change in appearance and aroma over time. The dim lighting, cool air, and the scent of aged wine create a truly immersive atmosphere—I felt like I was traveling through a tangible history book.

The cellar’s sartorial, almost secretive feel makes it a special place for wine lovers who appreciate the story behind each sip. Many reviews mention how “the fragrance of the old vintages transported them through time,” emphasizing the emotional impact of tasting such historic wines.

The tasting: Three vintages, three stories

The core of this experience is the guided tasting of three distinct vintages of Nobile di Montepulciano. Each vintage offers a different perspective on the same grape and soil, demonstrating how time and climate influence flavor, color, and aroma. The guide explains the nuances of each vintage, helping you understand how aging impacts the wine’s scent and taste.

Participants are treated to a delicious pairing of local foods—a charcuterie board with regional meats, a traditional Panzanella salad, and cheeses selected by master cheese refiner De Magi—complementing the wines perfectly. This approach turns the tasting into a lively, convivial experience; I appreciated how food and wine were balanced, enhancing both the flavors and the conversation.

In reviews, many mention how “the tasting was expertly led, with a friendly, approachable guide who made complex ideas easy to understand,” and how “the wines, even the older vintages, were surprisingly vibrant and full of character.” The pairing of extra virgin olive oil with bruschetta adds an extra layer of Tuscan authenticity and flavor.

Logistics and Practicalities: What to Expect on the Day

The tour begins at Amoremio wine shop and lasts approximately two hours. The small group size—limited to 8 people—means you’ll get a more personalized experience than you might in larger tours. The price of $169.93 per person reflects the exclusive nature of this tasting, especially considering the focus on historic vintages and paired foods.

Check the availability for specific starting times, as they vary, and remember to bring a long-sleeved shirt—the cool underground environment can be chilly. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a plus for those with mobility needs.

The experience includes a charcuterie board, panzanella salad, cheese pairing, bruschetta with oil, and a tasting of Croce di Febo’s extra virgin olive oil. It’s a well-rounded sampling of local culinary delights that showcase Tuscany’s produce and culinary craftsmanship.

You’re expected to arrive at the meeting point, Amoremio wine shop, where your guide will begin the journey into the underground vaults. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics simple.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to explore beyond the usual tasting rooms, especially those interested in historic vintages and biodynamic practices. If you’re curious about how wines develop over decades or want to taste a small, authentic cellar away from tourist crowds, this is a perfect choice.

It’s also suitable for adults who enjoy good food and convivial atmospheres, as the pairing component adds a social dimension. However, it’s not suitable for children under 18, and those with mobility issues should confirm accessibility beforehand.

Travelers who value quality over quantity will appreciate the intimate setting, personalized guidance, and focus on storytelling that makes this tour stand out.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At nearly $170 per person, this experience isn’t cheap. But considering the access to historic vintages, the small group size, the expert guidance, and the culinary pairings, it offers good value for a special, memorable activity. If you’re passionate about wine and history, the price reflects the quality and exclusivity of this experience.

For those who normally enjoy wine tastings but want something more meaningful and historically rooted, this tour delivers well beyond a typical tasting. Plus, the pairings and olive oil tasting add to the overall value, giving you a taste of authentic Tuscan flavors in a unique setting.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Experience for You?

If you’re a wine lover eager to see how complex, old vintages can be, and you’re interested in biodynamic practices and authentic Tuscan atmosphere, this tour is worth considering. The small group size and guided storytelling make it engaging and personal, perfect for those who want more than just a tasting—an experience that tells a story through wine, food, and history.

The underground cellar setting adds a level of intimacy and adventure, making it a memorable part of any trip to Montepulciano. It’s best suited for adults who enjoy food, wine, and a touch of history—and for those looking for a quiet, contemplative, and delicious experience away from the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, starting from the Amoremio wine shop and ending back there.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers three vintage wine tastings, pairings of charcuterie, salad, cheeses, and oil, plus the guidance of a knowledgeable expert.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the experience is intended for adults, and children under 18 are not permitted.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, spots are limited to 8 participants, so booking ahead is recommended to secure your place.

Is the environment wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it manageable for those with mobility needs.

What should I wear?
Bring a long-sleeved shirt as the underground cellar can be cool and slightly humid.

In all, the Montepulciano Caveau di Evelina tasting offers a rare chance to taste history in a glass, paired with local food in a magical setting. It’s a wonderful choice for those wanting an authentic, intimate, and deeply Tuscan experience that celebrates both the land and its vintners.