Cortecorbo Irpinia-Wines offers a unique opportunity to take in the heart of Italy’s renowned Irpinia wine region. Visitors can explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and indulge in a hands-on cooking class to craft authentic wood-fired pizza. The highlight, however, is the captivating wine tasting experience that showcases the region’s acclaimed vintages. As guests savor the distinct flavors and aromas, they’ll uncover the rich viticultural heritage that has shaped this enchanting corner of the Italian countryside. What awaits beyond this tasting is a culinary journey that promises to delight the senses.
More nearby cooking classses we've reviewed
Key Points
- Guided tour of the Cortecorbo vineyards and cantina, providing insights into the region’s viticultural heritage and winemaking processes.
- Hands-on cooking class to learn how to make authentic wood-fired Neapolitan pizza.
- Comprehensive wine tasting experience showcasing the renowned vintages of the Irpinia region.
- Irpinian cheese and charcuterie starter, followed by regional specialties like pumpkin ravioli and maccaronara al ragù.
- Pickup from Sorrento, Positano, or Amalfi, with private transportation to the heart of the Irpinia wine region.
Tour of Vineyards and Cantina
Visitors begin their immersive winemaking experience with a guided tour through the vineyards and cantina, where they’ll learn about the region’s rich viticultural heritage and the meticulous processes behind Cortecorbo’s award-winning Irpinia wines.
They’ll wander through the rows of vines, admiring the landscape and gaining insights into the grape growing methods used to cultivate the local varietals.
The tour continues into the cantina, where guests witness the art of winemaking firsthand. They’ll explore the fermentation tanks, barrel rooms, and tasting areas, discovering the passion and attention to detail that goes into every bottle produced at Cortecorbo.
It’s an engaging, educational experience that sets the stage for the culinary and oenological delights to come.
Cooking Class: Making Wood-Fired Pizza
After the winery tour, participants transition into the culinary portion of the experience by donning aprons and learning the art of crafting authentic Italian pizza in a traditional wood-fired oven. Under the guidance of a skilled local chef, guests discover the secrets to making the perfect pizza dough and sauce. They then personalize their pies with a selection of fresh, seasonal toppings. As the pizzas bake, the aroma of wood smoke and bubbling cheese fills the air, whetting appetites. Once ready, the group eagerly slices into their handmade creations, savoring the perfect blend of crispy crust, tangy sauce, and melty cheese. This hands-on cooking class is a highlight of the day’s immersive food and wine experience.
| Cooking Class Activities |
|---|
| Kneading Pizza Dough |
| Crafting Authentic Sauce |
| Selecting Fresh Toppings |
| Baking in a Wood-Fired Oven |
| Enjoying the Finished Pizzas |
Wine Tasting Experience
The wine tasting begins with a guided exploration of the Irpinia region’s renowned vintages. Guests savor a selection of the cantina’s finest offerings, learning about the unique terroir and production methods that imbue these wines with their distinctive character.
As they sip and swirl, the group discovers the nuanced flavors and aromas that have earned Irpinia its reputation as a premier winemaking destination.
The expert sommelier shares insights on the grape varietals, aging processes, and the family traditions that have been passed down for generations. Participants delight in the opportunity to taste a range of red, white, and rosé wines, each with its own captivating personality.
The tasting concludes with a newfound appreciation for the artistry and passion that goes into crafting these exceptional Irpinia wines.
Irpinian Cheese and Charcuterie Starter
Atop the table, an assortment of Irpinian cheeses, bruschetta, salumi, and roasted chestnuts with warm soup await your, setting the stage for a delectable culinary experience.
The Irpinian cheeses, each with its distinct flavor and texture, are the stars of the starter. Creamy and tangy, they pair perfectly with the crusty bruschetta and the rich, savory salumi.
The roasted chestnuts, with their earthy sweetness, add a delightful contrast to the other elements. The warm soup, a comforting touch, ties the whole starter together, inviting your to indulge in the comforting flavors of the Irpinian countryside.
This starter whets the appetite, leaving your eager for the main course to come.
Pumpkin Ravioli and Maccaronara Al Ragù
For the main course, guests are served a duo of handmade pastas – delicate pumpkin ravioli with a velvety cream sauce and the hearty Maccaronara al Ragù, long noodles tossed in a rich tomato-based meat ragu.
The pumpkin ravioli is a regional specialty, its filling bursting with the sweet and earthy flavors of the autumn squash.
The Maccaronara al Ragù, on the other hand, is a classic of Italian cuisine – thick, chewy noodles coated in a sauce made from slow-simmered beef and pork.
Together, these two dishes showcase the rustic, comforting flavors of Irpinian cuisine and leave guests fully satisfied after an indulgent lunch.
Tagliata Di Vitello Main Course
Alongside the delicate pumpkin ravioli and hearty Maccaronara al Ragù, guests also indulge in the Tagliata di Vitello, a tender cut of veal served as part of the main course.
This classic Italian dish features thinly sliced grilled veal, drizzled with a rich, savory sauce. The meat’s succulent texture and robust flavor pair perfectly with the accompanying sides, creating a harmonious and satisfying dining experience.
This main course showcases the culinary expertise of the Irpinia region, where traditional techniques and high-quality local ingredients come together to deliver a truly memorable meal. Guests leave the cooking class with not only a full belly but also a newfound appreciation for the nuances of Italian cuisine.
Tiramisu for Dessert
To conclude the satisfying meal, guests are treated to the classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu. This indulgent layered confection features soft ladyfingers soaked in espresso, sandwiched between pillowy mascarpone cream, and dusted with cocoa powder. The rich, velvety texture and the balance of coffee and sweetness provide a delightful finale to the Irpinian culinary experience.
| Tiramisu Layers | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Espresso-Soaked Ladyfingers | Bold, Aromatic Coffee |
| Smooth Mascarpone Cream | Rich, Creamy Sweetness |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder | Subtle, Earthy Bitterness |
With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, Tiramisu is the perfect end to this immersive Irpinia wine and food tour.
Meeting Point and Transportation
The tour begins with a pickup from Piazza Tasso in Sorrento, Positano, or Amalfi, whisking guests away to the heart of the Irpinia wine region in Montemarano, a journey that takes approximately 105 minutes.
Once there, guests will meet at the designated meeting point to embark on their wine-fueled adventure.
Private transportation is available upon request, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience throughout the day.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, the tour’s accessibility features, including wheelchair and stroller access, as well as infant seats, make it suitable for all.
With a confirmation received at booking and a generous cancellation policy, planning your Irpinia wine country experience has never been easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour and Activities?
There is no formal dress code. Guests are advised to wear comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking through vineyards. Dressing in layers is recommended to accommodate any weather changes during the day’s activities.
Can the Cooking Class Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
The cooking class can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Participants should notify the organizers of any special dietary needs when booking the tour so the necessary arrangements can be made.
Are the Wines Available for Purchase After the Tasting?
Yes, the wines tasted during the session can be purchased after the tasting. Participants are free to buy any of the wines they sampled and enjoyed from the winery’s selection.
Can Participants Take Photos During the Tour and Cooking Class?
Participants can generally take photos during the tour and cooking class. However, they should be mindful not to disrupt the activities. It’s best to check with the tour guide about any restrictions on photography.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Wine Tasting?
There’s no minimum age requirement for the wine tasting, but participants under 18 can’t sample the wines. They’ll enjoy the tour and cooking class instead. Participants must be at least 18 to take part in the wine tasting portion of the activity.
Recap
Explore the rich viticultural heritage of Irpinia on this immersive tour. Discover the winemaking process, partake in a hands-on pizza cooking class, and savor the renowned vintages during a guided wine tasting.
Indulge in a delightful regional meal featuring local specialties, from pumpkin ravioli to the iconic tiramisu. An unforgettable experience that showcases the flavors and traditions of this remarkable wine region.
