Irpinia Tour of the Vineyards, Cooking Class and Wine-Tasting

Introduction

For travelers seeking a genuine taste of Italy’s southern wine and food scene, the Irpinia Tour of the Vineyards, Cooking Class, and Wine-Tasting offers a wonderfully balanced day out. This full-day excursion departs from Naples and takes you into Irpinia, a lesser-known but highly rewarding wine region famous for its prestigious Taurasi DOCG. For around $115 per person, you’ll enjoy a mix of guided vineyard visits, an interactive cooking class, and a long, convivial lunch featuring hand-made pasta and pizza—all paired with the winery’s own wines.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personal connection you get to a family-run winery, where the hosts—like the warm Antonia—really make you feel at home. Second, the hands-on cooking component provides a refreshing break from typical sightseeing; you’ll learn to craft authentic Italian dishes in a friendly, informal setting. A small caveat is that the tour is quite full-on, so if you’re looking for a slow, contemplative day, this might feel a tad busy. But for those eager to combine learning, tasting, and authentic scenery, it’s hard to beat.

Key Points

• Authentic family-run winery experience with personal storytelling by the hosts.
• Hands-on cooking class creating traditional pasta and pizza.
• Wine tasting of renowned Irpinian wines, including Taurasi DOCG.
• Beautiful vineyard setting and traditional countryside lunch.
• Includes private transportation from Naples, making logistics easy.
• Ideal for food and wine lovers wanting both education and enjoyment.

Discovering Irpinia: The Vineyard Tour

The journey begins with transportation from Piazza Giovanni Bovio in Naples, or you can choose to meet directly at Cortecorbo Winery in Montemarano. The drive itself offers a glimpse of Italy’s rolling hills and lush vineyards—transforming what might otherwise be just a day trip into a scenic adventure.

Once at the winery, you’ll receive a guided tour of the Cortecorbo vineyards. It’s a sensory and historical immersion, perfect for understanding why Irpinia has gained recognition for its terroir. The tour includes tasting various harvests and insights from the real wine-maker, who explains how different barrels influence flavor. As one reviewer, Sandy, noted, “Antonia welcomed us like family with such warmth and genuine enthusiasm,” making the whole atmosphere friendly and relaxed.

The visit continues with a tour of the cantina, where you’ll learn about the wine-making process from grape to bottle. The highlight? Sampling different wines aged in barrels—this is where the nuances of each vintage come alive. Of particular interest is Taurasi DOCG, the region’s most celebrated red, known for its structure and depth. The guided commentary sheds light on the history and significance of these wines, elevating your tasting experience beyond just sipping.

The Hands-On Cooking Experience

After the vineyard tour, it’s time for the favorite part of many guests’ days: the cooking class. Under the guidance of a knowledgeable host, you’ll learn how to make pizza and a special Irpinian pasta called “Maccaronara.” This pasta is a traditional hand-made shape, and having the chance to learn its craft is a highlight.

The class isn’t just about following recipes; it’s about understanding local, seasonal produce and how they shape authentic Italian dishes. The atmosphere is jovial, with plenty of fun and interaction. As one reviewer, Anthony, said, “We felt like we were part of the family business,” emphasizing how welcoming and personal this segment feels. The pizza gets cooked in a traditional wood oven, adding a rustic touch to the experience.

The Long, Celebrate Lunch with Wine

The culmination of the day is a countryside lunch served family-style, featuring the fruits of your labor—both the pizza and hand-made pasta—plus local cheeses, salumi, and even some local meats. The meal is designed to show how local ingredients are central to Irpinian cuisine, with each dish paired seamlessly with the regional wines.

The wine selections include three reds—Taurasi DOCG 2016, Aglianico DOC 2017, and Campi Taurasini DOC 2016—and three whites—Fiano di Avellino DOCG 2020, Greco di Tufo DOCG 2020, and Coda di Volpe 2019. Guests consistently praise the quality and variety of the wines, noting, “The vineyard was in such a charming town, and Antonia made us feel so welcome”—this hospitality genuinely enriches the experience.

Logistics and Practical Considerations

The entire tour lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a full but rewarding day. The private transportation included makes the trip stress-free—no need to worry about navigating or parking. The tour is booked well in advance—on average, 82 days ahead—which is a good tip if you want to secure a spot during peak seasons.

Price-wise, at $115, it offers excellent value when you consider the guided vineyard tour, cooking class, lunch, wine tastings, and transportation included. Remember, no alcohol is served to minors under 18, which is standard but worth noting for families.

This tour is a small-group experience, ensuring a more intimate, authentic feel. The reviews consistently praise the warmth of the hosts and the quality of the food and wine; many say it felt more like visiting friends than a typical tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food and wine lovers eager to learn about authentic Irpinian traditions. It suits those wanting a hands-on activity combined with cultural insights, and it’s ideal for couples, friends, or small families looking for a more personal, less touristy day. If you value genuine hospitality and regional character over slick commercial tours, this is a real find.

However, be prepared for a full day with some walking and standing, especially during the vineyard visit and cooking class. If you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced experience, you might find the schedule a little tight.

The Sum Up

The Irpinia Tour of the Vineyards, Cooking Class, and Wine-Tasting offers a wonderful blend of authentic Italian hospitality, regional wine mastery, and delicious food. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—who are eager to connect with local traditions, learn some culinary skills, and enjoy top-quality wines in a welcoming setting. The beautiful vineyard scenery, the chance to cook with local ingredients, and the warmth of hosts like Antonia make this a memorable day.

While it isn’t the cheapest option, the comprehensive experience—entwining education, tasting, and hands-on cooking—delivers a lot of value. Best suited for those who appreciate genuine, small-group experiences and want a taste of Italy that goes beyond just visiting sights. If you’re craving a day filled with authentic flavors, stunning views, and warm hospitality, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation from Piazza Giovanni Bovio in Naples. You can also opt to meet directly at the winery.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample some of the best from Cortecorbo winery, including three reds—Taurasi DOCG 2016, Aglianico DOC 2017, and Campi Taurasini DOC 2016—and three whites—Fiano di Avellino DOCG 2020, Greco di Tufo DOCG 2020, and Coda di Volpe 2019.

Can minors participate in the wine tasting?
Minors under 18 are not served alcohol, following standard regulations.

What’s included in the price?
Guided vineyard and winery tours, the cooking class, lunch, wine tastings, coffee/tea, and private transportation.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made well ahead—about 82 days in advance on average—to ensure availability.

Is the experience suitable for families?
Yes, especially for those who enjoy active, hands-on activities and are traveling with older children or teens.

How physically active is the tour?
It involves walking through vineyards, participating in a cooking class, and sitting for lunch, so some mobility is needed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and participating in cooking activities. You might get a little dirty in the kitchen, so casual is best.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to rain or poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Whether you’re a wine devotee, a foodie, or simply curious to experience authentic Italian hospitality outside the tourist zones, this tour offers a full, flavorful day from start to finish.