Private wine, Extra Virgin Olive Oils & Cheese Tasting

Discovering the Private Wine, Olive Oil, and Cheese Tasting Near San Gimignano

This review covers a highly-rated experience offering a private tasting of organic wines, extra virgin olive oils, and cheeses at a small family-run farm just outside San Gimignano. Priced at around $49.29 per person, this roughly 45-minute tour has been booked in advance about ten days ahead — a good sign of its popularity. The most appealing part? It’s an intimate, outdoor tasting set amid gorgeous Tuscan countryside with views of San Gimignano’s towers and rolling vineyards.

What I particularly like about this experience are the personal touch provided by the family ownership — the farm is dedicated to organic cultivation since 2000, with a friendly guide explaining the nuances of organic wine and olive oil production. Also, the setting within walking distance from San Gimignano’s historic center makes it convenient for travelers who want a taste of Tuscany without extra transportation fuss. On the downside, a few reviews mention that the experience is somewhat limited in scope — primarily a tasting rather than an in-depth tour of vineyards or cellars — so if you’re hoping for a full vineyard visit, keep this in mind.

Key Points

• Authentic family-run farm producing organic wines and olive oils.
• Beautiful outdoor setting with views of San Gimignano’s towers and vineyards.
• Tastings include four wines, cheeses, and bruschette, making it a generous and flavorful experience.
• Close proximity to town means it’s easy to access without complicated logistics.
• Short duration (about 45 minutes) suits those wanting a quick, quality taste without a long commitment.
• Reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and delicious products, especially the organic Vernaccia and sparkling rosé.

A Truly Tuscan Experience: Wine and Olive Oil in San Gimignano’s Countryside

If you’re heading to San Gimignano, a small town famous for its medieval towers and beautiful landscapes, you’ll find that the rural outskirts are perfect for tasting the countryside’s best products. This private tour on a family farm — Podere la Marronaia — offers an authentic slice of Tuscan life. It’s not a large, commercial operation, but a small, organic farm run by a family dedicated to quality and tradition. As someone who appreciates honest, no-nonsense experiences, I find that kind of setup often offers a more genuine flavor than big tour groups.

The farm’s commitment to organic cultivation since 2000 makes their products particularly noteworthy. Their wine, made from Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG grapes, is organic and certified, which means you taste the pure, natural flavors. Likewise, their extra virgin olive oils are produced with environmentally friendly methods, giving you a true taste of Tuscany’s natural bounty. The setting itself — with views of the towers of San Gimignano and surrounding vineyards — helps elevate the tasting into a scenic pause, perfect for lingering outdoors with a glass.

What’s Included and How It Works

The tour begins at the meeting point on Via Martiri di Citerna, very close to the city center, making it ideal for travelers who are exploring the town and want a quick escape into the countryside. The tasting is hosted at Sosta Alle Colonne, a charming venue surrounded by stunning Tuscan scenery. The guide, a family member, explains the characteristics of the wines and oils, sharing insights into organic farming practices.

The tasting itself features four wines, including the notable Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG — a crisp, refreshing white — and a sparkling rosé made from Sangiovese grapes. One review highlighted the “delicious sparkling rosé,” made from 100% Sangiovese, as a real highlight. Accompanying the wines are cheeses and bruschette, which is a generous snack to complement the flavors. Some guests, like Donna, appreciated the friendly staff and beautiful setting, noting that the outdoor table overlooked the hillside vista—a perfect backdrop for a relaxing tasting.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The entire experience lasts around 45 minutes, so it’s a quick but meaningful insight into Tuscan farm life. You start at the farm, where you’ll see their organic vineyards and olive groves, and then move to the outdoor tasting area. The guide will describe their organic practices, helping you understand what makes their products special.

The highlight for many is the scenic outdoor table with panoramic views of San Gimignano’s towers and the lush countryside. It’s a peaceful setting, accessible by foot from the town. While some reviews express a desire for a more comprehensive vineyard or cellar tour, most find that the focus on tasting and explanation offers good value for the price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic local products, scenic vistas, and intimate settings, this experience will suit you well. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a short, quality introduction to Tuscan wines and oils without overloading on details. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy a relaxed outdoor experience will find it particularly charming.

However, if you’re looking for an in-depth visit with behind-the-scenes vineyard or wine cellar tours, this may feel a touch limited. The reviews suggest it’s more of a tasting experience than a full educational tour, so set your expectations accordingly.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance: This tour tends to fill up, especially in high season.
• Wear comfortable shoes: The farm is within walking distance from San Gimignano, but walking through the countryside can involve uneven terrain.
• Bring your camera: The views are stunning and perfect for photos.
• Arrive early: The meeting point is close to town, but parking can be tricky during peak times.
• Note the duration: At around 45 minutes, it’s a short visit — plan other activities around this.

Final Thoughts

This private tasting at Podere la Marronaia balances authenticity, scenery, and quality — offering a genuine taste of Tuscan life. It’s especially suited for those who want a personal, scenic, and delicious experience with organic wines and oils, with friendly guides sharing their passion. The beautiful outdoor setting with views of San Gimignano makes it a memorable pause in your trip, whether you’re a wine lover or simply curious about Tuscan agriculture.

While the experience doesn’t include a full vineyard or cellar tour, the quality of the products and the approachable setting more than make up for it. It’s a worthwhile addition for travelers wanting an authentic, local taste and a peaceful break from sightseeing.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate.

How long is the tasting?
The tasting lasts approximately 45 minutes.

What is included in the price?
The price covers four wines, olive oil, cheeses, bruschette, bottled water, and explanations from the guide.

Where does the tour take place?
It starts at Via Martiri di Citerna and is hosted at Sosta Alle Colonne, a farm close to San Gimignano.

Can I walk there from the town?
Yes, the farm is within walking distance from San Gimignano’s center, about 10-15 minutes on foot.

Is transportation included?
No, there is no hotel pickup or private transport included. You’ll need to arrange your own.

Is it suitable for children or under 18?
The minimum age is 18, due to alcohol consumption restrictions.

Are there any additional costs?
Not if you stick to the tasting; however, keep in mind that this experience does not cover transportation or meals beyond the included snacks.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and delicious taste of Tuscany’s wine and olive oil, with personal insight and excellent views, this tour fits the bill — especially if you enjoy small-scale, authentic farm experiences.