Introducing Tenuta San Lorenzo: A Piedmont Wine Experience
If you’re wandering through the rolling hills near Novi Ligure, Gavi, or Serravalle Scrivia, a visit to Tenuta San Lorenzo promises a taste of authentic Piedmontese wine culture. This family-run estate offers a guided winery tour combined with a wine tasting session in a beautiful panoramic room overlooking their vineyards. The experience is designed for those curious about regional wines, especially the famous Gavi DOCG, and eager to learn about local winemaking traditions.
What I appreciate most about this experience is how the estate pairs educational insight with breathtaking scenery—you’ll often find yourself sipping crisp whites with the estate’s rolling vineyards stretching behind you. Plus, the WSET-certified sommelier guides the tasting, making complex nuances of the Cortese grape accessible even for beginners.
One possible consideration is the duration—at just an hour, it’s a concise visit. That’s perfect if you’re on a tight schedule but might leave those looking for a deeper dive wanting more. Also, keep in mind that the tasting room isn’t accessible for guests with reduced mobility, so it’s worth planning ahead if needed.
Overall, Tenuta San Lorenzo offers a well-balanced, memorable visit that combines quality wine with authentic regional storytelling. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate scenic vineyards, want to understand what makes Gavi unique, or simply enjoy a relaxed, intimate wine experience.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Stunning panoramic tasting room with views of estate vineyards.
- Expert guidance from a WSET-certified sommelier enhances understanding.
- Focuses on Gavi DOCG and Cortese grapes, a true Piedmont specialty.
- Affordable value at about $43 per person for a guided tour and tasting.
- Opportunity to purchase wines directly from the estate, with optional home delivery.
- The short duration makes it a perfect stop for a quick, quality experience.
Taste buds happy? More delicious discoveries we love in Novi Ligure
Location and Accessibility
Tenuta San Lorenzo is located just minutes from Novi Ligure, Gavi, and Serravalle Scrivia, making it a convenient side trip during a Piedmont itinerary. The estate boasts a parking area, so arriving by car is straightforward, which is especially helpful if you’re exploring the region independently.
Arrival and Introduction
The visit begins at the estate’s main entrance, where the warm welcome sets a relaxed tone. You’ll be introduced to the estate’s history and philosophy, which adds context to the wines you’ll taste later. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide, often someone well-versed in local winemaking traditions.
Winery Tour (Approx. 20 Minutes)
The guided tour takes about 20 minutes and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. You’ll see the white and sparkling wine production areas, including the Martinotti method used for their Spumante Brut. It’s fascinating to observe how they handle the Cortese grapes—from grape harvest to fermentation.
The guide explains that the estate’s white wines are vinified with traditional methods, emphasizing the estate’s commitment to quality. You might learn little details, like how the estate’s terroir influences the aromatic profile of the Cortese grape, which is the backbone of Gavi wines.
Tasting Session (Approx. 50 Minutes)
The tasting takes place in the panoramic room—a highlight for its sweeping views of vineyards that seem to stretch endlessly. Here, you’ll sample two wines:
- Spumante Brut “Tenuta San Lorenzo”: A sparkling wine made via the Martinotti method, which involves secondary fermentation in autoclaves. It’s a lively, crisp bubbly that pairs well with antipasti or just on its own.
- Gavi DOCG: A classic, crisp, and refreshing white made from Cortese grapes. The wine’s bright acidity and delicate fruit flavors exemplify what makes Gavi so beloved.
You’ll get a detailed explanation of the Cortese grape—how it can express different nuances depending on terroir and vinification. The guide might suggest food pairings, mainly focusing on local Piedmontese dishes like seafood, light pasta, or cheese.
The View and Atmosphere
Weather permitting, you can request to taste your wines on the terrace, overlooking the vineyards—an experience that elevates the tasting beyond just sipping. Even if not, the atmosphere inside is cozy yet elegant, perfect to relax and reflect on what you’ve learned.
Purchasing and Final Notes
At the end of the experience, you can buy bottles directly from the winery, often with the option for home delivery. This is a nice perk for those who want to bring a piece of Piedmont home or gift a local wine to friends.
Practicalities and Logistics
The experience lasts about an hour and costs around $43.27 per person. It includes the guided tour, tastings, breadsticks, and water—simple but satisfying. Additional wines are available for tasting at $4 each, though you might find the initial two wines provide enough insight into the estate’s style.
The tour is private, which makes for a more intimate experience, and sessions typically run at various times (check availability). It’s worth noting that the tasting room isn’t accessible for guests with reduced mobility, so planning accordingly is wise.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour suits wine enthusiasts hungry for authentic regional insights, beginners eager to learn about Piedmont’s signature white wines, or travelers with a scenic side trip from larger cities or towns. It’s also ideal if you’re seeking a relaxing, informative activity that combines good wine with stunning views.
Why This Is a Great Value
At just over $43, you get a guided tour, two quality wines, and the chance to purchase bottles at the estate. The personalized guidance from a WSET-certified sommelier makes the experience educational without feeling overly formal. Compared to larger, more commercial wineries, Tenuta San Lorenzo offers an authentic taste of local traditions in a peaceful setting.
Final Thoughts
If you’re visiting Piedmont and have even a modest interest in wine, this experience packs in a lot of value. The combination of scenic views, expert guidance, and delicious wines makes it a memorable highlight. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy learning about wine in an intimate setting, away from the crowds.
However, if you’re after a deep dive into wine production or need full accessibility, this might feel a bit brief or limiting. Still, for a relaxed afternoon or a quick cultural fix, it hits the spot perfectly.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for wine lovers seeking regional charm, casual travelers wanting a taste of Piedmont’s white wines, or anyone looking for a beautiful, educational stop that doesn’t require a full day commitment. Families with older children (over 18) and adults who appreciate scenic vineyard views will find it especially rewarding.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience typically lasts around 1 hour, including the tour and tasting.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the guided winery tour, tasting of two wines, breadsticks, and water.
Can I taste more wines?
Yes, additional wines are available for tasting at $4 each if you wish to explore further.
Is the tasting room accessible?
Unfortunately, due to architectural limits, the tasting room isn’t accessible for guests with reduced mobility.
Where does the experience take place?
It starts at the estate’s parking area and takes place mainly in the panoramic tasting room, with the option to taste on the terrace if weather allows.
Can I purchase wines at the estate?
Yes, you can buy bottles directly from the estate with options for home delivery.
Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it is only suitable for guests over 18 years old.
What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine—just be prepared for possible outdoor views. If you’re planning to taste on the terrace, bring layers depending on the weather.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially for private groups or specific times. Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This tour offers a fine blend of scenic beauty, authentic winemaking, and expert guidance. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, Tenuta San Lorenzo provides a memorable glimpse into Piedmont’s celebrated Gavi wines in a setting that’s both relaxing and informative.