The Best of the Langhe: Wine Tasting & Traditional Meal

Exploring the Langhe region in Piedmont through this combined experience of wine tasting and authentic cuisine offers a well-balanced taste of Italy’s finest. The day starts with a guided visit to Podere Gagliassi, where you’ll walk among lush vineyards and learn about local winemaking, followed by a tasting of three distinct wines. Later, you’ll enjoy a traditional Piedmontese meal at Lostu, a trattoria led by Michelin-starred chef Pasquale Laera, just a short walk from the winery. It’s a satisfying blend of stunning scenery, excellent wines, and regional delicacies that stays true to the area’s authentic charm.

What I particularly like about this experience is the way the tour combines education with enjoyment. The guides, especially Pietro, are praised for their clear explanations and friendliness, making the wine and vineyard insights more accessible. The panoramic views of the rolling hills are genuinely breathtaking—perfect for snapping memorable photos. Plus, the dinner at Lostu, with its high-quality ingredients and warm atmosphere, wraps up the day beautifully.

One thing to keep in mind is that dinner doesn’t follow immediately after the cellar tour; since Lostu opens at 7:30 PM, there could be a short wait, especially if your tour ends earlier in the evening. Also, note that the wine tasting at the winery lasts around 30 minutes, and the vineyard visit about an hour, so the whole experience takes roughly 3.5 hours. This timing makes it suitable for those with flexible schedules who want a relaxed but comprehensive introduction to Piedmont’s wine and food culture.

Key points / Takeaways

• Beautiful vineyard setting with panoramic views of the Langhe hills provides a perfect backdrop for your wine adventure.
• Expert guides like Pietro help demystify winemaking, making the experience engaging and educational.
• Exclusive tasting of three wines offers a genuine taste of the region’s terroir, accompanied by local snacks like grissini and hazelnuts.
• Authentic Piedmontese meal at Lostu by Michelin-starred chef Pasquale Laera delivers a flavorful, regional dining experience.
• Flexible itinerary allows for a relaxed pace, with options for lunch or dinner, and a scenic walk between stops.
• Guests praise the well-kept location, friendly staff, and memorable sunset views that elevate the entire day.

Discovering Piedmont’s Winemaking Heritage at Podere Gagliassi

Our journey begins at Podere Gagliassi, a family-run winery that exemplifies Piedmont’s dedication to quality. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by the sweeping views of lush vineyards stretching across gentle hills. The guided tour, led by knowledgeable staff—perhaps Pietro—takes you through both the vineyards and the state-of-the-art cellar. You’ll see the meticulous care taken in producing high-quality, Langhe-typical wines that truly reflect the region’s terroir.

What makes this stop stand out is the chance to see the process firsthand, from grape to glass. The guides explain everything clearly, with a friendly approach that leaves you feeling both enlightened and relaxed. During the tasting, you’ll sample three unique wines, each offering a different expression of the local landscape. The wines are complemented by simple, traditional snacks like grissini (breadsticks) and hazelnuts, which enhance the tasting without overwhelming the palate.

Guests often comment on the stunning sunset views from the vineyard, which add a magical touch to the experience. Plus, if you decide to buy some bottles, you’ll enjoy a 10% discount—a nice perk for wine lovers wishing to bring a taste of Piedmont home.

An Authentic Walk Through Vineyards and Cellars

Following the tasting, you’ll take a short walk on foot—about 10 minutes—to reach the next stop. The scenic pathway offers more opportunities for photos or simply soaking in the peaceful landscape. The vineyard visit, which lasts about an hour, brings you closer to understanding the landscape’s influence on the wines’ character.

The tour continues with a visit inside the winery’s cellar. Here, I love how the guides share stories about traditional practices combined with modern techniques, showing respect for tradition while embracing innovation. The outdoor tasting by the vineyards is especially memorable, with many reviewers praising the outdoor setting next to Borgo Sant’Anna, where you sip excellent wines with a view of the expansive countryside.

According to reviews, guides like Pietro are particularly appreciated for their professionalism, kindness, and friendliness, making even novices feel comfortable. As one guest noted, “the professionalism, kindness, and friendliness really made the difference.” This personal touch makes the experience stand out.

The Culinary Experience at Lostu

After your wine tour, a short, pleasant walk (about 7 minutes) brings you to Lostu, a trattoria run by Michelin-starred chef Pasquale Laera. This is where regional pride comes to life through a tasting menu featuring three appetizers, a main course, and a dessert. The restaurant’s location offers lovely views, and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.

The food? Simply put, excellent. The ingredients are clearly top quality, and the dishes showcase regional flavors with a modern twist. One guest raved about the “mattonella,” a regional specialty that was so good they wished they could eat ten more portions. The staff receives high marks for their friendly, attentive service, which helps create a memorable dining experience.

It’s worth noting that, due to opening times and the duration of the cellar tour, dinner may not be immediate; there might be a short wait before seating. This should be planned for if you’re on a tight schedule.

The Overall Value and Who Will Love It

This experience offers a well-rounded look at Piedmont’s wine and culinary traditions in about 3.5 hours. The combination of spectacular views, expert guides, exclusive tastings, and a high-quality regional meal makes it a good value, especially considering the personalized attention and authentic atmosphere.

It’s an ideal choice for those who love wine, food, and scenic landscapes but prefer a relaxed, educational outing over a high-paced tour. It also suits travelers who appreciate the touch of luxury but enjoy genuine, locally rooted experiences. People who want to learn more about Piedmont’s wine heritage while enjoying some of Italy’s best regional dishes will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, with starting times varying—check availability ahead of time.
• The guided tour is available in English, Italian, and Spanish.
• The experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many travelers.
• Arrive a bit earlier if possible to maximize your time and avoid missing the start.
• Remember, dinner at Lostu begins at 7:30 PM, so plan your tour timing accordingly if you want to dine immediately afterward.
• The cost includes the guided tour, three wines tasting, snacks, and the tasting menu, but drinks at the restaurant are not included.
• If you buy bottles at the winery, enjoy a 10% discount.

FAQs

Can I choose lunch or dinner for this experience?
Yes, you can select either lunch or dinner at Lostu. The experience generally includes the tasting menu at dinner, but check with the provider for specific options.

Is the tour suitable for small groups?
Absolutely. The tour is often tailored for smaller groups, which allows for a more personal and relaxed experience.

How long does the wine tasting last?
The wine tasting at Podere Gagliassi lasts approximately 30 minutes, and the vineyard visit adds about an hour, totaling roughly 1.5 hours for the main tasting components.

What is the condition of the winery and vineyard?
Guests frequently comment on how beautiful and well-kept the vineyard and winery are. The views alone are worth the visit.

Are there any discounts available?
Yes, you get a 10% discount on wines purchased at the winery, which is a nice bonus for wine enthusiasts.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is noted to be wheelchair accessible, making it easier for many travelers to enjoy.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven vineyard terrain and casual, weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

In the end, this experience packs a lot into a compact, enjoyable package—stunning views, engaging guides, excellent wines, and regional cuisine that hits the right notes. It’s perfect for those eager to taste the authentic flavors of Piedmont without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. If you’re after a memorable way to appreciate the region’s viticultural and culinary heritage, this tour is well worth considering.