Vineyard Tour and Winery Visit with Tasting of Wines of Romagna: A Genuine Taste of Emilia-Romagna
If you’re dreaming of experiencing Italy’s wine country beyond the typical tourist spots, this vineyard tour with tasting at Enio Ottaviani offers a genuine slice of Romagna’s soul. Located in the rolling hills near Rimini, this family-run winery has been cultivating passion, tradition, and innovation for four generations. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, learn about regional grapes like Sangiovese and Rebola, and taste some of the best local wines— all in a small, friendly group.
Two things I particularly love about this experience: first, the sense of authenticity you get from visiting a family estate with roots deep in the land and local culture. Second, the personalized, expert-guided tour makes complex winemaking approachable and fun, especially as you walk through vineyards and visit the cellar (or Bottaia). A minor consideration is that this tour isn’t intended for children under 18, so it’s best suited for wine enthusiasts or adults looking for a meaningful taste of Romagna’s terroir.
One possible drawback? If you’re expecting a large-scale commercial experience or a quick visit, this is quite the opposite. The intimate group (limited to 10) and detailed tour may take some time but reward you with richer insights. This is a well-balanced, value-rich experience that combines education with a convivial tasting — perfect for those eager to connect with the land and local traditions.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Authentic Family Heritage: The Ottaviani family has been cultivating wine in Romagna for four generations, offering genuine stories along with their wines.
- Small Group Advantage: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Expert-Guided Tour: An insightful guide explains the winemaking process from harvest to aging, making the technical accessible and interesting.
- Regional Focus: You’ll learn about DOC wines of Emilia-Romagna, with tastings of 4 different types depending on your chosen route.
- Cultural Connection: The family’s roots in Romagna’s dance halls hint at a fun, welcoming vibe that extends into their hospitality and storytelling.
- Value for Price: At around $57, this tour offers a rich, educational experience with tastings and souvenirs such as a paper wine guide.
Entering the Heart of Romagna’s Wine Country
This vineyard tour at Enio Ottaviani isn’t just about tasting wine; it’s about understanding the stories and land that give Romagna its distinctive flavors. Located in the scenic hills of Rimini, the winery offers a peaceful setting to connect with regional traditions. The estate’s long-standing family history is palpable, and you’ll hear stories of three generations balancing respect for tradition with touches of innovation.
What makes this experience particularly appealing is the way it combines education and leisure. You’ll start with a guided walk through the vineyards, where your expert guide (whose name isn’t specified but is clearly passionate) explains the nuances of the local grapes. Expect to learn about Sangiovese, Rebola, and unique blends that define the DOC wines of Emilia-Romagna.
The visit continues into the winery’s cellar (called a Bottaia), where you’ll see the barrels and fermentation tanks up close. This behind-the-scenes look helps demystify winemaking, giving you a sense of how land, climate, and tradition shape each bottle. Along the way, you’ll hear engaging narration, possibly including personal stories from the Ottaviani family, as one reviewer noted the warm hospitality of their staff.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Cattolica.
The Tasting Experience: Flavor and Authenticity
Following the tour, the highlight is undoubtedly the tasting session. Depending on your route, you’ll sample four different wines, each offering a glimpse into Romagna’s diverse terroir. The wines are described as reflecting the vibrancy of Sangiovese, the freshness of Rebola, and the elegance of local blends.
The tasting isn’t rushed—your guide will explain the unique characteristics of each wine and how they represent the region’s best. You also get a paper guide on wine, making it easy to remember what you’ve learned and tasted. The inclusion of local products enhances the experience, providing a more complete flavor profile and showing the regional culinary traditions.
One guest review summed it up: “Trevlig personal, bra bemötande och en fin atmosfär,” which translates to friendly staff and a pleasant atmosphere. The hospitality complements the quality of the wines, making it a convivial, relaxed moment — ideal if you love to savor and discuss wines with new friends.
Practical Details: Price, Logistics, and Suitability
At $56.94 per person, this tour offers solid value for an immersive, guided experience. The price includes the vineyard visit, four wine tastings, local products, and a souvenir paper guide. It’s a flexible experience, with the option to reserve now and pay later, which suits spontaneous planning or uncertain schedules.
The tour lasts a full day, though the exact starting times vary, so checking availability is recommended. It’s accessible for wheelchair users and is limited to small groups, ensuring a personal feel. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for children under 18, as the focus is on wine tasting.
The experience also emphasizes the importance of reservations—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—so it’s safe to plan ahead without worry. As the tour is conducted in English and Italian, language shouldn’t be a barrier, and the small group size fosters a more intimate, engaging environment.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This is perfect for wine lovers eager to deepen their understanding of regional Italian wines. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic family-run businesses and enjoy stories that connect land, tradition, and craft. If you’re interested in learning about DOC wines of Emilia-Romagna or simply want a relaxed, educational outing with excellent local wines, this tour fits the bill.
Those seeking a quick, superficial tasting should look elsewhere. But if you’re happy to invest a few hours in a meaningful, well-paced experience with a friendly guide, this is a rewarding choice. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who appreciate quality over quantity.
The Sum Up
This vineyard and winery tour at Enio Ottaviani offers more than just a tasting; it’s an authentic journey into Romagna’s wine culture. The combination of a family’s legacy, expert guidance, and regional wine highlights makes it a worthwhile addition to any Emilia-Romagna itinerary. The intimate setting and focus on tradition provide a more genuine experience than large commercial tours.
For travelers passionate about understanding where their wine comes from, and those who enjoy engaging stories paired with quality tasting, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a chance to see the land through the eyes of a family that has been cultivating it with love and expertise for generations.
And for anyone curious about Emilia-Romagna’s wine beyond the pasta and balsamic, this tour provides a taste of the region’s authentic soul—served up with warmth, knowledge, and a few memorable sips.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 18 since the focus is on wine tasting and adult beverages.
How many wines will I taste?
Depending on the route you choose, you’ll taste four different wines, showcasing the region’s diversity.
What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a guided visit to the vineyards and winery, four wine tastings, local products, and a paper guide on wine as a souvenir.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers.
How long does the tour last?
It’s valid for one day, but check the specific starting times when booking, as they vary.
Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, which allows for flexible planning without immediate payment.
This vineyard tour at Enio Ottaviani stands out as a genuine, educational, and delicious way to explore Romagna’s wine heritage. It’s a must-do for those who want to connect with land, family tradition, and regional flavors in a welcoming setting.