Wine Tours in North Italy: where to go for wine tasting

North Italy boasts some of the world’s most renowned wine regions, offering exceptional tasting experiences amid stunning landscapes, so you can find many options for wine tours in north Italy depending on the region you are visiting. From the rolling hills of Piedmont to the sparkling wine territory near Lake Garda, these destinations combine rich winemaking traditions with unparalleled hospitality. Here’s your guide to the finest wine tasting regions in Northern Italy, based on my experience. I also suggest you take a look at this list of 10 italian destinations perfect for a trip in spring or early summer.

In the past few years I have discovered a passion for visiting wineries in different regions in North Italy (where I live), it’s a fantastic way to spend the day especially during spring or end of summer, you can discover all about the art of wine production, taste some incredible wine, and then of course enjoy a nice meal and relax.

Langhe and Monferrato wine tours

The UNESCO-protected landscapes of Langhe and Monferrato in Piedmont represent Italian winemaking at its finest. These neighboring regions are home to some of Italy’s most prestigious wines, including Barolo, often called the “King of Wines,” and Barbaresco, both made from the noble Nebbiolo grape. The area is also known for Barbera, Dolcetto, and the sweet sparkling Moscato d’Asti.

Beyond vineyards, these rolling hills are dotted with medieval castles and fortified villages like La Morra and Barolo, offering spectacular panoramic views. The region is a gastronomic paradise, famous for white truffles from Alba, hazelnuts, and traditional Piedmontese cuisine featuring dishes such as tajarin pasta and brasato al Barolo. Visitors can explore the area through extensive hiking and cycling trails that wind through vineyards, or time their visit with one of the many wine festivals held throughout the year.

The historic city of Alba serves as the cultural and commercial center of the Langhe region, while smaller towns like Asti showcase remarkable Romanesque and Gothic architecture amid their vineyard-covered surroundings.

Key Wines to Try in Langhe and Monferrato:

• Barolo: Known as the “King of Wines,” this powerful, tannic red made from Nebbiolo grapes requires patience but rewards with complex flavors of tar, roses, and red fruits.
• Barbaresco: Another Nebbiolo-based wine, generally more approachable than Barolo but equally elegant.
• Barbera: Offering bright acidity and rich fruit, Barbera d’Alba and Barbera d’Asti are everyday favorites.
• Dolcetto: Despite its name meaning “little sweet one,” this wine delivers dark fruit flavors with a pleasantly bitter finish.

Notable Wineries to Visit:

• Agricola Marrone: In La Morra, this winery offers tours by appointment for serious wine enthusiasts and an amazing lunch. Four generations and over a 100 years of tradition in a family dedicated to wine making.
• Marchesi di Barolo: Historical producer offering comprehensive tours and tastings in the heart of Barolo.
• Hic Et Nunc: A visionary project in the heart of Monferrato, where wine, excellence and sustainability come together.
• Fontanafredda: This historic estate founded by Italy’s first king provides extensive tour options and beautiful grounds to explore.

I can also recommend this guided tour, that includes transportation from Milan, visit to wineries and wine tasting, and a visit to Alba.

If you are staying in Turin or planning a visit I also recommend you take a look at my guide of the best places to eat in Turin.

Franciacorta wine region

Nestled near the serene shores of Lake Iseo in Lombardy, Franciacorta is renowned for producing one of Italy’s most prestigious sparkling wines using the traditional method (metodo classico). However, this region offers far more than just exceptional wine. Beyond the vineyards, visitors can immerse themselves in a landscape brimming with natural beauty and historical charm.

• Lake Iseo’s Enchanting Scenery: The lake itself is a major draw, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for leisurely boat trips, windsurfing, and swimming. Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Europe, rises majestically from its waters and is a car-free haven perfect for cycling or walking.
• Historical Towns and Villages: The area is dotted with picturesque towns like Iseo, with its medieval castle and vibrant lakeside promenade, and the charming village of Bornato, crowned by its impressive castle. These locations offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and architectural heritage.

Key Wines to Try:

• Franciacorta Brut: Dry and elegant, with fine bubbles and notes of citrus and bread.
• Franciacorta Satèn: A silky, less bubbly expression, typically made from Chardonnay.
• Franciacorta Rosé: Delicate pink sparkling wine with red berry flavors.
• Franciacorta Riserva: Aged for a minimum of 60 months, developing extraordinary complexity.

Notable Franciacorta Wineries to Visit:

• Bellavista: One of the region’s largest producers, offering spectacular views and comprehensive tours.
• Ca’ del Bosco: Known for innovation and artistic installations throughout the property.
• Berlucchi: The pioneer of Franciacorta, offering historical perspective and excellent tastings.
• Il Dosso: Family-run estate providing intimate tasting experiences.

Spumante: The Sparkling Tradition of Northern Italy

While Franciacorta and Prosecco dominate conversations about Italian sparkling wines, the broader category of Spumante offers diverse expressions from across Northern Italy, particularly from Piedmont.

Key Spumante Wines to Try:

• Asti Spumante: Sweet, aromatic sparkling wine made from Moscato grapes in Piedmont.
• Brachetto d’Acqui Spumante: Distinctive red sparkling wine with strawberry and rose notes.
• Alta Langa DOCG: Piedmont’s traditional method sparkling wine made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
• Moscato d’Asti: Gently sparkling (frizzante) with lower alcohol and delicate sweetness.

Notable Spumante Producers:

• Contratto: Historic producer in Canelli with UNESCO-listed underground cellars (“Underground Cathedrals”).
• Gancia: Founded in 1850, the birthplace of the first Italian classic method sparkling wine.
• Coppo: Offers tours of their spectacular underground cellars in Canelli.
• Tosti: Large producer with visitor-friendly facilities and a wide range of sparkling styles.

Valpolicella and Prosecco: Veneto’s Wine Jewels

The Veneto region offers two distinct wine experiences: the rich reds of Valpolicella near Verona and the refreshing Prosecco from the hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene.

Valdobbiadene is renowned for its production of Prosecco Superiore DOCG, a sparkling wine of exceptional quality. The landscape itself is a spectacle, with steep, terraced vineyards creating a picturesque mosaic. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its unique viticultural landscape. Visitors can explore the “Strada del Prosecco e Vini dei Colli Conegliano-Valdobbiadene,” a scenic route that winds through charming villages and vineyards. Highlights include the town of Valdobbiadene itself, and the Cartizze hills, considered the “Grand Cru” of Prosecco. Also the town of Conegliano offers historical sites, such as the castle of Conegliano.

Valpolicella, also in Veneto, with its hills and fertile valleys provide the ideal conditions for grape cultivation. Valpolicella’s viticultural history is ancient, and the region’s wines are celebrated worldwide. Beyond the vineyards, visitors can explore the historical villas that dot the landscape, and the beautiful landscape. The city of Verona, with its roman ruins, and its medieval architecture, is located near to the Valpolicella region, and represents a great place to visit. Also, many wineries offer tours and tastings, providing insights into the traditional winemaking process.

Valpolicella Wines to Try:

• Valpolicella Classico: Fresh, medium-bodied red with cherry notes.
• Ripasso: “Repassed” over Amarone grape skins for added richness and complexity.
• Amarone della Valpolicella: Made from dried grapes, creating an intensely flavored, powerful wine.
• Recioto: Sweet red dessert wine made from the same dried grapes as Amarone.

Prosecco Wines to Try:

• Prosecco DOCG: The highest quality designation, from the hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene.
• Cartizze: The “grand cru” of Prosecco, from a small hill in Valdobbiadene.

Notable Valpolicella Wineries:

• Corte Borghetti: Family estate offering beautiful tours and tastings of their wines.
• Masi: Historic producer with excellent visitor facilities and educational tours.
• Tommasi: Traditional winery with comprehensive tasting experiences.

Notable Prosecco Wineries:

• Bisol: Historic producer in Valdobbiadene with excellent tour options.
• Fasol Menin: a winery, surrounded by the hillsides, that matches perfectly with the landscape and mixes wine and art. You can have a fun experience with a painting session in the vineyards while tasting prosecco.
• Villa Sandi: Housed in a Palladian villa, offering underground cellar tours.
• Rebuli: in the heart of Valdobbiadene providing tasting experiences and walk through Cartizze vineyards.

Planning Your Wine Tour

The best times to visit North Italian wine regions are late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October), with harvest season offering special experiences. Consider hiring a local guide to maximize your experience and help with translations. Most prestigious wineries require advance reservations, especially during peak seasons.

Whether you’re drawn to the noble reds of Piedmont, the refined bubbles of Franciacorta or Spumante, or the diverse offerings of Veneto, North Italy’s wine regions promise unforgettable tasting experiences in settings of extraordinary beauty.

Some links are affiliate through Winedering.com, a network for wine lovers that connects serveral wineries in Italy, or through GetYourGuide. I will make a small commission if you book through them with no additional cost to you.