Going on a wine tour must be one of the most enjoyable ways to see Italy. Many people know about the chiantigiana – the route that winds through the Chianti region of Tuscany. But there are plenty of other wine growing regions to explore. For 2007 and 2008 Arblaster & Clarke Wine Tours provide a wide range of Italian wine and gourmet holidays, catering for all levels of interest and budget - and all generations of wine drinkers.
Their trips include:
Trentino & Alto-Adige (Sud Tyrol)
2-7 July 2007
Touring the foothills of the Dolomites - lakes, mountains and wine, led by Jane Hunt MW – the UK’s most respected Italian wine expert. Sampling sparkling wines and intense aromatic wines matched with local specialities, combined with forays in the vineyards set against the spectacular backdrop of the Dolomite Mountains.
Ravenna, Urbino & Marche
9-14 September 2007
Beginning in Emilia Romagna at the exquisite little town of Ravenna, then to Urbino in Le Marche enjoying excellent wines, gastronomy and extraordinary Roman, Byzantine and medieval architecture and works of art. Le Marche, a lesser-known region of Italy, is one of the most dynamic of the country’s wine regions, and includes the creation of new DOCs such as ‘Offida Rosso’.
Sicily
23 September – 1 October 2007
This tour is not just about the wines, but also offers the opportunity to visit some of Europe’s best classical, medieval and baroque sites. Enjoying highly individual grapes that give good reds, perfumed whites and rich dessert wines under the guidance of Derek Smedley MW.
The Great Wines of Northern Italy
30 September – 6 October 2007
A classical tour that covers the great wines of Piedmont, Veneto and Franciacorta. A cultural and historical trip, as well as a gastronomic tour, experiencing traditional dishes at individual estates whilst enjoying exclusive tastings.
Gourmet Piemonte
11-14 October 2007
Piemonte in autumn means truffles and hazelnuts. This short break for ‘foodies’ offers the perfect insight into Northern Italy’s classic food markets as well as the chance to go truffle hunting with a local truffle hunter. Wine is also at the heart of this region with the opportunity to enjoy traditional home cooked foods alongside the famous Barolo wines.
Milan Opera & Wine
10-13 November 2007
Experience La Scala and discover the sparkling wines of Franciacorta and the excellent Nebbiolos of Gattinara during a luxury stay in central Milan.
Arblaster & Clarke also offer a comprehensive series of Opera & Wine Tours, to Verona and to Lucca for Puccini.
To view the 2007 brochure click here
Read about Cookery Holidays in Italy
