Bolgheri and Wine Tasting

Savor a tasting of characteristic Tuscan wines and then enjoy free time in Bolgheri, a hillside village with a medieval atmosphere, cobbled streets and unique boutiques. After departing from the pier, you will drive south through the beautiful Tuscan countryside, where the ancient Etruscans produced a variety of wines. The region is still renowned for its outstanding wines, as you will discover at Guado al Melo estate. Its name means Ford at the Apple Tree, a reference to an ancient apple tree that marked a safe spot to ford the stream on the property. The area was also the location of an ancient dwelling and the remains of an old Etruscan blast furnace have been found there on the summit of an Aeolian hill. The farm once belonged to the historic Espinassi-Moratti estate dating back to the mid-18th century, originally known as Santa Maria's Vineyard. While touring Guado al Melo, you will learn about its philosophy of making wine with only natural ingredients, no additives. The resulting wines reflect that attention to quality, as you will discover during a tasting. The selection will be chosen that day, but chances are they will include an Atis Bolgheri blend of cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and merlot. Next, you will drive to nearby Bolgheri, a medieval gem of a village. The time spent in here will be yours to enjoy as you please. You might stroll the narrow cobbled streets, pausing to admire the historical stone buildings. Or you may relax in a leafy plaza and observe the joys of the carefree daily life. Shoppers will find plenty of stores worth browsing for Tuscan pottery, crystal and local wines such as the ones produced at Guado al Melo. Afterwards, you will rejoin your coach and return to the pier.

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.