There are plenty of great reasons to take an Italy river cruise, because it’s a country that has something to suit every traveller. World renowned for its food, scenery and culture, there’s nothing quite like sampling everything this spectacular destination has to offer from the comfort of the waterways. Perhaps the best way of experiencing the country, however, is on a tour that focuses on its many different wines. From lucious reds to refreshing, crisp whites, the vino of Italy is truly stupendous. Touring on a luxury barge allows you to take in things you wouldn’t get to see if you were on a regular city break, so here are some of the very best wine experiences the country has to offer. Wine Tasting at Orto Wine Estate on the island of Sant’Erasmo Offering a great combination of scenery and winery, a trip to one of the few Venetian wineries that actually makes wine is a must see for a vino tour of Italy. River cruises allow you to enjoy the continued proximity to water as you enjoy a glass or two while looking out over the lagoon from the Island of Sant’Erasmo. What they produce is sophisticated and full of the unique flavour this unusual location brings to the grape variety. It’s no surprise that these bottles are found in some of the best Michelin-starred restaurants around the world! Dining at the Ca’Zen in Taglio di Pio If your Italy river cruise comes within proximity to Taglio di Pio, then a stop over at Ca’Zen is a must. This charming villa (famous for Lord Byron’s association) offers small-scale, off-menu meals, based on the best local ingredients available at the time. If you’re there enjoying the stunning scenery and architecture, then a glass of excellent vino to accompany your meal as the sun sets over the Po Delta makes for an evening you’re not likely to forget. Tasting at the Villa Widmann Borletti Another stunning estate that’s a perfect addition to the itinerary of any Italy river cruise, the Villa Widmann Borletti is an estate whose vintages are every bit as impressive as the location. The estate itself is quite large, so wandering through its gardens can be a great way to work up a thirst. Visit to Soave The flavour profile of Soave wine is something that must be experienced by wine lovers. Peach, melon and orange are key notes that set this variety apart. It’s one of the finest wines made anywhere in Northern Italy and is surprisingly good value considering the quality (perfect for a few take-home bottles!). A visit to this small town is worth it for wine connoisseurs and history-buffs alike, as the grapes have been grown here since the Roman Empire. A Tour Like No Other The great thing about an Italy river cruise is the sheer variety of wine-based fun you can have. There are countless wineries and varieties – too many to mention in one article. Visiting the country and touring by boat is a great way to ensure your itinerary matches your preferences, and booking with a reputable tour operator is the way to go if you want the inside track on the finest vintages and estates. Author Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury Italy river cruise itineraries, as well as barge holidays in other great destinations. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
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