Wine Tours and Tastings in Cagliari

The charming Sardinian city of Cagliari is a veritable paradise, renowned for its impressive viticulture and sublime wines. This gem of the Mediterranean offers a range of wine experiences designed to captivate both connoisseurs and wine novices.

On a wine tour from Cagliari, you can embark on a journey through sun-drenched vineyards, with their unique heritage and terroir. Cagliari's wine tours combine the art of winemaking, the rich history of the region, and the allure of indigenous grape varieties.

Knowledgeable local guides share fascinating tales of tradition and innovation and enlighten you with tailored tastings and mouth-watering Sardinian cuisine pairings. A tour of Cagliari’s wine country is not only about tasting wine; it's an invitation to join the city's passion for viticulture and hospitality.

Here's all you need to know about wine tastings and tours, some of the most interesting gastronomic experiences in Cagliari.

What are the best wine tours and tastings in Cagliari?

Explore the vineyards and discover some of the best wines in Sardinia on a wine tour from Cagliari. Whether you have a short time or a full day available, there are wine tours to suit your preferences.

Half day small group wine experience from Cagliari

Join a small group and a wine expert as you venture into the heart of Sardinia’s wine country. At one of the island’s most acclaimed wineries, you will wander through the vines, meet the winemakers and tour the wine production facilities.

You will not only have the chance to sample a variety of fine wines, but also to taste local delicacies and enjoy a tasty brunch. This type of tour typically begins with a pickup from your hotel or a central meeting point and may be operated by a multilingual guide.

Private full day wine tasting with lunch

If you are a wine aficionado looking for a tailored experience or a wine novice looking for a more personal introduction to viticulture and winemaking, a private wine tour and tasting is ideal. Begin your day with a hotel pickup and scenic drive through the undulating landscapes of Cagliari.

At an esteemed family-run winery, you'll be introduced to the time-honored process of winemaking, from the vine to the bottle. There is time for a stroll through the sun-dappled vineyards, before you're guided to a rustic tasting room.

Expert sommeliers will be on hand to introduce the winery’s top vintages. Sip on a selection of the region's notable varietals, such as Cannonau and Vermentino, and discover the nuances of each wine.

As midday approaches, your tour will enjoy a leisurely alfresco lunch. Indulge in an array of traditional Sardinian dishes, thoughtfully paired with local wines. As the afternoon sun mellows, your excursion returns to Cagliari, leaving you with a new appreciation for the rich winemaking history of this magical island.

Cagliari cultural tour with food and wine tasting

Step into the tapestry of Cagliari's rich cultural heritage with a tour that offers an enticing blend of history, food, and wine.

On this 2,5 hour excursion you start your day in the historic Castello quarter, with its ancient stone walls and cobbled streets. As you walk through cobbled streets, your guide will point out the Gothic-Pisan architecture, and provide multiple opportunities to pause at awe-inspiring viewpoints overlooking the city and bay.

Bustling local markets expose you to the true flavors of Sardinia. With your expert guide, you can sample local delicacies such as 'bottarga' - salted and cured fish roe - or sweet 'sebadas' pastries, all while learning about the region's culinary traditions. Popular local wines are also served for tasting.

This type of trip often ends at the panoramic terrace at Bastione di Saint Remy where you can take in the view before departing onward to your next exciting Sardinian experience.

Cagliari wine and cheese tours

Raw milk cheese is a Sardinian specialty and on a small group wine and cheese tour, you will get to learn all about what makes this cheese so special. This captivating activity takes you from lush vineyards to quaint local creameries.

Your tour may start with a visit to a family-run winery where you'll discover the art of winemaking and tasting an array of sublime wines. To enhance the experience, you may be able to pair each wine with an assortment of Sardinian cheeses. The sharp and tangy Pecorino Sardo and the creamy Casu Marzu, as well as many other artisanal cheeses each have a unique taste and story.

Which places are visited?

Wine tours in Cagliari typically involve visits to some of the region's most notable vineyards, wineries, and tasting rooms. While the specific stops can vary depending on the tour, here are some places that are commonly included:

• Cantina Argiolas: One of the most renowned wineries in Sardinia, Argiolas is known for its commitment to local grape varieties and sustainable practices
• Cantina di Santadi: Located in the heart of Sulcis, this winery offers visitors the chance to taste some of Sardinia's most esteemed wines.
• Cantina Mesa: Renowned for its striking modern architecture and excellent Vermentino wines, a visit to Mesa is a must for any wine tour in Cagliari.
• Cantina Serdiana: Founded by a former president of Italy, this winery produces a wide range of wines.
• Local enotecas: These wine shops in the heart of Cagliari provide an opportunity to taste a variety of Sardinian wines in a single location, often with the option of pairing them with local cheeses and charcuterie.

Keep in mind that each itinerary may differ and that stops may vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to confirm the itinerary ahead of time.

How much do wine tours and tastings in Cagliari cost?

Half day small group wine experiences from Cagliari start in the region of €60 per person for a 3-hour experience. 4-hour tours cost from €90 per person.

Private full day wine tastings with lunch cost from €350 per person. A minimum of 2 people are required for this type of tour to operate.

A Cagliari cultural tour with food and wine tasting is a comprehensive city experience and prices start from €90 per person. A minimum of 2 and maximum of 6 guests are included on each excursion.

Cagliari wine and cheese tours also start from €90 per person on a shared excursion. If you are booking the tour for a private group, you can expect the price to range from €150 to €350 per person depending on the size of your group.

What is included?

An expert wine guide, sommelier or winemaker will escort you on a wine tour in Cagliari. Tastings as specified on your itinerary are included, but you can usually include additional tastings at your own cost.

Unless specified, meals and snacks are not included in the price. You can expect round trip transfers for tours taking place outside of the city limits.

Where does it start?

Tours within the city itself usually begin at a central location which will be confirmed when you make your booking. On a wine tour to the vineyards and wineries around Cagliari, you are usually collected from your hotel or the cruise terminal.

How long does it last?

City based wine tours can last between 2,5 and 4 hours. Full day wine tours can last for up to 8 hours. Check with your tour operator if you have a limited amount of time available to ensure that the tour is right for you.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Certain tours are wheelchair accessible, but this requirement needs to be indicated when booking. An accompanying person is usually required. If you will be using a wheelchair, please check with the tour operator before confirming this type of tour.

When is the best time for a wine tasting in Cagliari?

If you're interested in witnessing the grape harvest and the winemaking process, the ideal time to visit Cagliari for a wine tasting experience is during the harvest season, which is between late August and early October.

If you prefer warmer weather, the spring and summer months (April to September) are ideal. During this time, vineyards are in full bloom, and you can enjoy outdoor tastings and vineyard tours.

Sardinia hosts several wine festivals throughout the year, which can offer a great opportunity to sample a wide variety of local wines and immerse yourself in the wine culture. Some notable events include "Cantine Aperte" (Open Cellars) in May and the "Festival dei Vini" (Wine Festival) in September.

For a quieter and more personalized wine tasting experience it is recommended to book your wine tasting tour in Cagliari during weekdays rather than weekends.

Are children allowed?

Yes, children are allowed to join wine tasting tours in Cagliari. However, the minimum legal drinking age in Sardinia is 18 years old, which means they won't get to join in the tasting part of the tour itself.

Which other gastronomic experiences can be done in Cagliari?

• Cooking classes in Cagliari
• Food tours in Cagliari
• Cheese tastings in Cagliari

Travel tips

• Make reservations for your wine tasting experience to ensure that you secure a spot and allow the winery to provide you with the best service.
• Guided wine tours are preferable since they often include transportation, visits to multiple wineries, and insights from knowledgeable guides.
• Wine tastings involve trying multiple wines, so it's important to pace yourself and drink responsibly. Take small sips, and if possible, use a spittoon or pour out excess wine if you're not particularly fond of a particular variety.
• Don’t hesitate to ask any questions! Winery staff and experts are usually passionate about their craft and are happy to share their knowledge.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore vineyards or take a tour.
• Avoid wearing strong perfumes or colognes that may interfere with the wine tasting experience.
• Consider bringing a notebook or using a wine tasting app to jot down your impressions and favorite wines.