September and October are the two months during which wine is everywhere in Italy, since it’s harvest time. Of course, Italy is hard to beat when it comes to grapes, and this time of the year, when ripe grapes get harvested is very important for the country — both for its tradition and its economy. Grape harvesting can make a beautiful experience that you should try at least once in your life. The good news is, it’s very easy to set it up! If you like good wine and the countryside, or if you just want to try the rural life for a day, all you have to do is call one of these wineries in Italy, which open their vineyards to the public during harvest time, and go visit. Salute!
Agriturismo il Greppo – Montepulciano (Tuscany)
You’ll be able to taste local fare, stay in comfortable poolside apartments, and of course, you will be able to help with the yearly Fall harvest. Get ready, you’ll have to work about 15 hectares worth of land!
Masseria Ferri – Ostuni (Apulia)
This eco-farm is unique and it organizes several activities. Guests can stay in one of their 4 trulli, the traditional stone houses of the area, which were completely restored and renovated with all the facilities and comfort you may want, including wi-fi. In addition to harvesting grapes, you can also go mountain biking, or go picking mushrooms.
Agriturismo Fratelli Vagnoni – San Gimignano (Tuscany)
This family-run estate is really large and very traditional, built almost entirely in exposed brick. Thanks to its large spaces, which include 45 hectares of land solely dedicated to organic agriculture, this place offers all sorts of activities which can range from getting lost in the paths winding around the estate, to participating in the eco-lodge’s work, which includes harvesting grapes as well as olives. And should you feel like having some fresh fruit, feel free to pick it straight from the trees, and just enjoy it.
Cà Borgo Vecchio – Brusasco, Turin (Piedmont)
During the Middle Ages, this place was a castle. Now, after 20 years of neglect and disrepair, it was turned into a renowned eco-farm. After participating in grape harvesting, you can choose to spend four extra days here on the Monferrato hills, to discover their scents, colors and taste, thanks to the packages that the estate organizes just for you.
Casale dei Dotti – Perugia (Umbria)
Once again, we are talking about a historical building that was built in the second half of the 19th century, and which has recently been converted into an eco-farm. This is the ideal place to enjoy some rest, after spending your day in the fields, harvesting tasty grapes.
