The Valtellina Wine Route

Sondrio, in the heart of Valtellina

Take the train from Milan to Sondrio, the capital of Valtellina and the starting point for your journey through vineyards, wineries and local produce.

Sondrio has an interesting historic centre, with streets that climb towards the vineyards. The town is surrounded by some of the most important wine-growing areas in Valtellina, where vines are cultivated on steep slopes overlooking the valley.

Sondrio: history and wine

The morning is devoted to a guided tour of Sondrio, exploring its historic centre and some of its more unusual features. Alongside its palaces and main squares, you’ll discover the stue, traditional wood-panelled rooms found in Valtellina’s historic homes, as well as other traces of the town’s history and everyday life.

In the afternoon, it’s time to discover the world of wine with a visit to a local winery and its terraced vineyards. Among the vines, in the cellar and over a tasting, you’ll get a closer look at the work involved in growing grapes on the valley’s steep slopes and discover some of the wines produced in the area.

Tirano and Sforzato, Valtellina’s distinctive wine

The day is devoted to Tirano, one of the most important towns in Upper Valtellina. Start in the historic centre with a visit to Palazzo Salis and the Basilica of Madonna di Tirano, before discovering the town’s strong connection with viticulture and, in particular, the production of Sforzato.

In the afternoon, visit a local winery and taste some of the area’s wines, with a particular focus on Sforzato di Valtellina DOCG. One of the valley’s most distinctive wines, it is made from Nebbiolo grapes that are partially dried before fermentation, giving the wine its characteristic concentration and depth.

Wine and Flavours of Valtellina

In the morning, head to the Chiuro area for a winery visit, a walk through the vineyards and lunch at the winery, accompanied by local wines.

For those looking for a more hands-on experience, lunch can be replaced with a pizzoccheri cooking class, where you’ll learn how to prepare this traditional Valtellina dish.

In the afternoon, return to Sondrio and enjoy some free time. Alternatively, if you’d like to see more of the valley, you can take the train to Morbegno, known for its historic centre and its strong tradition of Bitto and other Valtellina cheeses, as well as its shops selling local specialities to take home.

Arrivederci Valtellina

After discovering the wines, food and landscapes of Valtellina, it’s time to head back to Milan. A journey through wineries, terraced vineyards, traditional produce and encounters with the people who keep these traditions alive.

You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the valley and its flavours, along with memories of the places, people and wines that may tempt you to return.