Native Venice Wine Experience Tour and Tasting
Milan
Step into Venice’s hidden wine heritage as you explore historic lagoon vineyards and discover a rare indigenous grape shaped by salt and sea, ending with a tasting of truly unique wines.
Venissa Vineyard Wine Tasting on Mazzorbo Island
This guided wine tasting experience on Mazzorbo Island in Venice suits wine enthusiasts interested in Venice’s unique native grape and viticulture history.
Highlights
- Discover the native Dorona grape and its historical significance in Venice
- Walk through the vineyard accompanied by a wine expert
- Explore the historic vineyard located on Mazzorbo Island
- Taste two exclusive Dorona-based white wines from the current vintage
Description
Venice’s wine heritage spans more than 2,500 years, with vineyards once located even in St. Mark’s Square. The city’s islands, surrounded by water, were cultivated to maintain self-sufficiency, reflected in the local name for squares, “campi,” meaning fields.
Venissa vineyard was established in 2002 on the island of Torcello, near the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta. Founder Gianluca Bisol revived the Dorona di Venezia grape, uniquely suited to the lagoon’s saline environment, through detailed historical and agronomic research.
Located within Mazzorbo’s walled vineyard, Dorona produces Venissa Bianco, a highly limited white wine considered the purest expression of this native Venetian grape. An even rarer Venissa Rosso originates on the remote Santa Cristina island, where sustainable viticulture supports a delicate ecosystem.
This wine tasting experience offers a deep insight into Venice’s landscapes, history, and lesser-known wine tradition. Only one hectare of Dorona exists globally, producing about 3,500 bottles annually, all available for you to sample.
Includes
- Expert guided instruction tailored to the group
- All necessary tasting equipment
Excludes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Shipping expenses
Important Information
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Getting there:
From Piazza San Marco, take vaporetto Line 12 (toward Burano/Mazzorbo) or Line 9, depending on the schedule.
Disembark at Mazzorbo island; the journey typically takes 50–60 minutes.
From the vaporetto stop, walk 5–10 minutes to the Venissa vineyard following the signs.
The vineyard is identifiable by its distinctive white walls.
Check current vaporetto schedules at https://actv.avmspa.it/en. - Private boat taxi service can be arranged from Venice on request for 160 EUR.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.
Book in advance to secure your spot. Bring comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather conditions. The best time to visit is during the spring through early autumn months when the vineyard is most active.
