Lambrusco is the sparkling red that Emiliani drink with the region’s rich food, and the Cleto Chiarli estate is one of the names most closely linked with it. The Chiarli family has owned the business for more than 140 years, and the guided visit takes you through the vineyards, the winery and the production facilities before sitting you down to taste four wines from the Cleto Chiarli range. If your idea of Lambrusco is the sweet, fizzy bottle of decades past, the tasting is an eye-opener: Lambrusco comes in dry and sweet styles, and the dry ones in particular are made to cut through the richness of cured meats, tortellini and aged cheese. The visit is a good fit with the cheese and vinegar stops that fill most Modena itineraries, adding a drink to the story, and it is short enough to combine with a museum or a market stroll in the same day. It also appeals to anyone who wants a winery experience without a long drive or a heavy lunch.
How it works
The visit is a guided tour that lasts about an hour and a half. It covers the vineyards, the winery and production areas, and ends with a tasting of four wines from the Cleto Chiarli line. Free cancellation is offered. Check the booking page for tour dates and languages, the meeting arrangements and any changes in the schedule, since winery visits can vary with the harvest and with the cellar calendar.
Getting there
The estate lies in the countryside around Modena, so most visitors travel by car, taxi or a pre-arranged transfer. From Bologna, take the train to Modena first, then continue by road. If you have no car, plan the day carefully and confirm return transport, because rural bus services are limited. Alternatively, choose a day trip that bundles several Modena stops and ask the operator how the winery fits.
Making the most of it
Pace your tasting, drink water between glasses and eat something beforehand, as the wines are served as samples rather than a meal. Ask the guide to explain the difference between the dry and sweet styles, and notice how the fizz and acidity pair with food. The visit pairs naturally with a balsamic vinegar acetaia or with the Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena, and it makes a pleasant ending to a day of Emilian eating.
What to expect
The experience
A guided visit through vineyards, winery and production areas, finishing with a tasting of four Cleto Chiarli wines.
Best time
A late-morning slot, so lunch and the tasting do not collide, and a day when you have arranged transport.
How long
About an hour and a half.
Tips
Arrange transport in advance, eat before you taste, and ask the guide to explain the dry and sweet styles.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Wine drinkers, food lovers and anyone who thinks they dislike Lambrusco.
- Families
- Not designed for young children because of the tasting, though older teenagers may enjoy the cellars.
- Couples
- A relaxed, flavourful outing that fits well into a Modena day.
- Pair with
- A balsamic vinegar tasting, a Modena market stroll or the Enzo Ferrari Museum.
- Time needed
- About an hour and a half, plus travel from Modena or Bologna.
Good questions
What is Lambrusco?+
It is a sparkling red wine from the Modena and Emilia area, traditionally served with the region’s rich cured meats, pasta and cheese.
What does the tour include?+
A guided visit to the vineyards, the winery and the production facilities, followed by a tasting of four wines.
How long is the visit?+
About an hour and a half.
How do I get there from Bologna?+
Take a train to Modena and continue by road, or arrange a transfer or day tour; public transport to the countryside is limited.
Can I cancel?+
Free cancellation is offered, so check the booking page for the exact terms.
