The Walking Tour & Wine Tasting at the Brown Castle in the picturesque village of Portofino is quickly becoming a Windstar favorite.
The tour begins at the landing pier, where your guide takes you through the narrow streets of Portofino, lined with beautiful villas and gardens full of tropical plants and Mediterranean olive trees. Climbing up the winding road, you also pass by the church St. George, with views of both coastlines.
Once you get to Brown Castle, the experience really begins. The tasting is led by local Italian Chef Guido, a colorful character full of personality.
He walks you through the Italian (the right) way of making pesto. Chef Guido’s trick is to use a mortar passed on by his grandmother. Ingredients include fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmigiano reggiano cheese, pecorino cheese, one pinch of sea salt, and of course Liguarian extra virgin olive oil.
The spread also includes freshly baked focaccia, thinly sliced prosciutto, and panettone, a local sweet bread.
Another highlight of this excursion is the sampling of local wines. You will sip a local white that pairs well with the pesto, as well as a local red that is on the lighter side. The wine portion concludes with a perfectly blended dessert wine.
Once you’ve eaten your fill, wander out to the terrace of the castle which features the best views of the charming town. You will even be able to spot your Windstar yacht!
This excursion is available on Yachting the Riviera, and Glitter & Glam of the Rivieras
