Vineyard Dinner Experience on the Bologna Hills at Podere Riosto
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Bologna hills, Podere Riosto is a family-run winery that has been passionately cultivating its land since 1954. However, it’s not just the exceptional local wines and cuisine that will entice you to visit—it’s the unforgettable experience that awaits. Imagine enjoying a Vineyard Dinner, surrounded by lush grapevines and breathtaking panoramic views.
Dining among the rows at sunset, immersed in nature’s beauty, is an extraordinary experience that will captivate all your senses!
If there’s one event that truly encapsulates the essence of the Bologna Hills it’s the Vineyard Dinner at Podere Riosto. This historic winery in Pianoro is more than just a place to eat—it offers a sensory journey through authentic flavors, exquisite wines, and stunning landscapes.
I had been dreaming of this experience for quite some time, and when I finally made my reservation (easily done via Facebook), my excitement grew instantly. I knew it would be special, but I had no idea just how unforgettable this evening would be.
Podere Riosto
Via di Riosto, 12
40065 Pianoro (BO)
Tel: 051 777109
Sito web
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Open: Every day
COSA TROVERAI IN QUESTO POST:
The Story of Podere Riosto and Its Love for the Land
Podere Riosto is lovingly managed by the Galletti Franceschini family, who are dedicated to showcasing the unique qualities of this remarkable terroir. The perfect blend of climate, geology, and environment in the Colli Bolognesi gives their wines a distinct character.
Their commitment to quality is evident in every detail—from hand-harvested grapes to state-of-the-art winemaking techniques, ensuring that the authentic essence of Riosto’s vineyards is preserved.
The Vineyard Dinner is just one of many initiatives designed to immerse visitors in this extraordinary land, but it is undoubtedly the most enchanting. Dining under the stars, surrounded by vines, where wine and food take center stage, is an experience you won’t forget.
The Enchanting Atmosphere of Vineyard Dinner
We arrived at Podere Riosto around 7:30 PM, with the sun still shining in the sky. Before the dinner officially began, we took a leisurely stroll among the vines of the Bologna hills, taking in the breathtaking scenery that looked like a painting.
The tables were already elegantly set among the rows, and a fine mist of cool vapor made the warm summer evening even more comfortable.
The aperitif was served right in the vineyard—a delightful buffet of focaccia and savory tarts, perfectly paired with Podere Riosto’s Spumante Rosé. The first sip of wine marked the beginning of what promised to be a truly unforgettable evening.
As the sun slowly dipped below the horizon, we took our seats, and that’s when the magic truly began. Soft background music created an intimate, romantic atmosphere while the attentive staff discreetly served each dish, expertly paired with different wines.
The Vineyard Dinner Menu
The menu is a celebration of local flavors and Podere Riosto’s own produce. Each course is a perfect balance of taste, beautifully complemented by expertly selected wines:
- Appetizer – Traditional Crescentine with a selection of local cured meats and cheeses, a must-try from Bologna’s rich culinary tradition.
- First Course – A delicate Risotto cooked with Pignoletto Spumante, served on a creamy asparagus sauce and topped with pecorino shavings.
- Main Course – A succulent roast veal, served with seasonal vegetables and oven-roasted potatoes.
- Dessert – A delightful berry semifreddo, the perfect sweet finale to an extraordinary meal.
The wine flowed generously, and each glass told a different story, enhancing the flavors of every dish. Pignoletto, in particular, was a delightful discovery—its fresh, aromatic notes perfectly complementing the local cuisine.
As night fell and the twinkling lights among the rows illuminated the vineyard, romance filled the air. Dining among the rows under a starry sky was simply breathtaking, and the feeling of being surrounded by nature made the entire experience even more special.
Podere Riosto Wines: A Must-Try Excellence
One of the highlights of Podere Riosto is its impressive selection of wines, available for purchase both on-site and online. Throughout the evening, we had the pleasure of tasting some of their finest bottles, including:
- Pignoletto Frizzante & Pignoletto Superiore
- Chardonnay
- Doraluce, Stilla, Barbera Frizzante & Barbera Fermo
- Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot
- Aquilante, Grifone, Gaudio & Medoro
- Spumante di Pignoletto Brut & Rosé For You
- Grappa di Pignoletto
Each wine reflected the dedication and passion behind Podere Riosto’s winemaking process, offering a true taste of the “Colli Bolognesi”. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a casual drinker, you’ll find something here to fall in love with.
The Price and My Honest Opinion
The cost of the Vineyard Dinner Experience is €40 per person, which I believe is exceptionally fair given the quality of the food, the abundance of wine, and the unforgettable atmosphere among the rows of the Bologna Hills.
If you’re looking for a unique experience to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, indulge in delicious cuisine, and soak in the breathtaking beauty of the background, this dinner is for you.
Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a gathering with friends, or a special celebration, Podere Riosto will provide you with an unforgettable moment.
I will be back. And you? Are you ready to experience the magic of Dinner in the Vineyard?
Podere Riosto is now on my list of the best outdoor summer dining spots in Bologna!
Check out my article to discover more amazing places to dine under the stars!
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