The Wine-Tasting Wonders of Italian River Cruises

If you are on the lookout for Italian river cruises and have quite an acquired taste for wine, you may be pleased to learn that there are cruises dedicated entirely to the wines and vintners of Italy. Not only will you be able to visit famous riverside landmarks from the comfort of a luxury vessel, but you'll also go straight to the source and find out for yourself just why this country's vineyards are considered some of the best in the world.

However, it does pay to be discerning when it comes to these wine-focused Italian river cruises. Knowing these little titbits will help you find an excellent cruise provider.

A solid, well-defined itinerary

The itinerary is the very first thing that you need to scrutinize. Top providers in the business of luxury cruises understand their clients want to know what they are going to get before committing to a booking. Saying that the trip is a 'surprise' one or resorting to vague descriptions of where to go simply is not enough. A well-planned itinerary will allow you know what attractions you will be visiting - which is especially important for themed trips revolving around wine.

Each day has a fresh, unique agenda

Once you have the itinerary in hand, the next thing you need to do is look closely at what it has to offer. The great thing about all Italian river cruises - irrespective of their central themes - is that you will encounter a host of interesting sights and attractions along the way. From ancient medieval estates and fine theatres to majestic nature reserves and sprawling orchards, it would be a shame to forego anything the country has to offer due to being pigeonholed by the central theme.

Passes through the Po River and/or the Canal Bianco

There is a reason why the Po River and the Canal Bianco are standard routes for Italian river cruises. First is the fact that many historical vineyards and vintners have established themselves near the fertile grounds of these waterways. Some of the prime ones include private estates such as the Villa Wildmann Borletti and medieval towns like Soave, which have built their reputations on their signature wines. Second is that these routes are chock-full of cultural, historical and natural landmarks – from the grand Estense Castle to the operatic heart of Mantova.

The features of vessels are clearly laid out

It is one thing for a tour provider to say that they have luxurious yachts or barges, and quite another when they show exactly what these vessels have to offer. Wine cellars should be stocked with a wide assortment not just of Chiantis, Pinots and Roses but also local wines such as Malvasia Passito Valtidone and Rosso di Montepulciano Sabazio. A generous cheese selection is another must, including specialities Gorgonzola and Provolone, as it goes excellently well with the aforementioned wines. And last but not least, the vessels should also provide regional dishes such as Risotto al Prezzelomo and Baccala Mantecato, in order to truly appreciate the wide ranges of available Italian and Venetian culinary delights.

Keep all these aspects in mind and you will be able to better pick out the most authentic amongst the available experiences.

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, a provider of luxury, all-inclusive barge holidays. If you're looking for Italian river cruises, the country has some of the world's most picturesque waterways. We also offer experiences in France, Holland and the UK.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.