From Bucharest: Exclusive Wine Tasting Tour in Dealu Mare

From Bucharest: Exclusive Wine Tasting Tour in Dealu Mare

Looking for a way to explore Romania beyond its castles and history? This private wine-tasting tour from Bucharest to Dealu Mare promises an authentic taste of Romania’s most celebrated wine region. With visits to boutique wineries, expert-guided tours, and plenty of tastings, it offers a well-balanced experience that combines education, scenery, and delicious local flavors.

One of the standout features of this tour is its personalized approach — a private guide ensures you get tailored insights into the winemaking process while you savor some of Romania’s best wines. The scenic drive along the Old Wine Road, with panoramic vineyard views, makes the journey as memorable as the destinations themselves. However, keep in mind that the tour is about 10 hours long, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a full day of wine discovery.

What we particularly appreciate is the chance to visit two distinctly different wineries, each with its own personality and style. From Lacerta Winery’s sleek, modern facilities to 1000 Faces Winery’s family-owned vibe, the tour offers a well-rounded look at Romanian winemaking. If you’re a wine lover eager to learn about indigenous varieties like Feteasc Neagr and explore Romania’s wine culture firsthand, this tour is a fantastic choice. That said, the price tag of nearly $250 per person might seem steep for some, but considering the included tastings, private transport, and guided experiences, it offers significant value for those keen on a premium, immersive day.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private transportation and a dedicated guide make for a tailored, relaxed day.
• Diverse Wineries: Visit two boutique wineries, each bringing unique styles and stories to the table.
• Authentic Tasting: Sample 12 wines, including Romanian indigenous varieties, paired with local cheeses and charcuterie.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about traditional and innovative winemaking techniques from passionate experts.
• Scenic Drive: Enjoy breathtaking views along Romania’s famed Old Wine Road.
• Flexible Options: Lunch is available at the second winery at an extra cost, offering a taste of authentic Romanian cuisine.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup in Bucharest, where your guide, Mihai, will set the tone for the adventure ahead. During the approximately two-hour drive to Dealu Mare, Mihai shares an overview of the region’s history and what makes its climate so perfect for red wines. This warm-up helps you get into the mood for the scenic and flavorful journey ahead.

First Stop: Lacerta Winery

The journey’s first highlight is Lacerta Winery, a showcase of contemporary design and cutting-edge wine technology. Despite its modern appearance, Lacerta stays true to tradition through techniques like gravity-flow winemaking, which minimizes the use of pumps to preserve wine quality. You’ll be taken on a private tour of their vineyards and underground cellars, where the focus is on craftsmanship and innovation.

Post-tour, you’ll indulge in a tasting of six wines, including Romania’s signature Feteasc Neagr, carefully paired with a cheese and charcuterie platter. The reviews point out that Lacerta’s wines are top-tier, with visitors noting the elegant style and high quality. We loved the way the guide explained the winemaking philosophy, making the tasting as educational as it was enjoyable.

Second Stop: 1000 Faces Winery

Next, your journey continues to 1000 Faces Winery, a family-owned operation that combines traditional Romanian methods with a modern touch. Here, the vibe is more intimate, and the stories from the owners add a personal layer to your understanding of local winemaking.

A highlight at this stop is the option to sample wines directly from stainless steel tanks, providing insights into the aging process. The tasting includes six carefully curated wines—Feteasc Neagr again features prominently, alongside Cabernet Franc and Tmâioas Românești. You can also opt for a traditional Romanian lunch here, which many find to be a real highlight, offering authentic flavors and a chance to understand local culinary traditions.

The reviews emphasize that the guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the experience feel warm and genuine. One reviewer, Gordon, appreciated how Mihai introduced them to Romania’s long-standing wine tradition, which they had no idea about before the trip.

Additional Details

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy scenic views along the Old Wine Road, with plenty of opportunities for photo stops. The private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility, so you can relax and focus on the experience. All tasting fees and winery tour costs are included, which simplifies the day and adds to the overall value.

The tour is well-paced, with ample time for exploring each winery, tasting wines, and enjoying the surroundings. The optional lunch at the second winery costs extra but provides a taste of authentic Romanian dishes, which many guests find enhances the overall experience.

Value and Who It’s Best For

Considering the includes — private transport, guided tours, tastings at both wineries, and admission to attractions — this tour provides excellent value for wine enthusiasts willing to invest in a premium experience. For around $250, you get a full day of education, tasting, and scenery, making it worthwhile for those eager to deepen their understanding of Romanian wines.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love wine and want a more personalized, in-depth look at Romania’s boutique wineries. It’s particularly appealing to those who enjoy scenic drives and cultural insights alongside their tastings. If you’re after a quick, casual visit or on a tight budget, this might not be the right choice. But for a relaxed day out with high-quality wines and expert guidance, it hits the mark.

FAQs

• How long does the tour last?
  The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time, tastings, and lunch options.

• Is this a private tour?
  Yes, it’s a fully private experience with only your group participating, providing a more personalized atmosphere.

• Are meals included?
  Lunch is not included in the base price but can be purchased à la carte at the second winery. Cheese, charcuterie, and dry fruit platters are included during tastings.

• What wines will I taste?
  You’ll sample a total of 12 wines across both wineries, including indigenous Romanian varieties like Feteasc Neagr, as well as other local favorites like Cabernet Franc.

• Is transportation provided?
  Yes, private round-trip transportation from your Bucharest hotel is included, ensuring comfort and convenience.

• Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
  As the tour involves tastings, participants must be 18 or older. Non-drinkers might find the experience less engaging, but the scenic drive and cultural insights still add value.

• Do I need to book in advance?
  Yes, it’s recommended to book at least 24-48 hours ahead to secure your spots, especially during peak times.

• What if I want to cancel?
  Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start, allowing flexibility for changing plans.

Final Thoughts

This private wine tasting tour in Dealu Mare offers a well-rounded, immersive experience for anyone keen to explore Romania’s vinicultural heritage. With visits to two boutique wineries—each with its own personality—it balances modern innovation with traditional charm, all set against the stunning backdrop of Romania’s scenic vineyards.

The guides are highly knowledgeable, bringing wine stories and technical insights to life, making each tasting both educational and enjoyable. The inclusion of scenic drives, personalized attention, and the chance to taste indigenous Romanian wines like Feteasc Neagr makes this a special day for connoisseurs and casual wine lovers alike.

While the price may seem on the higher side, the level of comfort, exclusivity, and depth of experience justify the investment. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a seamless, high-quality introduction to Romania’s wine scene in a relaxed, private setting.

If you’re after a meaningful, wine-focused day with expert guidance and authentic flavors, this Dealu Mare tour could be just what you need. Prepare to learn, taste, and appreciate Romania’s vinicultural soul in one memorable day.