Wine Tour and Tasting with a local Winemaker at Pico Island

Pico Island, part of Portugal’s Azores archipelago, offers more than just rugged volcano landscapes and lush greenery. It’s also home to a centuries-old wine tradition rooted in volcanic soil and rugged terrain. This 8-hour guided tour provides a deep dive into Pico’s winemaking heritage, led by Fábio Rocha, a passionate and highly knowledgeable winemaker with over a decade of international experience.

What makes this experience special? First, you get to walk through UNESCO World Heritage vineyards carved into the volcanic landscape, tasting wines that are truly one-of-a-kind. Second, the tour combines scenic stops with in-depth explanations of how geography, geology, and climate influence the wines.

A possible consideration? The tour is quite full, with a lot of stops packed into a single day, which might leave some guests wanting more time at each location. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, wine tasting, and learning — perfect for wine enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone eager to understand what makes Pico’s wines so distinctive.

Key Points

• Expert guidance: Led by Fábio Rocha, a seasoned winemaker with international experience and a passion for sharing his knowledge.
• Unique vineyards: Visits to UNESCO-listed Lajido da Criação Velha and Santa Luzia vineyards, offering stunning views and historic charm.
• Diverse tastings: Sample a total of 7 different wines, including those from Solar Terra Brum, Cerca dos Frades, and Insula Wines.
• Rich storytelling: Learn about geology, microclimates, and the ancient roads that make Pico’s wine so special.
• Beautiful scenery: Travel through dramatic volcanic landscapes, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Small groups: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Exploring the Pico Wine Experience in Depth

Introduction to the Tour

This tour is a well-rounded exploration of Pico’s wine traditions, perfect for travelers who want a taste (literally) of the island’s rich viticultural scene. It’s not just about drinking wine; it’s about understanding how thousands of years of volcanic activity, climate, and terrain have shaped what’s in your glass today.

Led by Fábio Rocha, a winemaker with 10 years of experience working across Australia, Chile, New Zealand, and Portugal, you’ll gain insights that go far beyond the typical tasting. Fábio’s background in Food Engineering and a Master’s in Viticulture and Winemaking means he’s well-equipped to explain the science behind the wine while keeping things engaging and accessible.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

For $258, you’re getting a very comprehensive experience. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Madalena or nearby — a real convenience that saves you the hassle of organizing transport. Entrance to the Pico Wine Museum sets the tone, providing context before you visit vineyards.

Visits to UNESCO-listed vineyards at Lajido da Criação Velha and Santa Luzia offer a chance to walk through vineyards planted in ancient volcanic soil, a visual treat that highlights Pico’s unique terroir. Tasting sessions at Solar Terra Brum and Cerca dos Frades give you the opportunity to sample 3 fine wines at each stop, including wines from Adega do Vulcão, Cerca dos Frades, and Insula Wines, giving you a broad sense of the island’s winemaking style.

Additional visits to “Relheiras” (old roads used for grape and wine transport) and “Rola Pipas” (rolling barrels) add layers of history and craftsmanship. The inclusion of the Pico Wine Museum enriches your understanding of the island’s winemaking evolution.

The Stops and Their Significance

Lajido da Criação Velha Vineyards: These vineyards are carved into volcanic slopes, offering panoramic views and a chance to walk through the same terrain that has supported wine production for over 500 years. The UNESCO status recognizes their cultural and historical importance, making this a highlight for history and wine lovers alike.

Solar Terra Brum: The tasting here is set in a small palace-like building, adding a touch of elegance to your wine experience. Sampling three fine Adega do Vulcão wines, you’ll taste the distinct mineral nuances imparted by the volcanic soil.

Lajido de Santa Luzia: Another UNESCO site, this hillside vineyard is renowned for its spectacular scenery and unique microclimate. Here, you’ll taste three more wines, deepening your appreciation of Pico’s terroir.

Cerca dos Frades: This winery produces two of its own wines plus two from Insula Wines, giving a well-rounded sampling of Pico’s diverse vinicultural offerings. The wines are complemented by the scenic views and the stories Fábio shares about each.

Scientific and Cultural Insights

Fábio’s explanations make the science behind wine tasting accessible and fascinating. He discusses geology, meteorology, microbiology, and viticulture in ways that add depth to each sip. Multiple reviews mention his ability to make complex topics understandable — one reviewer noted, “His knowledge of wine is amazing, and everything he told us about the island and life in the Azores was enlightening.”

Guests often comment on how passionate and engaging Fábio is. “He offers a great detail in the scientific part of wine making,” one traveler shared, which means you’ll leave with more than just a full stomach — you’ll be equipped with a richer understanding of what makes Pico wines so special.

Pacing, Group Size, and Overall Experience

With a limit of 8 participants, the tour maintains a personal feel, allowing plenty of opportunity for questions and conversation. The day is well-paced, balancing scenic drives, walking visits, and tasting sessions. Some reviews mention that the tour is quite full and that attention to detail is key — it’s not a relaxed, slow stroll, but rather an immersive experience for those eager to learn and taste.

Value for Money

Considering the inclusions — multiple vineyard visits, tastings, museum entry, and expert guide — the cost of $258 is reasonable. The small-group format adds value by delivering a more intimate, tailored experience compared to larger, generic tours. Travelers have consistently praised the quality of the wines, the expertise of Fábio, and the stunning landscapes as highlights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine scenic sightseeing with educational tasting. It works well for those with a keen interest in wine production, geology, or cultural history. If you enjoy guided experiences with a personal touch and don’t mind a full day, you’ll find this tour incredibly rewarding.

It’s also suitable for those who appreciate small groups and engaging guides, as the intimate format allows for plenty of interaction. If you’re a casual wine drinker looking for a quick tasting, this might be more immersive than you prefer — but for the curious, it offers a unique taste of Pico’s volcanic wines.

The Sum Up

The Pico Wine Tour with Fábio Rocha offers a rare glimpse into one of the world’s most distinctive wine regions. From walking through UNESCO vineyards to sampling volcanic wines, every aspect of this experience is rich in both culture and flavor. The combination of expert guidance, stunning scenery, and authentic tasting makes it a fantastic choice for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

For those wanting to learn about how Pico’s volcanoes influence its wines, this tour delivers an educational and memorable experience that’s hard to beat. It’s especially suited for visitors who value quality, intimacy, and storytelling.

While it’s a full day that demands your attention, the insights and flavors you’ll take home make it well worth the effort. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a casual sipper, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for Pico Island’s volcanic wines and the passionate people behind them.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a full-day activity perfect for visitors who want a comprehensive experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you are staying in Madalena or nearby, which simplifies logistics and maximizes your time on the island.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate experience with plenty of personalized attention from Fábio.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample a total of 7 wines across different stops — including wines from Solar Terra Brum, Cerca dos Frades, and Insula Wines — representing the best of Pico’s volcanic terroir.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included but can be arranged depending on your wishes. It’s a good idea to communicate your preferences beforehand.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.

This tour offers a genuine, engaging look at Pico’s volcanic wines, perfect for those eager to combine scenic beauty, cultural depth, and wine education into one memorable day.