From Bucharest: Exclusive Dealu Mare Wine Tasting Tour

Exploring the wine country just outside Bucharest offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and delicious tasting experiences. This full-day private tour takes you through Dealu Mare, Romania’s renowned wine region, often called Romania’s Bordeaux. With visits to two boutique wineries, you’ll sample a total of 12 fine wines, paired with local cheeses and charcuterie, all while enjoying the picturesque rolling vineyard hills.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances delicious wine tasting with cultural storytelling. Your guides are not only knowledgeable but also engaging, making the experience both educational and fun. The scenic drives along the historic Old Wine Road, passing mansions and vineyards, add to the charm — perfect for those who appreciate a good view with their glass.

One potential consideration is the price point of $237 per person, which might seem steep for some, especially if you’re on a tighter budget. However, given the inclusion of private transport, guided tours, multiple tastings, and artisanal pairings, many will find this offers solid value. This experience appeals best to wine lovers, culture enthusiasts, and travelers looking to enjoy a relaxed yet enriching day outside the city.

Key Points

• Premium private experience with hotel pickup and comfortable transport.
• Visit two award-winning boutique wineries with guided tours.
• Taste a total of 12 wines, including Romanian varieties like Feteasc Neagr.
• Enjoy expertly paired artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and dried fruits.
• Learn about Romania’s wine history and winemaking techniques.
• Ideal for those seeking a blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and wine education.

An In-Depth Look at the Dealu Mare Wine Tasting Tour

This tour combines the joy of discovering Romania’s premier wine region with the comfort of private transportation and guided insights. It’s a well-rounded experience for those interested in wine, history, and local culture, offering enough time at each stop to truly appreciate the wines and surroundings.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins with a hotel pickup in Bucharest, making the start seamless and stress-free. From there, the early morning drive takes you through the rolling vineyard hills of Dealu Mare, Romania’s leading red wine region, often compared to Bordeaux for its climate and style.

First Stop: Lacerta Winery

Lacerta Winery is known for its modern approach rooted in tradition. The estate uses gravity-fed winemaking techniques, which minimize the use of pumps and help preserve the wines’ structure. This detail might seem minor but speaks volumes about their commitment to quality.

As you tour the state-of-the-art facilities, your guide will explain the process from grape to bottle, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at Romanian craftsmanship. The tasting here involves six premium wines, complemented by local cheeses and cold cuts, giving a perfect start to your tasting journey. The vineyard setting offers stunning views, making it easy to forget you’re in the city just hours earlier.

Second Stop: 1000 Chipuri Winery

The second winery, 1000 Chipuri, is a family-owned operation dedicated to handcrafted wines. Here, you’ll get to enjoy a traditional Romanian lunch, a highlight for many, giving you a chance to savor authentic flavors and further appreciate local produce.

This visit incorporates a more intimate look at winemaking, with tastings directly from oak barrels and tanks. The six wines here include Romanian varieties like Feteasc Neagr, Cabernet Franc, and Tmâioas Româneasc — wines that often surprise visitors with their quality and character.

You’ll also find that the wines from this estate are often described as blending tradition and innovation, showcasing Romania’s growing reputation for quality reds and whites alike.

What Makes This Experience Special?

What previous guests consistently highlight is not just the wines but the personalized, relaxed atmosphere created by knowledgeable guides. For example, Kevin mentions his guide Mihai Vateselu’s “great personality, lots of fun, and very knowledgeable,” which really elevates the experience. Similarly, Gavin appreciated how their guide Andrei allowed them to customize the day’s pace and provided insightful commentary.

Another valued aspect is the scenic drive along the Old Wine Road, lined with elegant mansions and endless vineyards. It’s the kind of landscape that makes you want to bring your camera or just sit back and enjoy the view.

The Wines and Food Pairings

The tour’s star is the variety of 12 wines tasted across both wineries. Guests rave about the quality, with some highlighting Romanian reds like Feteasc Neagr as standout options. The wines are paired with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and dried fruits, which are thoughtfully selected to complement each wine.

This pairing not only enhances the tasting but also introduces you to the local culinary culture. Guests often mention how these small bites elevate the wine-drinking experience — transforming it into a tasting event that’s both sophisticated and approachable.

Duration, Price, and Value

At around 10 hours, the tour offers a full day of exploration and relaxation. The price of $237 per person includes private transport, guided tours at both wineries, tastings, and the artisanal pairings. Given the private nature, personalized service, and quality of the wineries visited, many travelers find the cost justified — especially since you’re getting a comprehensive taste of Romania’s wine scene along with cultural insights.

Transportation is in a comfortable vehicle, and the group remains private, ensuring intimacy and flexibility. The tour runs with flexible start times, so it’s easy to fit into your travel plans.

What Reviewers Say

Reviewers consistently give this experience a perfect 5/5. Josmar shares that “the wines were delicious and the scenery was incredible,” praising their guide Bogdan for his “patience and helpfulness,” especially on a birthday surprise. Gavin appreciated visiting both a large and a family-run winery, noting the contrast added depth to their experience. Kevin highlights Mihai’s personality and knowledge, claiming that the tour showcased the area’s quality, tragic history, and beauty.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts looking for a deeper understanding of Romanian wines, particularly those interested in reds like Feteasc Neagr. It also suits visitors who enjoy scenic drives and cultural storytelling in a relaxed setting. The private aspect and personalized guide service make it perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a luxurious, insightful day outside Bucharest.

It’s less suitable for travelers on a tight budget since the value lies in the personalized guided experience and premium tastings. But for those seeking a comprehensive, authentic taste of Romania’s wine heritage in a single day, this tour offers excellent value.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including pickups, visits, tastings, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
Private transport, guided tours at both wineries, 12 wine tastings, and artisanal cheese and charcuterie pairings are included.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour includes artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and dried fruits. It’s best to ask in advance if you have specific dietary needs.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample 12 wines total, including Romanian varieties like Feteasc Neagr, Cabernet Franc, and Tmâioas Româneasc.

Can I customize the schedule?
The tour is private and flexible, allowing some customization based on your preferences, especially regarding pace and focus.

Is lunch included?
No — lunch is a separate part of the itinerary, where you can enjoy a traditional Romanian meal at the second winery.

What is the transportation like?
Transport is in a private, comfortable vehicle, ensuring a relaxing ride between wineries and along scenic routes.

Is this tour suitable for wine novices?
Absolutely — the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making it accessible for all levels of wine lovers.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve your spot with a flexible “reserve now, pay later” option, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This exclusive Dealu Mare wine tasting tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Romanian wine experience packed with scenic beauty, cultural insights, and excellent wines. It’s perfect for those who want more than just a tasting — it’s a journey into the heart of Romania’s wine heritage, presented with professionalism and a personal touch.

Ideal for lovers of reds, those curious about Romania’s wine evolution, or travelers seeking a luxurious yet educational escape from Bucharest, this tour delivers on all fronts. Expect stunning views, passionate guides, and wines that often surprise with their quality and character. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your curiosity, it’s a day well spent among vineyard hills and storytelling.

To sum it up, if you value intimate, expertly guided wine tastings paired with cultural stories and scenic drives, this tour should be at the top of your Romania itinerary. The combination of top-quality boutique wineries, knowledgeable guides, and picturesque landscapes creates a memorable experience that’s more than just wine — it’s a taste of Romania’s growing viticultural pride.

Note: Always check availability and confirm dietary preferences or special requests when booking to ensure a smooth, tailored experience.