Podgorica: Panoramic Wine Tasting & Snack

Imagine sipping local wines while soaking in views so breathtaking they could be straight out of a postcard. That’s what this Podgorica panoramic wine tasting promises — a blend of authentic Montenegrin wine, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. At just $24 per person for a two-hour experience, it’s a budget-friendly way to connect with Montenegro’s food and wine scene beyond the usual tourist spots.

What truly excites us about this tour is the setting—a rooftop overlooking a lush vineyard, wrapped in a calming, natural environment that many call a “little Toscana in Montenegro.” The fact that the wine isn’t from a store but comes with a story makes this experience all the more compelling. But, as with any outdoor experience, weather can influence your enjoyment — a rainy day might slightly dampen the mood, though the warmth of the family running the estate helps keep spirits high.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving authentic, relaxed wine experiences, those interested in local culture, and anyone looking to escape the crowds for a taste of Montenegro’s countryside. If you love picturesque views, good food, and stories behind each glass, this might just be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Montenegrin Wine: Family-produced, with a rich history in Vranac and Kratoija grapes.
• Stunning Panorama: Rooftop tasting with sweeping vineyard views, evoking a slice of Tuscany.
• Local Flavors: Homemade cheeses, salami, prosciutto, and snacks beautifully complement the wines.
• Family-Run Charm: Managed by the Sekuli family, who bring warmth and storytelling to each part of the experience.
• Additional Facilities: Campsite, outdoor activities, and scenic spots, perfect for extended stays or group events.
• Value for Money: At $24, this experience offers quality, authenticity, and stunning scenery—hard to beat.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The Location & Setting

Purple Eye Estate Camp & Winery is located just 12 km from Podgorica, between Danilovgrad and the capital. Its position next to Matica Creek and a small lake called “Purple Eye” creates a tranquil backdrop that’s hard to match elsewhere. The estate combines agri-tourism and camping, giving visitors an intimate view of Montenegrin rural life.

The estate is run by the Sekuli family, now in its fourth generation of winemakers. They produce wine and schnapps from 2,300 vines of indigenous grapes like Vranac and Kratoija. The family’s dedication shows in every sip and story shared — a genuine taste of Montenegro’s wine heritage.

The Guided Tour

The experience begins with a one-hour guided tour, which is notably flexible in style. The guide, who speaks multiple languages (including English, German, Greek, Italian, and Serbo-Croatian), offers insights into the estate’s history, the unique grape varieties, and traditional winemaking techniques.

According to one reviewer, the guides are passionate and knowledgeable, making the storytelling engaging without feeling overly scripted. They also ensure that guests feel welcomed and included, creating an authentic, warm atmosphere.

The Walk & Photo Stops

Following the tour, a short 15-minute walk takes you to the rooftop tasting area. Along the way, you might enjoy the lush surroundings, perfect for taking photos. The scenic views of the vineyards against Montenegro’s rolling hills are unforgettable, especially on a clear day.

The Rooftop Tasting Experience

Once on the rooftop, you’ll be greeted by an antipasti platter featuring homemade cheese, salami, prosciutto, and olives. Many reviews mention how attentive the hosts are — one notably remarked that the platter was spontaneously adapted to be vegetarian when asked late, exemplifying the family’s genuine hospitality.

The wine list includes red, white, and schnapps (Grappa), all produced on-site. The quality of the wines is a highlight, with one guest calling the red wine the best they’ve ever had. The family’s slogan, “It’s not a wine from a store — it’s a wine with a story to tell,” rings true here, as each bottle is tied to generations of tradition and care.

Snacks & Food

The pairing of local snacks with wine elevates the tasting. The homemade cheeses and cured meats complement the flavors beautifully. The food is simple but made with love, adding a layer of authenticity and making the experience feel more like visiting a friend’s countryside home than a commercial winery.

Additional Activities & Facilities

Beyond wine tasting, the estate offers a large area for relaxation, including options for playing table tennis, basketball, football, and volleyball. There’s also a children’s park with a pool, perfect for families or groups with kids.

For those who want to linger longer, the estate can organize outdoor events like birthdays or team-building activities, thanks to its variety of facilities and scenic setting.

The Practical Details

Duration & Group Size

The experience runs about 2 hours from start to finish, which makes it manageable for day trips or quick escapes. The tour is private, allowing for a more personalized experience, and can accommodate groups of any size.

Price & Value

At $24 per person, this tour offers fantastic value. For that price, you get a guided tour, a generous tasting selection, homemade snacks, and access to the estate’s facilities. The combination of quality wine, beautiful views, and family hospitality makes it a worthwhile spend, especially for those seeking an authentic taste of Montenegro’s wine culture.

Accessibility & Cancellation

The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for travelers with flexible schedules or uncertainties.

Languages & Special Needs

Guides speak multiple languages, making this a comfortable experience for international visitors. The private setting ensures tailored attention, and the availability of facilities allows a comfortable visit for most.

What the Reviewers Say

One guest from Germany shared, “The red wine was the best we’ve ever had,” emphasizing the high quality of the wines. They also appreciated the warm family hospitality and the spontaneous dietary modifications, which made the visit feel personal and caring.

Another noted that rain didn’t spoil the experience — the landscape and the warm family welcome kept spirits high, showing that even weather mishaps can’t dampen the charm of this place.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers, especially those interested in authentic, small-scale productions. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting a relaxed day in nature with good food and drink. If you appreciate scenic views, storytelling, and local flavors, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, travelers expecting a structured, large-scale winery tour might find this more intimate and casual — which is part of its charm.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a relaxed, authentic Montenegrin wine experience, this Panoramic Wine Tasting & Snack Tour at Purple Eye Estate offers a wonderful mix of beautiful scenery, family-run charm, and delicious local wines. It’s an excellent value, especially considering the personalized attention and the stunning views that come with it.

Best suited for visitors who value genuine experiences over touristy gloss, this tour provides a glimpse into Montenegro’s countryside, its traditions, and the passion behind its wines. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape into nature, this experience hits the right notes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and facilities are designed to accommodate most guests comfortably.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience spans about 2 hours, including the guided tour, walking, tasting, and free time.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
Guides speak English, German, Greek, Italian, and Serbo-Croatian, ensuring clear communication for diverse visitors.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility.

Are there options for groups of different sizes?
Absolutely, the tour is a private experience that can accommodate various group sizes.

What kind of food is included?
A homemade antipasti platter with cheeses, salami, prosciutto, and olives complements the wine tasting, with options for vegetarian requests.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, there’s a children’s park with a swimming pool, making it family-friendly.

What is the price, and does it include everything?
At $24 per person, it covers the wine and snack tasting, the guided tour, and access to the estate’s facilities — excellent value for a memorable, authentic experience.

In summary, this wine tasting tour offers a genuine taste of Montenegro’s countryside, highlighted by stunning views, heartfelt hospitality, and delicious local flavors. It’s a perfect short escape for wine lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to see a different side of Podgorica.