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An Honest Look at the Wine & More Tour from Porec
If you’re visiting the Croatian coast and love wine, this Wine & More Tour promises a relaxed, personalized way to explore Istria’s renowned vineyards without the hassle of driving. This private-guided experience, offered by THIS IS ISTRIA, takes you to three carefully selected wineries, with the chance to sample up to 12 wines, paired with local food, all in a comfortable, small-group setting.
What we really like about this tour is how it combines scenic drives through the picturesque Istrian countryside with genuine insights from knowledgeable guides. Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off make it incredibly convenient, removing any logistical worries. On the flip side, the price of around $425 per person might seem steep for some, but when you consider the personalized experience, expert guiding, and high-quality tastings, it’s fair value—especially if wine tasting and regional food are your priorities.
This tour suits wine enthusiasts eager to discover Istria’s best-kept secrets, travelers who prefer a hassle-free, intimate experience, and those wanting a taste of local life beyond the beach. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Istria’s wine culture, stunning views, and authentic flavors.
Key Points
- Convenient Transportation: All travel is in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan with hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Expert Guidance: Guides like Alen are passionate, knowledgeable, and personable, making the experience more meaningful.
- Diverse Tastings: Up to 12 wines, including special varieties like Malvazija and Teran, plus olive oil tastings.
- Regional Food: A hearty Istrian meal at the final winery adds a delicious, authentic touch.
- Scenic Drives: Expect beautiful views of vineyards, medieval towns, and the Adriatic Sea during short scenic drives.
- Small Group: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Looking for more options in Porec? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary in Detail
The day kicks off with a complimentary hotel pickup, a small gesture that sets the tone for a relaxed, personalized experience. Once aboard the air-conditioned minivan, your guide, often someone like Alen — who’s praised for his friendliness and regional expertise — will lead you into Istria’s wine country.
First Stop: Damjanic Wines
Your first visit is to Damjanic Wines, a family-owned winery that has been producing wine for generations. Here, you’ll enjoy a tasting of five different wines, paired with a light snack of local prosciutto and cheese. Reviewers particularly appreciated the variety and quality of wines at Damjanic, with one noting the “lovely wines and very good varied tasting selection.” It’s a perfect way to warm up your palate and get a feel for Istria’s winemaking style.
Scenic Drive to Kozlovic or Kabola
Afterward, you’ll take a short drive — approximately 30 to 45 minutes — through rolling hills, vineyards, and historic towns. Travelers consistently mention how the views during this drive are a highlight. During this time, your guide shares insights about the region’s history and wine traditions, enriching the experience.
At your second winery, either Kozlovic or Kabola, you’ll be shown the historic cellars that have been in the family for over a century. Expect to learn about Malvazija Istriana and Teran wines, two of the region’s most celebrated varieties. Reviews mention the “very knowledgeable guide” and the chance to taste wines directly from the family’s cellar, making the experience truly personal.
Final Stop: Veralda and a Traditional Istrian Meal
Your last visit is to Veralda, where the focus shifts from tasting to food pairing. Here, you’ll enjoy a typical Istrian meal consisting of local starters such as cheese, prosciutto, and bread with olive oil, followed by homemade pasta. This meal is not just nourishing—reviewers say it’s “impressive” and paired perfectly with the wines being sampled. After the meal, you’ll have the chance to explore the picturesque surroundings and admire the countryside views.
During this part of the tour, you’ll taste several wines from the winery’s selection, often concluding with a dessert paired with a sweet wine. The opportunity to enjoy both regional cuisine and fine wine makes this a truly authentic experience.
How the Experience Feels in Practice
The overall pace of the tour is well-balanced, offering enough time at each vineyard without feeling rushed. The small group size means everyone can ask questions and get personalized attention, which many reviews highlight as a major plus.
Transportation: The minivan is noted for being comfortable and air-conditioned, making the travel between wineries pleasant, especially on warm days. The scenic drives also serve as mini sightseeing tours, offering glimpses of medieval towns, lush vineyards, and the shimmering coastline.
Wines and Food: Reviewers rave about the quality of the wines—particularly Malvazija and Teran—and appreciate the opportunity to taste multiple varieties without the pressure of purchase. The regional food, especially at Veralda, is described as delicious and authentic, adding a satisfying culinary element to the day.
Guide’s Knowledge: Repeated praise goes to guides like Alen, who are described as passionate, friendly, and well-informed. They share local stories and wine insights that elevate the experience from a simple tasting to a cultural exploration.
Value for Money: Though the price might seem high, many guests feel it’s justified by the high-quality tastings, personalized service, and the convenience of door-to-door transport. The inclusion of olive oil tastings and a full meal adds to the perceived value.
What Could Be Better
The primary consideration for some travelers is the cost. At around $425 per person, this is a premium experience, especially for those traveling alone or on a tight budget. Plus, while the tour operates in all weather conditions, the outdoor component means you should be prepared for the elements, especially in summer or rain.
Some reviews mention that the tour was overbooked in the past, leading to cancellations, but the operator responded by offering discounts on future bookings. It’s wise to book in advance and confirm your reservation.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to learn about Istria’s specialties in a relaxed, intimate setting. It’s perfect if you prefer guided tours over self-driving adventures, especially since it takes care of transportation and logistics. The inclusion of regional cuisine and scenic drives also appeals to those wanting a well-rounded taste of Istrian culture.
It’s particularly suitable for small groups or couples who enjoy engaging guides and want a more personal touch. If you’re seeking a luxurious yet authentic experience, this tour offers a good balance of education, tasting, and sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in Porec and want an authentic, hassle-free wine experience, this Wine & More Tour delivers in spades. The combination of quality wineries, scenic drives, engaging guides, and regional cuisine makes it a memorable way to spend a day in Istria.
While it’s priced at a premium, the intimate setting, personalized service, and top-tier tastings justify the expense—especially for those who truly appreciate good wine and local food. Expect beautiful views, knowledgeable hosts, and a deeper appreciation of Istria’s wine culture.
For travelers eager to explore beyond the beaches and discover the heart of Istria’s viticulture, this tour offers both education and enjoyment in equal measure. Just be sure to book early and prepare for a full, rewarding day.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the experience very convenient.
How many wineries will we visit?
You will visit three wineries during the tour.
What types of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample up to 12 wines, including Malvazija, Teran, and other local varieties.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Istrian meal with starters, homemade pasta, and dessert is included, paired with wines.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 10 am.
What’s the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
Can vegetarians participate?
Yes, vegetarian options are available; please advise at the time of booking.
What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather; the tour operates rain or shine, and comfortable shoes are recommended for winery visits.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While it is designed for adults, children can participate but should be aware they might not partake in tastings.
This Wine & More Tour from Porec offers a tasty, scenic, and culturally rich experience that’s hard to beat for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Istria’s wine scene without stress or hassle.
