From Bucharest: Exclusive Wine Tasting Tour in Dealu Mare

From Bucharest: Exclusive Wine Tasting Tour in Dealu Mare – An Honest Look

If you’re considering a day out of Bucharest that combines scenic views, local culture, and wine, this private wine tasting tour in Dealu Mare might just be what you’re after. We’ve come across this experience and want to share what makes it appealing—and what to keep in mind before booking.

What caught our eye? First, the personalized touch with a private guide and transport, making the day feel intimate and flexible. Second, the chance to sample a wide variety of Romanian wines, including indigenous varieties like Feteasc Neagr, which is a real treat for wine lovers. On the flip side, some might find the price somewhat steep at around $250 per person, but considering the private transportation, guided tours, and multiple tastings, it’s a solid value if you love wine adventures.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate local authenticity, enjoy learning about winemaking, and prefer a relaxed, curated experience without the hassle of organizing it themselves. If you’re curious about Romania’s wine scene or looking for a sophisticated day trip that combines culture with a touch of indulgence, keep reading.

Key Points

• Private transportation and guided tours ensure a comfortable, personalized experience.
• Two boutique wineries offer a diverse tasting, including native Romanian grape varieties.
• Includes admission to museums and manor, adding cultural insight.
• Optional lunch at the second winery allows for a more filling experience.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers with an 18+ age requirement.
• Planning ahead (booking 1-2 days in advance) is recommended to secure reservations.

Setting the Scene: Why Choose This Tour?

This full-day private wine tour from Bucharest takes you on a journey through Dealu Mare, Romania’s top wine region. The drive of just under two hours offers a scenic preview of the countryside, making the journey part of the experience rather than just transit. Once in the region, you’ll appreciate the climate along the 45th parallel, perfect for producing bold reds and velvety wines.

What makes this experience stand out? The carefully curated visits to two boutique wineries, Lacerta and 1000 Faces, each with its own character. You’re not just tasting wine—you’re seeing the craftsmanship firsthand, with tours that include insights into both traditional and modern techniques.

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive

Pickup and Introduction

Your day begins with hotel pickup in Bucharest, which sets a relaxed tone. The guide, likely someone who loves sharing local stories, kicks things off with an overview of what lies ahead. This initial chat is helpful to set expectations and get you excited about the day.

The Scenic Drive to Dealu Mare

The two-hour drive is a highlight in itself, with panoramic views of vineyards rolling along the Old Wine Road. This stretch of Romania’s wine country resembles famous regions like Bordeaux or Tuscany, with an ideal climate for winemaking. It’s a peaceful, inspiring start to your day.

First Stop: Lacerta Winery

Lacerta Winery is a perfect first stop for those who appreciate sleek, modern design paired with top-notch wines. The winery’s focus on innovation, like gravitational wine-making techniques, shows a dedication to quality preservation. Their facilities include state-of-the-art viniculture processes, but don’t worry—your guide will translate the tech-speak into interesting insights.

Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the vineyards and cellars, learning about the winemaking process from vine to bottle. Expect to taste six wines, including their signature Feteasc Neagr, paired with local cheeses and charcuterie. The combination of the modern setting and traditional pairings creates a cozy yet sophisticated vibe.

Second Stop: 1000 Faces Winery

Next, your journey takes you to 1000 Faces Winery, a family-owned boutique that marries tradition with innovation. This estate is more intimate, and the guide’s insights will deepen your understanding of their philosophy and dedication to crafting fine wines.

Before the tasting, you have the option to enjoy a traditional Romanian lunch—a chance to savor local flavors that complement the wines. The tasting includes six wines, again with local cheese, cured meats, and dried fruits. Notably, you can sample wines directly from stainless steel tanks, giving a behind-the-scenes peek at their aging process.

From the reviews, we know that visitors found the wines to be some of the best they’ve ever tasted, with the hosts making everyone feel very welcome. One reviewer even mentioned that the trip “exceeded expectations,” highlighting how quirky and interesting the wineries and characters make the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The value of this tour is boosted by several included features: private pick-up and drop-off, transportation, licensed English-speaking guide, guided tours at both wineries, and all tasting fees. These make the experience seamless and stress-free.

Extra costs include the optional lunch at the second winery, which is paid on-site if you choose to indulge. You might prefer skipping it if you’re not very hungry but want to focus on the tastings. Other drinks outside the designated tastings aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you want to explore additional wines.

How the Experience Feels in Practice

Based on reviews, travelers have found the experience highly enjoyable. One traveler called it “a pleasant surprise,” noting that Romania’s wine-making tradition was more extensive than expected. Another raved about how “quirky and full of interesting characters” the wineries were, making the tastings memorable. The wines, especially the Romanian varieties like Feteasc Neagr, received particular praise for their quality.

The private nature of the tour means you can enjoy a relaxed pace, ask questions, and customize slight parts of your day. The scenic views, combined with knowledgeable guides, create an immersive day that feels special but not overdone.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts, couples, or small groups wanting a curated taste of Romania’s best wines. It’s suitable for those comfortable with alcohol consumption (minimum age 18). If you’re seeking a relaxed, culturally rich day with beautiful scenery and excellent wine, you’ll get plenty of value here.

It’s less suited for travelers on a tight schedule or with limited mobility, due to the nature of winery tours and the drive involved. Also, expect to spend about 10 hours on the day, so it’s best for those ready for a full, leisurely exploration rather than a quick sightseeing fix.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For around $250, this tour offers a personalized, in-depth look at Romanian wines, combined with scenic drives and authentic experiences. The inclusion of guided tours, tastings, and cultural sites like museums and manors makes it a well-rounded day for those who appreciate quality, craftsmanship, and a touch of local flavor.

If you’re a lover of wine, enjoy learning about different varieties, or simply want a relaxing day outside the city with beautiful views and good company, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. While the cost might seem high for some, the private nature and depth of experience justify the price for many.

For anyone curious about Romania’s wine scene or looking for a sophisticated day trip that balances education with indulgence, this trip is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, which offers a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

How early should I book?
Booking at least 24-48 hours in advance is recommended to secure winery reservations and ensure availability, especially during peak times.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, private transportation, guided tours at two wineries, admission fees, and tastings. Lunch at the second winery is optional and paid separately if you choose to have it.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be at least 18 years old to partake in the wine tastings.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and available at an extra cost at the second winery. You can also opt to skip it.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, including travel, tours, tastings, and lunch options.

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

Can I buy wine during the tour?
While the tour doesn’t explicitly mention wine purchases, many boutique wineries allow you to buy bottles during your visit.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the private transport is arranged for your group, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey.

If a day of exploring Romania’s best boutique wineries with a knowledgeable guide sounds appealing, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to do it. Just remember to book ahead to lock in your spot and prepare for an enriching experience of wine, scenery, and local charm.