Wine Tour and Tasting with a local Winemaker at Pico Island

If you’re planning a trip to the Azores, a wine-focused tour on Pico Island promises an immersion into a truly special viticultural landscape. This experience, offered by Art of Wine, combines stunning scenery, authentic wine tasting, and expert insights—all within a manageable 8-hour itinerary. With a stellar rating of 4.9 from seven reviews, it’s clear that travelers find this tour both memorable and enriching.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit UNESCO World Heritage vineyards planted in volcanic soils offers an unforgettable view and story. Second, the guidance from Fábio Rocha, a winemaker with over 10 years of international experience, elevates the experience far beyond simple tasting. Third, the tour’s focus on geology, microclimates, and winemaking science provides a depth of understanding rare in typical wine excursions.

A potential consideration? The tour is quite comprehensive and may be demanding for those with limited mobility or short attention spans. Also, with a price of $258 per person, it’s an investment, but one that offers value through exclusive visits, detailed explanations, and top-tier tastings. This experience suits wine aficionados, curious travelers, and those eager to understand Pico’s volcanic terroir—especially those who appreciate engaging guides and authentic, scenic environments.

Good To Know

• Exclusive UNESCO Vineyards: Visit to Lajido da Criação Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Expert Guidance: Led by Fábio Rocha, a seasoned winemaker with international experience.
• Multiple Tastings: Sample three wines at Solar Terra Brum and three more at Lajido de Santa Luzia.
• Rich Educational Content: Learn about geology, microclimates, and winemaking science.
• Beautiful Landscapes: Vineyards planted in volcanic ruins with breathtaking views.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 8 participants for personalized attention.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Pico Island’s Unique Wine Regions

The tour’s central attraction is the Lajido da Criação Velha vineyards, renowned for their striking location and designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site. These vineyards are literally planted in volcanic rock, which contributes to the distinct flavor profile of Pico wines. Travelers will appreciate the chance to walk through this historic site and understand the intricate relationship between geology and wine.

Walking among the terraced vineyards, you’ll notice how the vines cling to the rugged terrain, demonstrating centuries of adaptation and craftsmanship. Several reviewers, like Petra from Germany, mention how the tour’s scenic stops “made the experience unforgettable,” emphasizing the stunning landscape that serves as a natural backdrop for tasting.

The Role of Volcanoes and Microclimates

Fábio Rocha’s explanations go beyond surface details. As a food engineer with a Master in Viticulture and Winemaking, he shares insights about how Pico’s volcanic soil, microclimates, and oceanic influences shape each glass of wine. One guest noted that Fabio’s passion shines through, making the science behind the wine both understandable and engaging.

The Heart of the Tour: Wine Tasting and Education

The experience includes visits to Solar Terra Brum, a small yet elegant estate where you’ll sample three carefully selected wines, including Adega do Vulcão varieties. Here, the small palace-like setting adds charm, and Fabio’s storytelling makes each sip meaningful. Multiple reviews praise the quality and diversity of the wines, with Petra describing the white wine as “deservedly award-winning.”

Following this, your journey takes you to Cerca dos Frades, where you taste two wines from the same estate plus two from Insula Wines—adding complexity and variety to your tasting experience. The inclusion of “Relheiras” (ancient roads used historically for grape and wine transport) provides a tangible link to the island’s past, enriching your understanding of Pico’s winemaking heritage.

Authentic, Scenic Tastings

Sampling wine in such scenic spots—overlooking the volcanic landscape—amplifies the sensory experience. Guests consistently mention how the views, paired with expert commentary, elevate the tasting sessions from ordinary to extraordinary. Jule from Germany highlighted that the passion Fabio has for his job is contagious, making it easy to enjoy not just the wines but the entire atmosphere.

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Additional Highlights: Cultural and Geological Insights

A visit to the Pico Wine Museum offers a deeper dive into the island’s viticultural history and traditional practices. As Fabio takes you through the exhibits, you gain a better understanding of how the locals have cultivated grapes for centuries, adapting to the island’s challenging environment. The “Rola Pipas” (rolling barrels) visit provides an up-close look at traditional wine storage methods.

The tour also includes a walk through Santa Luzia, another UNESCO site, where the landscape continues to tell stories of volcanic activity and human resilience. The small group size ensures a conversational atmosphere, allowing travelers to ask questions and personalize their experience.

Practical Details and Value

With hotel pickup and drop-off in Madalena or nearby, logistics are straightforward. The 8-hour duration balances a comprehensive exploration while remaining manageable. The tour includes entrance to the Pico Wine Museum and visits to key vineyards, making the price of $258 per person a reasonable investment for the depth of experience.

Lunch isn’t included but can be arranged upon request—giving travelers the flexibility to enjoy local cuisine either before or after the tour. This way, you can tailor the day to your preferences, whether craving a light snack or a full meal.

The tour operates with small groups (up to 8 people), which means more interaction with Fabio and less rushed visits. Guests praise Fabio for his knowledge, passion, and ability to make complex topics accessible—a crucial factor for those seeking more than just superficial tasting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to understand Pico’s volcanic terroir, as well as curious travelers who enjoy learning about geology and agriculture. If you’re someone who appreciates scenic landscapes, expert storytelling, and authentic local culture, this tour will suit you well. It’s particularly suitable for those comfortable in small groups and open to a full, engaging day of exploration.

The Sum Up

This Pico Island wine tour offers a rare combination of scenic beauty, educational richness, and authentic tastings. Led by a passionate, knowledgeable guide like Fabio, you won’t just sample wines—you’ll understand the land and climate that produce them. The visits to UNESCO vineyards and the Pico Wine Museum add cultural depth, making this more than just a tasting.

While it’s a bit of an investment, the quality of the visits, the exclusivity of the locations, and the depth of insight make it well worth the price for most wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply curious about how volcanic soils influence flavor, this tour provides a memorable, authentic adventure into Pico’s vinicultural soul.

In short, if you’re after an immersive, educational, and scenic wine experience in the Azores, this tour offers exceptional value and genuine insight into the island’s unique wines and landscapes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving enough time to explore vineyards, enjoy tastings, and learn from Fabio.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided if your accommodation is in Madalena or nearby.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample three wines at Solar Terra Brum, including Adega do Vulcão wines, plus three more at Lajido de Santa Luzia, including Cerca dos Frades and Insula wines.

Can I bring lunch?
Lunch isn’t included, but it can be arranged upon request, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine as part of your day.

How small are the groups?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and engaging conversations.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The itinerary involves walking through vineyards and some uneven terrain; it’s best for those comfortable with mild physical activity.

What makes this tour different from others?
The combination of UNESCO vineyard visits, expert narration by a seasoned winemaker, and scenic landscapes creates a deeply authentic Pico wine experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: