From Bucharest: Exclusive Dealu Mare Wine Tasting Tour

From Bucharest: Exclusive Dealu Mare Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re after a day that combines beautiful scenery, top-quality wine, and authentic Romanian charm, this Dealu Mare wine tour from Bucharest hits all the right notes. It’s a solid choice for wine lovers, culture seekers, and anyone looking to escape the city for a leisurely day among vineyards and historic estates.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides are passionate about sharing the region’s wine heritage. Second, the scenic drive along the Old Wine Road offers picturesque views of vineyard hills and elegant manors. Lastly, the selection of 12 superb wines—including indigenous varieties—paired with local cheeses makes this a true tasting adventure.

However, a possible consideration is the full-day duration—at around 10 hours, it requires a good chunk of your day. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed, in-depth experience rather than quick stops. If you love wine, scenic drives, and learning about Romania’s winemaking, this tour is a wonderful pick.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Expert-guided visits to two award-winning boutique wineries
• Taste 12 Romanian wines, including unique varieties like Feteasc Neagr
• Scenic drive along the historic Old Wine Road through vineyard hills
• Paired tastings of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and dried fruits
• Insightful guides who share Romanian history and winemaking details
• Private group experience with hotel pickup in Bucharest

A Deep Dive into the Dealu Mare Experience

Introduction to the Region and Why It Matters

Dealu Mare, often called Romania’s Bordeaux, is a must-visit for those interested in wines that pack a punch—think velvety reds and intense flavors. Located along the 45th parallel, the region enjoys a climate that’s just right for cultivating rich, expressive wines.

Romania’s wine history is long and storied, dating back to ancient Dacian times and flourishing in the 19th century. Once favored by European royal courts, the industry faced setbacks during the communist era but has rebounded strongly since 1989. Today, Romania ranks as the 12th largest wine producer worldwide, with Dealu Mare playing a leading role.

Starting Point: Seamless Hotel Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your day kicks off with a hotel pickup in Bucharest, setting the stage for a comfortable, hassle-free experience. The private vehicle is modern and air-conditioned, making the roughly 1 to 1.5-hour drive to Dealu Mare enjoyable. Along the way, guides like Mihai or Andrei—both praised for their friendliness and knowledge—share snippets of Romanian history and wine facts, making the journey as engaging as the destinations.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

First Stop: Lacerta Winery — A Blend of Modern and Traditional Winemaking

Lacerta Winery is where your wine journey begins. Described as one of Dealu Mare’s most modern yet tradition-rich wineries, Lacerta employs techniques like gravity flow to protect the wine’s delicate qualities. You’ll tour the state-of-the-art facilities, learn how grapes are transformed into bottles, and walk among the vineyards that supply these wines.

The guided tasting here includes six premium wines, paired with local cheeses and charcuterie, all served in a setting that’s both elegant and relaxed. Guests have enjoyed the chance to see the vineyard from the tasting room windows, making it a visual treat as well as a tasting one. Reviewers like Josmar noted that the wines were delicious with incredible scenery, highlighting how this stop combines quality with aesthetic pleasure.

Second Stop: 1000 Chipuri Winery — A Family-Owned Gem

Next, you’ll visit 1000 Chipuri, a boutique winery run by a dedicated family. This visit is characterized by a hands-on approach, with opportunities to taste wines straight from oak barrels or tanks—something wine enthusiasts really appreciate. The tasting includes six wines, among them Romanian reds like Feteasc Neagr and Cabernet Franc, plus Tmâioas Româneasc, often compared to a dry Muscat.

The highlight for many guests is the chance to enjoy a traditional Romanian lunch during the visit, adding a culinary dimension to the day. The pairing of wines with local cheeses, cured meats, and dried fruits enhances the flavor profiles and gives a real sense of Romanian hospitality.

Authentic Tasting with Local Flair

Throughout the day, the focus remains on authenticity. The wines are carefully selected to showcase Romania’s indigenous varieties, which are gaining recognition internationally. As Kevin remarked, guide Mihai’s selection highlighted the quality, beauty, and potential of Dealu Mare, making it clear that Romania’s red wines are well worth discovering.

Why This Tour Works

The combination of visits to two distinct wineries—a modern one and a family-run boutique—offers a well-rounded perspective of Romanian winemaking. It’s not just about tasting; it’s about understanding the craftsmanship behind each bottle. The guided tours provide insights into both the technical side of wine production and the cultural context, making the experience educational as well as enjoyable.

The Scenic Journey and Cultural Highlights

Driving along the Old Wine Road, you’ll admire historic manors and rolling vineyard hills, adding a layer of visual pleasure. Many reviews mention how stunning the scenery is, with Gavin noting the “incredible views” and the contrast between modern and traditional estates. The landscape is quintessentially Romanian—peaceful, lush, and full of character.

This region’s history, once intertwined with royal patronage and international recognition, now stands as a symbol of Romania’s renewed pride in its winemaking traditions. The guided commentary helps travelers appreciate the stories behind the vineyards and the estates.

Practical Details and Value for Money

Priced at $237 per person, this private tour offers excellent value considering the inclusions. It covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, two comprehensive winery visits, and tastings of twelve wines with pairing options. The experience runs around 10 hours, providing ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Guests have praised the guides’ expertise—Mihai and Andrei, in particular, are mentioned for their engaging personalities and wealth of knowledge. The flexibility of the tour means you can enjoy the experience at your own pace, with the guide allowing for questions and interaction.

While lunch is included in the winery visit at 1000 Chipuri, some guests opt to bring or purchase additional snacks if they want more variety. The tour’s focus on quality over quantity makes it a rewarding, relaxed day out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine aficionados eager to explore Romanian varieties and learn about local traditions. It’s also ideal for culture lovers attracted by the historic estates and scenic drives. If you value personalized service and a tailored experience, the private group setting will suit you perfectly.

Travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunity for tasting and conversation will find this tour very satisfying. It’s particularly well-suited for those interested in indigenous wines like Feteasc Neagr, as well as anyone wanting to experience Romania’s countryside and winemaking heritage firsthand.

FAQs

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

What is included in the price?
It includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Bucharest, private transportation, two winery visits with guided tours, and tastings of 12 wines paired with cheese and charcuterie.

Can I choose the wineries to visit?
The itinerary includes Lacerta Winery and 1000 Chipuri Winery, selected for their diversity and quality. Specific wineries may vary based on availability.

Is the tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. Guides explain the wines and process in a friendly, accessible way. It’s a great introduction to Romanian wines.

What about food options?
A traditional Romanian lunch is included during the visit to 1000 Chipuri. Additional food or drinks beyond the tastings are not included.

Is this a private or group tour?
It’s a private experience, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and winery tours are recommended. Dress appropriately for weather conditions.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking at least 24 hours ahead is recommended to secure winery reservations and ensure availability.

Final Thoughts

This Dealu Mare wine tour from Bucharest offers an enticing mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and exceptional wine tasting. It’s a fantastic way to experience Romania’s viticultural landscape without the hassle of organizing logistics yourself. The guides’ passion and the quality of the wineries make it clear that this trip offers great value—especially for those who love learning about local traditions and savoring authentic flavors.

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious traveler, this tour will deepen your appreciation for Romania’s wines and the stories behind them. Relax amid vineyards, enjoy expertly paired local bites, and come away with memorable flavors and new knowledge. For anyone seeking a sophisticated yet approachable wine adventure, this is a day well spent.

In summary, this tour is best for wine lovers, culture enthusiasts, and travelers who appreciate a relaxed, guided experience with authentic Romanian wines. It’s especially ideal if you want to combine scenic drives with meaningful tastings and insider stories—all within a comfortable, private setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: