From Bucharest: Exclusive Dealu Mare Wine Tasting Tour

Traveling to Romania and looking for a memorable way to spend a day outside of Bucharest? This Dealu Mare wine tasting tour offers a sophisticated yet authentic experience that wine lovers will appreciate. With visits to two boutique wineries, you’ll enjoy sampling 12 carefully curated wines and savor artisanal cheeses—perfect for those who appreciate craftsmanship and regional character.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances educational insights from knowledgeable guides with the chance to relax amid beautiful vineyard scenery. The scenic drive along the Old Wine Road is a highlight, offering views of elegant manors and endless vineyard hills that look straight out of Tuscany.

A potential consideration? The tour lasts around 10 hours, so it’s a fairly full day—good for those who want a deep dive into Romania’s wine heritage but maybe less ideal if you’re short on time or prefer a more leisurely pace.

This experience suits wine enthusiasts, culture seekers, or anyone wanting to combine scenic drives with authentic Romanian flavors. It’s especially ideal for travelers who value small-group, private tours, ensuring a personalized touch throughout the day.

Key Points

• Discover Romania’s top wine region with visits to two boutique wineries in Dealu Mare.
• Taste 12 different wines, including native Romanian varieties like Feteasc Neagr.
• Enjoy scenic views along the historic Old Wine Road with vineyard-covered hills and elegant manors.
• Learn about winemaking techniques from expert local guides during guided tours.
• Pair wines with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, enhancing the tasting experience.
• Visit modern and family-run wineries offering different perspectives on Romanian wine craftsmanship.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the Dealu Mare Wine Tour

If you’re considering this tour, it’s worth knowing what makes it stand out—and where it might not be the perfect fit. We’ve looked at the details and reviews to give you all the insights you need.

Starting Point and Transportation

The experience kicks off with hotel pickup in Bucharest, which means no hassle finding your way to the wineries. You’ll travel in a private, comfortable vehicle, ensuring a smooth and quiet ride through the Romanian countryside. The entire day lasts about 10 hours, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day revolves around two main stops:

First stop: Lacerta Winery
This is one of Dealu Mare’s most modern wineries but still rooted in tradition. What sets Lacerta apart is its winemaking process that incorporates gravitational principles, reducing the use of pumps and helping preserve the wine’s integrity. Here, you’ll tour their facilities, learn about their state-of-the-art techniques, and taste 6 premium wines accompanied by cheese and charcuterie. The setting is picturesque, with the vineyard backdrop adding to the overall experience.

Second stop: 1000 Chipuri Winery
This boutique, family-owned winery emphasizes craftsmanship and authentic local flavors. Before tasting, you might enjoy a traditional Romanian lunch, giving you a taste of regional cuisine. The tasting here includes another 6 wines, with options like Feteasc Neagr, Cabernet Franc, and Tmâioas Româneasc—a Romanian wine often compared to a dry Muscat. You’ll have the opportunity to taste wines directly from oak barrels or stainless steel tanks, which offers fascinating insights into how these wines develop.

What You’ll Sample and Why It Matters

The 12 wines you’ll try are carefully selected to showcase the diversity and quality of Romanian reds and whites. The inclusion of native varieties like Feteasc Neagr gives you a taste of Romania’s unique wine heritage—a country that has been refining its craft since ancient times.

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Food Pairings and Tastings

At each winery, you’ll be treated to artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and dried fruits, which complement the wines beautifully. These pairings aren’t just filler—they’re thoughtful, regional choices that elevate the tasting. Several reviewers have highlighted the delicious cheese and tapas-style offerings, which make the experience more than just drinking wine; it’s a full sensory journey.

Guides and Personal Touch

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—they add context, share stories about Romanian winemaking, and tailor the experience to the group’s interests. One reviewer called their guide “simply amazing,” appreciating the patience and helpfulness throughout the day. Another noted how their guide’s personality made the day especially fun and engaging.

The Scenic Drive

Traveling along the Old Wine Road offers more than just transportation; it’s an experience in itself. Expect views of elegant manors, vineyards stretching to the horizon, and rolling hills that evoke Tuscany. Several reviews mention how stunning the scenery is, making the entire journey as memorable as the tasting.

Analyzing the Value

At $237 per person, this tour is a considered purchase—yet it offers a lot. The inclusion of private transportation, guided tours at both wineries, and tastings of 12 wines with paired cheeses makes it a good value for wine lovers seeking quality and authenticity. The personalized nature of a private group also means you’ll get attention and tailored insights, which many value highly.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

If you’re a wine enthusiast eager to explore Romania’s native varieties and learn from local experts, this tour will hit the mark. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic drives and want a taste of regional architecture and countryside. Families or groups wanting an engaging, educational day out will find it rewarding, especially with the flexible, private format.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the full-day structure—not ideal if you prefer a slower, more relaxed experience. Also, since the tour involves walking through wineries and tasting multiple wines, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a day of moderate activity and tasting.

Final Thoughts

This Dealu Mare wine tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Romania’s wine-making heritage. From the modern techniques at Lacerta to the family-run charm of 1000 Chipuri, each stop provides insight and flavor. The scenic drive along the Old Wine Road and the opportunity to taste indigenous varieties like Feteasc Neagr make it especially appealing.

For travelers who want a guided, private experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and excellent wines, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a chance to enjoy Romania’s top red wine region without the hassle of planning or navigating on your own.

This experience is likely to become a highlight of your trip—perfect for those who want to sample, learn, and relax in a beautiful, authentic setting.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs about 10 hours, including transportation, visits, tastings, and lunch.

What wines will I taste?
You’ll sample 12 wines in total, including native Romanian varieties like Feteasc Neagr, as well as Cabernet Franc and Tmâioas Româneasc.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included in the price but can be enjoyed at the second winery, where a traditional Romanian meal might be available as part of the experience.

What is the group’s size?
This is a private group tour, so it’s tailored for your party, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, you’ll travel in a private, comfortable vehicle designed for a relaxed, smooth journey.

Are the wineries modern or traditional?
The first, Lacerta, is a modern winery with state-of-the-art facilities, while the second, 1000 Chipuri, maintains a family-owned, artisanal approach.

Can I buy wines at the wineries?
While not explicitly stated, it’s common at such tours to purchase bottles directly from the wineries—perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and casual wine tasting—layers are recommended as temperatures can vary.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot in advance with flexible payment options, including pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

In all, this private Dealu Mare wine tour offers a taste of Romania’s burgeoning wine scene, scenic beauty, and culinary delights—all in a well-organized, friendly package. It’s a worthwhile splurge for those who want a meaningful, guided day among vineyard hills, with plenty of opportunity to taste and learn.

You can check availability for your dates here: