Wine and food tasting in the traditional winery

A Genuine Taste of Montenegro: Wine and Food Tasting at Garnet Winery

Imagine wandering through a 14-generation-old family winery in the charming village of Godinje, just a short drive from Virpazar, with views of lush landscapes and historic stone houses. For around $48.72 per person, you’ll spend about 90 minutes sampling three different homemade wines paired with local snacks, led by a knowledgeable guide—often an agronomist or wine producer—who speaks fluent English. The tour offers four different times during the day, giving plenty of flexibility to fit into your Montenegro itinerary.

What we love most about this experience are two specific aspects: first, the personal attention in a small group setting, which means more chances to ask questions and get detailed stories from the family about their winemaking traditions. Second, the stunning views of Godinje, a village with a significant cultural heritage, where ruins of a royal summer house from the 14th century add a dash of history to the scenic backdrop.

One consideration to keep in mind is that this tour is relatively short, just an hour and a half. If you’re looking for a lengthy wine tour with lots of different wineries, this might feel more like a focused, intimate tasting rather than a comprehensive exploration. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of authentic Montenegrin wine and culture without a long day of touring.

In summary, this tour is perfect for those who appreciate authentic family-run wineries, scenic villages, and genuine local stories. It suits travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic experience rather than a commercialized wine tasting.

Key Points

• Authentic family-run winery with 14 generations of history
• Small group setting ensures personalized attention
• Scenic views of historic Godinje and surrounding landscapes
• Tasting of three homemade wines paired with traditional snacks
• Learn about Montenegro’s wine traditions directly from a fluent English-speaking host
• Flexible tour times available to fit your schedule

Exploring the Garnet Winery Experience

The Garnet Winery is situated in the heart of the village of Godinje, a place declared as Montenegro’s first heritage settlement. The setting is truly special—stone houses with a sense of history, narrow paths, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Reaching the winery is easy; you can walk, bike, or drive from Virpazar, just about 5 km away. For those staying in Podgorica, it’s roughly a 35 km trip, making it a manageable half-day outing.

Once at the winery, the tasting begins with a friendly welcome from your guide, who is not just a host but an educator about wine and Montenegrin traditions. The tastings typically start at 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm, and 6 pm, each lasting about an hour and a half. During this time, you’ll sample three different wines—each uniquely homemade and representative of the region—and enjoy traditional snacks that enhance the flavors. Many reviews highlight the quality of the wines and the host’s ability to share stories that bring the experience to life.

What makes this winery particularly memorable, according to visitors like Lotte from Holland, is the warm atmosphere created by Misko and his family, along with the delicious food and good company. “Really good wines with delicious food,” she notes, alongside the value of engaging conversations. Margot from France appreciated the host’s kindness and the romantic setting for a couple’s outing, describing it as a “super moment.”

The second stop on the tour takes you into the historic village of Godinje itself. Beyond the winery, you’ll have the chance to stroll among remains of a royal summer house from the 14th century, adding a layer of cultural depth to your visit. These ruins and old stone houses tell stories of Montenegro’s past and offer a quiet, contemplative break from the modern world.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in your ticket are three glasses of different wines, traditional snacks, and a glass of fruit liqueur or Serbian-style brandy. The tour also emphasizes alcoholic beverages for those interested in exploring Montenegro’s local spirits. You’ll notice that additional wine, spirits, or souvenirs are not included, so if you’re eager to sample more, you’ll need to purchase extras on site.

The experience is designed for adults, with a minimum age of 18, and most travelers find it suitable regardless of prior wine knowledge. With a maximum of 15 participants, the tour maintains an intimate feel, fostering easy conversations and personalized attention.

The tour’s price point strikes us as good value, especially when you consider the personalized experience, scenic setting, and cultural insights gained. It’s not a large commercial tasting but a genuine look into Montenegro’s winemaking roots, which many visitors find priceless.

The Scenic and Cultural Context

The location in Godinje is more than just a winery; it’s a slice of Montenegro’s cultural heritage. The village’s stone houses, ruins of a royal summer house, and quiet lanes paint a picture of the country’s layered history. Guests often leave with a deeper appreciation of Montenegro’s traditions beyond just the wine and snacks.

The views of the surrounding landscape—rolling hills, distant mountains, and peaceful countryside—are a bonus. It’s an ideal spot for photographers, history buffs, or anyone seeking a tranquil setting to savor local flavors. The proximity to other Montenegro highlights like Bar, Petrovac, Budva, Kotor, and Tivat makes this tour a convenient cultural break from the coast or city sightseeing.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: the tour is popular and on average booked 26 days ahead.
• Arrive on time for your chosen slot to maximize your experience.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the village afterward.
• Bring your own camera for the stunning views and historic ruins.
• Note that the tour ends back at the meeting point, so plan your transport accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic local culture and family traditions. If you’re curious about how Montenegrin wines are made and love tasting homemade spirits paired with regional snacks, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, intimate experience with a focus on storytelling and scenery. However, if you’re looking for a long, extensive wine journey, you might find this tour more targeted and concise.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from the winery is not included. You can walk, bike, or drive from Virpazar or other nearby towns.

Are the tour times flexible?
Yes, there are multiple times available during the day—12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm, and 6 pm—so you can choose what suits your schedule best.

What is the tour duration?
The tasting experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the wine tastings and storytelling.

Can I buy additional wines or spirits?
Yes, extra wine and spirits are available for purchase on-site but are not included in the initial ticket price.

Is it suitable for non-drinkers?
This tour is geared toward adults 18 and over and involves wine and spirits tasting, so it may not be suitable for non-drinkers or those avoiding alcohol.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the experience are non-refundable.

Final thoughts

If you’re looking for an authentic, intimate taste of Montenegro’s wine heritage paired with a scenic stroll through historic village ruins, this tour offers genuine value. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of local wine traditions, enjoy beautiful views, and connect with a warm family-run operation. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate good storytelling, traditional snacks, and the chance to step back in time in a peaceful setting.

This experience isn’t just about tasting wine; it’s about connecting with Montenegro’s culture, history, and landscape in a way that’s relaxed and authentic. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious about Montenegro’s rural charm, this tour will leave you with both a full glass and a fuller appreciation of the country’s heritage.