Exploring Costa Rica’s Unique Wine and Golden Berry Experience

Imagine visiting the only commercial winery in Costa Rica and Central America with international quality wines and tasting the country’s exclusive golden berry liqueur, known as Golden Rush. For just $84.75 per person, this 2.5-hour tour offers a rare glimpse into Costa Rica’s emerging wine scene, combined with a visit to a lush golden berry plantation. Led by friendly guides, you’ll explore vineyards and plantations, followed by a tasting session that highlights both local and international wines.

What we love about this tour is its personalized atmosphere — you’re not just a face in the crowd. The owner’s passion for extreme wines from Israel, California, and Costa Rica shines through, making each tasting special. And the views—stunning mountain vistas—add to the overall charm. The second highlight is the unique golden berry liqueur, a first for the region, which offers a taste of Costa Rica’s innovative spirit.

One possible consideration is the weather dependency. Since the tour is outdoors and involves vineyard visits, poor weather could impact the experience or lead to cancellations. But if you’re visiting during a dry spell, this experience will be all the more enjoyable.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic local products, enjoy wine tasting, or want a relaxing, scenic experience near San Jose. It’s especially ideal for those curious about Costa Rica’s lesser-known culinary delights and willing to explore beyond beaches and rainforests.

Key Points

Unique Setting: The only commercial winery in Costa Rica with international standards.
Exclusive Tasting: Sample four wines paired with local flavors, including the country’s first golden berry liqueur.
Personalized Experience: Guided by friendly hosts passionate about their craft.
Stunning Views: Enjoy scenic mountain and vineyard vistas throughout.
Accessible and Value-Driven: Great value for a 2.5-hour experience, suitable for most travelers.
Weather Considerations: Outdoors, so good weather enhances the experience.

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A Deep Dive into the Costa Rican Wine Tour and Tasting

If you’re searching for a quirky, authentic experience that combines local agriculture, international wines, and scenic beauty, this tour hits the mark. Nestled in Copey, this is the first and only commercial winery in Costa Rica, proudly boasting quality recognized internationally. It’s a rare chance to see a burgeoning wine scene in a country better known for its rainforests and beaches.

The Itinerary: What Makes This Tour Special?

Your journey begins at the Copey Vinicola Tour de Vino meeting point, a charming location surrounded by lush greenery. From the start, the tour’s emphasis on personalized attention is clear—small groups are typical, with a maximum of 40 travelers, ensuring you’re not just another face in a crowd.

The first stop is at the golden berry plantation—a plant native to the region that produces the uchuva, a sweet-tart fruit. Here, you’ll learn about the production of the Golden Rush liqueur, which is unique to Costa Rica. The guide explains how this liqueur is crafted, giving you insight into local innovation and fruit-based spirits that stand apart from typical wine offerings.

Next, visit a vineyard where you can observe the winemaking process. The owner’s extreme wines from Israel, California, and Costa Rica are meticulously selected, and the taste test is truly a highlight. You’ll sample four wines—two from California, one from Israel, and one from Costa Rica—each paired with local snacks or pairing foods. As one reviewer puts it, “The history and process of wine making and golden berries is amazing,” showing how much passion and expertise goes into this experience.

What to Expect During the Tasting

The tasting features red and white wines, offering a good variety for most palates. The wines are described as having “extreme” qualities, meaning they’re crafted with creativity and a focus on distinct flavors. The guide explains the background of each wine, giving you context that makes each sip more meaningful. The pairing components add another layer of flavor, balancing the wines’ profiles with local treats.

The Views and Atmosphere

The scenic vistas of the vineyard and surrounding mountains are a major plus. One reviewer noted the “amazing views”, which makes the experience feel even more special. Whether you’re enjoying the mountain air during the tasting or walking among the grapevines, the natural setting is a calming backdrop that enhances your appreciation of the local products.

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Practical Details and Value

At $84.75, the tour offers solid value considering the length, the exclusive tastings, and the personalized approach. The 2.5-hour duration is perfect for fitting into a day of exploring Costa Rica’s capital or nearby attractions. The tour is booked on average 14 days in advance, indicating good planning for travelers with flexible schedules.

Since the tour includes a mobile ticket and free cancellation up to 24 hours, it’s designed for convenience and flexibility. The confirmation is prompt, and service animals are welcome, making it accessible for travelers with different needs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates local craftsmanship, loves tasting distinct wines from around the world, or simply wants a relaxing, scenic experience, this tour will appeal. It’s a great way to break up your city sightseeing or add a unique flavor to your Costa Rican adventure.

Final Thoughts

This wine and golden berry liqueur tour in Copey offers a refreshing alternative to more typical Costa Rican excursions. It’s a perfect fit for curious travelers who want to explore local agriculture and enjoy quality wines in a beautiful setting. The fact that it’s the only commercial winery in the region adds to its appeal, making it a distinctive experience you won’t find elsewhere.

While weather can influence outdoor activities, the friendly guides and unique offerings make this a worthwhile investment for most visitors. As one reviewer sums up, “Very worth it,” and we agree. It’s a delightful blend of scenery, education, and authentic local flavor.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy the tasting and learn about the wines and golden berries.

What wines are sampled during the tasting?
You’ll taste four wines, including red and white varieties from Israel, California, and Costa Rica. The owner’s selection is specifically known for being “extreme,” meaning bold and distinctive.

Is this tour suitable for children or service animals?
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, making it accessible for families or travelers with special needs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothing appropriate for outdoor vineyard visits. Since it involves walking and some outdoor exposure, layers are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not receive a refund.

Is transportation included?
Transportation is not explicitly mentioned, so it’s likely that you meet at the designated spot in Copey. Confirm details when booking.

This tour is a fantastic way to add a slice of Costa Rican innovation to your trip, with true local flavor and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re a wine lover or simply a curious traveler, it’s a memorable experience that balances education, scenic beauty, and authentic taste.