Art Of Wine Travel Through The So-Called Wine Route Visiting Various Wineries

Discover the Wines of São Roque—Brazil’s Hidden Viticultural Gem

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of São Paulo and explore a quieter, more authentic side of Brazil, this Art of Wine tour to São Roque is an excellent choice. For $288 per person, you get a full day (around 8 hours) of visiting 4 to 5 wineries, tasting a variety of locally produced wines, and enjoying some regional culinary treats. The tour is praised for its personalized experience, with a private transportation setup and knowledgeable guides, making it a favorite among wine-lovers and curious travelers alike.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are the dedication to authenticity—where you’ll get to try local cheeses, sweets, and cachaça—and the comfortable, private transport that allows you to relax and focus on the scenery and flavors. A third highlight is how this tour offers a break from the crowded tourist spots of São Paulo, immersing you in Brazil’s rural culture. A potential consideration is that meals are not included, so budgeting for a good lunch at one of the winery restaurants is worth planning in advance. This tour suits epicurean travelers or anyone eager to see a less-visited part of Brazil with a personal touch.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: The tour is exclusive to your group, driven by a knowledgeable guide.
• Cultural immersion: Visit 4 to 5 wineries along São Roque’s famous wine route.
• Tasting and pairing: Sample a variety of wines paired with local cheeses, sweets, and cachaça.
• Comfortable journey: Includes round-trip transportation from São Paulo in fully-equipped vehicles.
• Authentic experience: Less crowded, more local, and focused on the rural Brazilian wine scene.
• Suitable for: Food and wine enthusiasts, small groups, or anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic day outside São Paulo.

An In-Depth Look at the São Roque Wineries Tour

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Comfort Transportation

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in São Paulo, where your guide and driver are ready to escort you to São Roque. The drive takes roughly an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery and prepare for the day ahead. It’s worth noting that the transportation is fully equipped, ensuring a smooth journey with possibly some refreshments, and that everyone from small groups to larger parties is accommodated comfortably.

Visiting São Roque: The “City of Wine”

Once in São Roque, you’ll get a panoramic overview of this charming town, known for its wine route—more than 30 wineries, distilleries, restaurants, and farms. The experience here is not just about tasting wine but seeing the region’s rural charm and learning about its local wine-making traditions.

Wineries and Tastings: Four to Five Stops

The core of your day is visiting 4 to 5 different establishments, which include wineries and distilleries. Expect to sample a variety of wines, each paired with regional cheeses and sweets. Multiple reviews highlight the quality of the tastings and the knowledgeable guides who help you understand the nuances of each wine. For example, one reviewer noted, “Denis, our guide, was very knowledgeable about wines and his food recommendations were wonderful,” emphasizing the value of having an expert guiding your palate.

The Unique Flavors: Wines, Sweets, and Cachaça

At each stop, you’ll enjoy tasting different types of wines, and some wineries offer a chance to try Brazil’s famous cachaça, a sugarcane spirit similar to rum. The pairings with local cheeses and sweets enhance the tasting experience, giving you a true flavor of the region. Many reviews mention how the pairings elevate the wines, making each stop both educational and delicious.

Lunch Break at a Top Winery (Not Included)

After the tasting sessions, you’re free to have lunch at one of São Roque’s best wineries. This is a great chance to indulge in Italian, Portuguese, or regional Brazilian dishes—though it’s not included in the tour price. The reviews note that this part of the day allows for a relaxed meal and an opportunity to enjoy more regional flavors, making it a nice complement to the morning’s tastings.

Return to São Paulo: Relaxed and Satisfied

The journey back is smooth, with your guide ensuring you’re comfortable and perhaps giving some final insights into the day’s discoveries. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel in São Paulo, just in time to reflect on a day full of beautiful scenery, excellent wines, and engaging stories.

Why This Tour Works Well

The personalized nature of the tour, with a private driver and a dedicated guide (notably, Laura and Orlando receive glowing reviews), makes it ideal for travelers seeking a more intimate experience. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the detailed wine tastings paired with local foods turn a simple day trip into a memorable culinary adventure.

On top of that, the value is quite good—considering the full day’s itinerary, multiple winery visits, tastings, and transportation included, the price reflects a well-curated experience that offers more than just wine. Many reviewers mention how the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude enhance the trip, making it both fun and educational.

What Looks Less Appealing?

If you’re a foodie who loves to eat on the go, keep in mind that meals are not included, so you’ll want to plan ahead for lunch. Also, those expecting a luxury vineyard experience with sweeping estate tours might find the focus here more on small, local wineries rather than grand estates.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited to wine enthusiasts, culinary travelers, and those interested in Brazilian rural culture. It’s perfect if you enjoy personalized guided tours and are happy to spend a full day outside São Paulo exploring a charming, lesser-known wine region.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance; this tour is popular and often booked about two months ahead.
• Bring a camera—the sights and winery surroundings are quite picturesque.
• Wear comfortable shoes; some wineries may have uneven terrain.
• Plan for cash or cards for lunch or additional tastings not included.
• Hydrate and pace yourself; with multiple tastings, a little moderation ensures you enjoy the day fully.
• Be prepared for a relaxed, country-style vibe—not a high-end luxury estate, but authentic and warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your São Paulo hotel or address.

How long is the drive from São Paulo to São Roque?
It takes approximately one hour each way, making the journey comfortably manageable.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you can choose to dine at one of the wineries during your free time.

What types of wines will I taste?
The tour offers a variety of wines, with tastings at four to five wineries, paired with regional cheeses, sweets, and cachaça.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While primarily focused on wine tasting, the sightseeing and cultural elements can be enjoyable for non-drinkers, but the main focus is on adult wine experiences.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide—perhaps focusing more on food or certain types of wines.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes and shoes are best—especially if you plan to walk around vineyards.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 56 days ahead, as this tour is quite popular.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers costs for the vineyard and winery tastings and tours.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour date for a full refund.

In The Sum Up

If you’re seeking a relaxed, authentic, and delightful day outside São Paulo, this private wine tour to São Roque offers a perfect blend of scenic views, flavorful wines, and cultural insight. It’s ideal for those wanting to escape the city and enjoy a personalized experience that combines education, gastronomy, and scenic beauty.

The tour’s small group size, knowledgeable guides, and careful attention to local flavors make it stand out. Whether you’re a wine novice or connoisseur, this trip will deepen your appreciation for Brazil’s underrated wine scene while giving you a memorable day in the countryside. For travelers who value authenticity over luxury, and who enjoy learning about local culture through its wines and foods, this tour hits the right notes.