Tour with Wine and Olive Oil Tasting

A Genuine Taste of Portugal: Wine and Olive Oil Tasting in Beja District

If you’re seeking a hands-on, authentic experience of Portugal’s beloved products—wines, olive oils, and regional foods—this tour offers a rewarding glimpse into the countryside near Évora. For $97 per person, you’ll spend about 2 hours exploring the Mainova vineyard, ancient olive groves, and winery, culminating in a tasting of six wines and six extra virgin olive oils, paired with regional snacks.

What we particularly like about this experience are the personal touches—it’s a private tour with guides who clearly care about sharing their passion—and the chance to see millennial olive trees that are between 600 and 2,500 years old. The Jeep ride through the vineyards and olive groves keeps things lively, providing a scenic, behind-the-scenes look at the land’s bounty.

A possible consideration is that, at two hours, this is a fairly compact visit, so if you’re hoping for a leisurely, in-depth exploration, you might find it a bit brisk. However, it’s perfect for travelers who want an intimate, informative snapshot of the local wine and olive oil production.

This tour suits those who appreciate good food, authentic experiences, and private guided visits, especially if you’re in the Alentejo region, within easy reach of Évora, Estremoz, or Vimieiro. Foodies, wine lovers, and curious travelers alike will find much to enjoy here.

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Key Points

Authentic Experience: You’ll visit a family-run vineyard dedicated to sustainable, natural wine production.
Comprehensive Tasting: Six wines and six olive oils are included, paired with regional snacks for a full sensory snapshot.
Unique Olive Groves: The millennial olive trees, some over 2,500 years old, are a highlight.
Private Tour Advantage: Smaller groups or private bookings allow for a more personalized experience.
Scenic Jeep Tour: The journey through vineyards and olive groves provides beautiful views and insight into land cultivation.
Flexible & Convenient: Located just over an hour from Lisbon, this experience offers a deep dive into local produce in a manageable timeframe.

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An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Introduction to Mainova and Its Philosophy

Begin your journey at Mainova, a family-run estate founded in 2019 that champions sustainable farming and natural wine practices. From the moment you arrive, the focus on respect for nature is evident—this is not a corporate tour but a passionate family project dedicated to producing authentic, high-quality products.

The Jeep Tour: Scenic and Educational

Your visit kicks off with a jeep ride through the lush vineyards and the millennial olive grove. This is more than just a ride; it’s an opportunity to learn about sustainable cultivation practices and see olive trees aged between 600 and 2,500 years—imagine the stories those ancient trees could tell. The jeep makes the experience lively and accessible, especially if you’re not keen on long walks.

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Exploring the Vineyard and Winery

Next, you’ll tour the winery, where the natural processes of crafting natural wines are on display. The guides—possibly Carmo and Pedro, based on reviews—are passionate and informative, eager to share their knowledge about small-batch, eco-friendly wine production. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes view of the winemaking process, emphasizing sustainability and minimal intervention, which results in wines with a true sense of place.

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Olive Groves and Millennial Trees

The visit to the olive grove provides a deep appreciation for centuries-old agricultural traditions. The age of some trees is staggering, with 600- to 2500-year-old specimens, making this part of the tour especially memorable. It’s a rare chance to stand beneath trees that have witnessed centuries of history—a surreal and humbling experience.

Tasting Time: Wines, Oils, and Regional Snacks

The highlight for many visitors is the tasting session, where you sample six wines—likely including some natural varieties—and six extra virgin olive oils. The guides help you understand the different profiles, emphasizing natural wine styles that are often less filtered and more expressive. The tasting is complemented by a regional products board—cheese, sausage, bread, jams, or vegan options—allowing you to see how these products pair naturally with the wines and oils.

Authentic, Personal, and Informative

One guest described the tour as the “highlight of their visit to Alentejo,” praising the excellent lesson and tasting hosted by Carmo and Pedro. The experience’s personal touch is clear, helping you connect with the land and its produce, rather than just observing passively.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time or those seeking a focused, enriching experience. It’s priced at $97 per person, which includes everything but extra beverages or food. The price reflects good value considering the quality and authenticity of the tasting, guided insights, and the scenic setting.

Reservations can be made with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance—a smart choice if your itinerary shifts. The tour is wheelchair accessible and offered in multiple languages, including English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, especially since there’s some walking involved on uneven terrain and during the jeep ride. Also, bring a sense of curiosity and appreciation for local craftsmanship.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies and wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Portugal’s natural wine movement and olive oil traditions. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate private, guided visits that focus on authentic family projects rather than commercialized tours. If you enjoy scenic countryside, ancient trees, and regional flavors, this tour will resonate deeply.

Final Thoughts: The Value of Authenticity

This tour offers more than just tastings; it’s a window into Portugal’s land and traditions. The combination of beautiful landscapes, educational insights, and genuine products makes it a worthwhile experience for those seeking a deeper connection with the region.

Though compact, it packs a lot of value into a short time—an ideal choice for curious travelers wanting to understand the roots of Alentejo’s renowned wines and olive oils.

If you’re eager for an experience that balances learning, tasting, and scenic beauty with a personal touch, this tour stands out as a highly recommended option.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 2 hours, perfect for a short, engaging visit.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll enjoy a guided tour, tastings of 6 wines and 6 extra virgin olive oils, regional snacks, water, and access to bathrooms.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s arranged as a private group, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Are there food options if I’m vegan or have dietary restrictions?
The regional products board can include vegan options upon request, and the guides are willing to accommodate dietary needs.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

What languages are available?
Guides can speak English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Where is the tour located?
Mainova is close to Évora, Estremoz, and Vimieiro, about 1 hour 30 minutes from Lisbon, making it a convenient day trip.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking outdoors are recommended.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, providing flexibility for your plans.

Choosing this tour means enjoying Portugal’s authentic flavors and land-based traditions. It’s a memorable, educational, and delicious way to experience the Alentejo countryside—perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing but a genuine connection to the region’s best products.