From Bucharest: Exclusive Dealu Mare Wine Tasting Tour

Imagine a day spent wandering among rolling vineyard hills, sampling some of Romania’s finest reds, and learning about a wine region often called the country’s Bordeaux — all with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. This Dealu Mare Wine Tasting Tour from Bucharest is a full-day experience that combines scenic drives, cultural insights, and a real taste of Romania’s thriving wine scene. For $237 per person, you get a 10-hour journey that’s perfect for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.

What makes this tour stand out are two key aspects: first, the chance to visit two award-winning boutique wineries that are both modern and rooted in tradition, and second, the chance to taste 12 exquisite wines, including native Romanian varieties like Feteasc Neagr. You’ll also enjoy artisanal cheese and charcuterie, making each sip even more memorable.

A potential consideration? The full-day format means quite a bit of time on the road, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with 10 hours outside the city. If you enjoy engaging guides and scenic drives, this trip offers authentic experiences that go beyond just wine tasting. It’s especially ideal if you’re interested in Romania’s wine heritage, picturesque landscapes, and the chance to explore Romanian craftsmanship in a relaxed setting.

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Key Points

Scenic drive through Dealu Mare, known as Romania’s premier wine region.
Visits two boutique wineries, each with its unique approach and atmosphere.
Sampling 12 wines, including rare Romanian varieties like Feteasc Neagr.
Expert guidance from knowledgeable guides who share insights into Romanian wine and history.
Includes artisanal cheeses and charcuterie, enhancing the tasting experience.
Ideal for those interested in culture, wine, and picturesque landscapes.

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A Detailed Look at the Dealu Mare Wine Tasting Experience

When planning a day trip from Bucharest, you want an experience that feels both special and genuine. This tour ticks those boxes by focusing on quality over quantity — fewer stops, but with meaningful visits to wineries that showcase the best of Romanian craftsmanship and terroir.

The Journey Begins: From Bucharest to Dealu Mare

The trip kicks off with hotel pickup in Bucharest, where a private vehicle whisk you away to the Dealu Mare region, about an hour’s drive north. The landscape you’ll see along the way is what Romanian wine producers consider ideal: vineyard hills stretching in every direction, dotted with elegant manors and old estates.

This scenic Old Wine Road is a highlight in itself, offering views that make the entire day feel like a slice of countryside luxury. Our guides often point out interesting architectural details and share stories about the history of the area, giving context to the landscape.

First Stop: Lacerta Winery

Your first visit is to Lacerta Winery, known for blending modern techniques with tradition. The winery is impressive — state-of-the-art, yet with a respectful nod to age-old practices like gravity-fed fermentation, which helps preserve the wines’ delicate qualities.

Here, a guided tour reveals the ins and outs of the winemaking process, from grape harvest to bottling. The guides are passionate and knowledgeable, explaining how Romanian reds like Feteasc Neagr are crafted to produce a velvety, full-bodied flavor.

You’ll sample six premium wines — some new to Romanian wine fans, others familiar — paired with local cheeses and charcuterie. The setting is picturesque, with the vineyard as your backdrop, making the tasting even more immersive.

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Second Stop: 1000 Chipuri Winery

The second estate is 1000 Chipuri, a family-run boutique winery. Here, the vibe is more intimate and artisanal. Before tasting, you might enjoy a traditional Romanian lunch, a welcome pause and a chance to savor authentic local flavors.

The wine tasting at this winery includes another six carefully selected wines, such as Cabernet Franc, Tmâioas Româneasc, and the standout Feteasc Neagr. What’s special here is the chance to sample wines directly from oak barrels or stainless steel tanks, giving insight into how aging influences flavor.

The guides often talk about the history of Romanian wine, which is quite fascinating — from its royal connections to its recent revival since the fall of communism. Several reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, with one reviewer noting, “Mihai’s selection of wineries highlighted the beauty, tragedy, and growing potential of the area.”

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The Experience: Beyond Just Tasting

This isn’t just about swigging wine; it’s about understanding what makes Romanian wines unique. The indigenous varieties, like Feteasc Neagr, are often compared to more famous wines but have their own distinctive character — rich, smooth, and perfect for red wine lovers.

You’ll also appreciate the opportunity to indulge in artisanal cheeses and cured meats, which complement the wines perfectly. The guides rarely rush, allowing you to savor each sip and nibble, and answer your questions about wine production, local traditions, or Romanian history.

Why This Tour Works Well

Based on reviews, the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and personable approach. One reviewer called Mihai “great, fun, and very knowledgeable,” while another appreciated how the guide, Andrei, made the day feel flexible and personalized.

The scenery is another highlight — the vineyard-covered hills, historic manors, and charming rural landscapes provide a peaceful backdrop to your wine journey. For those wanting a relaxing escape from Bucharest, this tour offers a beautiful mix of culture, scenery, and flavors.

Practical Considerations

The 10-hour duration can be a long day, especially if you’re not used to spending so much time on a bus or in a car. But the private transport, along with comfortable vehicle arrangements, helps keep the journey smooth.

The price of $237 reflects the value of visits to two high-quality wineries, tasting 12 wines, and enjoying artisanal pairings, plus the expert guidance. It’s certainly a good deal for those eager to explore a top Romanian wine region with a curated, intimate experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate good wine, scenic drives, and cultural stories. It suits those who prefer a private, relaxed atmosphere and want to learn about Romania’s winemaking heritage firsthand. If you enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable hosts, you’ll find this a memorable day.

It’s also perfect if you’re seeking authentic, boutique winery visits rather than large commercial wineries. The opportunity to taste Romania’s indigenous reds, paired with local delicacies, makes this a rich, flavorful adventure.

This tour offers an authentic taste of Romania’s wine culture, beautiful scenery, and personal insights — a worthwhile addition to any Bucharest itinerary for lovers of wine and landscape alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting from your Bucharest hotel and returning there at the end.

What is included in the price?
Price includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, private transport, an English-speaking guide, guided winery tours at two estates, and tastings of 12 wines paired with artisanal cheese and charcuterie.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the standard package but is available at the second winery as part of the experience, allowing you to enjoy authentic Romanian cuisine alongside your wine tastings.

How many wineries will we visit?
You visit two boutique wineries: Lacerta Winery and 1000 Chipuri Winery, each offering a distinct atmosphere and wine selection.

What types of wine will I taste?
You’ll sample a total of 12 wines, including Romanian varieties like Feteasc Neagr, Cabernet Franc, and Tâmâioas Româneasc, as well as some premium selections.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tasting, non-drinkers can often opt for alternative beverages or simply enjoy the scenic drive and cultural insights.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothing is fine. If you wish to take photos or walk around the vineyards, bring layers and perhaps an umbrella depending on the weather.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book at least 24 hours in advance to secure your reservations and ensure availability.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing flexible planning for your trip.

This Dealu Mare wine tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines Romania’s finest wines with scenic beauty and insightful guides. If you’re looking for a meaningful escape from the city, topped with delicious wine and picturesque views, this tour is hard to beat.