Ponta Delgada: Pineapple wine tasting and pineapple tour

Imagine wandering through lush greenhouses filled with artisanal pineapples, learning about their journey from seed to your plate, then ending with a glass of bio pineapple wine and local cheeses in a tranquil garden. For just $40 per person, this one-hour private tour in Ponta Delgada offers a rare glimpse into how the Azoreans cultivate their prized pineapples and craft Europe’s only bio pineapple wine. The tour is run by Herdade do Ananás, a family-owned operation dedicated to sustainable and traditional farming methods.

We particularly appreciate the personalized nature of the experience — limited to small groups, which allows for engaging conversations and detailed insights. We also loved the delicious tasting of local cheeses paired with the pineapple wine, which makes this more than just a sightseeing stop. The only consideration might be that the duration is relatively short, so if you’re craving an in-depth farming tour, you’ll want to supplement this with another activity. This experience is perfect for food and drink lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the local farming practices of the Azores. It’s especially suited for those wanting an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at one of the island’s most interesting agricultural products.

Key Points

• Unique focus on pineapples: Learn how the Azoreans grow and harvest their special pineapples, which are cultivated by hand and in a sustainable way.
• Exclusive bio pineapple wine: Taste Europe’s only bio pineapple wine, a rare and memorable product made exclusively in this region.
• Personalized small-group experience: Tours are private, ensuring a tailored, engaging visit with knowledgeable guides.
• Authentic local flavors: Enjoy local cheeses and homemade pineapple jam, adding to the genuine Azorean flavor.
• Beautiful setting: The greenhouses and garden offer lush views, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the island’s natural beauty.
• Value for money: At $40, this tour includes tasting, a private guided experience, and unlimited access to the gardens, making it a very good value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Deep Dive

The Starting Point: Greenhouses and the Green Heart of Herdade do Ananás

Your journey begins at the pink building of Herdade do Ananás in Ponta Delgada. As soon as you arrive, you’re welcomed into a vibrant environment where greenhouses stretch out in all directions, filled with pineapples in various stages of growth. The staff kindly ask you to ring a bell before parking inside the property — a small detail that enhances the feeling of a private, personalized outing.

Expect a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The tour lasts about an hour, but the actual time can vary depending on your questions and curiosity. During the walk around the greenhouses, your guide will explain the artisanal process of pineapple cultivation, emphasizing sustainability and hand-growing techniques. We loved the way the guide shared little tidbits of farming history and fun facts about pineapple varieties—making the learning feel both informative and engaging.

Why Pineapples Matter in the Azores

The Azores are not traditionally known for pineapples, but Herdade do Ananás has perfected the craft of cultivating these tropical fruits in a temperate climate. You’ll see pineapples growing in glass greenhouses, protected from the Atlantic weather, allowing for a sustainable and artisanal approach. According to reviews, this farm is one of the most insightful pineapple tours on the island, with guides sharing their passion for the crop—”a lot of interesting information” as one visitor put it.

What makes these pineapples stand out is their handmade, sustainable cultivation—a process that respects the environment and produces biologic fruits. It’s fascinating to learn about the different stages of pineapple growth, from planting to harvesting, and the effort it takes to produce the fruit in such a delicate environment.

The Highlight: Pineapple Wine Tasting

The tour culminates in a tasting session of Europe’s only bio pineapple wine, made exclusively at Herdade do Ananás. The wine has garnered rave reviews for its smooth, unique flavor profile — a real surprise for those expecting traditional grape wines. As one reviewer said, “the wine was impeccable and unique,” and many agree it’s one of the most memorable tasting experiences they’ve had.

The wine is served alongside local cheeses in a lovely garden setting, enhancing the flavors and creating a true sense of place. The experience is not just about drinking but about understanding the story behind the product, from cultivation to fermentation, which your guide will happily explain.

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Additional Tasting and Dining Options

Included in the tour is a bottle of pineapple wine to take home, along with a platter of local cheeses and homemade pineapple jam from the owner’s grandmother. Reviewers mention how the cheese and jam complement the wine beautifully, elevating the tasting to a gourmet level.

For those wanting more, there’s the possibility to book dinner at RÚSTICO restaurant, which is highly recommended and often praised as one of the best meals on the island. Some reviews highlight the delicious seafood, pineapple tartar, and fish dishes, which pair perfectly with the local wines.

Gardens, Hot Tubs, and Extra Experiences

The gardens at Herdade do Ananás are open unlimited for wandering after the tour, and some reviews mention amenities like a hot tub available for additional fees, which could be a delightful way to unwind after your tasting. The property also offers boutique rooms overlooking the greenhouses, making it a charming place to stay if you want to extend your visit.

Practical Details

Accessibility and Logistics

The tour is private and small-group, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere. Meeting at the pink building, visitors are encouraged to ring the bell for parking—something to remember, especially if arriving by car. The tour lasts about one hour, with flexible start times depending on availability. It costs $40 per person, which we think offers very good value considering the included tasting, guide, and unlimited access to the gardens.

Price and Value

At just $40, this experience provides a unique glimpse into local agriculture, paired with exceptional tastings. The inclusion of a bottle of pineapple wine and cheeses makes it a memorable souvenir, and the private setting ensures personalized attention.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those curious about sustainable farming. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience that combines education with tasting. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate small, intimate experiences will find this especially enjoyable.

Potential Drawbacks

The tour’s one-hour duration might feel a little brief if you’re eager to explore more of the farm, but the unlimited garden access is a nice perk. Also, additional bottles of wine are available for purchase, which some might find tempting if they fall in love with the flavor.

The Sum Up

This pineapple and wine tour at Herdade do Ananás is a fantastic way to get a behind-the-scenes look at an unusual aspect of Azorean agriculture. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, and the experience is intimate enough to feel personal. The bio pineapple wine is a standout product, and pairing it with local cheeses creates a tasting that’s both fun and educational.

If you’re looking for a unique, authentic activity that combines nature, local flavors, and culture, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for foodies, wine lovers, or anyone interested in learning how the Azoreans turn tropical fruits into a craft. While it’s brief, the quality, storytelling, and setting make it a highlight worth including in your itinerary.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, it’s a private tour with a relaxed pace, making it suitable for families or children, especially since there’s no strenuous activity involved.

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts around one hour, but you are free to stay longer in the gardens afterward.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the guided pineapple tour, tasting of pineapple wine and local cheeses, and unlimited access to the gardens.

Can I buy extra wine?
Yes, bottles of additional pineapple wine are available for €22.90 each.

What language are the guides available in?
Guides speak English and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication.

Is the experience suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tasting, non-drinkers can still enjoy the tour and the beautiful gardens, and can simply skip the tasting.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is private and has limited availability. It’s best to reserve ahead, especially during peak season.

Are there dining options at the farm?
Yes, you can book dinner at RÚSTICO restaurant, which is highly recommended for a full Azorean culinary experience.

In summary, whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply looking for a special local experience, this pineapple and wine tour offers a genuine taste of Azorean tradition with beautiful scenery and a friendly, knowledgeable guide. It’s a small investment for a memorable, authentic moment that will linger long after your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: