From Bucharest: Exclusive Dealu Mare Wine Tasting Tour

A Closer Look at the Bucharest to Dealu Mare Wine Tasting Experience

This particular wine tour from Bucharest takes you approximately 100 kilometers north into Dealu Mare, often called Romania’s Bordeaux for its celebrated reds. While I haven’t done this tour personally, detailed descriptions and glowing reviews make it clear that it offers a blend of scenic beauty, authentic Romanian winemaking, and expert-guided tastings. The experience is designed as a full-day escape, ticking all the boxes for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.

One aspect I really appreciate is the visit to two boutique wineries—each with its own style and character. Whether you’re a red wine enthusiast or just enjoy learning about local varieties, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Another highlight is the stunning drive along the Old Wine Road, lined with stately manors and endless vineyard views, creating a picturesque backdrop for your day.

A potential consideration is the duration: a full 10 hours of driving, tasting, and touring. While most find it worthwhile, travelers prone to fatigue might want to plan a leisurely day afterward. Also, while the price of $237 per person might seem steep, it covers private transportation, expert guides, multiple tastings, and thoughtfully paired cheese and charcuterie—elements that elevate the value significantly.

Key Points and Takeaways

• Exclusive Access: The tour offers private transportation and guided visits to two award-winning boutique wineries, providing an intimate experience.
• Authentic Romanian Varieties: You’ll sample 12 wines, including indigenous reds like Feteasc Neagr, and international favorites like Cabernet Franc.
• Cultural and Scenic Beauty: The drive along the Old Wine Road reveals stately manors, picturesque vineyard hills, and peaceful countryside, making the journey itself a highlight.
• Food and Wine Pairings: Each winery features expertly paired artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and dried fruits, adding a culinary dimension that enhances tasting.
• Knowledgeable Guides: From reviews, guides like Bogdan, Andrei, and Mihai come highly recommended for their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and friendly approach.
• Great for Wine Aficionados and Curious Travelers: Whether you want deep insights into Romanian winemaking or a relaxing day among scenic vineyards, this tour suits a variety of interests.

Entering The Vineyards: What the Tour Looks Like

Once you’ve been picked up from your Bucharest hotel (a smooth process with clear instructions for where guides will meet you), the real adventure begins. The drive to Dealu Mare is roughly an hour, but it feels brisk thanks to the anticipation of the day ahead.

The first stop is Lacerta Winery, a modern yet tradition-minded estate. The guided tour here highlights gravitational wine-making techniques, which aim to gently handle the wine and retain its integrity. You’ll learn from local experts about the process from grape to bottle, which makes the tasting more meaningful. Expect to sample six premium wines, each paired with local cheeses and charcuterie, all set against a vineyard backdrop that’s hard to beat.

The second stop, 1000 Chipuri Winery, feels like visiting a family’s treasure chest. This boutique, family-run operation reflects a passion for craftsmanship and authenticity. Before tasting, you’ll have time to enjoy a traditional Romanian lunch—a nice touch that allows you to experience local flavors. The wine tasting here is equally impressive, with another six wines, including Feteasc Neagr—a standout Romanian red—alongside Cabernet Franc and Tmâioas Româneasc (often compared to a dry Muscat). The opportunity to sample wines directly from oak barrels or tanks gives a fascinating glimpse into the aging process and flavor development.

What Makes the Wineries Special?

Both wineries strike a balance between innovation and tradition. Lacerta’s use of gravity flow techniques shows a respect for quality and process, while 1000 Chipuri’s dedication to craftsmanship and family ownership lends a warm, authentic feel. Reviews consistently praise the guides, with one mentioning Mihai Vateselu’s knowledge, personality, and ability to highlight the area’s beauty and potential.

The focus on Romanian indigenous varieties like Feteasc Neagr is particularly appealing for those wanting to explore beyond standard reds and whites. Plus, the pairing of wine with artisanal local cheese and charcuterie makes each stop feel like a mini culinary journey.

The Scenic Route and Cultural Highlights

Driving along the Old Wine Road, you’ll pass elegant manors and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. Many reviews mention how stunning the scenery is—peaceful hills dotted with vineyards and centuries-old estates. It’s a view that rivals renowned wine regions like Tuscany or Bordeaux but with a distinctive Romanian charm.

The tour’s emphasis on local history and winemaking heritage adds depth. Guides often share stories about Romania’s ancient wine production roots, dating back to the Dacian Kingdom, and its revival after the Soviet era. It’s a reminder that Romania is an emerging contender on the international wine scene, producing some of the best reds in Eastern Europe.

Price and Overall Value

At $237 per person, the tour might seem on the higher end, but it’s packed with value. Private transportation, guided tours at two wineries, tastings of 12 wines, and artisanal cheese & charcuterie make for a comprehensive experience. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off saves time and hassle, letting you relax and focus on the wine.

Compared to doing a self-guided day, this tour offers expert insights, local knowledge, and a curated selection of the best wineries in the region. For lovers of wine, culture, and scenic drives, it’s a worthwhile splurge.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine enthusiasts eager to try Romanian varieties and learn about local winemaking. It’s also ideal for couples or small groups seeking a relaxed, private day among vineyards. If you’re interested in scenic drives, local food, and authentic experiences, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Romania’s wine culture.

However, if you prefer more flexibility with stops or shorter trips, this full-day tour might feel a tad long, especially if you’re not used to extensive tasting sessions. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate guides with local expertise and enjoy storytelling, as reviews highlight guides like Mihai and Bogdan as engaging and knowledgeable.

The Sum Up

This Bucharest to Dealu Mare wine tour combines the pleasures of tasting exceptional wines, enjoying scenic drives, and learning about Romania’s vibrant wine heritage. The private format ensures a relaxed, intimate experience, making it perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with the local wine scene. The thoughtfully paired food, stunning vineyard views, and expert guides make it a standout day trip for anyone with a palate for reds or a curiosity about Romania’s winemaking potential.

If you’re looking for a mix of culture, scenery, and wine—delivered in a comfortable, private setting—this tour offers a memorable taste of Romania’s Bordeaux. Just be prepared for a full day of exploring, tasting, and relaxing in some of the most beautiful vineyard scenery the country has to offer.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 10 hours, including hotel pickup, visits to two wineries, lunch, and travel time.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation, a licensed English-speaking guide, visits and tastings at two wineries, and cheese & charcuterie pairings.

Can I choose my wineries?
No, the tour is prearranged to include two boutique wineries, Lacerta and 1000 Chipuri, both selected for their quality and authenticity.

Is lunch included?
No, but the tour includes a traditional Romanian lunch at the second winery, allowing you to enjoy local flavors along with your wine tasting.

What varieties will I taste?
Expect to sample 12 wines, including indigenous Romanian reds like Feteasc Neagr, and international varieties such as Cabernet Franc and Tmâioas Româneasc.

Are the wineries modern or traditional?
Lacerta combines modern techniques with tradition, while 1000 Chipuri is a family-owned operation focused on craftsmanship, giving you a taste of different approaches.

Is the tour suitable for non-wine drinkers?
While the focus is on wine, the scenic drive, local food, and cultural insights can still make it worthwhile for non-drinkers—just inform your guide.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online with flexible cancellation options, and pay later, ensuring your plans stay adaptable.

This detailed review hopes to give you a clear picture of what to expect and why this tour could be the highlight of your visit to Romania. Cheers to discovering more than just the sights—here’s to tasting the soul of Dealu Mare!