From Bucharest: Romanian Wine Tasting Tour

Review of the From Bucharest: Romanian Wine Tasting Tour

Romania might not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of wine, but this guided day trip offers a surprisingly rich experience. For a reasonable $95, you’ll spend about eight hours exploring two top-quality vineyards in Buzau County, gaining insight into Romania’s winemaking traditions while tasting some of the country’s best wines. The tour is organized by Gray Line Romania and has earned a solid 4.7 out of 5 stars, based on 21 reviews – a good sign that most travelers come away satisfied.

What I particularly like about this tour are two things: first, the chance to visit two distinct wineries, LacertA and Budureasca, each with their own unique charm and wine collections; second, the knowledgeable guides, like Narcis, who make the journey both educational and fun. The scenic drive through the sub-Carpathian hills offers a peaceful backdrop, making the day feel like a true escape from the city.

A possible consideration is that the price doesn’t include lunch, so you might want to plan for a snack or meal afterward. Also, since the tour depends on a minimum of four participants, it’s important to check availability ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling during a busy season. Overall, it’s a nicely balanced experience for those eager to combine scenic beauty, learning, and tasting into one day.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Two distinct wineries: LacertA and Budureasca, each with unique wines and atmospheres.
• Award-winning wines: Many selections have received international medals, including gold awards.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, funny, and engaging guides like Narcis make the experience memorable.
• Beautiful scenery: The tour offers stunning views of the sub-Carpathian hills and lush vineyards.
• Educational element: Learn about Romania’s winemaking heritage and even improve your tasting skills.
• Value for the price: For $95, you get two tastings, local snacks, transportation, and insight into Romania’s wine culture.

Exploring the Romanian Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re thinking about a full-day escape from Bucharest to learn about Romanian wines, this tour hits many of the right notes. I’ll walk you through what you can expect, what makes it special, and where it might fall short.

Starting Out: From Bucharest to Buzau County

Your day begins with a pickup from one of five central locations in Bucharest — whether it’s the Novotel, JW Marriott, or InterContinental, the pick-up points are conveniently located. The modern, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the roughly 1.5-hour drive to Buzau County. It’s a good chance to get a feel for the landscape and chat with your guide, who will likely be engaging and full of interesting tidbits about Romanian wine.

Visiting LacertA Winery: A Taste of Excellence

Your first stop is LacertA Winery, situated on an 82-hectare vineyard known for its rich, fertile soil that’s perfect for growing grapes. The vineyard’s size and care are evident in the variety and quality of wines produced. Here, you’ll see the winemaking process up close through an informative tour, which typically lasts about an hour and a half.

LacertA’s collection includes the Vintage Collection, Grand Prix, Lacerta Dolce, and the Gift Collection, many of which have earned international awards. You’ll sample over ten wines, from crisp whites and delicate rosés to full-bodied reds and sweet options. The tasting is complemented by local snacks, making it a well-rounded experience. Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides — Alexandra called her experience “incredible,” highlighting the unique qualities of each vineyard and the excellent wines served.

Scenic Drive and Relaxation

After your first tasting, you’ll hop back into the van for a quick 20-minute drive to the next stop. This short journey is a good opportunity to relax, enjoy the landscape, and perhaps get more tips from your guide about Romania’s wine traditions.

Budureasca Winery: Modern Meets Traditional

Your second stop is Budureasca, located in Prahova County, with a sprawling 300-hectare vineyard. This modern winery offers a different perspective — more contemporary, with innovative wine production methods. Here, you’ll learn how to evaluate wines and deepen your tasting knowledge.

Expect to sample a variety of fine wines and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyard grounds. Many reviewers note the “amazing vineyards” and “wonderful wine,” making this a highlight of the trip. The experience lasts about an hour and a half, with ample time to soak in the scenery and ask questions.

Wrapping Up: Return to Bucharest

After your final tasting, the journey back takes another 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to reflect on the day and enjoy the countryside views. Your guide will likely share more insights or recommendations for the rest of your stay in Romania.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits wine enthusiasts eager to discover Romanian wines without the fuss of a lengthy or complex tour. It’s also perfect if you enjoy scenic drives, learning about local traditions, and trying high-quality wines that have gained international recognition. The small-group setting, typically around a handful of travelers, ensures a more intimate, personalized experience.

Price and Value

$95 per person might seem modest for two extensive tastings, local snacks, transportation, and expert guidance. You’re essentially paying for a curated wine journey with added scenic views and educational insights. While lunch isn’t included, the tour’s overall value is high, especially considering the quality and award-winning status of the wines you’ll sample.

Practical Tips

• Since the tour depends on a minimum of four participants, check availability in advance.
• Consider bringing a bottle opener or small wine glass if you want to savor your tastings more comfortably at the end.
• No lunch is included, so plan to eat before or after the tour, or pack a snack.
• Wi-Fi is available on board if you want to share photos or look up more info about the wines during the drive.

Final Thoughts

This Romanian wine tasting tour from Bucharest offers a well-balanced mix of education, scenic beauty, and high-quality wines — all at a reasonable price. The guides, like Narcis, bring personality and knowledge that enrich the experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just a tasting — they want a taste of Romania’s growing reputation as a wine-producing country.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, engaging way to learn about Romania’s wine culture while enjoying stunning countryside views, this tour delivers. Just remember to plan for some time after the tasting to enjoy a meal and fully take in the country’s hospitality.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

What is included in the tour?
You get two wine tastings featuring over ten wines, local snacks, an English-speaking sommelier and driver, transportation in a modern vehicle, and pick-up/drop-off from central Bucharest locations.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, with about 1.5 hours at each winery, a total of roughly 4.5 hours of wine tasting and touring.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to eat before or after the tour, or bring snacks.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $95 per person, offering good value considering the quality of wines, guided experience, and transportation.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended, especially if you want to explore the vineyards or participate in the tours.

Are there minimum or maximum numbers for the tour?
Yes, a minimum of four participants is required to run the tour. The group size is typically small, making for a more personal experience.

Can I join the tour if I don’t drink wine?
While the main focus is tasting, the guides often explain the wine-making process, so non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenery and learn.

Is Wi-Fi available during the trip?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on board the vehicle.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
The tour runs year-round; spring and autumn offer especially scenic views, but check availability for your preferred date.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability and confirm the minimum group size.

In essence, this Romanian wine tour from Bucharest is a balanced, enjoyable way to connect with local tradition, sample award-winning wines, and see the beautiful Romanian countryside — all without breaking the bank.