WINE TOUR: Recommended for hedonists!

Quick Intro: A Must for Hedonists and Food Lovers

This wine tour in Montenegro’s Podgorica Municipality promises a delightful dive into the country’s finest vintages, all hosted at the largest wine cellar in the region. Perfect for those who enjoy the finer things in life—think rich wines paired with local cheeses—this experience combines culture, tasting, and a touch of indulgence.

What I particularly like is that the tour is not just about sipping wine; it’s about experiencing Montenegro’s wine craftsmanship firsthand. You get to visit the renowned 13. Jul Plantae cellar and taste five distinct wines, including Montenegrin classics like Krsta and Vranac, plus two premium selections, all surrounded by the impressive storage vaults of a real working winery.

A small consideration to keep in mind: the tour’s duration is just two hours, so if you’re after a more in-depth exploration or pairing experience, you may want to look for extended options. Still, for a quick, authentic taste of Montenegro’s wine scene, it hits the right notes.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Largest wine cellar in Montenegro: This tour offers a rare peek into the country’s most significant vinicultural storage.
• Authentic Montenegrin wines: From Krsta to Vranac, the tasting showcases the best local varieties.
• Tasting with local cheeses: Pairings enhance the wine experience, making it ideal for food lovers.
• Flexible and accessible: The tour includes transport, insurance, and a guide, with options for booking and cancellation that suit travelers’ needs.
• Expert guide: The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who adds context and personality.
• Ideal for hedonists: This experience emphasizes enjoyment, making it perfect for those who appreciate indulgence.

Visiting the Largest Wine Cellar: A Closer Look at 13. Jul Plantae

One of the main draws of this experience is stepping into Montenegro’s biggest wine cellar—13. Jul Plantae. This isn’t a small, touristy cellar, but a real working storage facility with impressive, vaulted underground chambers. It’s a visual feast for anyone interested in wine storage and craft. The guide, whose name wasn’t specified but is described as engaging, walks you through the process of wine aging and storage, giving you a behind-the-scenes look that adds depth to your tasting.

What makes this stop special is really the setting. You’ll find yourself surrounded by thousands of bottles, some of which are vintage or local specialities. The ambiance is both casual and reverent, creating an atmosphere that’s perfect for savoring. Many reviews highlight the friendly guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm, which make the experience both informative and fun.

The Tasting Experience: Wines and Local Flavors

The lineup of five wines is curated to give you a well-rounded sense of Montenegro’s vinicultural offerings. You’ll taste:

• Krsta: A classic Montenegrin wine, often described as smooth and easy-drinking.
• Vranac: Montenegro’s flagship red grape, known for its deep color and bold flavors.
• Pro Anima (Chardonnay Sauvignon): A premium white wine that balances crispness with fruitiness.
• Vranac Pro Corde: Another premium Vranac, often praised for its complex profile.

Alongside the wines, you’ll sample delicious Montenegrin cheeses and bread, which are suggested as perfect pairings. Several reviews mention how the cheeses elevate the tasting, making the experience more memorable and satisfying for food lovers.

Logistics and Comfort

The tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Podgorica, with the vehicle clearly marked for easy recognition. The company offers flexibility, allowing you to reserve now and pay later, which is a boon if your plans are still fluid. The minimum of two adults per booking means it’s suitable for couples or small groups.

The duration is just two hours, making it a compact yet fulfilling experience. Since the tour is wheelchair accessible and includes transport, insurance, and a guide, it’s designed to be straightforward and hassle-free.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wine enthusiast or a food lover looking to sample Montenegro’s top offerings in a relaxed setting, this tour is ideal. It’s also suitable for travelers wanting a quick culture without a long commitment. The small group format and friendly guide ensure a personal experience, making it perfect for couples, small groups, or curious solo travelers.

Price and Value

At a modest two hours, the cost includes transport, insurance, guided commentary, tastings, and pairings. Given the quality of wines and the access to Montenegro’s largest cellar, this represents good value, especially for those interested in authentic local products. Comparing it to other wine tours, the focus on Montenegro’s most renowned wines and cheeses makes it stand out as an affordable yet immersive experience.

Final Thoughts: Who It’s Best For

This tour is best suited for hedonists and food lovers eager for a quick but rich taste of Montenegro’s wine scene. If you appreciate local wines paired with cheeses, enjoy learning about wine storage, or want to visit the largest wine cellar in the country, this experience offers both fun and education. It’s also perfect if you prefer a small, guided tour with flexibility on bookings.

On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more in-depth wine education or a longer tasting experience, you might find this tour a bit brief. Still, for a value-packed and authentic Montenegrin wine introduction, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including transportation, tasting, and the visit to the wine cellar.

What wines will I taste?
You will sample five wines, including Montenegrin Krsta, Vranac, and two premium wines: Pro Anima (Chardonnay Sauvignon) and Vranac Pro Corde.

Are there food pairings?
Yes, the tasting includes Montenegrin cheeses and bread, which complement the wines well.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transport from your hotel and back, with a clearly marked vehicle.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most travelers.

Do I need to pay upfront?
No, you can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your trip plans.