Take a day trip from Bucharest and immerse yourself in a wine lover’s escape to Dealu Mare, Romania’s premier wine region. Much like Bordeaux or Tuscany, Dealu Mare lies along the 45th parallel, boasting an ideal climate for producing rich, velvety wines, particularly reds. On this exclusive wine-tasting experience, you’ll visit two boutique wineries, explore their facilities, and sample 12 exquisite wines, including indigenous Romanian varieties like Fetească Neagră, paired with local cheese and charcuterie. As you journey between estates along the historic Old Wine Road, admire elegantly restored manors and vineyard-covered hills.

A Brief History of Romanian Wine

Wine production in Romania dates back to the ancient Dacian Kingdom and flourished in the 19th century, earning recognition as a supplier to royal figures such as Queen Victoria of England and Tsar Nicholas of Russia. However, after World War II, the country was overrun by soviets and the newly installed communist regime prioritized mass production over quality, leading to a decline in craftsmanship. Since the fall of communism in 1989, Romania’s wine industry has experienced a remarkable revival, restoring its legacy and regaining international recognition. Today, Romania ranks as the world’s 12th largest wine producer.

First Stop: Lacerta Winery

Your journey begins with a hotel pickup in Bucharest, followed by a scenic drive to Lacerta Winery, one of Dealu Mare’s most modern yet tradition-driven wineries. Here, winemaking techniques incorporate gravitational principles, minimizing the use of pumps to preserve the wine’s integrity. During a guided tour, local experts will introduce you to the estate’s state-of-the-art facilities and explain the winemaking process from grape to bottle. You’ll then indulge in a tasting of six premium wines, paired with local cheeses and charcuterie, all set against a stunning vineyard backdrop.

Second Stop: 1000 Chipuri Winery

The second and final stop brings you to 1000 Chipuri, a family-owned boutique winery known for its dedication to craftsmanship. Before your second wine-tasting session, you can enjoy a traditional Romanian lunch and savor authentic local flavors. The tasting includes six carefully selected wines, paired with cheese, cured meats, and dried fruits. As part of the experience, you’ll also sample wines directly from oak barrels or stainless steel tanks, offering insight into the aging process and evolving flavors. Don’t miss the chance to try Fetească Neagră, a standout Romanian red, alongside Cabernet Franc and Tămâioasă Românească, often compared to a dry Muscat.

A Memorable Wine Journey

This day trip from Bucharest is more than a wine tasting—it’s a cultural and sensory experience. Sip exquisite wines, indulge in artisanal cheeses, and discover Romania’s rich winemaking heritage. Surrounded by peaceful vineyards, this tour offers the perfect blend of relaxation, discovery, and refined flavors. In vino veritas!