Wine tour and Tasting with a local Winemaker at Pico Island

Discover Pico Island’s Unique Wine Heritage with a Local Winemaker

The Wine tour and Tasting with a local Winemaker at Pico Island offers an intimate look into the island’s proud vinicultural traditions. Priced at $254.50 per person and lasting around 8 hours, this tour is perfect for those eager to explore Pico’s UNESCO-listed landscapes and exclusive vineyards. With private transportation included, the experience is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from Fábio Rocha, a seasoned winemaker and guide.

This tour stands out because of its focus on access to private vineyards and insider stories from someone deeply involved in Pico’s wine scene. The tour is well-suited for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, offering a rich mix of cultural insights, scenic views, and delicious tastings. A key feature is the visit to the Pico Wine Museum, along with exclusive tastings at Adega do Vulcão, making it a comprehensive and authentic journey into the island’s viticultural roots.

Key Points

• Exclusive Vineyard Access: Visit private vineyards not usually open to the public, guided by local winemaker Fábio Rocha.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Stops include the Pico Wine Museum, Criacao Velha UNESCO site, Solar Terra Brum wine tasting, and Lajido’s scenic vineyards.
• Tasting Experience: Enjoy three wines from Adega do Vulcão, crafted by Fábio Rocha, in a boutique setting.
• Cultural and Scenic Highlights: Explore UNESCO-listed landscapes and learn about Pico’s volcanic terroir.
• All-Inclusive Pricing: Includes entrance fees, insurance, transport, and two wine tastings, with optional lunch for an extra fee.
• Booking in Advance: The tour is popular, often booked 71 days ahead, so early reservation is recommended.

Unique Locations and Stops on the Pico Wine Tour

Pico Wine Museum: A Journey into the Island’s Wine History

The tour begins at the Pico Wine Museum, where Fábio Rocha offers a lively overview of Pico’s wine-making evolution. Inside, visitors can see and touch artifacts that narrate the island’s wine production history. This stop, lasting about 1 hour, sets the tone for an appreciation of Pico’s rich vinicultural culture and provides an educational foundation for the day’s visits.

The museum visit includes admission, and Fábio’s explanations help clarify the significance of each exhibit. Visitors leave with a deeper understanding of how volcanic soil and climate shape the island’s wines.

Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Landscape of Criacao Velha

Next, the tour proceeds to the Criacao Velha region, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape renowned for its unique volcanic terroir. This 1 hour 30-minute stop features guided walks through vineyards that are normally restricted but accessible here thanks to Fábio’s knowledge and connections, especially those belonging to Adega do Vulcão.

Here, the emphasis is on understanding what makes this terroir so singular, with explanations on how volcanic activity influences vine growth and wine flavor. The landscape’s remarkable pahoehoe fields add to the visual impact, making this a highlight for fans of both nature and wine.

Wine Tasting at Solar Terra Brum: Savoring Adega do Vulcão Wines

At Solar Terra Brum, visitors indulge in a wine tasting featuring three wines crafted by Fábio Rocha at Adega do Vulcão. This boutique palace offers an intimate setting to appreciate the history and craftsmanship behind Pico wines.

The tasting lasts about 1 hour, allowing ample time to savor and discuss each wine’s unique qualities. The wines are representative of Pico’s volcanic terroir, offering distinctive flavors that reflect the island’s geology. This stop is included in the tour price, making it a key highlight for wine lovers who want to taste authentic Pico wines in a special setting.

The Scenic Vineyards of Lajido de Santa Luzia

A scenic drive takes visitors to Lajido de Santa Luzia, another UNESCO heritage site known for its breathtaking views. This 1 hour 30-minute stop combines visual beauty with a taste of local viticulture.

From this vantage point, guests observe the vineyards spread across the pahoehoe fields, a landscape shaped by volcanic activity. Walking through these fields offers a chance to see the difference in soil and terrain that influences the wine’s character. It’s an excellent spot for photography and soaking in Pico’s volcanic landscape.

Tasting at Tito’s Adega: A Different Perspective

The final stop features a wine tasting at Cerca dos Frades, part of Tito’s Adega, led by Paulo Machado. This 1 hour 30-minute session presents four wines: two Cerca dos Frades wines and two Insula Vinus wines.

This tasting focuses on local craftsmanship, with Fábio guiding guests through the flavor profiles and history of each label. It’s a fitting conclusion, providing a broader sense of Pico’s diverse wine offerings and the influence of volcanic soil on different styles.

Practicalities and Logistics of the Pico Wine Tour

The tour departs from Hotel Caravelas in Madalena, at Rua Conselheiro Terra Pinheiro 3, and ends back at the same location. Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day. The tour operates daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, accommodating most schedules.

Booking typically requires 71 days in advance, reflecting the tour’s popularity. The activity is suitable for most travelers but is restricted to those 18 years or older due to alcohol regulations. The price includes all fees, taxes, and insurance, with lunch available at an additional cost of up to €40.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The price covers admission fees at the Pico Wine Museum, all transportation, and two wine tastings in exclusive locations. Most reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the chance to visit private vineyards.

The tour is non-refundable, and cancellation depends on weather, which might affect some outdoor stops. Travelers should communicate any food allergies or restrictions in advance.

Why This Tour Is a Standout Choice on Pico

The combination of private vineyard visits, insightful commentary from Fábio Rocha, and carefully curated stops makes this tour highly appealing. The focus on UNESCO sites and volcanic terroir offers a comprehensive look at both the landscape and wine craftsmanship.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for personalized interaction and flexibility. The inclusion of tastings of three distinct wines in unique settings gives a tangible taste of Pico’s rich wine culture.

Final Thoughts on the Pico Island Wine Tour

For wine lovers and culture enthusiasts, this 8-hour tour delivers a well-rounded experience of Pico’s viticultural landscape. The expert guidance of Fábio Rocha and the opportunity to visit exclusive vineyards set this apart from more typical wine tastings.

While the price is on the higher side, the all-inclusive nature, private transport, and access to UNESCO sites justify the cost. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a deep dive into Pico’s wine scene in a relaxed, informative setting.

Travelers should plan ahead and book early, given the popularity and limited availability. This tour offers a genuine connection to Pico’s volcanic terroir and its proud winemaking traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, the tour is strictly for 18 years or older due to alcohol tasting regulations.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, admission fees at the Pico Wine Museum, all taxes and insurance, and two wine tastings.

Can I have lunch during the tour?
Lunch is not included but can be purchased separately for up to €40.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor visits is recommended. No specific gear is required, but a camera is advisable.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking is usually made 71 days ahead, so early reservation is recommended, especially during peak season.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour depends on outdoor visits, poor weather may lead to rescheduling or refunds, depending on the situation.

Are the vineyards accessible to everyone?
Private vineyards visited during the tour are accessible with guidance; some are normally restricted but are open thanks to Fábio’s connections.

Is alcohol tasting included?
Yes, two wine tastings in exclusive venues are included, featuring three wines from Adega do Vulcão.

Is there an age restriction for participation?
Yes, only adults aged 18+ can participate due to the alcohol tasting component.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour is pre-planned but can be tailored to some extent through special requests made in advance, especially regarding dietary restrictions.