Wine & more Tour , private guided wine tour from POREC, UMAG ,Istria

The Wine & more Tour from Porec offers a relaxed yet immersive way to explore Istria’s celebrated wine scene without the hassle of driving. For $425.62 per person, this 7-hour private guided experience takes you to three distinguished wineries on the Istrian peninsula, with up to 12 wine tastings included, plus a traditional Istrian meal. The tour is ideal for those who want to combine wine tasting with scenic countryside views and local cuisine, all while avoiding the logistics of navigating unfamiliar roads. The hotel pickup and drop-off make it a seamless experience, with small-group intimacy limited to 8 travelers for personalized attention.

While the price point might seem high, the comprehensive nature of the tour—covering multiple wineries, tastings, meals, and professional guidance—delivers solid value. It suits wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and travelers keen to understand Istria’s wine culture in a relaxed setting. One noteworthy aspect is the focus on quality wineries with a family-run vibe, which ensures a personal and authentic experience.

Key Points

• Private guided tour from Porec lasting approximately 7 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Visits to three wineries with up to 12 wine tastings including Malvazija, Teran, and more
• Lunch at Veralda Winery, featuring local Istrian dishes paired with wine
• Transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan with an expert guide
• Includes olive oil tastings and snacks such as local ham and cheese
• Maximum group size of 8 ensures personalized service and attention

Departure from Porec with Expert Guidance

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Porec, where a knowledgeable guide greets the group and provides an overview of the day ahead. The small-group format ensures personal interaction and flexibility, making it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

The guide, often praised for their regional knowledge, shares stories about Istrian wine traditions, local history, and the winery families. This personal touch enriches the visit, transforming tasting sessions into engaging conversations rather than mere sampling.

Visiting Damjanic Wines: The First Winery Experience

The adventure kicks off at Damjanic Wines, a family-run winery known for its welcoming atmosphere and quality wines. Here, up to five different wines are sampled, accompanied by a light snack of Istrian prosciutto and cheese. This first stop sets the tone for the day, showcasing varieties like Malvazija and Teran, varieties that epitomize Istria’s wine heritage.

Guests appreciate how the guide explains each wine’s nuances and history, making the tasting both educational and enjoyable. The light snack offers a perfect pairing, emphasizing local flavors in a relaxed setting.

Exploring the Vineyards and Cellars at Kozlovic or Kabola

The tour then proceeds to the second winery, either Kozlovic or Kabola, both with over 100 years of family history. During the visit, guests explore the cellars and production spaces, gaining insight into traditional winemaking methods.

The focus here is on Malvazija Istriana and Teran wines, with tastings complemented by local appetizers. The guide shares stories about each winery’s history, their commitment to quality, and their role in Istria’s wine evolution. Guests enjoy the opportunity to see genuine family traditions in action.

Scenic Drive with Views of Vineyards, Towns, and the Adriatic

Between the wineries, the group experiences short drives through the countryside, during which panoramic views unfold. Guests see vineyards stretching across rolling hills, medieval towns with charming stone buildings, and glimpses of the Adriatic Sea in the distance.

These scenic drives not only provide visual delight but also allow the guide to share background on Istria’s landscape, climate, and how these factors influence wine production. The drive is a highlight for those who appreciate beautiful scenery combined with cultural insights.

Lunch and Wine Pairing at Veralda Winery

The final stop is Veralda, where guests sit down for a traditional Istrian meal in the winery’s locanda. The lunch menu features local produce, cheese, prosciutto, salami, and homemade pasta.

During the meal, guests sample wines from the winery’s selection, learning about wine and food pairing in a relaxed environment. The desert caps off the meal, rounding out an authentic culinary experience. The guide emphasizes how the wine complements each course, showcasing regional expertise in food pairing.

The Wineries: The Heart of the Experience

Each winery visited has its unique story and style. Damjanic is known for its warmth and family roots; Kozlovic or Kabola for their century-old cellars and traditional methods; and Veralda for its excellent wine and food pairings.

Guests value the authenticity of these family-run estates, avoiding large commercial wineries. The focus on small-scale production ensures tastings feel genuine and personalized. The guide’s detailed explanations help visitors appreciate the distinctive characteristics of each wine.

Logistics and Group Size: Comfort and Personal Attention

The transportation in a modern air-conditioned minivan makes traveling between wineries smooth and comfortable. The small-group size of up to 8 people creates a friendly, intimate atmosphere, allowing for more personalized attention from the guide.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, saving time and effort, and ensuring a stress-free experience. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so travelers are advised to dress appropriately for the day.

The Quality of Tastings and Food Inclusions

Guests are generally pleased with the generous wine tastings, which include 9-12 different wines throughout the day. The pairing with local food and olive oil tastings deepen the appreciation of Istrian gastronomy.

The lunch at Veralda is described as a highlight, offering fresh, homemade dishes that complement the wines perfectly. The inclusion of water, snacks, and olive oil tastings enhances the overall value of the experience.

Considerations: Price, Duration, and Booking

While the price of $425.62 per person is on the higher side, it reflects the comprehensive nature of the day, including visits to three wineries, tastings, lunch, transportation, and a professional guide.

The 7-hour duration is paced comfortably, with enough time at each stop for tasting, touring, and enjoying the scenery. The tour is suited for most travelers, with minimum age requirements not specified but likely suitable for adults comfortable with wine tasting.

Booking requires a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 8, ensuring an intimate experience. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

This full-day private guided tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Istria’s wine heritage without the need to drive. With visits to three distinct wineries, tastings of up to 12 wines, and a traditional Istrian lunch, it combines education, relaxation, and scenic beauty.

The tour’s highlight is its focus on family-run estates that showcase authentic Istrian wines like Malvazija and Teran. The personalized service, small-group setting, and expert guidance ensure a memorable experience for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

While the cost might be a consideration, the comprehensive package—covering transport, tastings, meals, and insights—makes it a strong choice for those seeking a deeper understanding of Istria’s wine culture in a comfortable, well-organized setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, hotel pickup and drop-off, three winery visits, generous wine tastings (9-12 wines), olive oil tastings, a local Istrian meal at Veralda, and snacks.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 10 am and ending in the late afternoon.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at the time of booking. Specific dietary requirements should be noted in advance.

What wines will I taste?
You will sample up to five wines at each of the first two wineries, including Malvazija, Teran, and other regional varieties. The third winery focuses on wine and food pairing with a selection of fine wines.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
The tour is primarily designed for adults interested in wine tasting. Children or non-drinkers are generally not the target audience, though they can join if they prefer not to participate in tastings.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior are not refunded.

What should I wear?
Dressing appropriately for all weather conditions is recommended, as the tour involves outdoor winery visits and scenic drives.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of attention from the guide.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is necessary, especially given the limited group size and the popularity of the tour.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Porec accommodation are included, along with transport by air-conditioned minivan.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour operates with a pre-set itinerary, but the small-group format allows for some flexibility and personalized attention from the guide.