Private Wine Tour in Royal Region

Explore the Best of Serbian Wine with a Private Full-Day Tour in Sumadija

This private wine tour in the Royal Region offers a full-day experience from Belgrade, combining visits to several of Serbia’s most notable wineries, including the historic King’s Winery and the modern Aleksandrovic Winery. Priced at $204.56 per person, the tour is ideal for those interested in tasting indigenous Serbian grapes, learning about traditional winemaking, and exploring the scenic countryside. With pickup included, group discounts available, and a 7 to 9-hour duration, this tour balances relaxed exploration with rich wine education.

The tour’s popularity is reflected in its perfect 5.0 rating from 16 reviews, with 100% recommending it. Booking about 16 days in advance on average, this experience is well-suited for wine enthusiasts eager to discover Serbia’s unique terroirs and history, complemented by a delicious Serbian lunch. While the itinerary offers a variety of stops, one should be aware that certain wineries may be closed during winter months, and additional costs apply for some tastings and lunch options.

Key Points

• Visit four prominent wineries: Despotika, King’s Winery, Aleksandrovic, and Vinarija Trilogija Banja.
• Taste indigenous Serbian grapes such as Morava at Despotika Winery, a rare opportunity.
• See the historic royal wine cellar at King’s Winery, with its well-preserved 85-year-old wine vault.
• Learn about regional winemaking practices and the connection between Trijumf wines from different wineries.
• Enjoy a Serbian lunch with wine tasting (optional) at Aleksandrovic or Trilogija Banja.
• Private transportation and hotel pickup provide convenience for the full-day experience.

Discovering Serbia’s Sumadija Wine Region

This tour is centered around the Sumadija wine region, an area known for its long-standing wine production tradition. Starting from Belgrade, the journey takes you into the lush landscapes of Vlaki Do for the first stop at Despotika Winery. This newly established winery is noted for its ambitious approach, featuring several wine labels from various grapes, including the rare Serbian Morava white—a must-try for enthusiasts seeking something unique.

Tasting the Indigenous Morava Grape at Despotika Winery

The Despotika Winery stands out for its focus on indigenous Serbian varieties. The Morava white wine is especially noteworthy because only a few wineries in Serbia cultivate this rare grape, making it a special highlight. Visitors will have the chance to sample several wines from Despotika’s lineup, gaining insight into modern winemaking practices. The winery is closed from November to April, so winter bookings should consider this timing.

Exploring the Royal Heritage at King’s Winery

Next, the tour explores the historic King’s Winery in Topola, an area historically linked with the Serbian royal family. The original king’s wine cellar remains in excellent condition, offering a glimpse of how Vojvodina’s royal vineyards were managed around 85 years ago. Although renovations are scheduled for spring and summer 2024, the visual appeal and historical significance remain intact.

Guests will also have an opportunity to taste modern wines produced in the contemporary Aleksandrovic Winery, which is just a short drive away. The free admission to the cellar allows for an authentic experience of royal winemaking traditions without extra cost.

Tasting at Aleksandrovic Winery and its Connection to Trijumf

The Aleksandrovic Winery is a notable Serbian producer, especially known for its high-quality wines since the 1990s. The winery produces a wide range of labels, including their famous Trijumf (Triumph) range, which includes sparkling wines. Visitors learn about the link between the Trijumf wines made historically at the Royal Winery and those produced at Aleksandrovic today.

A guided tour of the cellar offers a behind-the-scenes look at traditional wine production, while the view over the vineyards provides a perfect backdrop for a tasting of their most renowned wines. The winery offers the option to organize a lunch with wine tasting upon request, providing a complete culinary experience.

Visiting the Family-Owned Vinarija Trilogija – Banja

The final stop features a small, family-owned winery called Vinarija Trilogija – Banja. Here, the winemaker and certified sommelier shares his passionate story, explaining how he switched from a corporate career to winemaking. This stop serves as the personal highlight of the tour, emphasizing authentic craftsmanship and small-scale production.

Enjoy a tasting of wines, paired with food, while learning what makes his wines unique. The winemaker favors Merlot and passionately discusses his approach to wine. If the tour is booked for a solo traveler, the visit to Trilogija is replaced with lunch at a local restaurant.

Logistics: Pickup, Transportation, and Duration

The tour departs daily at 10:00 am from Belgrade with included hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. The private transportation allows for a relaxed pace, with bottled water provided for refreshment during the day. The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Cost Breakdown and Additional Expenses

The price of $204.56 per person covers the guided visits, transportation, and water, but additional costs are applicable for lunch ($40), wine tastings at Despotika ($8 or $13), and wine by the glass at Aleksandrovic ($2.50 per glass). Tasting at Despotika involves three or five wine labels, giving a deeper dive into their offerings.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The blend of historic and modern wineries, combined with the chance to taste rare indigenous grapes like Morava, makes this tour particularly appealing. The personal stories shared at small wineries and the opportunity to see the royal cellar add a unique dimension. The high ratings and positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and a well-organized schedule, ensuring a memorable experience.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers an excellent overview of Serbian winemaking, some stops, like the King’s Winery, may undergo renovation in spring/summer 2024, possibly affecting availability. The winter months (November–April) could mean Despotika Winery is closed, so plan accordingly. Also, additional fees for tastings and meals should be considered in your budget.

The Sum Up: A Rich Taste of Serbia’s Wine Heritage

This private wine tour in the Royal Region provides a comprehensive look at Serbia’s wine culture, combining history, indigenous grapes, and personal stories from passionate winemakers. The scenic drives, guided tastings, and authentic Serbian lunch make it a well-rounded experience for wine lovers.

Ideal for those who enjoy learning about wine production and sampling authentic local varieties, this tour balances educational content with relaxing sightseeing. While some stops may vary in availability seasonally, the overall value and experience are highly praised, making it a recommended choice for visitors to Belgrade seeking a memorable wine adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the day convenient and comfortable.

Can I organize a lunch and wine tasting at Aleksandrovic Winery?
Yes, lunch with wine tasting can be arranged upon request after booking.

Are there any restrictions on participation?
Most travelers can participate, but the legal drinking age in Serbia is 18 years. The tour is private, so only your group joins.

What if I want to cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start time. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

How many wineries will I visit?
The tour includes visits to Despotika Winery, King’s Winery, Aleksandrovic Winery, and Vinarija Trilogija – Banja.