Wine and food tasting in the traditional winery

Discover Montenegro’s Traditional Winery with a Personal Touch

This wine and food tasting tour offers an authentic experience at Garnet Winery, located in the historic village of Godinje, Montenegro. With a 5.0 rating from 30 reviews and a price of $48.72 per person, this tour provides an intimate look into the region’s winemaking traditions in just 1 hour 30 minutes. The tour is perfect for those who appreciate local flavors, heritage sites, and a relaxed pace with a small group of up to 15 travelers.

The guide, an English-speaking agronomist and wine producer, leads guests through a memorable tasting of three different homegrown wines, complemented by Montenegrin snacks and a glass of fruit liqueur or traditional brandy. The tour’s popularity is reflected in its advanced booking, with most reservations made about 26 days in advance. This experience is suitable for adults aged 18 and over and offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Key Points

• Authentic Montenegrin wine tasting in a family-run, 14-generation winery
• Includes three wine glasses paired with homemade snacks and a fruit liqueur or brandy
• Visits the historic village of Godinje, with remains of a royal summer house from the 14th century
• Flexible tour times available, starting at 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm, and 6 pm
• Small group setting ensures personalized attention from the guide
• Admission is free for both the winery and the cultural site of Godinje

Visiting the Garnet Winery in Godinje Village

The tour begins at Garnet Winery, situated in the historical part of Godinje, a village recognized as Montenegro’s first declared heritage settlement. Reaching the winery is straightforward—by car, bike, or on foot from nearby Virpazar, just 5 km away. It’s also within easy driving distance from key Montenegrin locations, including Podgorica (35 km), Bar (30 km), Petrovac (25 km), Budva (50 km), and Kotor or Tivat (each 70 km).

This family-run winery boasts a history spanning 14 generations. Its setting in a village with stone houses and cultural relics makes it a captivating backdrop for the tasting experience. Guests often comment on the warm welcome and the personal attention provided by the hosts, making this more than just a wine tasting—it’s a glimpse into Montenegro’s rural charm and heritage.

Exploring the Heritage of Godinje Village

After sampling wines at Garnet Winery, visitors can enjoy a second stop in the village of Godinje, where the remains of the summer house of the Royal family Balsic from the 14th century are visible. This heritage site offers insight into Montenegro’s royal history and the traditional stone architecture of the region.

The village itself features mostly deserted stone houses, which add to the atmosphere of a timeless Montenegrin settlement. The cultural and historical significance of Godinje makes it a noteworthy stop for those interested in Montenegro’s past and its preserved rural landscape. The entire exploration of the village lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes.

The Winery Garnet Experience and Wine Selection

The core of the tour is the wine tasting session at Winery Garnet. The host, an experienced agronomist and wine producer, guides guests through tasting three glasses of different wines crafted on-site. These wines are homemade, offering an authentic taste of Montenegro’s wine culture.

Along With the wines, guests enjoy homemade snacks that pair well with each drink, along with a glass of fruit liqueur or traditional brandy. This combination creates a well-rounded experience that emphasizes local flavors and family tradition. The cost of the tasting is included in the ticket price, with additional wines and spirits available for purchase if desired.

Practical Details and Booking Information

The tour offers several start times to fit different schedules: 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm, and 6 pm. Each session lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it an ideal activity for an afternoon or early evening. The meeting point is directly at Garnet Winery in Godinje village, with the tour concluding back at the starting location.

Participation requires adults aged 18 and over, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with most people able to participate. The tour includes free cancellation if booked at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if plans change due to weather or other factors.

The Personal Touch of the Guide

The guide at Garnet Winery is known for their fluency in English and their ability to share stories about the region’s winemaking traditions and local history. This personal engagement adds richness to the experience, making it more than just a tasting—it’s an educational journey into Montenegro’s rural and cultural landscape.

Guests consistently praise the friendly and knowledgeable guide, who creates a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the tasting experience. The small group size ensures everyone receives individual attention, allowing questions about wine, food pairing, or local history.

Visiting the Cultural Heritage Site of Godinje

The walk around Godinje village offers a glimpse into a nearly deserted settlement, with stone houses that tell stories of Montenegro’s historical landscape. The remains of the royal summer house serve as a highlight, connecting visitors to Montenegro’s royal past from the 14th century.

This part of the tour is ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and Montenegrin culture. It provides both educational value and picturesque scenery, making it a well-rounded cultural excursion.

Value and Overall Impressions

At $48.72 per person, the tour offers great value given the inclusion of three wine tastings, local snacks, and cultural visits. The small-group format enhances the experience, allowing for personalized interaction with the guide and more in-depth tasting.

Guests appreciate the authenticity of the wines, the warm hospitality of the hosts, and the stunning views of Godinje and its surroundings. The free cancellation policy adds flexibility, making this a low-risk activity for travelers in Montenegro.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to explore Montenegro’s local varieties in a relaxed setting. It suits history buffs who want to visit a heritage village and learn about Montenegro’s royal past. The experience is also perfect for couples or small groups seeking an intimate, culturally rich activity.

While not designed for children under 18, adults looking for a taste of local tradition and authentic Montenegrin hospitality will find this experience both educational and enjoyable.

Final Words on the Garnet Winery Tasting Tour

The wine and food tasting in the traditional winery at Garnet Winery offers an authentic taste of Montenegro’s rural wine culture. The combination of homemade wines, local snacks, and the heritage village of Godinje creates a warm, intimate experience that highlights the region’s heritage and flavors.

While the tour is compact, lasting just 1 hour 30 minutes, it delivers a rich overview of Montenegrin tradition, making it a worthy addition to any Montenegro itinerary. The personal attention from the guide and the stunning views of the surrounding scenery make this a memorable, high-value activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum age requirement is 18 years due to the alcohol tasting.

How long does the tour last?
The tasting session lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Can I choose the time that suits me best?
Yes, the tour offers several start times at 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm, and 6 pm.

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes three glasses of different wines, homemade snacks, and one glass of fruit liqueur or traditional brandy.

Is there an opportunity to buy more wine?
Yes, additional wine and spirits are available for purchase, though they are not included in the ticket price.

Does the tour require physical activity?
It involves some walking around Godinje village and the winery, but it is generally accessible for most travelers.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins directly at Garnet Winery in Godinje village.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

How can I book this tour?
Reservations are recommended, typically made 26 days in advance, through the booking platform or by contacting the supplier.

Would this tour be good for a romantic getaway?
Absolutely, the intimate setting, beautiful scenery, and delicious wines make it a lovely choice for couples.