Throughout the day on our Madeira Wine Tour in addition to tasting a variety of wines produced on the island, we’ll explore the winemaking process from the vineyards to the glass.
The island of Madeira is globally renowned for its unique wine, and a tour through its vineyards and cellars is a must for wine enthusiasts. With a terroir shaped by its subtropical climate, rich volcanic soils, and centuries of tradition, Madeira wine stands out for its distinctive characteristics and versatility.
Wine, like life, is meant to be enjoyed, so what better way than a day exploring Madeira’s wines? This tour offers an intimate and authentic experience, visiting the island’s vineyards and wine producers in a group of no more than 7 people.
For over 500 years, Madeira wine has been renowned worldwide, with many knowing the wine better than the island! Although Madeira is famous for its fortified wine, few know it also produces still wines.
The tour usually begins with a visit to stunning vineyards, perched on mountainous slopes with breathtaking views of the Atlantic. During the experience, you’ll learn about Madeira’s signature grape varieties, such as Tinta Negra, Sercial, Verdelho, Bual, and Malvasia, as well as the traditional methods that made Madeira wine famous.
Madeira Wine Tour: Discover Unique Flavors
Next, a stop at historic wine lodges allows you to taste wines of varying sweetness levels, aged in barrels for decades. Each glass offers a burst of complex flavors, from citrus and caramel to nutmeg and honey.
Beyond wine, the tour is an opportunity to dive into Madeira’s history and culture. Learn how Madeira wine was exported to kings, explorers, and even used in historic celebrations, like the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just curious, this tour offers the perfect blend of flavors, landscapes, and knowledge. Discover what makes Madeira wine so special and take home unforgettable memories from your trip.
Itinerário
After all pick-ups, we begin our day in the heart of Funchal at Blandy’s Wine Lodges—one of the oldest and most famous Madeira Wine producers. The Blandy family, of English origin, has owned this prestigious winery for over 200 years and continues its legacy. We’ll tour the cellars and learn about the winemaking process, followed by a tasting of 2 fortified Madeira wines.
Leaving Funchal, we head to the northern coast, to São Vicente, Madeira’s second-largest grape-growing area.
São Vicente is a charming municipality on the north coast of Madeira, known for its breathtaking natural scenery, with lush green mountains, deep valleys, and spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
The region is famous for its scenic beauty, its unique vineyards producing exceptional wines, and its volcanic caves, offering a fascinating experience of geology and history. São Vicente is a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility, nature, and an authentic immersion into Madeira’s culture.
Our next breathtaking stop is Quinta do Barbusano, a wine producer in São Vicente. Since 2006, they’ve produced white, rosé, and red wines. While Verdelho (a high-quality white wine) is the standout, their red wines are also increasingly popular.
Here, we’ll enjoy a typical lunch (beef skewers on bay laurel) among the vineyards, paired with various still wines produced on-site, all with a stunning view.
At Quinta do Barbusano, we’ll enjoy a traditional lunch with delicious beef skewers on bay laurel sticks, prepared in the vineyard.
This culinary experience is paired with a selection of still wines from the estate, enhancing Madeira’s unique flavors. Set against a breathtaking backdrop of mountains and coast, this lunch offers an unforgettable meal surrounded by nature.
This is the perfect spot for memorable photos and a moment to soak in Madeira’s natural beauty. With mountains and the ocean in the background, the viewpoint provides a refreshing pause, allowing visitors to fully experience the serene charm of this paradise island.
As time and wine fly by, it’s time to return south. Before heading back to Funchal, we’ll stop at Vinhos Barbeito in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos for a final tasting of exceptional fortified Madeira wines.
Founded in 1949, this family winery has earned a stellar reputation for its quality wines, recognized internationally.
