Wine Tours and Tastings in Madeira

Madeiran wines have a distinctive flavor thanks to their unique aging process, which is akin to the aging effects of a long sea voyage in tropical climates. This oasis of winemaking tradition offers distinctive wine tours and tastings that resonate with both the casual taster and the seasoned connoisseur.

A Madeira wine tour typically includes visits to historic quintas (estates), where visitors can walk through the vineyards, observing first-hand the meticulous process that transforms the local Sercial, Verdelho, Bual and Malvasia grapes into world-renowned Madeira wines. This journey from vine to wine culminates in a tasteful discovery of rich flavors and complex aromas, enhanced by stories of centuries-old wine making techniques.

The experience doesn't end with the wine itself and wine tastings in Madeira also often come with delightful pairings of local cheeses, breads and honey, providing a gastronomic experience that is authentically Madeiran.

Here's all you need to know about wine tours and tastings, some of the most aromatic gastronomic experiences in Madeira.

What are the best wine tours and tastings in Madeira?

Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just dipping your toe into the world of wine, Madeira offers a great variety of wine tours and tastings. Here are just some of the comprehensive experiences you can expect if you book this type of tour.

Full Day Madeira Wine Tour with Lunch

The full day Madeira wine tour is an experience designed for wine lovers seeking a comprehensive introduction to the island's viticulture. This tour, often stretching from sunrise to sunset, typically involves a journey through lush vineyards, historic cellars and state-of-the-art wineries.

Visitors get an opportunity to engage with the viticulturists and winemakers, delving deep into the rich winemaking heritage of the island. A highlight of this tour includes a locally sourced gourmet lunch, paired with some of the finest Madeira wines, allowing visitors to savor the subtle flavors and aromatic nuances of these unique wines.

This full day tour combines an educational journey and an exceptional culinary experience, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a deeper appreciation of Madeira's wine culture.

Private Half Day Wine Tasting Tour

Perfect for those with limited time or seeking a more intimate experience, a private half day wine tasting tour offers a curated exploration of Madeira’s winemaking tradition. Often customizable, these tours cater to your specific interests and tastes, whether you're a novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast.

You'll be guided through handpicked wineries, with a knowledgeable guide elucidating on the distinctive characteristics of Madeira wines. A private tasting session typically includes a selection of wines, each telling its own tale of the island's terroir.

Rota do Vinho half day wine walk

The Rota do Vinho or Wine Route half-day wine walk is a unique way to experience Madeira's winemaking tradition. Guided by a local expert, visitors walk through picturesque vineyards, soaking in the scenic beauty and understanding the unique viticulture that embraces the island's volcanic soil and microclimates.

On this walk, you will stop at traditional wine presses and rustic taverns which provide further insights into the local winemaking methods. The walk culminates in a tasting session, where you can relax and savor the fruits of the island's labor. This tour is a delightful blend of physical activity, cultural learning and wine appreciation.

Are there any combos available with wine tours and tastings in Madeira?

If you’re keen on trying some of Madeira’s delicious wines, but also want to include other activities in your day, there are a number of combo tours to choose from:

Skywalk and Professional Wine Tasting 4x4 tour: This tour combines the thrill of Europe’s highest sea cliff with its amazing glass-floor balcony, a fun off-road Jeep ride and tastings at two of Madeira’s top wine producers.

Funchal food and wine walking tour: Savor the tastes of Madeira with a walking tour that showcases the best of the island’s gastronomy and viticulture. This tour includes multiple food and drinks tastings as you explore the streets of the historical capital, Funchal.

Dolphin watching, sunset cruises and sightseeing are all activities that can be combined with a wine tasting experience.

Which places are visited?

On a wine tasting tour in Madeira, you can expect to explore the scenic beauty of the vineyards, learn about the unique viticulture of the region and discover the island's age-old winemaking techniques.

Your tour is likely to visit a combination of historic wine cellars and state-of-the-art wineries, where you will be introduced to the process of producing Madeira's signature fortified wines. Part of the experience includes engaging conversations with expert vintners and tastings of diverse wines, from dry to sweet, each showcasing the distinct terroir of Madeira.

Wine tastings are regularly paired with local delicacies, enhancing the gastronomic experience. On a wine tour, you will experience a unique blend of learning, tasting and cultural immersion.

How much do wine tours and tastings in Madeira cost?

Full day Madeira wine tours with lunch cost from €120 per person. These tours are usually offered on a small group basis and begin in Funchal.

A private half day wine tasting tour is priced at around €150 per group of up to 8 participants. Food and additional tastings are on your own account.

Rota do Vinho half day wine walks start from as little as €30 per person. This cost does not include any tastings or food which will need to be paid for on the day.

What is included?

A typical wine tasting tour in Madeira usually begins with a pickup in Funchal. A vineyard tour provides an opportunity to see the grape cultivation process up close and appreciate the unique terrain and climate of Madeira that contributes to the distinctive profile of its wines.

Tours usually include a visit to a winery where visitors can observe the winemaking process, from the initial harvesting and pressing of the grapes to the fermentation, aging and bottling processes.

A wine tasting is undoubtedly the highlight of the tour, and you will be able to sample a variety of Madeira wines. A guide often explains the unique characteristics of each wine, from the aroma and flavor profile to the specific grape variety and aging method used.

Wine tours are led by a knowledgeable guide, often a sommelier or a wine expert, who can provide detailed information about Madeira wine and answer any questions you might have. Some tours also include a food pairing component to enhance the tasting experience.

Where does it start?

Unless specified otherwise, wine tours usually start with a pickup in Funchal. Check with your tour operator to ensure that your hotel is on the pickup list. If not, you will be given the details of the closest pickup point in your vicinity.

How long does it last?

Full day wine tours last about 8 hours. Most half day excursions are around 4-hours long. If you are pressed for time, there are some tastings and tours that last 3 hours or less.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Most tours of this kind are not geared towards people who have mobility issues. Transfer vehicles cannot always accommodate wheelchairs and the agricultural terrain is usually uneven making it unsuitable for wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

If you have any mobility challenges, check with the tour operator before booking this type of tour.

Are children allowed?

Yes, children are allowed on wine tastings and tours in Madeira. However, guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in the tasting portion of the tour. Most tours can also accommodate strollers as well.

When is the best time for wine tours and tastings in Madeira?

• Harvest Season (August-October). This is when grapes are harvested, and you can see the winemaking process in action. The end of August also marks the start of the Madeira Wine Festival, which includes picking of the grapes, a parade, and other celebratory events.
• Madeira Wine Festival (End of August-Early September). If you plan your visit around the Madeira Wine Festival, you'll have the opportunity to partake in a variety of activities related to wine production, including grape harvesting, live demonstrations of traditional winemaking methods, and of course, wine tastings.
• Winter Months (November - March). If you're interested in a quieter experience, consider visiting during the off-peak season. The island is less crowded, and you may have a more intimate experience at the vineyards and wineries.

Travel tips

• Try the Different Varieties. Madeira wine ranges from dry to sweet. Make sure to try a bit of everything.
• Don't Wear Perfume or Strong Scents. They can interfere with your (and others') ability to taste and enjoy the wine.
• Don't Feel Obligated to Finish Each Pour. It's perfectly acceptable to spit out wine or dump what's left in your glass.
• Try Local Spirits. Besides wine, Madeira is also known for spirits like Madeira Rum and Poncha.