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Step into the rare world of Pico Island’s ancient vineyards with Oh My Cod Tours. Discover volcanic lava fields, natural ocean pools, and the elusive Czar Pico wine crafted from century-old vines.
Step into the rare world of Pico Island’s ancient vineyards with Oh My Cod Tours. Discover volcanic lava fields, natural ocean pools, and the elusive Czar Pico wine crafted from century-old vines.
Book with Oh My Cod Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Oh My Cod Tours · Madalena, Lisboa
Set against the rugged coastline of Madalena on Portugal’s Pico Island, Oh My Cod Tours offers a rare journey into the heart of one of the world’s most exceptional wine traditions. The Czar Pico winery experience delivers not just a tasting but an intimate encounter with a vineyard rooted in ancient history, unique geology, and unyielding human passion. Pico Island’s wine region, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2004, rises from volcanic lava soil that shapes every cluster of Verdelho grapes grown here. These vines are among the oldest on the island, producing a wine that harsh Atlantic winds and fierce rains have tested for centuries.
Your day begins with a stroll along the sea-swept vineyards on Pico’s slopes, where volcanic stone walls snake across fields and the salty ocean breeze mingles with fertile earth. Oh My Cod Tours guides share the fascinating story of Fortunato Garcia, the winemaker who crafts Czar Pico wine from grapes left to ripen so fully they almost shrivel to raisins. This daring approach results in a strikingly potent wine, naturally reaching 18 degrees alcohol, balanced by a refined sweetness and acidity. Annual yields can be scarce due to weather’s mercurial effects, making each bottle a collector’s prize.
After immersing in vineyard lore, the tour offers a refreshing pause at a nearby natural swimming pool carved from volcanic rock—a perfect spot to cool off and hear local anecdotes before the grand finale.
The tasting itself is a quiet, reverent experience inside Czar Winery, where the exclusive 2013 vintage awaits, aged eight years in oak barrels and limited to just 1,000 bottles worldwide. This encounter marries the wild beauty of Pico’s landscape with a wine culture forged in volcanic stone and Atlantic spray. Oh My Cod Tours channels this extraordinary setting into an authentic adventure that pairs active outdoor discovery with a cultured appreciation for one of Portugal’s finest terroirs.
easy.
3–4 hours.
Suitable for people in average physical condition comfortable with short walks on uneven terrain.
The entire experience typically lasts between 3 to 4 hours, including the vineyard walk, swimming break, and wine tasting.
Yes. While the focus is on wine, non-drinkers can enjoy the scenic walk and natural surroundings or participate in the tasting of grape juice alternatives if requested.
Guests under the legal drinking age are welcome to join the vineyard walk and natural pool visit but cannot participate in the wine tasting.
Yes, guests should bring their own swimwear to enjoy the natural swimming pool comfortably.
Please notify Oh My Cod Tours in advance, and they will do their best to accommodate any allergies or dietary needs during the tasting.
Madalena is accessible via regional ferry connections and local transport from Horta, the closest major city, which has accommodations and other amenities.
Pico’s winemaking heritage dates back to the 15th century, shaped by settlers who migrated here and adapted their vines to volcanic terrain.
The region practices sustainable agriculture, preserving ancient terraces and protecting the fragile volcanic ecosystem from overdevelopment.
Oh My Cod Tours is a Lisbon-based tour operator specializing in culinary and wine experiences across Lisbon and the Azores. The company curates small-group and private trips that highlight Portuguese gastronomy, artisanal producers, and volcanic wines. Offerings include Lisbon food tours through Alfama, Mouraria and Baixa; hands-on experiences with Chef Pedro centered on fish conservation traditions; multi-day culinary retreats on Pico and São Jorge; and focused wine tastings at historic Pico vineyards such as Czar Winery. Tours emphasize local producers, sustainable ingredients, and cultural context, with itineraries that combine tastings, vineyard walks, workshops and scenic exploration. Operational details are straightforward: departures run from Lisboa and trips include guided tastings, meals, and visits to producers or wineries as specified in each itinerary. The business works with recognized local winemakers and cheesemakers to deliver authentic encounters with regional specialties like São Jorge cheese and Verdelho-based Pico wines. Safety and quality are supported by small group sizes and knowledgeable local guides familiar with island logistics and seasonal conditions. Booking information, detailed itineraries and seasonal availability are provided per trip, including low-season personalized options for quieter visits. Trip durations range from three-hour walking tours to multi-day escapes, offering curated pacing and local transport coordination when requested by groups often. Oh My Cod Tours positions itself as a specialist in Portuguese food and wine travel, connecting visitors to the stories behind ingredients and wines.
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