Luxury Wine Tasting with Oh My Cod Tours on Pico Island
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in average physical condition comfortable with short walks on uneven terrain.
Overview
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.
Luxury wine tasting at the Czar Pico winery
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About This Adventure
Experience the allure of Czar Pico wine, crafted from ancient Verdelho vines in a UNESCO World Heritage site. Join a scenic vineyard walk by the sea, learn about the unique winemaking process, and unwind at a natural swimming pool before savoring the exquisite 2013 vintage at Czar Winery.
Czar Pico wine is unique in the world, say the wine critics!
Its price reflects the History it carries, but also all the work and mainly the risk taken by its producer: Fortunato Garcia, who owns some of the oldest Verdelho vines in Pico.
Locals say he must be crazy, because grapes are harvested very ripped, almost falling from the vines, like raisins.
On 'cursed' years, strong wind or rain can tear these gold grapes apart. That’s why not every year we can have Czar wine...
Czar wine is not a liqueur nor a fortified wine (like port wine), and his bottles can reach more than 1000€.
The 18 degrees of alcohol you taste, is naturally acquired, with a perfect balance between acidity and sweetness.
This year we are lucky! Fortunato just bottled the 2013 harvest and it’s excellent! Aged for 8 years in oak barrels, limited to 1000 bottles. We saved some for you!
To start will meet in Madalena, for a short walk, through the vineyards right by the sea, at the foothills of Pico Mountain, in the landscape of Pico Wine - considered since 2004 a UNESCO World Heritage site. We will learn about the History and the specificity of Pico wine that grows from lava soil and flourishes on the rock.
To refresh our feet, we take you to a natural swimming pool, where you can get on the water or just lay down for a bit, exchanging more local stories and preparing for our last stop: Czar Winery!
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy walking shoes
Vineyard paths can be uneven and rocky, so solid footwear ensures comfortable walking during the scenic stroll.
Bring swimwear and towel
Don’t miss the chance to dip into the natural volcanic swimming pool to refresh before tasting wine.
Reserve in advance
Czar Pico wine is rare and the number of visitors limited, so book ahead to guarantee your spot.
Prepare for coastal weather
Pico’s Atlantic climate can shift; bring layers and a windbreaker to stay comfortable outdoors.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Atlantic puffins nesting seasonally
- Mediterranean shearwaters gliding off the coast
History
Pico’s winemaking heritage dates back to the 15th century, shaped by settlers who migrated here and adapted their vines to volcanic terrain.
Conservation
The region practices sustainable agriculture, preserving ancient terraces and protecting the fragile volcanic ecosystem from overdevelopment.
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Adventure Hotspots in Horta
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Necessary for navigating rocky vineyard trails safely and comfortably.
Swimwear
Bring for a refreshing dip in the natural volcanic swimming pool included in the tour.
summer specific
Windbreaker or light jacket
Protects against sudden coastal winds and changing weather throughout the year.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Sun protection (hat and sunscreen)
Vital for outdoor vineyard walks to prevent sunburn under direct Atlantic sunlight.
spring|summer|fall specific