Funchal: H.M. Borges Winery Guided Tour With Wine Tasting

If you’re visiting the charming city of Funchal, the H.M. Borges Winery Guided Tour is a must-do experience. Established in 1877, this family-owned winery offers a fascinating glimpse into Madeira’s rich winemaking heritage. The tour guides you through the unique production process, followed by a tasting that showcases the region’s renowned fortified wines. With options to suit every palate, this tour promises an engaging and flavorful adventure.

Key Points

• The H.M. Borges Winery offers a guided tour lasting 30 minutes to 1 hour, with prices starting from $16.32 per person.
• Visitors can choose from three tasting options: Silver (2 tastings), Gold (3 tastings), or Diamond (6 tastings).
• The winery was established in 1877 and uses traditional winemaking techniques, including grape cultivation in Madeira’s unique microclimates and controlled oxidation.
• The tasting room showcases artwork by renowned artist Max Römer and offers an immersive experience with local honey cake and sugar cane cookies.
• The tour and tasting experiences have received high customer ratings, with guides praised for their knowledge and the overall value for money.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The guided tour at H.M. Borges Winery in Funchal offers visitors a 30-minute to 1-hour experience, priced from $16.32 per person.

Guests can choose from three tasting options – Silver (2 tastings), Gold (3 tastings), or Diamond (6 tastings) – to sample the winery’s aged Madeira wines.

The tour provides an overview of the family-owned business‘s history and winemaking process.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tasting room also features artwork and pairs the wines with local honey cake and sugar cane cookies, creating an immersive Madeiran experience.

Winery History and Winemaking Process

H.M. Borges Winery has a rich history dating back to 1877. This family-owned operation has been crafting Madeira wines for over a century.

The winemaking process involves:

1. Grape cultivation in Madeira’s unique microclimates.

2. Careful fermentation and aging in oak casks.

3. Controlled oxidation to develop the wines’ distinctive flavors.

Visitors learn about these traditional techniques during the guided tour.

They’ll also discover how the winery’s artworks and atmospheric tasting room enhance the overall experience.

With a focus on quality and heritage, H.M. Borges continues to uphold its legacy as a premier producer of Madeira’s celebrated fortified wines.

Tasting Room and Art Appreciation

One highlight of the guided tour is the winery’s tasting room, which features striking artwork by renowned artist Max Römer.

Visitors can admire the colorful, abstract paintings and sculptures as they sample the estate’s renowned Madeira wines. The pairing of the wines with mini honey cake and sugar cane cookies further enhances the tasting experience.

Whether exploring the Silver, Gold, or Diamond tasting options, guests appreciate the knowledgeable guidance and chance to learn about the winery’s aging techniques and history.

The tasting room offers a delightful sensory exploration of Madeira’s rich winemaking heritage.

Wine Tasting Experiences

Visitors can choose from a variety of wine tasting experiences at the H.M. Borges Winery.

The entry-level Silver tasting includes 2 samples of 3-year and 10-year aged wines. The Gold option expands to 3 tastings, featuring 5-year, 15-year, and a limited edition vintage.

For the most comprehensive experience, the Diamond tasting offers 6 pours, including a single harvest and frasqueira (aged over 20 years) selection.

Each tasting is accompanied by small bites like honey cake and sugar cane cookies, providing a delightful pairing. Guests can customize their exploration of Madeira’s renowned fortified wines.

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Food Pairing and Culinary Delights

Complementing the wine tasting experience, the H.M. Borges Winery offers a delightful pairing of their wines with local culinary delights.

Guests are treated to mini honey cakes and sugar cane cookies, which perfectly complement the complex flavors of the Madeira wines.

The tasting room, adorned with artwork by Max Römer, creates an immersive ambiance that elevates the overall experience.

This thoughtful addition allows visitors to fully appreciate the harmony between the region’s renowned wines and its traditional baked goods, providing a well-rounded introduction to Madeira’s rich culinary heritage.

Customer Ratings and Feedback

According to over 150 customer reviews, the H.M. Borges Winery tour receives an impressive 4.7 out of 5 rating.

The guides are particularly praised, earning a stellar 4.9 score. Customers also highlight the tour’s value for money, rating it 4.6 out of 5.

The key reasons for the high ratings include:

Knowledgeable guides, enjoyable tasting experience, and a wonderful introduction to Funchal’s rich wine heritage.

1. Knowledgeable and engaging guides who provide fascinating insights into the winery’s history and winemaking process.

2. Enjoyable tasting experience with a delightful pairing of Madeira wines and local delicacies.

3. An overall experience that offers a wonderful introduction to the rich wine heritage of Funchal.

Accessibility and Suitability

Unfortunately, the H.M. Borges Winery tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. The winery’s facilities and tour route may present accessibility challenges.

However, the tour is well-suited for couples, friends, solo travelers, and families seeking a quick taste of Madeira wine and its history. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the experience.

The winery’s tasting room features artwork, and the tour includes a pairing of wines with local delicacies, making it an enjoyable experience for those who can access the facilities.

Booking and Planning Your Visit

Booking the H.M. Borges Winery guided tour in Funchal is a straightforward process.

Booking the H.M. Borges Winery guided tour in Funchal is a straightforward process.

Visitors can reserve their spot in advance, taking advantage of the "reserve now, pay later" option.

To plan your visit, consider these steps:

1. Check availability for your preferred starting time.

2. Select the wine tasting package that suits your interests – Silver, Gold, or Diamond.

3. Wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the experience.

The winery tour provides a delightful introduction to Madeira’s wine heritage, so book your experience today and get ready to indulge in the flavors of this stunning island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Guided Tour?

The guided tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as visitors will be walking around the winery. There are no strict dress requirements, but it’s best to dress for a leisurely experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks to the Winery?

Guests are not permitted to bring their own food or drinks to the winery. The guided tour includes a tasting experience with complementary pairings, so bringing outside items is not allowed. Visitors should focus on enjoying the provided wine and snack offerings.

Are There Any Group Discounts or Special Offers Available?

The winery doesn’t offer group discounts, but they have special offers like the Diamond tasting option with 6 tastings for a more premium experience. Discounts aren’t available, but the various tasting packages provide flexibility in choosing the right one for your needs.

Can I Purchase Wines or Other Merchandise Directly From the Winery?

Yes, you can purchase wines and other merchandise directly from the H.M. Borges Winery during the guided tour. The winery offers a selection of their wines, as well as locally-made souvenirs, for visitors to purchase and take home.

How Far in Advance Should I Book the Tour to Ensure Availability?

It’s recommended to book the tour at least a few days in advance to ensure availability, as spots can fill up quickly. However, last-minute bookings may still be possible depending on the tour’s occupancy.

The Sum Up

The H.M. Borges Winery Guided Tour in Funchal offers a compelling glimpse into Madeira’s winemaking heritage. With knowledgeable guides, a fascinating production process, and delightful wine tastings paired with local delicacies, this tour provides an immersive experience for anyone seeking to explore Madeira’s renowned fortified wines. Whether you choose the Silver, Gold, or Diamond option, you’re sure to leave with a deeper appreciation for this family-owned winery and its enduring legacy.

You can check availability for your dates here: