Tour of high-altitude wineries in São Joaquim and Urubici

Serra Catarinense has established itself as one of the most promising wine regions in Brazil, famous for its high-altitude wines. The unique terroir, with cold nights and wide temperature range, results in slow-ripening grapes that produce elegant, complex wines with vibrant acidity. This article presents an itinerary to visit the high-altitude wineries in São Joaquim and Urubici, two of the main wine tourism hubs in the region, offering a practical guide to organize your trip and make the most of the best that each stop has to offer.

What to know before visiting high-altitude wineries

Planning is essential for a smooth and complete experience. Before hitting the road, consider the following points:

• Best time to visit: Serra Catarinense is enchanting all year round. Winter (June to August) attracts tourists due to the cold and the possibility of snow. The grape harvest season takes place in summer and early autumn (February to April), being an excellent period to see the vineyards in their entirety.
• Advance booking: The vast majority of wineries require appointments for visits and tastings. Don’t leave it to book at the last minute, especially on holidays and weekends, as spaces are limited.
• Transport: Having a car is the most practical way to travel between wineries, which are generally in rural areas. If you plan to taste wine, consider hiring a private chauffeur service or a local tour agency.
• Clothing: The climate in the mountains can change quickly. Dress in layers, with comfortable clothes and a sweater, even outside of winter. Closed-toe, flat shoes are ideal for walking through the vineyards and wineries.

Itinerary suggestion: wineries in São Joaquim and Urubici

This two-day itinerary can be adapted according to your time and interests. It balances visits to iconic wineries with the region’s natural beauty.

Day 1: Exploring the terroir of São Joaquim

São Joaquim is considered the birthplace of high-altitude wines in Brazil and is home to some of the most structured wineries for tourism.

1. Morning at Villa Francioni Winery: Start the day at one of the most famous and impressive wineries in the region. Villa Francioni stands out for its sophisticated architecture, an in-house art gallery and a wide range of wines. The guided tour explains the entire production process, from the vineyard to the cellar, and ends with a commented tasting of the main labels.
2. Afternoon at Vinícola Leone di Venezia: With a strong Italian inspiration, this boutique winery offers a more intimate experience. The focus is on Italian grape varieties adapted to high-altitude terroir, such as Sangiovese and Montepulciano. The tour guided by the owners is a difference, and the tasting paired with artisanal cheeses and sausages completes the immersion.

Day 2: Charm and modernity in Urubici

Urubici and its surroundings combine stunning landscapes with innovative wine projects.

1. Morning at Thera Winery: A complex that combines wine, art, gastronomy and hospitality. Thera Winery impresses with its modern architecture integrated into nature. In addition to visiting the winery and tasting elegant wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, the place has a fine-dining restaurant and a charming inn. It is a complete program.
2. Late in Bassetti Village: Known for its careful approach and small-scale production, Villaggio Bassetti offers a tour focused on quality and expression of terroir. The tasting is conducted in a didactic manner, ideal for those who want to deepen their knowledge of high-altitude wines. Its red wines, such as Pinot Noir and Merlot, are highly praised.

Tips to make the most of your wine tourism itinerary

To make your trip even more memorable, follow these practical recommendations:

• Pair with local cuisine: Mountain cuisine is an attraction in itself. Try dishes with pine nuts, fresh trout and serrano cheese. Many winery restaurants offer paired menus that elevate the experience.
• Choose charming accommodation: For complete immersion, stay in rural inns, farm hotels or cozy chalets. Waking up to the view of the fields and mountain valleys makes all the difference.
• Take wines home: Buying directly from the winery is a great opportunity to purchase exclusive labels or special vintages that are not easily found on the market, often at more attractive prices.
• Drink in moderation and stay hydrated: Intersperse tastings with water to keep your palate clean and your body hydrated. Remember: if you drink, don’t drive.

With this itinerary in hand, you are ready to explore the unique flavors and spectacular landscapes of Serra Catarinense’s high-altitude wineries. Plan your visit, make your reservations and get ready to discover the wine treasures that São Joaquim and Urubici offer.