A Few Kilometers from Rio, a Winery Experience Unlike Any Other
Just a short drive from Rio de Janeiro, Vinícola Inconfidência is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a unique day trip. Located in Paraíba do Sul, this winery offers an experience that blends history, innovation, and the pleasure of tasting exceptional wines.
Our visit began with a warm welcome from the in-house sommelier, who introduced the locally produced wines and explained the unique characteristics of each label. After that, the winery’s founder guided us through the vineyards, detailing the cultivation and production processes and sharing the inspiring story behind the project.
This experience revealed an unexplored side of tourism in the state of Rio — a true oenotourism attraction, something the mountain region had been missing. Vinícola Inconfidência fills that gap and delivers an experience that surprises both wine lovers and curious travelers looking to discover something new.
Exploring the History Behind Vinícola Inconfidência
Vinícola Inconfidência is the result of extensive research and long-term planning dating back to 2010. The Aranha family, with technical support from Vitácea Brasil and EPAMIG, developed an innovative project to produce high-quality wines in the Mantiqueira region of Minas Gerais.
Agronomist Murillo Albuquerque Regina, a specialist in viticulture, played a key role by introducing the inverted cycle technique, which uses two strategic prunings that allow the grapes to be harvested during winter. This innovative method made it possible to produce excellent grapes adapted to Brazil’s climate.
The Planting of the Vineyards
To bring the project to life, several varieties of Vitis vinifera grapes were planted, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc. Starting in 2013, the vines began producing fruit, and more recently, the winery introduced experimental plots of Petit Verdot, Nero d’Avola, and Viognier.
Winemaking Milestone: 2019
In 2018, the winery’s vinification facility was completed, and by 2019, Vinícola Inconfidência began producing its own wines. With modern equipment located right next to the vineyards, the entire process gained efficiency and full quality control. The operation is overseen by winemaker Mario Lucas dos Santos Ieggli and agronomist Frederico Alcântara Novelli Dias, ensuring excellence at every stage.
The Winery Today
Today, Vinícola Inconfidência has around 22,000 vines planted, of which 14,000 are already in full production. Another 6,000 are expected to start producing from 2021 onward, with the remaining vines still maturing. This steady expansion reflects the winery’s commitment to producing fine wines.
Our Experience at Vinícola Inconfidência
@vinicolainconfidencia is just a short drive from Rio and is the perfect option for a day trip.
The vineyards include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, and white grapes such as Sauvignon Blanc, Petit Verdot, Nero d’Avola, and Viognier. The visit begins with an introduction from the sommelier and a presentation of the winery’s labels.
After that, the owner and founder leads visitors through the vineyards, sharing the winery’s story and explaining the production process.
I must admit — I had never seen experiences like this so close to Rio, and the mountain region had been missing something exactly like it. I hope more options like this continue to appear for day trips around Rio de Janeiro.
Golden Tip
Make it a full weekend in Itaipava: enjoy dinner at Borgo del Vino, visit the iconic Castelo de Itaipava, and stay at @jardim_secreto_itaipava, a charming hideaway in the mountains.
Exclusive Tours and Experiences
Vinícola Inconfidência offers a variety of exclusive experiences, from guided vineyard and production tours to special tastings featuring the winery’s top labels.
Visitors can also participate in workshops and winemaking courses, learning more about the process and even creating their own blend.
Vinícola Inconfidência: A Journey of Research and Innovation
The winery’s history dates back to 2010, with the Aranha family’s vision supported by Vitácea Brasil and EPAMIG. Agronomist Murillo Albuquerque Regina introduced Brazil-adapted viticulture techniques that transformed the region’s ability to produce high-quality grapes.
Vineyard Development
Vitis vinifera grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc were planted, followed by experimental plots of Petit Verdot, Nero d’Avola, and Viognier.
State-of-the-Art Vinification
By 2018, the modern vinification facility was completed and, starting in 2019, the winery officially launched its own wines. Under the technical guidance of Mario Lucas dos Santos Ieggli and Frederico Alcântara Novelli Dias, Vinícola Inconfidência ensures precision and excellence in every bottle.
A Winery in Full Expansion
Today, the winery has 22,000 vines, with most already producing. This growth highlights the success of the project and its future potential.
A Unique Visit & Tasting Experience
The winery has reopened for guided tours and tastings of its award-winning wines. Visitors get an up-close look at the vines, learn about grape varieties and production methods, and enjoy a curated tasting with the option to purchase bottles on-site.
Technology Meets Tradition
Advanced equipment located near the vineyards ensures efficiency and high standards throughout the winemaking process. With expert oversight, the wines of Vinícola Inconfidência continue to impress enthusiasts across Brazil.
Good to Know
- Tours accommodate groups of up to 20 people.
- Minors are allowed but cannot consume alcohol.
- The vineyard tour lasts 20–25 minutes, followed by a 25-minute tasting.
- Reservations are required in advance through the official website.
- The winery is pet-friendly!
Tour Options
- Vineyard Tour + Tasting of 3 Labels: R$120.00
- Visit Without Tasting: R$50.00
Plan Your Visit
Estrada Tiradentes, 4828 – Inconfidência
Paraíba do Sul, RJ | 25850-000
+55 21 97970-9966
FAQ
Which grape varieties are grown at the winery?
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, and several others.
Do I need a reservation?
Yes. All visits must be booked online in advance.
How long is the tour?
Approximately 50 minutes, including the vineyard walk and tasting.
Are children allowed?
Yes, but minors cannot drink alcohol.
Is the winery pet-friendly?
Yes! Pets are welcome.
Can I buy wine on-site?
Absolutely — visitors can purchase bottles directly at the winery.
Conclusion: A Toast to the Vinícola Inconfidência Experience
Vinícola Inconfidência is more than a winery — it is a symbol of innovation and passion for Brazilian viticulture. Its history, attention to detail, and commitment to producing high-quality wines make it an essential destination.
Plan your visit and raise a glass to this unforgettable experience!
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