During our recent stay in Sagada, we had the pleasure of trying the famous Piitik Honesty Wines. This unique experience has captured the attention of tourists, thanks to its ‘honesty system’ for payments at its charming roadside kiosk. The concept is simple yet profound: there’s no one present to collect the payment. Instead, there’s a payment box where you are trusted to put in the correct amount and take your change if needed. In a world often marred by dishonesty, this system is a refreshing reminder of the goodness that still exists in humanity.
Sagada’s Honesty Wine Bar – Piitik Wines
From downtown, you can ride a tricycle to take you to Piitik Wines, but it is also a walking distance so walk going there. When we arrived at the shop, we were greeted by a modest table set up outside with pitchers of various wines. The kiosk, situated by the side of the town’s main road, offers a chance for people to take a sip for a small fee. This local shop provides wines made from rice and a variety of local fruits such as bugnay, persimmon, guyabano, and blueberries. A small half cup of wine sells for P20, while a full cup costs P40. If you enjoy the taste, you can head to the bar at the back of the building for a more extensive selection.
Of course, we couldn’t resist trying a few varieties. The blueberry wine stood out to us, and after sampling a half cup, we decided to purchase a bottle to take home. We also sampled the guyabano wine, which had a unique and delightful flavor.
The term “Piitik” comes from a local practice of pouring a bit of wine or other alcoholic drinks into the ground as an offering to the spirits. It’s a way of communicating with Mother Earth and honoring those who have passed. With Piitik wines, Sagada offers not only a taste of local tradition but also a break from everyday dishonesty, along with a pleasant fruity buzz.
HOW TO GO TO SAGADA
Sagada is only accessible via land trips. Direct bus from Manila via KLOOK offers an overnight bus trip direct to Sagada from Cubao HM Terminal in Quezon City. The night bus leaves daily at 8:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m., and 10:00 p.m. Travel time is roughly 12 hours.
| Reserve your seat – Manila to Sagada |
Conclusion
This experience at Piitik Honesty Wines has left a lasting impression on me. It’s not just about the wines themselves, which are delicious and varied, but about the underlying principle of trust and honesty that the system promotes. In today’s world, where trust can sometimes feel in short supply, this little kiosk by the road in Sagada serves as a gentle reminder that honesty and integrity are still very much alive.
WHAT TO BRING IN SAGADA?
Prepare for your trip with our must-have travel essentials. Always be prepared to get wet in going to the waterfalls and caves. Also, trekking is a major activity in Sagada so it is a must to bring non-slippery footwear.
Waterproof backpack: 65L Water-resistant Hiking Backpack with Rain Cover for Outdoor Sport Travel
Quick dry microfiber travel towel: Naturehike Quick Drying Pocket Bath Towel
Action camera: KIMSTORE GoPro Hero 11 – Black
Hiking Sandals: Sandugo SD-1201 Hiking Sandals
Rash Guard: rash guard for men and Rash Guard for women Travel Pillow Powerbank – Multi-Functional Portable Powerbank Fast Charging Headlamp – Waterproof Headlamp
If you have questions let me know in the comment section below. You can also check my blog – Breakfast at IsangWow Cafe by the Clouds, Sagada.
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