2-Hour Wine Tasting & Food pairing in Rethymno, Crete, Greece

If you’re visiting Rethymno and love a good glass of wine, this 2-hour wine tasting and food pairing is worth considering. It’s a chance to get a taste of Crete’s renowned wine heritage while enjoying some local bites in a setting that’s steeped in history. The good news? It’s well-rated, with all five reviews giving it top marks, and the price is reasonable at around $69 a person.

We’re drawn to experiences that combine a sense of place with genuine expertise, and this tour ticks both boxes. What really stands out is the chance to visit a 600-year-old stone cellar, which adds a special, almost cinematic vibe to the tasting. Plus, the focus on Greek wines, paired with cheeses and local treats, makes it a well-rounded culinary experience. One thing to keep in mind, though, is the limited duration; if you’re looking for a longer, more in-depth wine tour, this might feel a bit brief.

This experience is particularly suited for wine lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, educational outing in Crete. If you’re interested in learning about Greek wine, sampling quality local products, and soaking up a historic setting, this tour can be a sweet spot. It’s also a good choice if you prefer small groups—usually around 20 people—and want a guide who truly knows their stuff.

Key Points

• Historic Setting: Hosted in a 600-year-old stone cellar that’s part of a former 15th-century Dominican Monastery, offering a unique atmosphere.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a sommelier who provides detailed insights into each wine’s characteristics.
• Local Flavors: Pairing of Greek wines with cheeses, rusks, breadsticks, and local delicacies like smoked pork slices cooked with vinsanto.
• Personalized Material: Each guest receives a folder with information about Greek wine history, adding educational value.
• Affordable & Concise: At $69, it offers a quality experience for a manageable 2-hour slot.
• Small Group Feel: Up to 20 participants, creating an intimate environment for conversation and learning.

Dive into Crete’s Wine Heritage

What catches most people’s attention about this tour is the setting. Imagine stepping into a stone cellar that’s been around since the 1400s—cool, dark, and full of history. The ambiance naturally enhances the tasting, making each sip more meaningful. The cellar’s old stone walls, combined with the scent of wine and water from a historic well, create an almost tangible connection to the past.

The company behind this experience has been operating since 1998, so they clearly know their stuff. Their team includes a sommelier, a chef, and a wine maker, which indicates a well-rounded approach to both the wines and the local cuisine. This isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding what you’re tasting and why it matters.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

The experience begins at a meeting point in Rethymno, usually around 5:30 pm. From there, you’ll head to the cellar, where your guide will introduce you to the space and its history. As you settle in, the sommelier will begin presenting the wines, describing their individual characteristics in detail—think about notes of fruit, the wine’s body, and its pairing potential.

The wines you taste are some of the finest from Greek vineyards, carefully selected to showcase the diversity of the region. Alongside each pour, you’ll enjoy a range of snacks. Expect a variety of cheeses, crispy rusks, breadsticks, slices of green apple, fresh tomatoes, and a traditional smoked pork called Apaki, cooked with vinsanto wine. These pairings are thoughtfully chosen to complement the wines, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Throughout, your host will share insights into Greek wine history, giving you context that makes each sip more meaningful. The personalized folder adds an educational touch, and the small group size means you have plenty of opportunities for questions and conversation.

The Authentic Charm of the Cellar

Most reviews highlight the cellar’s ambiance as a major highlight. It’s an environment that feels both timeless and intimate. One reviewer described the “imposing” atmosphere, which perfectly sets the tone for a memorable tasting. The combination of history, stone, and water creates a sensory experience that elevates the standard wine tasting.

Along With the tasting, visitors get to explore the cellar, which is more than just a backdrop. It’s an active part of the experience, giving you a glimpse into how wine was stored centuries ago. The setting fosters a relaxed, conversational vibe—more like sharing drinks with friends than attending a formal class.

Price and Value

At roughly $69, this tour offers a lot in terms of quality and atmosphere. It includes several tastings of Greek wines, paired with enough snacks to keep you satisfied. For those who love learning about wines, the detailed commentary by the sommelier adds educational value. Plus, the physical visit to a historic cellar makes it extra special.

When you factor in the intimate setting, the expert guidance, and the historic location, the value feels fair. It’s a decent investment for an authentic taste of Crete’s wine heritage, especially if you’re into local wines and regional food.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently praise the hosts, Rafael and Daniel, for their warmth and knowledge. One reviewer shared, “Our hosts Rafael and Daniel were amazing and delivered an exceptional wine tasting experience. Both my friends and I enjoyed the great selection of wine and food, and the care they took to make our experience memorable.” That kind of personalized attention makes a difference, especially in a small group setting.

Another review appreciated the delicious food, mentioning that the combination of wine and local cheeses was memorable. Multiple visitors highlight the stunning views and the unique environment of the cellar, which adds to the overall charm.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour starts at 5:30 pm at 4, Rethymno 741 31, Greece.
• It lasts just under two hours, making it a manageable evening activity.
• It’s suitable for a maximum of 20 travelers, promoting a more engaging experience.
• The tour is accessible near public transportation, making it easy to reach.
• Confirmations are instant, and you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before.
• Service animals are allowed, which is a thoughtful touch for travelers with pets.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone who enjoys a relaxed, educational outing in a beautiful setting. It’s especially suited to those wanting insight into Greek wines, paired with local foods, in a small, personable group. It might appeal to couples, friends, or solo travelers eager to add a memorable, cultural activity to their Crete itinerary.

If you’re after a lively, boisterous night out, this might not be the best fit. But if you appreciate authenticity, history, and good conversation over wine, this is a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

This 2-hour wine tasting and food pairing in Rethymno offers a well-balanced blend of history, local flavor, and expert guidance. The setting in a 600-year-old cellar amplifies the experience, making each sip feel connected to the past. The thoughtful pairing of wines and snacks makes it a satisfying outing without feeling rushed.

It’s an experience that truly respects the tradition of Greek winemaking while giving visitors an educational and sensory journey. For anyone interested in discovering Crete’s wines in a relaxed environment, this tour is a worthwhile addition to your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is primarily focused on wine tasting, service animals are permitted. However, since it involves alcohol and a historical cellar, it’s best suited for adults.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 5:30 pm and ending back at the meeting point in Rethymno.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get a selection of Greek wines, paired with snacks like cheeses, rusks, breadsticks, green apple, tomato, and Apaki (smoked pork). Each guest also receives a personalized folder with info on Greek wines.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How many people will be in my group?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

Is the location accessible?
Yes, it’s near public transportation and located in a central part of Rethymno.

Are the wines local?
Yes, the wines are carefully selected from Greek vineyards, showcasing regional varieties.

What’s the best time to join this tour?
The evening timing is perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing, and it suits the ambiance of the cellar setting.

If you enjoy uncovering local flavors in authentic settings, this wine and food experience in Crete offers a satisfying blend of history, taste, and education—making it a memorable part of your trip.