Wine Tasting & Open Kitchen Dinner in 17 Mons Vella

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Maltese culture, this Wine Tasting & Open Kitchen Dinner in 17 Mons Vella might just be the experience you’re after. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on glowing reviews and detailed info, it’s shaping up as a memorable evening that blends wine, food, and local stories in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine lover, or just curious about Malta’s culinary scene, this experience could be a highlight of your trip.

What really caught our eye are the seven Maltese and Gozitan wines you’ll sample, including indigenous grapes like Girgentina and Gellewza—an excellent way to explore Malta’s unique wine heritage. Plus, the interactive open kitchen and the chance to enjoy a carefully curated 4-course meal** make this a complete package. The only consideration? It’s a 3-hour, evening experience starting at 7:30 pm, which means it’s best suited for those who enjoy relaxed nights with good food and drinks.

This tour seems perfect for travelers who want a taste of local flavors paired with engaging storytelling and a friendly atmosphere. If you love wine, enjoy discovering local produce, or just want an intimate, well-organized dinner experience in Gozo, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic Maltese wines: Sample seven carefully selected wines, including rare indigenous varieties.
• Gourmet four-course meal: Enjoy a locally sourced, expertly prepared dinner in a cozy setting.
• Interactive experience: Sit in an open kitchen and watch your meal being prepared while learning about Maltese cuisine.
• Relaxed, intimate setting: Limited to 16 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly vibe.
• Great value for the price: Combines wine, food, and storytelling for around $109, offering a well-rounded experience.
• Highly-rated: Consistently received perfect 5-star reviews praising the food, wines, and host.

What You Can Expect from This Experience

A Warm Welcome and Intimate Setting

Your evening begins at Maldonado Bistro in Gozo, where you’ll be greeted in a relaxed, friendly manner. Once everyone arrives, you’ll be taken to a private, air-conditioned hall above the bistro—an ideal spot for a cozy, yet upscale vibe. The small group size (max 16) ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions or chat with fellow travelers.

The Wine Tasting: Seven Maltese and Gozitan Wines

The core of this experience is the wine tasting session, which lasts about an hour. You’ll get to taste seven different wines, carefully chosen from the current wine list, showcasing both local indigenous grapes like Girgentina and Gellewza and the best available Maltese wines. The selection is described as balanced, offering a good mix of styles for those new to Maltese wines or seasoned connoisseurs alike.

Guests often comment on the quality and variety of the wines, with one reviewer noting that the wines were “wonderful,” and another appreciating the “great food and wines.” The tasting is led by the host, George, who’s praised for his entertaining and informative presentation—making the wine experience more than just sipping; it’s a chance to learn about the local wine scene.

The Open Kitchen and 4-Course Meal

After the wine tasting, the focus shifts to the culinary experience—an all-inclusive 4-course dinner prepared right before your eyes. Guests sit comfortably in the open kitchen, where the host and team work to craft each dish, providing a behind-the-scenes look at Maltese cuisine.

The menu includes a starter, second starter, main, and dessert—all made with locally sourced ingredients. You can expect dishes that highlight Malta’s culinary traditions, though specific items aren’t listed. Expect a mixture of flavors that pair well with the wines, creating a well-rounded tasting journey.

Guests rave about the delicious food, often describing it as “tasty” and “excellent.” Several reviews mention the friendly and attentive staff, which adds to the overall warm atmosphere.

The End of the Evening: Coffee and Reflection

To finish, everyone enjoys a hot coffee or tea, which gives you a moment to relax and reflect on the evening’s flavors and stories. Many reviewers mention leaving with a full tummy, happy taste buds, and a warm heart—a sign that this experience is genuinely satisfying.

The Value of This Experience

At around $108.68 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. You’re not just paying for wine tasting; you’re getting a full 3-hour evening of learning, tasting, and dining. The all-inclusive nature means no hidden costs—everything from the wine, food, water, to coffee is included. The fact that all ingredients are locally sourced adds an extra layer of authenticity and supports local producers.

Given the high praise from past guests, who describe the experience as “outstanding in every respect,” it seems like a worthy investment for those wanting a memorable night out with good food, good wine, and engaging hosts.

Who Is It Best For?

This experience suits adults who enjoy wine and food and are interested in local Maltese culture. It’s particularly good for travelers looking for an evening activity that combines education and entertainment without the fuss of large tours or busy restaurants. The intimate atmosphere makes it ideal for couples, friends, or small groups.

Note that participants must be 18 or older to enjoy the wine, so it’s not suitable for families with children. The experience’s timing in the evening also suggests it’s best for those comfortable with a relaxed dinner after a day of sightseeing.

The Itinerary in a Nutshell

• Start at Maldonado Bistro: Gathering point for a warm welcome.
• Private hall: Transition to a cozy, air-conditioned space for the tasting.
• Wine tasting: 7 Maltese and Gozitan wines, with host-led insights.
• Open kitchen: Watch as the chef prepares your 4-course meal.
• Dinner: Enjoy the expertly crafted dishes, paired with wine.
• Final touches: Coffee or tea to wind down.
• End back at the meeting point: No transportation needed, just a short walk or taxi back.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance: The experience is quite popular, usually booked about 32 days out.
• Arrive on time: The tour starts promptly at 7:30 pm.
• Dress smart casual: It’s a relaxed atmosphere but you’ll want to look presentable.
• Bring your curiosity: Be ready to learn and engage with your host and fellow travelers.
• Consider dietary restrictions: The menu is all locally sourced, but if you have allergies or preferences, it’s worth reaching out beforehand.
• Plan your evening: Since the tour lasts about 3 hours, consider timing your day so you’re not rushed afterward.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes. While the experience includes tasting seven wines, non-drinkers can enjoy the food and the atmosphere. You might find the wine tasting optional or choose not to participate, depending on the host’s flexibility.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers a 4-course meal, water, tasting of 7 wines, and coffee or tea at the end—all all-inclusive, so no extra charges.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 16 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Is the experience suitable for families?
No, since alcohol consumption is restricted to those 18 and over, and it’s designed as an adult evening activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at 17 Mons Vella in Ir-Rabat, Gozo.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is appropriate; comfortable but neat clothing will do.

Is transportation provided?
No, you just need to get to and from the meeting point; the experience itself is within walking distance or accessible by taxi.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate evening that combines local wines with a delicious, well-prepared meal, this Wine Tasting & Open Kitchen Dinner in Gozo hits the mark. The glowing reviews reinforce that it’s a well-organized, warm experience led by knowledgeable hosts. It offers a genuine taste of Maltese culture, all in a cozy, friendly setting.

It’s especially suitable if you value quality over quantity, enjoy discovering local flavors, and want a memorable, wine-filled evening without the fuss of large tour groups. Just remember to book ahead, arrive on time, and bring your curiosity—you’re in for a treat.

Happy sipping and tasting in Malta!