Historical Tastings at the Iconic Rockingham

If you’re into combining history, food, wine, and a bit of ghostly mystique, then this Historical Tastings Tour at Portsmouth’s famous Rockingham Hotel might just catch your eye. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve dug into what it offers, and it sounds like a unique blend of local culture and culinary delight. It’s designed for those who love a good story as much as a good glass of wine, and it’s ideal whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a small group.

What really caught my attention is the way the tour pairs fine dining appetizers with locally crafted wines and spirits—a perfect setup for anyone who appreciates the nuances of regional beverages alongside a tasty bite. Plus, the added layer of history and architecture makes it more than just a wine tasting; it’s an experience steeped in Portsmouth’s past. One thing to keep in mind: because it involves alcohol, it’s best suited for adults over 21, and it’s a good fit if you’re craving something relaxed but informative.

However, a possible consideration is the tour’s duration and pace—about an hour and a half—so if you’re expecting a lengthy, in-depth exploration, this might lean more toward a cozy, curated experience rather than a deep dive into Portsmouth’s entire history. Still, for those looking for a fun, engaging way to spend an afternoon or early evening, this could be a perfect choice.

This tour is particularly well-suited for foodies, wine lovers, and history buffs, especially if you’re seeking something with a local flavor. If you enjoy learning about architecture, jazz connections, or ghost stories alongside tasting excellent drinks, you’ll probably find this a memorable outing.

Key Points

• Interesting pairing of local wines and spirits with gourmet appetizers
• Takes place inside the historic Rockingham Hotel, offering a glimpse into Portsmouth’s past
• Guided by friendly local experts in wine, history, and architecture
• Private tours available for groups up to 20, perfect for small gatherings or corporate events
• Includes a mix of storytelling, architecture, ghost tales, and tastings
• Cost is $80 per person, which offers a balanced experience of food, drink, and history

What Exactly Is the Tour?

The Historical Tastings at the Rockingham is a blend of culinary sampling, local history, and architecture, all wrapped into a 90-minute experience. The setting, the Rockingham Hotel, is an icon in Portsmouth, dating back to 1785, so you’re stepping into a building brimming with stories—some possibly haunted, as the tour includes ghost tales in its narrative.

The tour kicks off at 401 State Street, a central location that’s easy to find, and it finishes back there, making logistics straightforward. What sets this apart is the curated combination of three tasting courses prepared by Chef Cody Finch, paired with locally crafted wines and spirits. These aren’t just random sips; each is thoughtfully chosen to complement the appetizers and enhance your understanding of New Hampshire’s beverage scene.

You’ll also learn about the building’s architecture, its ties to jazz, and even explore underground tunnels, adding a dash of intrigue to the experience. The guides, including a historian and beverage experts like Paul Marino, keep the stories engaging and fact-based, making history accessible and fun.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Once inside the historic Rockingham, you’ll quickly realize that this isn’t a typical wine tasting. The chef’s five-star appetizers are carefully selected, each bite designed to elevate the tasting experience. Expect small but flavorful courses—think delicate bites that showcase Portsmouth’s culinary creativity, all served in a setting that speaks to its long-standing significance.

You’ll be guided through three tastings, each paired with a different wine or spirit from the local NH scene. Paul Marino, the local wine expert, will walk you through the nuances of regional wines, giving you insights that turn a sip into a story. Meanwhile, the house historian, Cassandra, or her colleagues, will share tales that range from grandiose to grim, including ghost stories that add a slightly spooky edge.

The architecture of the building is a highlight—its well-preserved features and external design speak volumes about its age and importance. You might also get a glimpse of the underground tunnels, which add an air of mystery and curiosity. The historical anecdotes span from the building’s origins, its connections to jazz, and its role in Portsmouth’s social fabric.

While some reviews mention the “delicious food and wine”, others note the “interesting stories about ghosts and architecture”—highlighting that the experience is as much about the ambiance and storytelling as the tastings themselves.

The Practical Side: Price, Group Size, and Accessibility

At $80 per person, this tour feels fairly priced given the combination of fine dining, local beverages, and expert-guided stories. It’s not the cheapest option in town, but considering the quality of food and drink, plus the intimate group size (a maximum of 20), it offers good value for a well-rounded experience.

Since private tours are available for larger groups (up to 20), it’s a nice option for small gatherings, couples, or even corporate events. The tour is conducted in English, and accommodations for dietary restrictions such as vegetarian or gluten-free options can be requested. Restrooms are available, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for most travelers.

The tour is designed for most travelers, but obviously, it’s best suited for those who enjoy wine, history, local stories, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s not aimed at kids, given the alcohol component and mature themes.

What Are the Downsides?

The main thing to keep in mind is that the duration is relatively short—about 90 minutes—so if you’re looking for a more in-depth historical tour or a full evening activity, you might find this a bit light. Also, since the tour involves alcohol, it’s not suitable for under 21s, although non-alcoholic drinks are available for younger or non-drinking participants.

Some reviews, though limited, suggest that the experience might feel a bit curated or scripted, but for most, the engaging storytelling and high-quality food make up for that. As with any small-group experience, it’s important to book in advance, especially since on average, people plan about a month ahead.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re a foodie who loves local wines and spirits, this is a delightful way to spend an afternoon or early evening in Portsmouth. The blend of history, architecture, and ghost stories makes it more than just a tasting—it’s a chance to learn about the city’s past while enjoying excellent food and drinks.

For those who appreciate small, intimate groups with knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a relaxed, engaging setting. It’s also great if you’re traveling with someone who enjoys a mix of culture and cuisine without a long commitment.

However, if you’re after a deep historical exploration or have limited interest in alcohol, you might want to consider other options. This experience is best suited for adults who want a fun, informative, and tasty snapshot of Portsmouth’s heritage.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
Since alcohol is served only to those 21 and over, minors will only be offered non-alcoholic drinks. The experience centers around adult beverages, so it’s not ideal for kids.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change unexpectedly.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 90 minutes, which is perfect for a relaxed, quick outing without feeling rushed.

Are private tours available?
Yes, private tours are offered for groups up to 20, making it a nice choice for small parties or corporate outings.

What type of food is served?
You’ll enjoy three courses of fine dining appetizers from a renowned chef, designed to complement the wines and spirits being tasted.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 401 State Street, Portsmouth, NH, which is a convenient and central location.

In all, this tour offers a well-balanced look at Portsmouth’s past through the lens of local gastronomy and storytelling. If you’re visiting the area and want a tasteful, engaging activity that combines history and hospitality, this could be just what you’re looking for.