St Julian’s is known for its vibrant nightlife and lively atmosphere, but it’s also a surprisingly good spot for wine enthusiasts. The area’s wine scene combines local Maltese flavors with a cosmopolitan vibe, making it an ideal place for memorable tastings or relaxing evenings. We particularly like the Maltese Wine Tasting with Local Cheeses & Cured Hams, which offers a chance to savor Malta’s unique wine heritage in a charming setting — plus, pairing local wines with cheeses and cured meats makes for an authentic experience. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a lively night out, the St. Julian’s – Jazz Live Band with Wine & Charcuterie promises a sophisticated evening filled with soulful music and good wine by the bay. Both options showcase different sides of St Julian’s and highlight its lively, welcoming spirit.
In this guide, we’ll explore two standout tours: a guided wine tasting that delves into Maltese wines paired with local bites, and a jazz-filled evening with wine and charcuterie. Each offers a distinct way to enjoy the local scene — whether you want to learn about Malta’s winemaking or simply unwind with some music and drinks. Read on to find the best experience for your trip.
1. Maltese Wine Tasting with Local Cheeses & Cured Hams
At number 1 on our list, this 1.5-hour guided wine tasting experience provides a perfect introduction to Malta’s wine culture. Held in a cozy venue in St. Julian’s, it features tasting of 6 local wines paired with cheeses and cured hams — a true flavor of Malta. Your guide is an expert who shares insights about Malta’s winemaking history, which makes each sip more meaningful. This tour is perfect if you’re curious about local flavors but also want a relaxed, intimate setting.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on Malta’s unique terroir—every wine reflects the land, climate, and craftsmanship behind it. The venue itself is charming, and the small-group setting ensures you can ask plenty of questions while sampling. The highlights include discovering the aromas and characteristics of each wine, and learning about Malta’s centuries-old winemaking traditions. The tasting is well-balanced, offering good value for the € price, especially considering the quality and depth of information provided.
This tour is ideal for wine lovers who want to combine education with tasting in a friendly atmosphere. It’s also accessible for most travelers, as it’s wheelchair friendly and doesn’t require a long time commitment. The only downside? You’ll need to be over 18 to join, which makes it unsuitable for younger travelers.
Bottom Line: This guided wine tasting combines local Maltese wines with authentic pairing and expert insight, making it a top choice for those seeking a relaxed, educational experience.
2. St. Julian’s – Jazz Live Band with Wine & Charcuterie
For a different type of evening, the Jazz Live Band experience offers a 2.5-hour night of soulful music, flowing wine, and shared charcuterie boards. Hosted at the stylish Spinola Lounge, this tour provides a sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere right by the bay. Once you settle into the elegant setting, you’ll enjoy performances by the Route 66 Band, whose jazz rhythms create the perfect backdrop for unwinding.
This evening combines free-flowing wine with generous sharing platters of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments, making it suitable for anyone who appreciates good music and good drinks. The venue’s ambiance is refined but relaxed, attracting both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a classy night out. The experience is designed for those who want a more social, entertainment-focused evening rather than a structured tasting.
Guests tend to appreciate the lively music and the quality of the wine, with many describing it as “a relaxed, enjoyable night in a stylish setting.” The main appeal is the combination of live jazz and the opportunity to sip wine in a cozy, scenic environment. While the experience is a bit longer and more upscale, it’s great value for those wanting an evening of entertainment and good company.
Bottom Line: Perfect for jazz lovers or anyone wanting a stylish, relaxed evening by the bay with free-flowing wine and top-notch live music.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two options, consider your interests and the kind of experience you’re after. If you’re eager to learn about Malta’s indigenous wines and enjoy pairing them with local cheeses, the Maltese Wine Tasting with Local Cheeses & Cured Hams offers an educational, flavorful journey. For a more social night with music and a lively atmosphere, the Jazz Live Band with Wine & Charcuterie provides an elegant, relaxing setting to unwind.
Think about your schedule and budget: the wine tasting tour is shorter and more focused on tasting and learning, while the jazz night is longer, with live entertainment and a more festive vibe. Both are accessible and won’t take up your entire evening, so choose based on whether you want a learning experience or an atmospheric night out.
Final Thoughts
St Julian’s offers a surprising variety of wine experiences that cater to different tastes. For those looking to deepen their understanding of Malta’s wine traditions, the guided wine tasting is a perfect pick. It offers a chance to savor local wines paired with regional specialties in a friendly environment. If you’re after a lively, stylish night with music and drinks, the jazz evening at Spinola Lounge is a wonderful way to relax and enjoy the ambiance.
Booking early is always wise, especially during peak season, to secure your spot in these popular experiences. Whether you prefer to learn, listen to jazz, or do both, there’s a wine tour in St Julian’s that will suit your style.
Ready to make your choice? Both tours offer authentic ways to enjoy Malta’s vibrant scene — so pick your favorite and raise a glass to a memorable trip.