Wine Tasting Around the World

A Closer Look at the “Wine Tasting Around the World” Experience

If you’re a wine enthusiast or just someone eager to explore interesting new varietals, the Wine Tasting Around the World tour in California offers a compelling way to expand your palate. Although I haven’t personally taken this tour, the feedback and what it promises make it sound like a memorable and educational experience.

What really caught my eye are two standout features: first, the focus on rare and lesser-known wines from countries like Mexico, Chile, and South Africa—wines you’re unlikely to stumble upon in your local store. Second, the inclusion of creative crafting activities alongside tasting makes this tour more engaging than your average sit-and-sip affair.

One thing to keep in mind is that reservations are a must—you’ll need to call ahead to book your spot, which can be a slight hurdle if you prefer spontaneous plans. Overall, I think this experience suits anyone with an interest in global wines, especially those who enjoy pairing tastings with gourmet snacks and want a more interactive experience.

If you’re curious about discovering unique varietals, gaining insight from a knowledgeable host, and exploring wines from smaller, hard-to-find producers, this tour could be just the thing. Let’s take a closer look at what makes it stand out—and what you should consider before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique Wine Selection: Tastes of eight wines from lesser-known regions and producers.
• Educational & Interactive: Guided by a host who explains the wines’ history, aromas, and tasting notes.
• Gourmet Pairings: Wines are paired with cheeses, dried fruits, nuts, and other gourmet items.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to just 10 participants for a more intimate experience.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve with the option to pay later, but reservations require a call.
• Value for Price: At $60, you’re paying for a curated, educational experience with gourmet pairings and exclusive wines.

The Experience Breakdown

The Setting and Group Size

The tour is designed for small groups—limited to 10 people—which means you won’t be stuck in a large crowd, and the guide can give personalized attention. The intimate setting fosters a relaxed environment where questions are encouraged, and you can really focus on the tasting and learning.

The Wines & Regions

You’ll sample eight wines selected from a list of 24 options, emphasizing rare varietals from top producing countries. These include not only familiar French and Italian wines but also wines from Mexico, Chile, and South Africa that are hard to find in most markets.

This focus is a significant plus because it allows you to taste something different—a great way to broaden your wine horizons beyond the usual Chardonnay or Cabernet. It’s especially appealing if you’re curious about less mainstream options or seeking to expand your wine knowledge.

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Tasting & Pairings

The guide will walk you through the scents, flavors, and history of each wine, helping you understand what makes them unique. Expect to taste 8 different wines, paired with a small platter of 3 to 4 cheeses and other gourmet items like dried fruit, nuts, and olives. The pairings are curated to complement the wines and elevate the tasting experience.

From reviews, people mention that the host, Roman, was very informative and fun, adding to the enjoyment. The pairing can also help you understand how different foods influence the perception of wine—a helpful tip if you’re planning to host your own tastings or just want to appreciate wine more deeply.

The Creative Crafting Activities

While details are limited, the inclusion of creative crafting activities brings an extra layer of engagement. This could involve anything from labeling your own wine bottle to creating a small craft that ties into the tasting theme. It’s a nice way to make the session more memorable and hands-on.

Cost & Value

At $60 per person, this tour is priced reasonably for an educational, guided tasting with gourmet pairings. Considering you’re tasting eight wines from exclusive producers, paired with gourmet snacks, the value is solid, especially given the small group and personalized attention.

Practical Details

• Reservations are essential—call ahead to book, as online booking isn’t specified.
• The tour lasts one day, which makes it easy to fit into a weekend or a day off.
• The activity is wheelchair accessible, which is great for inclusive travel.
• Cancellation is flexible—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

What the Reviews Say

Though only two reviews are available, they both give this experience a perfect 5-star rating. Sharon from the US shared she had “so much fun” and learned “a lot about Amsterdam” (which might be a typo in her review, but perhaps she was referring to the guidance or a different context). She noted that she enjoyed the tasting experience and the group dynamic, highlighting that the guide, Roman, was “very informative and fun.”

This positive feedback suggests you’ll get a friendly, knowledgeable host and a well-organized experience that emphasizes learning and enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts wanting to explore less common varietals from around the world. It’s perfect if you love pairing wine with gourmet snacks and enjoy a small, intimate setting. It also suits those who value educational guidance and are curious about small producers and hidden gems in the wine world.

If you’re traveling in California and looking for something different from the usual vineyard visit, this tour offers a more personalized, curated, and engaging alternative.

Final Thoughts

The Wine Tasting Around the World tour offers a curated journey through lesser-known wines, paired thoughtfully with gourmet snacks, all within a cozy small-group environment. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to expand their wine knowledge without the hefty price tag or the crowds.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking a large, lively group or a heavy focus on wine production education, it hits the mark for curious wine lovers looking to try something new and memorable. The flexibility in booking and the intimate setting make it accessible and inviting, especially if you’re eager to deepen your appreciation of global wines.

If you’re someone who appreciates quality over quantity, and enjoys discovering hidden wine treasures, this tour is worth considering—even if you’re only in California for a short stay.

FAQ

Do I need to call to make a reservation?
Yes, reservations must be made by calling ahead. Online booking isn’t specified, so a quick phone call is the way to go to secure your spot.

What’s included in the price?
For $60, you get to taste eight different wines from a list of 24 options, paired with a small platter of cheeses, dried fruit, nuts, olives, and other gourmet items. It’s a well-rounded experience with food and drink.

Are the wines from well-known producers?
No, the tour focuses on small, lesser-known producers from countries like Mexico, Chile, South Africa, France, and Italy. These are not typically found in most markets, adding an element of exclusivity.

How many people will be in my group?
The experience is limited to 10 participants, fostering a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

What makes this experience different from a regular wine tasting?
Beyond the focus on rare varietals, the tour offers creative crafting activities and guided insights into lesser-known wines, making it a more engaging and educational experience.

Is this experience good for beginners?
Absolutely. The guided approach and focus on scents, flavors, and history make it friendly for newcomers eager to learn about wine in a relaxed setting.

If you’re looking to discover interesting wines from around the globe without leaving California and enjoy a more personalized experience, this tour could be just right. Keep in mind the reservation requirement and the focus on small, exclusive producers—it’s a thoughtful way to spend a day tasting, learning, and maybe even discovering your new favorite wine.

You can check availability for your dates here: