Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie, and Dessert

Discovering Denver’s Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie, and Dessert

If you’re looking into a wine tasting experience in Denver, this tour offers a cozy peek into a family-owned vineyard’s offerings, paired with some well-chosen snacks. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a relaxed, informative outing that combines wine, tasty bites, and a friendly atmosphere.

What immediately appeals to us are the intimate setting—sitting down in one of Denver’s trendiest wineries—and the chance to learn about the wines from a knowledgeable host. Plus, the pairing of four different wine varietals with cheeses and charcuterie sounds like a delightful way to spend an hour.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews suggest the experience may feel a bit light on the educational side or not quite worth the price for everyone. If you’re hoping for an in-depth wine class, this might not fully satisfy that craving.

This tour is perfect for couples on a date night, friends wanting to share a relaxed tasting, or anyone curious about local wines in Denver without a lengthy commitment. It’s a taste of the city’s wine scene, with some delicious snacks thrown in.

Key Points

• Intimate and Accessible: Small groups (max 20) make for a friendly, personable environment.
• Educational and Tasty: Learn about the wines and enjoy carefully curated pairings.
• Great Location: Situated in a trendy Denver neighborhood, easy to access by public transport.
• Quality Over Quantity: Four tastings and snacks provide a satisfying experience, not a full meal.
• Cost-Considerate: At $74 per person, it’s a fair price for the experience, but some reviews note it could feel limited.
• Ideal for Relaxed Visitors: Perfect for those wanting a low-key, informative session rather than a party atmosphere.

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tasting tour takes place at Blanchard Family Wines, located at 1855 Blake St in Denver’s vibrant LoDo district. The venue itself is in a cool alleyway, surrounded by other bars and eateries, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the neighborhood. The small setting creates a cozy vibe, encouraging conversation and a laid-back attitude.

Once you arrive, your host will guide you through the four different wine varietals from the family-owned vineyard. According to reviews, the staff is friendly and knowledgeable—one guest specifically mentioned how Joe was great at recommending wines and sharing insights, which added a lot to the experience.

You’ll start with a brief explanation of each wine, helping you understand what sets them apart and why high-elevation wines often stand out in flavor. The wines are paired with a personal charcuterie board—crackers, pickles, olives, and nuts—along with a selection of cheeses. Some reviews pointed out that the charcuterie was notably good, offering a satisfying complement to the wines.

If you’re in the mood for dessert, you’ll have the option to choose between artisan chocolates, macaroons, or cake pops. The desserts are small, but many guests find them perfectly sweet and enjoyable after the wine and snacks. One reviewer praised the macarons as a highlight, describing them as “delicious.”

What to Expect During the Tour

The experience is roughly an hour long, making it ideal for a quick yet enjoyable escape. You’ll meet at Blanchard Family Wines and start with your host’s brief rundown of the wines on offer. The focus is on tasting and appreciating the nuances of each varietal, rather than a comprehensive wine education.

As you sip and nibble, you’re encouraged to ask questions—many reviewers appreciated the friendly and laid-back tone of their guides. It’s a nice touch that the experience feels personalized without any pressure to be a wine connoisseur.

The portion of the experience involving the charcuterie and cheese is a broader highlight, with some reviewers noting the quality and variety of the meats and cheeses. You get a pretty generous charcuterie board, which makes the tasting feel more substantial without being a full meal.

The Price and Value

At $74 per person, this experience sits at a moderate price point for a guided tasting with snacks. Some reviews suggest that the experience is a bit light on the quantity of food or the depth of information—one guest felt the desserts were tiny and not quite enough for a full dessert experience. Others, however, enjoyed the overall value, especially considering the friendly service, quality wines, and the exclusive setting.

It’s also worth noting that the tasting includes four varietals, which is a fair number for such a short session. Some reviews mention that you might wish for a bit more detailed storytelling or a broader selection, but for most, it hits the right balance of relaxation and education.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 20 travelers, the size remains intimate enough for personal interaction. Multiple guests commented on how friendly and professional their hosts were—one highlighting Joe’s expertise and recommendations. The small group setting fosters a comfortable environment to ask questions or just enjoy the company.

Accessibility and Logistics

The meeting point at Blanchard Wines is easy to reach, especially if you’re familiar withDenver’s public transportation. The tour is mobile ticketed, so you can easily show your ticket on your phone. The experience ends back at the same spot, making it simple to continue your Denver explorations afterward.

The Downsides

While many enjoyed the experience, some found it lacking in the “educational” aspect they anticipated. A couple of reviews pointed out that they didn’t feel the wines were particularly special or worth the cost, describing it more as a relaxed wine bar visit rather than a deep dive into wine production or history.

Plus, the desserts received mixed reviews—some found the chocolates and treats to be small and not very substantial. If you’re hoping for a full-fledged dessert experience, you might want to plan for additional snacks elsewhere.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tasting suits those wanting a casual, friendly, and intimate introduction to Denver’s local wines. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who prefer a relaxed pace over a high-pressure wine class. If your main focus is learning about wines in depth, or if you’re looking for a large, elaborate tasting, this might not be your best option.

It’s also perfect if you’re in Denver for a short visit and want a quick but meaningful experience without committing to a full day of winery touring. The location, price, and group size make it accessible and manageable, especially if you’re exploring LoDo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for children or minors?
This tour is designed for adults, given the focus on wine tasting and accompanying snacks. It’s not recommended for children or minors.

Can I cancel the booking if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately one hour, making it a perfect quick outing without taking up your whole afternoon.

Is transportation provided or needed?
Transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included, but the venue is near public transit, making it easy to access.

What’s included in the price?
You get four wine tastings, a charcuterie board, cheese, and a selection of desserts like chocolates or macaroons.

Is this experience educational?
It offers some insight into the wines from a knowledgeable host, but it’s more of a tasting experience than a structured wine class.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 20, which promotes a friendly and intimate environment.

Final Thoughts

This Denver wine tasting experience offers a comfortable, approachable way to sample local wines paired with tasty snacks. With friendly staff and a cozy setting, it’s especially suited for those wanting a relaxed, social outing rather than a formal wine education. While it might not satisfy someone craving a detailed wine course or a large food portion, it delivers on charm, flavor, and good company.

The value is fair for the price, especially considering the quality of wines and the personalized attention from the hosts. If you’re visiting Denver and looking for a short, enjoyable escape to explore local viticulture, this tour could be just what you’re after. Just keep in mind the limitations—some guests noted the experience could be more substantial or educational—and plan accordingly if that’s what you’re seeking.