Malia: Food and wine pairing at Avli restaurant

Discover the Unique Food and Wine Pairing Experience at Avli Malia

The food and wine pairing at Avli restaurant in Malia offers a sophisticated taste of Greek and Cretan flavors within a compact 2-hour session. Priced at $77 per person, this experience features five meticulously curated courses, each paired with wines from local Greek vineyards. Guided by a certified Sommelier, this tour balances culinary artistry with expert wine knowledge.

The setting is seated at the restaurant area, ensuring comfort and intimacy, while the reservation process grants priority access. This experience suits those eager to explore contemporary Greek wine alongside original, flavorful dishes. Keep in mind, transportation is not included, so plan accordingly to arrive at the meeting point near St Nektarios church in Malia old town.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $77 per person for a 2-hour guided tasting
• Includes 5 Courses: Each course paired with a 75ml wine glass; dessert with 40ml of dessert wine
• Guided by an Expert: Led by a certified Sommelier providing detailed wine and food explanations
• Location and Setup: Seating in the restaurant area with priority reservations
• Taste Local Vines: Focus on wines from Greek and Cretan vineyards that reflect the modern wine scene
• Limited Exclusions: Does not include transportation, and certain groups like minors and pregnant women are not suited

Starting Point at Agiou Ioannou in Malia Old Town

The tour begins at Agiou Ioannou 2, near the entrance to Malia’s old town and close to St Nektarios church. This central location makes it easy to find and access, with the separate entrance helping you skip the lines. The meeting point is straightforward, and the experience runs for exactly 2 hours from the reservation time.

Travelers should arrive on time; there is a 15-minute grace period if you’re running late. Once inside, the seating area offers a comfortable setting designed for tasting. Since transportation isn’t included, visitors should plan how to get there in advance.

The Guided Experience with a Certified Sommelier

The certified Sommelier leads the session, providing in-depth explanations about each dish and its wine pairing. This guidance helps clarify the harmonious relationship between food and wine, highlighting how the five courses combine flavors and textures. The Sommelier also shares insights into Greek wine culture, particularly from Cretan vineyards, showcasing the contemporary wine scene.

Throughout the experience, the Sommelier maintains an engaging approach, ensuring everyone understands the significance of each pairing. Their expertise enhances the appreciation of local wines and food traditions, making the tasting as educational as it is enjoyable.

The Five-Course Tasting Menu in Detail

The menu begins with a welcome amuse bouche, paired with a 75ml glass of wine from the collection. This opening sets a refined tone for the entire experience. Next, a fresh salad is served with another 75ml glass, emphasizing light, crisp flavors. The third course is a starter, paired similarly, introducing more complex tastes.

The main course continues the pairing journey, with the wine carefully chosen to complement richer flavors. The final dessert course is matched with a 40ml glass of dessert wine, offering a sweet finish that highlights the modern Greek wine scene. All wines are selected from Greek or Cretan vineyards, ensuring an authentic regional experience.

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The Focus on Greek and Cretan Vineyards

Each wine served is specifically chosen from either Cretan or broader Greek vineyards. These wines are designed to outline the contemporary scene, displaying both traditional and modern styles. The 75ml glasses are ample enough to appreciate the wine’s nuances, and the dessert wine in a 40ml pour balances sweetness with the meal.

Attendees get the chance to sample different labels, learn about wine production in Greece, and understand how these wines pair with local flavors. This focus on regional wines makes the experience particularly meaningful for wine enthusiasts seeking to deepen their knowledge of Greek viniculture.

Seating and Reservation Priority at Avli Restaurant

The seating arrangement takes place in the restaurant area, providing a comfortable environment for the tasting. The tour includes priority reservation, meaning participants avoid long waits and secure a good spot.

The restaurant staff offers high-level service, ensuring that each course arrives smoothly and that your glass is always filled. The reserved seating contributes to a relaxed atmosphere, fostering conversation and appreciation for the food and wines.

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

This experience is not suitable for pregnant women, minors under 17, or individuals with certain dietary restrictions such as food allergies, lactose intolerance, or nut allergies. Mobility impairments are also a concern, as the tour is designed for seated dining within the restaurant.

Assistance dogs are permitted, but electric wheelchairs, non-folding wheelchairs, or bare feet are not allowed inside. Transportation is not provided, so plan your arrival accordingly.

The Experience’s Pacing and Duration

The 2-hour duration offers a balanced pace, allowing enough time to enjoy each course without feeling rushed. The timing aligns with the guided explanations, making it suitable for those who appreciate a leisurely culinary journey. The reservation checks ensure that each group has a dedicated space, adding a layer of exclusivity.

Cost-Effective and Focused on Regional Flavors

Priced at $77 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to enjoy five courses paired with wines from Greece’s top vineyards. The focus on local wines and Cretan flavors gives it an authentic edge, especially for wine lovers eager to learn about Greece’s modern viniculture.

Since transportation isn’t included, it suits visitors who are already in Malia or nearby. The experience is well-suited for those interested in gourmet food and regional wines, or anyone seeking a refined yet accessible culinary activity during their stay.

Final Thoughts on the Avli Food and Wine Pairing Tour

This food and wine pairing in Malia stands out with its expert guidance and focused regional selection. The intimate setting, combined with high-quality service and carefully curated dishes, makes it a memorable experience for lovers of fine food and wine.

While not suitable for minors or those with specific dietary restrictions, it offers great value for those wanting to explore Greek wines and Cretan cuisine in a relaxed environment. The priority reservation and professional guidance ensure a smooth and educational journey into Greece’s culinary scene.

If you enjoy learning about local wines, tasting expertly paired dishes, and supporting regional producers, this tour provides an authentic, flavorful experience that complements any trip to Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation is not included. Travelers need to arrange their own way to the meeting point at Agiou Ioannou 2, Malia old town.

How many courses are served during the experience?
There are five courses total, each paired with a 75ml glass of wine; the dessert course is paired with a 40ml glass of dessert wine.

Can minors participate in this wine and food pairing?
No, the experience is not suitable for those under 17 years old.

Is the experience suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are not allowed to participate due to alcohol consumption.

What languages are offered during the tour?
The tour is conducted in English and Greek.

What is the cancellation policy?
Clients can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear or bring?
Since the experience is seated within the restaurant, casual attire is fine. No specific items are required, but arriving on time is recommended.

Are there any dietary restrictions accepted?
The tour does not accommodate people with food allergies, lactose intolerance, or nut allergies.

How long does the tasting last?
The entire experience lasts exactly 2 hours from the reservation time.

Is there a limit to the group size?
The data does not specify, but the reservation system and setting suggest small, intimate groups for personalized guidance.

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