Rhodes Wine & Food Tour: 10 Meal Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class

Exploring Rhodes becomes even more flavorful with the Rhodes Wine & Food Tour, a half-day adventure that combines vineyard and distillery visits, a hands-on cooking class, and an indulgent 10-course Greek lunch with unlimited wine. Priced at $90.56 per person, this well-reviewed experience offers a rich taste of local culture and cuisine in just about 4 hours.

This tour is perfect for those interested in Greek wines, authentic culinary experiences, and beautifully scenic locations. With round-trip transfers included and a certified sommelier guiding the wine tasting, it balances education and relaxation. However, potential visitors should note that wines cannot be shipped home, and the tour is best suited for those comfortable with some walking and a moderate pace.

Key Points

• Includes a vineyard and distillery tour with detailed explanations of wine, souma, and tsipouro production
• Enjoy a wine tasting guided by a certified sommelier, with insight into vinification processes
• Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Greek dishes
• Indulge in a 10-course Greek meal with unlimited wine for a generous lunch experience
• Round-trip transfers are provided in air-conditioned vehicles, simplifying logistics
• Designed for most travelers, with good weather required for outdoor activities

Rhodes Vineyard and Distillery Tour Starts with an Engaging Vineyard Walk

The tour begins at a small, family-owned vineyard located on the beautiful island of Rhodes. Upon arrival, the intimate group of travelers is welcomed by the host, often Jason, who is praised for being knowledgeable and friendly. The vineyard walk offers a chance to see grapevines close-up and learn about the local grape varieties and harvesting practices.

The guide explains the wine production process, giving insights into Greek viticulture that emphasize the unique aspects of Rhodes’ wine culture. The experience is relaxed yet informative, making it accessible for all levels of wine enthusiasts. The scenic setting and family-owned atmosphere frequently earn praise, with many describing it as warm and welcoming.

Inside the Distillery: From Molasses to Souma and Tsipouro

After the vineyard tour, visitors enter a local distillery to see how souma and tsipouro are made. This part of the tour highlights the fermentation and distillation processes that transform molasses into traditional Greek spirits. Watching the distillation process in action adds a hands-on dimension to the experience, offering a deeper understanding of Greece’s spirit-making craftsmanship.

Guides explain the differences between the spirits and how they are enjoyed locally, enriching the tasting session that follows. Several reviews note that the explanations are detailed and engaging, helping visitors appreciate the art of spirit production while sampling. The authentic atmosphere and insider knowledge stand out as major highlights.

Wine Tasting with a Certified Sommelier

The wine tasting occurs after the distillery visit, where a certified sommelier guides the group through a sensory analysis of the onsite wines. Expect to sample a selection of Greek wines, which are often described as delicious and well-curated. The sommelier explains vinification techniques and how production methods influence flavor.

Guests frequently praise the expert guidance and the opportunity to tast the wines at their peak in a focused, educational setting. The experience is both relaxing and informative, giving a deeper appreciation for Greek wines beyond just drinking. The scenic vineyard backdrop adds to the overall enjoyment of the tasting.

Interactive Cooking Class in a Greek Setting

Next, the tour shifts to a cooking lesson led by a local chef or host. This part of the experience is described as fun and educational, with participants learning to prepare classic Greek dishes like dolmades and tzatziki sauce. Reviewers note that the cooking involves assembling pre-prepared ingredients and rolling dolmades, making it accessible for all skill levels.

The cooking station is often set outdoors or in a rustic kitchen, with friendly instruction that encourages participation. Although some reviews mention that the dishes are pre-prepared and not cooked from scratch for each guest, the overall hands-on approach and authentic recipes make it a memorable part of the tour.

Savoring a 10-Course Greek Meal with Unlimited Wine

The final highlight is a generous 10-course Greek meal served family-style, with unlimited wine flowing throughout. The meal features a variety of meze dishes, salads, and mains, including favorites like meatballs and dolmades. Guests frequently mention the abundance of food and excellent wine selection as standout features.

The lunch provides a relaxed, convivial atmosphere, perfect for socializing and enjoying the scenic vineyard views. Several reviews describe the lunch as the highlight of the experience, calling it “the best meal in Greece” and “a feast for the senses”. The unlimited wine flows freely, with many appreciating the quality of the local wines served.

Round-Trip Transfers and Practical Details

All round-trip transportation is included, with air-conditioned vehicles collecting guests from designated locations. The pickup service is convenient, with detailed instructions sent via email the day before. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to enjoy the experience comfortably.

The experience is designed to fit into a 4-hour window, making it a manageable half-day activity. Visitors should note that good weather is essential, as outdoor vineyard and cooking activities are part of the tour. The tour can be booked 48 days in advance on average, which is ideal for planning ahead.

The Unique Charm of a Small, Family-Owned Vineyard

Many reviews emphasize the personal touch and family atmosphere of this tour. The host, often Jason, is praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. Guests love the small group feel, which fosters a relaxed environment where questions and interactions are welcomed.

The scenic setting and authentic production methods contribute to the tour’s charm. Visitors often remark that the experience feels genuine, with cultural insights delivered in a warm, approachable manner. This aspect makes the tour particularly appealing to those seeking a personalized and informative experience**.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Rhodes Experiences

Compared to broader sightseeing tours, this experience focuses intensely on wine, food, and local craftsmanship. The combination of vineyard touring, spirits explanation, wine tasting, and Greek cooking offers a comprehensive taste of Rhodes’ culinary heritage.

The 10-course lunch with unlimited wine provides exceptional value, with many reviewers calling it the best meal they had in Greece. The small group size, expert guides, and authentic recipes distinguish this tour as a rich, immersive experience that combines education, culture, and culinary delight.

The Sum Up: A Flavorful and Authentic Rhodes Experience

The Rhodes Wine & Food Tour stands out as a well-rounded half-day activity that delivers local wine, spirits, and cuisine in a scenic setting. Its small-group approach and knowledgeable guides make it perfect for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those curious about Greek traditions.

While the lunch’s abundance and quality are major selling points, the pre-prepared dishes and inability to ship wine home are minor limitations to consider. This tour offers genuine insights into Greek viticulture and culinary practices and creates a warm, convivial atmosphere.

The tour offers excellent value and an authentic taste of Rhodes that many visitors rate 5 stars, making it a highly recommended addition to any itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers in air-conditioned vehicles are included, making logistics simple.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours.

Can I book this tour last minute?
It is usually booked around 48 days in advance, but confirmation can be obtained if booked within 1 day, subject to availability.

Are spirits like souma and tsipouro included?
Yes, the distillery visit showcases how these spirits are made, and they are sampled during the tasting.

Is the food prepared fresh during the cooking class?
The dishes involve assembling pre-prepared ingredients, and some dishes like dolmades are not cooked in the class.

Are drinks unlimited during lunch?
Yes, wine is served freely throughout the 10-course meal.

Can I ship wine home?
Wine cannot be shipped directly from the tour, mainly due to high shipping costs; the suggestion is to bring an extra piece of luggage.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate; however, good weather is recommended since outdoor activities are involved.

What is the cost of the tour?
The price is $90.56 per person.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of vineyard visits, spirits production, wine tasting, and a substantial Greek lunch creates a comprehensive and authentic experience highly rated by participants.