Amsterdam: Dutch Wine Tasting with Sommelier

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and looking to expand your appreciation for local flavors, a Dutch wine tasting might surprise you. This experience, offered in the heart of the city, invites wine enthusiasts of all levels to explore five carefully selected Dutch wines, guided by a friendly and expert sommelier. It’s an intimate, relaxed journey into what Dutch winemakers are producing today—far from the commercialized wine scenes you might expect.

What we genuinely love about this tour is how it combines education with enjoyment: you’ll master tasting techniques while discovering the nuances of wines made right here in the Netherlands. Plus, the cozy speakeasy-style tasting room lends a chic yet unpretentious vibe that makes learning about wine feel like a casual conversation among friends.

One thing to keep in mind is that the experience isn’t suited for everyone—party groups and those with mobility impairments should consider other options. But for curious travelers eager to try something authentic, engaging, and a little different, this tour is a smart pick. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate good wine and want to learn about Dutch craftsmanship in a friendly setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch wines: Curated selection from local winemakers.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable sommelier personalizes the experience.
• Relaxed atmosphere: Intimate speakeasy setting perfect for learning and socializing.
• Tasty accompaniments: Fresh bread from a top Amsterdam bakery enhances the tasting.
• Flexible expertise level: Suitable for novices and experienced wine lovers alike.
• Affordable and well-rated: Cost of $54 offers great value based on reviews and quality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Dutch Wine Tasting Experience?

Amsterdam’s reputation for vibrant cafes and historic sights often overshadows its emerging wine scene. Yet, for those willing to explore beyond the typical, this tasting offers a window into the underground world of Dutch wines—an area many travelers overlook but one that’s gaining recognition for quality and uniqueness.

The tour’s setting in a speakeasy-style tasting room contributes to its allure. Tucked away from the bustling streets, this hidden gem creates an intimate environment where you can focus on the wines, ask questions, and really savor each sip. Guided by a knowledgeable sommelier, your experience will be both educational and fun, not overly formal or stuffy—a big plus for travelers who prefer a relaxed approach to learning.

At about $54 per person for 1.5 to 2 hours, the tour offers solid value considering the quality of wines and personal attention involved. It’s a great choice for those who want to taste local wines without the hefty price tag of high-end wine tours elsewhere.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The experience begins as you enter the Design & Wijn shop, the meeting point for the tour. If the door is closed, don’t hesitate to ring the bell—this discreet entrance adds to the speakeasy vibe. Once inside, you’ll meet your English, Dutch, or German-speaking guide who will introduce you to the layout and what’s ahead.

The core of the tour involves tasting five Dutch wines, each sourced from local winemakers committed to quality and craft. You’ll sample a variety of styles, including white, rosé, orange, and red wines. The selection is thoughtfully curated to showcase the diversity of Dutch viticulture, from more common varieties to rare and limited editions—some with only around 300 bottles in existence.

Throughout the tasting, your sommelier will explain the distinct characteristics of each wine, including how they’re made, their flavor profiles, and what makes Dutch wines special. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and passionate guides elevate the experience. For example, one reviewer states, “Diederik was a fantastic host with lots of knowledge and passion,” making the session feel both educational and personal.

Food pairing is also a highlight. You’ll be served freshly baked bread from Brothers Niemeijer, which perfectly complements the wines. Several reviews praise the quality and flavor of the bread, describing it as “delectable” and “fitting well with the wines.” There’s also the option to purchase additional bites, turning this into a more substantial tasting if you wish.

Interactive elements—like the Spotify playlist QR codes on the wine bottles—add a modern twist, setting the mood and increasing in tempo as the tasting progresses. This creative touch has been well-received, making the experience memorable and engaging.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

Intimate Setting and Personal Attention

The small group size or even private sessions mean you’ll get one-on-one attention from your guide. Reviewers mention how D was “very attentive” and took time to ensure everyone was comfortable with what they were tasting.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authentic Dutch Wines

This tour isn’t about mass-produced wines; it’s a chance to try exclusive Dutch wines, some of which are produced in very limited quantities. As one reviewer states, “We sampled five exclusive Dutch wines, one of which had only about 300 bottles.” Such rarity makes for a special tasting experience.

Educational Engagement

Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned enthusiast, the guide tailors the discussion to your level. Expect to learn not just about tasting techniques but also about the unique qualities of Dutch wines—a little-known treasure in European wine circles.

Delicious Food Pairings

The freshly baked bread from a renowned bakery elevates the tasting. Many reviews emphasize how well the bread paired with the wines, adding a satisfying and authentic element to the experience.

Value for Money

At $54, the experience is considered a good deal, especially given the quality of wines, expert guidance, and intimate environment. Reviewers frequently mention that it exceeded their expectations, offering a lot of value for their money.

The Practical Side: Duration, Location, and Booking

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day in Amsterdam. It begins at the Design & Wijn shop in the city center—conveniently located for travelers exploring nearby sights. The activity ends back at the starting point, so no fuss about transportation.

Booking is flexible, with options to reserve now and pay later—helpful if your plans are still in flux. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind.

Note that party groups are not allowed, and the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women. The guides speak Dutch, English, and German, accommodating a broad range of visitors.

Authentic Experiences and Positive Reviews

The tour has garnered a strong 4.8-star rating from 40 reviews, with many travelers praising the knowledgeable hosts, the delicious wines, and the relaxed, intimate atmosphere.

One reviewer called it “the best tasting in Amsterdam,” citing the uncommercial, personal experience and the chance to taste local wines in a cozy setting. Others appreciated the pairing of food and wine, describing the bread and snacks as “delectable” and “perfectly fitting.” Many reviews mention how engaging and informative the guides are, often adding extra tidbits and stories that make the tasting more meaningful.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

This Dutch wine tasting tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy discovering local flavors in a casual yet educational setting. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something more authentic than a busy wine bar or touristy tasting room. The experience offers a genuine taste of what Dutch winemakers are producing today, paired with insightful commentary from a passionate guide.

Wine novices will find the guide’s approach accessible and welcoming, while seasoned enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to try limited-edition bottles. The relaxed, intimate setting makes it ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking to meet like-minded wine lovers.

If you’re curious about Dutch wines or want a memorable, personal activity that enriches your Amsterdam visit, this tour hits the mark. Just remember, it’s not suitable for larger party groups or those with mobility constraints, but for most, it’s a delightful way to sip and learn in the city’s lively center.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, giving enough time to enjoy the wines without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour take place?
It starts at the Design & Wijn shop in Amsterdam’s city center, a convenient location for travelers.

What is included in the price?
You’ll taste five Dutch wines, enjoy freshly baked bread from Brothers Niemeijer, receive a wine tasting sheet, a design & Wijn postcard, and tap water.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now without paying upfront, and pay later. Cancelation is free up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the experience suitable for non-English speakers?
Guides speak Dutch, English, and German, making it accessible for various travelers.

Are kids or pregnant women allowed?
Not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments.

Do I need to be a wine expert?
Not at all. The guide tailors the experience to your level, whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned connoisseur.

What if I want more food?
Additional bites can be ordered on-site, making it a more substantial experience if you like.

Is there a dress code?
No specific dress code, but casual smart is appropriate for a relaxed, enjoyable evening.

This guided Dutch wine tasting offers an authentic, casual, and educational glimpse into the Netherlands’ emerging wine scene. It combines expertly curated wines, engaging guides, and authentic local touches—making it a worthwhile addition to your Amsterdam adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: