Introduction

If you’re someone who enjoys a good drink and loves learning about different beverages, then the At-Home Wine or Spirits Tastings with Marc Borel might just be your new favorite thing. This experience offers a chance to transform your home, hotel, or rental into a private tasting venue, guided by a seasoned beverage expert. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to deepen your appreciation for wine or spirits, this personalized tasting is designed to be both fun and educational.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines customization with convenience. You get to choose your theme—perhaps French wines, aged versus blanco tequilas, or Malbecs from different regions—and Marc Borel curates the tasting accordingly. Plus, the inclusiveness of tasting notes, glasses, and optional food pairings makes it feel like a real wine bar experience, all in your own space. The only thing to consider is the price point of $200 per person, which may be on the higher side for some, but given the tailored, intimate nature of the experience, it offers solid value.
This experience is best suited for small groups, couples, or individuals who are curious about wines and spirits and enjoy a more personal, guided tasting. If you love discovering new flavors or want an engaging activity that’s both educational and social, this is worth considering.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Each tasting is crafted specifically for your group and theme.
- Expert Guidance: Marc Borel brings years of industry experience to enhance your understanding.
- All-Inclusive Setup: Tasting notes, glasses, and optional food pairings are included.
- Convenient Location: Conducted in your home or chosen venue, eliminating travel.
- Flexible Timing: Available daily, with hours from late morning to late evening.
- Cost Reflects Customization: At $200 per person, it’s an investment for a curated, private experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Houston.
What to Expect from Your In-Home Tasting

Imagine inviting an expert to your living room, where you’re surrounded by friends or family, and immediately feeling like you’ve stepped into a boutique wine bar. That’s essentially what Marc Borel offers—just in your own space. The process kicks off with a brief introduction, where Marc will ask about your preferences and theme. Do you want to explore French wines, compare Malbecs from France and Argentina, or perhaps sample aged and blanco tequilas? Whatever your interest, he tailors the tasting accordingly.
Once your theme is set, Marc will guide you through a tasting of four wines or three spirits. He discusses the science behind each beverage—what makes a good Malbec, how aging influences flavor, or what distinguishes a blanco tequila from an aged one. This educational component adds depth to the experience, making each sip more meaningful.
Throughout the tasting, Marc provides tasting notes, helping you identify nuances and flavors. He also supplies the necessary glasses and beverage napkins, which elevate the experience from casual to polished. You can opt to include fresh meats and cheeses or other appropriate accompaniments, turning your tasting into a mini-gourmet event. As you sip and discuss, you’ll find yourself gaining a deeper appreciation and understanding of the different beverages.
Because each tasting is completely individual, no two sessions are alike. If you book multiple times, you’ll likely encounter new themes and beverages, making this a flexible and engaging hobby or learning experience.
The Value of the Experience

Considering the $200 price tag per person, it’s fair to analyze what you’re getting in return. You’re not just paying for the beverages, which are included, but for the expert guidance that enhances your understanding of wine and spirits. The personalized approach means you’re not just tasting randomly selected drinks; instead, you’re exploring themes that interest you most, with professional insights that can deepen your appreciation.
The inclusion of tasting notes and glasses, plus optional food pairings, helps justify the cost by creating a full, immersive experience. It’s perfect for celebrations, intimate gatherings, or even solo explorers who want a private lesson from an expert. Plus, since the activity is done at your location, there’s no need to worry about transportation or crowded venues—making it both safe and super convenient.
In terms of value, this experience offers a premium, custom-tailored activity that combines education, entertainment, and social bonding, all guided by a seasoned professional. If you’re a wine enthusiast or simply enjoy discovering new beverages with friends, it’s a memorable way to spend an evening.
The Experience in Detail

When you book, you’ll get a confirmation quickly, and the activity operates seven days a week from 11:00 AM to 11:30 PM, offering plenty of flexibility. The gathering takes about two hours, a perfect length for a relaxed yet engaging session.
The setup is straightforward—your home becomes the tasting room. Marc arrives with the beverages, glasses, and any food accompaniments you ordered, ready to turn your space into a private wine bar. With group discounts available, if you’re planning a small celebration, the cost per person could even be reduced.
Throughout the tasting, Marc is personable and approachable. The focus is on making you comfortable while teaching you to discern flavors and appreciate the subtle differences in wines and spirits. His background in the industry lends credibility and depth, making sure you walk away with new knowledge—and maybe even some tasting tips to impress friends later.
One of the best parts? No two tastings are the same. Based on reviews, guests have said, “Marc tailored the experience perfectly to our interests,” and “He was very personable and made complex topics easy to understand.” These qualities make the experience feel special, rather than a cookie-cutter activity.
Who Will Love This Experience?

This tasting is ideal for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy wine or spirits and want a personalized, educational experience. It’s perfect for celebrations, date nights, or just a fun way to spend an evening with friends. If you’re someone who appreciates good beverages and enjoys discussions about flavor profiles and distillation techniques, you’ll find this highly rewarding.
However, keep in mind that at $200 per person, it’s more suited for those willing to invest in a premium, curated experience. If you’re on a tight budget, this might be less appealing, but for those looking for a unique, intimate activity—especially in Houston—it’s a compelling choice.
The Sum Up

The At-Home Wine or Spirits Tastings with Marc Borel offer a rare chance to enjoy a customized, guided beverage experience without leaving your home. With expert guidance and personalized themes, you’ll deepen your understanding and appreciation for wine and spirits, all in a relaxed, private setting. It’s a particularly good fit for small groups who want an engaging activity that combines education, entertainment, and a touch of luxury.
For travelers or locals seeking a memorable night that blends learning with social fun, this experience delivers on all counts. The convenience of having everything brought to you, combined with Marc’s expertise, makes it a worthwhile splurge if you enjoy discovering new flavors and sharing good drinks with others. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enriching your beverage knowledge, this tasting will leave a lasting impression.
FAQ

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 93 days ahead, so planning early ensures you get your preferred date and theme.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers four wines or three spirits, tasting notes, glasses, and beverage napkins. Optional food pairings are available separately.
Are the beverages provided during the tasting?
Yes, all alcohol needed for the tasting is supplied, so you don’t have to worry about purchasing anything in advance.
Can I include food in my tasting?
Yes, Marc can include fresh meats and cheeses or other appropriate accompaniments, making the experience more gourmet.
Is this activity suitable for all ages?
No, it involves alcohol consumption, so it’s intended for adults of legal drinking age.
What is the duration of the tasting?
It lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable yet thorough experience.
Where does the activity take place?
It begins and ends at your chosen location in Houston, Texas. The activity is private, just for your group.
Are there discounts for larger groups?
Group discounts are available, so if you’re planning for more than a few participants, it’s worth inquiring about savings.
This in-home tasting experience offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore wine and spirits with a true industry professional. Whether you’re looking to impress friends, deepen your knowledge, or simply enjoy a night of good conversation and fine drinks, Marc Borel’s tailored tastings stand out as both practical and memorable.
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