Amsterdam: Dutch Cheese Tasting Experience with Wine

Amsterdam: Dutch Cheese Tasting Experience with Wine — A Detailed Look

Travelers seeking a deliciously authentic taste of the Netherlands should consider this cheese and wine experience in Amsterdam. For just $28 per person, you’ll spend about 45 minutes inside a charming cheese-tasting room, guided by friendly experts who love sharing their knowledge. Starting at the Old Amsterdam Cheese Store, this activity offers a balanced mix of education, flavor, and fun — all wrapped into a brief but memorable experience.

What truly makes this stand out is the chance to sample five different varieties of Gouda, each with its own story and flavor profile, paired with three carefully selected wines. Plus, the whole atmosphere is warm and personal — a cozy space on the first floor, accessible only by stairs, which adds a touch of old-world charm. We love that this experience isn’t just about tasting but understanding what makes Dutch cheese and wine special; it’s perfect for curious foodies or anyone wanting a light cultural activity.

A small drawback might be the stairs leading to the tasting room, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues. Since the experience is quite focused, if you’re after a comprehensive cheese tour or extensive tasting, you might find this more of a quick introduction than a deep dive. Still, it’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for a fun, educational, and tasty activity that fits easily into a busy Amsterdam itinerary.

This experience suits anyone who appreciates good food and wine, enjoys learning about local traditions, or simply wants a relaxed, engaging activity. It’s especially great for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Dutch culture without committing to something more intensive.

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Key Points

Authentic Dutch cheese: Focus on Gouda, including Old Amsterdam cheese made by a family-run business.
Expert guidance: Knowledgeable hosts, including one named Ari, provide educational and entertaining commentary.
Wine pairings: Three wines (red, white, port) are chosen to enhance each cheese’s flavor.
Memorable keepsake: Participants receive a certificate to mark their tasting experience.
Affordable value: The price includes quality cheeses, wines, bread, and a discount in the shop.
Limited accessibility: The tasting room is on the 1st floor and involves stairs, so not suitable for everyone.

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An In-Depth Guide to the Cheese and Wine Experience

The Location and Setting

The tour begins at the Old Amsterdam Cheese Store, a charming shop in the heart of the city that’s easy to find. The tasting room is located upstairs, giving an intimate, private feel that makes the experience more personal. The space is air-conditioned, making it comfortable even on warmer days, and makes a nice contrast to the often busy city streets below.

Once inside, you’re greeted by a friendly instructor who starts by explaining the history of the family-run business and the secret behind their famous cheeses. The setting is cozy, and the small group size means you’ll get plenty of attention and chances to ask questions.

The Cheese Tasting

The core of the experience is sampling five different Gouda cheeses. As you taste, you’ll learn about what differentiates each cheese — from age to flavor notes and production methods. The most iconic, Old Amsterdam, is paired with stories about its craftsmanship and tradition.

Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the cheeses, with Alberto praising how well they paired with the wines, and others noting that the cheeses were “great” and “brilliant.” Some guests appreciated the chance to pick up hints about Dutch cheese-making secrets, despite recipes being closely guarded.

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Wine Pairings and Food

The wines are carefully chosen by a sommelier to complement the cheeses. Expect a red wine, a white wine, and a port wine, each designed to highlight different flavor profiles in the cheeses. The host will guide you through the pairings, explaining which wines go best with each cheese and why.

Between tastings, you’ll enjoy fig bread and water, which serve to cleanse your palate and prepare you for the next round. Several guests mention that the wine selections were excellent, with “great wine and good info,” as one reviewer notes. The presentation elevates the experience from simple tasting to a mini wine and cheese masterclass.

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Educational and Fun Atmosphere

Beyond savoring good food, the tour is quite educational. The guides, including Roberta and Ari, are praised for their knowledge and engaging style. Reviewer comments like “Ari’s was a true legend” and “Roberta was exceptional” highlight how much they enjoy learning from passionate hosts.

Guests also mention how entertaining and lively the session can be, with some describing it as “wild and crazy,” yet always informative. The host’s ability to blend humor with facts makes this activity appealing to a broad range of travelers.

The Take-home Certificate

At the end, everyone receives a cheese taster certificate — a small but meaningful souvenir to remember your Dutch cheese adventure. Many guests mention they enjoyed showing it off to friends back home or using it as a fun conversation starter.

Practical Details and Considerations

The activity lasts about 45 minutes, making it a perfect quick break during a busy sightseeing day. The cost includes all cheeses, wines, bread, water, and a discount voucher for shopping — great value when you consider the quality and scope of the tasting.

However, do note that because the tasting room is only accessible via stairs, it may not suit travelers with mobility limitations. Also, the activity is designed for those 18 and over, owing to alcohol consumption.

How the Reviews Echo This Experience

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeability of guides and the quality of cheeses and wines. One reviewer called it “an amazing session,” while another noted that the host’s storytelling added a personal touch that made a simple tasting memorable. The value for money appears to be high, especially given the small group size and educational focus.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This activity is ideal if you want a taste of Dutch culture, enjoy good pairings of cheese and wine, or like engaging in interactive, educational activities. It’s especially perfect for small groups or couples looking for an authentic, fun, and relaxed way to explore local flavors without a large-scale tour or long commitment.

If you’re curious about Gouda’s history, want expert insights from passionate guides, or simply enjoy sampling high-quality cheeses and wines, this is a perfect fit. It’s particularly suitable for those who appreciate a cozy, intimate atmosphere and enjoy learning as they taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the tasting session suitable for children?
Since alcohol is involved, the minimum age to participate is 18 years old.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the tasting room accessible for people with mobility issues?
The room is on the first floor and requires climbing stairs, so it’s not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.

What languages are the guides speaking?
Guides speak English, making it accessible for most international travelers.

How long does the experience last?
The session lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick yet satisfying activity.

Are there opportunities to purchase cheeses after the tasting?
Yes, participants receive a 10% discount in the shop — a good chance to pick up some Dutch cheeses to take home.

Is this activity suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Small groups and friendly guides mean solo travelers will feel welcomed and engaged.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and want a memorable, authentic experience that combines local food, culture, and education, this cheese and wine tasting is hard to beat. The quality of cheeses and wines, combined with the knowledgeable hosts, makes it a valuable addition to any itinerary. It’s especially recommended for those who enjoy foodie experiences, small-group settings, or simply want a relaxed activity that offers both learning and indulgence.

For a modest price, you get to enjoy five delicious cheeses, paired with three thoughtfully selected wines, plus a certificate to remember your trip. Whether you’re a cheese lover or a curious traveler, this experience provides genuine value and a taste of the Netherlands’ culinary traditions.