Athens: Greek Wine & Olive Oil Tasting at Brettos Plaka

Experience a Taste of Greece: Greek Wine & Olive Oil Tasting at Brettos Plaka in Athens

Imagine wandering through the historic streets of Athens and stumbling into Brettos, the city’s oldest bar, where you can step into a world of authentic Greek flavors. For just $56 per person, you get a 2-hour immersive tasting experience that combines six wines, four carefully selected extra virgin olive oils, and a guided exploration of herb, cheese, and deli pairings. The tour is led by an English-speaking guide who walks you through the nuances of both wine and olive oil, offering practical tips that elevate your appreciation for these staples of Greek cuisine.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances educational content with sensory enjoyment. The olive oil tasting is especially engaging, giving you the chance to compare different types and understand what makes a good olive oil—a skill that’s surprisingly useful. Plus, the pairing of herbs, cheeses, and deli items adds an extra layer of flavor and authenticity, helping you make smarter choices whether you’re shopping at home or planning a visit to a local wine bar.

One potential consideration is that, according to some reviews, the explanations may be brief or simple, and there might be no canapés as advertised, which could disappoint those expecting a full culinary experience. Also, the tour is designed for adults over 21, so it’s not suitable for younger travelers. Still, if you’re looking for a small group, intimate setting to learn about Greek wine and olive oil, this tour offers genuine value, especially for those eager to deepen their knowledge while enjoying authentic flavors.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy interactive tastings, are curious about Greek products, and want a personalized, small-group atmosphere. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned foodie, you’ll find plenty to enjoy and learn here.

Key Points

Authentic Greek products: Focus on local wines and olive oils with guided tastings.
Educational and practical: Learn how to evaluate quality and make food pairings.
Small group size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
Authentic setting: Starts at Brettos, the oldest bar in Athens, in the heart of Plaka.
Value for money: A two-hour, comprehensive experience with multiple tastings.
Mixed reviews: Some find explanations quick; others praise the knowledgeable guides and quality tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

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Starting Point: Brettos in the Heart of Athens

The tour begins at Brettos, a historic and visually captivating bar located in the lively Plaka neighborhood. Its vintage charm, with colorful bottles and a warm atmosphere, sets the perfect scene for an intimate tasting. Upon entering the Deli & Tasting Room, you’re greeted by the friendly staff and an inviting spread of wines and oils.

What’s Included? A Well-Rounded Tasting

For 2 hours, you’ll enjoy six different wines and four types of extra virgin olive oils. The wines are chosen to showcase Greece’s diverse grape varieties, which you’ll learn about during your guide’s explanations. Each wine is paired with canapes and condiments, offering a balance of flavors that highlight each product’s unique qualities.

The olive oil tasting is particularly intriguing. You’ll taste four different oils, each with distinct characteristics, and learn how to identify good quality, considering factors like aroma, texture, and flavor. The guide explains how herbs and spices enhance both wine and olive oil, offering insights into traditional Greek pairings that you can try at home.

What to Expect During the Masterclass

The session begins with an introduction to the basics: what makes Greek extra virgin olive oil special, and how to evaluate its quality. Expect to learn how herbs, cheese, and deli meats work together with the oils and wines to create a memorable tasting experience.

The guide discusses the history and significance of these products in Greek culture, emphasizing their long tradition of quality. You’ll be encouraged to test your senses—smelling, tasting, and comparing each sample—making this more than just a tasting, but an educational experience.

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Authentic Flavors and Pairings

The highlight is the pairing of oils and wines with cheese and herbs. You might find that a robust red wine complements a sharp feta, while a lighter white pairs perfectly with a mild olive oil. The inclusion of deli items and spices broadens your palate and gives you ideas for future gatherings or gifts.

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The Small Group Advantage

Limited to just 8 participants, the tour offers an engaging environment where questions are encouraged, and everyone gets a chance to taste and discuss. Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and how they make complex topics accessible. One traveler noted, “our guide was extremely knowledgeable,” which adds confidence in the educational quality of the tour.

The Downsides

While most reviewers appreciate the experience, some mention that the explanations are quick and somewhat simple, and there’s an absence of canapés or additional snacks despite what’s advertised. For those expecting a full culinary meal or lengthy discussion, this might feel a bit rushed or incomplete. Also, since the activity is designed for adults, travelers under 21 won’t be able to join.

Overall Value

At $56 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Greek wines and olive oils, along with practical tips and memorable flavors. It’s a great way to spend a couple of hours in Athens, especially if you enjoy learning about local products and tasting in an authentic setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a curious traveler eager to expand your knowledge of Greek culinary traditions, this tour will suit you well. It’s ideal for small groups who appreciate a personal touch, and perfect for those who want practical tasting skills they can use back home. Foodies, wine lovers, or anyone interested in healthy, olive oil-based ingredients will find it rewarding. However, if you’re looking for a full meal or a lengthy, elaborate class, this may be more of a quick overview than an in-depth culinary course.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Check availability in advance as spots are limited.
The tour lasts about 2 hours, so plan accordingly.
Arrive at Brettos early to find the meeting point easily in Plaka.
Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking into a historic setting.
Bring your curiosity and be ready to smell, taste, and learn.
This experience is not suitable for travelers under 21, so plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour worth the price?
Given that it includes six wines, four olive oils, and expert guidance, many travelers find it offers good value, especially for an educational experience in an iconic Athens setting.

How much of the explanation is provided?
Some reviews mention that explanations are quick and simple, but generally, guides are knowledgeable and focused on helping you understand how to evaluate and pair these products.

Will I get anything to eat besides oils and wines?
You’ll receive canapes and condiments; however, some reviewers note there are no additional snacks or full meals, so it’s more about tasting and learning than dining.

Is this experience suitable for non-experts?
Absolutely. Guides aim to make the information accessible, whether you’re new to wine and olive oil or more experienced.

How many people are in the group?
The group is limited to 8, offering a more personalized experience compared to larger tours.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible booking option.

To sum it up, the Greek Wine & Olive Oil Tasting at Brettos in Athens offers a genuine and engaging way to connect with local flavors, learn practical tasting skills, and enjoy a historic setting. It caters well to curious, small-group travelers who value authentic experiences and expert guidance. Whether you’re wanting to deepen your appreciation for Greek products or simply enjoy a fun afternoon in Athens, this tour delivers on flavor, education, and a touch of local charm.