Paris: 5 wines / 1 sommelier / aperitif platters: Drink and Learn workshop

When you think of Paris, images of iconic landmarks, charming streets, and world-class cuisine likely come to mind. But tucked away in the lively 10th arrondissement, just steps from Canal Saint Martin, lies a delightful wine experience that offers a different kind of Parisian charm—an intimate, hands-on wine tasting workshop led by a professional sommelier.

This 2-hour session costs around $53 per person, making it accessible for travelers seeking a fun, authentic taste of France without the hefty price tag of a fancy restaurant. We love how this experience combines learning with tasting—you get to pour wine directly from barrels, nibble on artisan platters, and even test your senses with blind tastings. What’s more, the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for both wine enthusiasts and casual wine-curious travelers.

One thing to consider is that the workshop may not run if there are fewer than four participants, so it’s worth booking in advance. This experience suits adults interested in wine and local culture who want a cozy, interactive, and educational evening in Paris. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a memorable way to spend an evening.

Key Points

Authentic Location: Tucked near Canal Saint Martin, offering a genuine Parisian vibe
Educational & Tasting Focus: Learn about wine while tasting five different varieties
Hands-On Experience: Pour wine directly from barrels, enhancing the sensory connection
Quality & Variety: Includes whites, sparkling wines, reds, and a blind tasting
Artisan Platters: Enjoy high-quality, nitrite-free cold cuts, cheeses, and vegetarian options
Flexible & Accessible: Book now, pay later, with options for cancellation and on-site purchases

This workshop takes place at Vini la Cave, an inviting wine merchant at 49 Rue du Faubourg du Temple, conveniently accessible from Goncourt metro station (Line 11) and Republique (Lines 3, 5, 8, 9, 11). As soon as we arrive, the warm ambiance of the cellar sets the tone—rough stone walls, century-old barrels, and a cozy communal table create a perfect setting for this intimate tasting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary & What Makes It Special

Pouring from the Barrel: We loved the way the sommelier, Maxime, started by drawing a wine directly from one of nine barrels. This tactile moment connects you directly to the winemaking process, emphasizing freshness and authenticity. It’s a rare opportunity in a city where most tastings are from bottles.

Learning the Basics: The session begins with simple but crucial lessons on how to taste wine: observing color, assessing aroma, and understanding texture. Maxime’s bilingual expertise (French/English) makes it accessible for international guests. We appreciated how he explained concepts clearly without overwhelming novices, making it suitable for those new to wine or seasoned sippers.

Sensory Blind Tasting: One of the highlights is the blind tasting using black glasses. This playful activity challenges your other senses—what do you really taste beyond visual cues? As one reviewer put it, “Not so easy…” but that’s part of the fun. This step encourages you to appreciate nuances and trust your palate.

Aperitif Platters & Atmosphere: The heart of the cellar hosts a century-old table laden with thoughtfully curated artisan platters—think cold cuts, cheeses, vegetarian options, country bread, breadsticks, and gourmet chips. We found the quality of the snacks impressive, especially the nitrite-free meats and cheeses. The platters are designed to complement the wines and elevate the tasting experience.

Sparkling & Breathe: After the reds, we moved on to bubbles, which always lift the spirit. The entire process encourages you to slow down, savor, and revisit your perceptions—something that’s often lost in rushed tastings.

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The Wines & What They Offer

Participants taste five wines, carefully selected from independent winemakers, including whites, reds, sparkling wines, and other varieties. The inclusion of a wine from the barrel is a delightful twist, offering fresh insights into winemaking. These wines are served at the proper temperature, ensuring maximum enjoyment.

The price of $53 covers not just the wines, but also the experience of learning, the platters, and the guidance of a knowledgeable professional. You can purchase bottles or products at the boutique afterward, making it easy to bring a piece of the experience home.

Authenticity & Value

We found this experience to strike a fine balance between educational value and entertainment. For just over fifty dollars, we got a lot more than a typical wine tasting. The opportunity to pour from barrels, learn tasting techniques, and participate in blind tastings adds tangible value, especially compared to more touristy, bottle-only tastings.

The review from September 2025 summed it up nicely: “Super dégustation réalisée dans la bonne humeur et avec Lil éclairé de Maxime! Un super moment à refaire très prochainement!” (A fun tasting conducted in good humor and with Maxime’s guidance! A moment to repeat very soon!)

Accessibility & Practicalities

The workshop lasts two hours, starting at 8:00 p.m., making it a great way to unwind after a day exploring Paris. The group size can vary, and reservations are recommended, especially in busy periods. You’ll want to arrive on time, and if you’re pregnant or under 18, note that this experience isn’t suitable for you.

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Additional Tips

Reserve in advance; workshops may not run with fewer than four participants.
Book now and pay later offers flexibility, perfect if your plans are not yet fixed.
Feel free to shop for wines afterwards, so consider bringing a bag or plan for a stroll along Canal Saint Martin after the tasting.

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Who Will Love This Experience?

This workshop is perfect for wine lovers eager to learn more about French wines in an authentic setting. It also suits curious travelers who enjoy a relaxed, interactive environment rather than formal tastings. It’s a fun, educational option for adults of all levels—from complete novices to seasoned oenophiles—who want a memorable Parisian evening that combines culture, conviviality, and quality.

If you’re after a genuine, fun, and reasonably priced way to explore France’s wine culture, this Drink and Learn workshop at Vini la Cave is a strong contender. It offers more than just tasting wine—it provides an engaging, sensory experience led by knowledgeable guides in a cozy, historic cellar.

The combination of pouring from barrels, blind tastings, and artisan platters creates a well-rounded and memorable evening. For those interested in understanding French wines beyond the tourist spots, this workshop offers a deep dive into the craft and flavors of local producers.

In short, if you want an authentic taste of Parisian life and a chance to sharpen your tasting skills, this experience is worth considering. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll come away with new insights—and perhaps a preference for a specific wine that you can hunt down later.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The session begins with the basics of wine tasting, making it accessible for those new to wine or wanting to refresh their knowledge.

Can I buy the wines tasted during the workshop?
Yes, all wines and products tasted are available for purchase at the boutique, so you can enjoy your favorites later or take some home.

What is included in the price?
For around $53, you get to taste five wines—including one from the barrel—enjoy artisan aperitif platters, and participate in a guided tasting led by a professional sommelier.

How long does the workshop last?
It runs for two hours, starting at 8:00 p.m., making it a nice evening activity.

Where exactly does the workshop take place?
At Vini la Cave, 49 Rue du Faubourg du Temple, in Paris’s 10th arrondissement, near Goncourt metro station.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, workshops may not run if fewer than four participants book in advance. It’s wise to reserve early.

Can children or pregnant women participate?
No, this experience is intended for adults over 18 and is not suitable for pregnant women.

Ready for a memorable evening of wine, learning, and local flavor? This workshop offers a perfect blend of authenticity and fun, ideal for anyone eager to enjoy a genuine part of Paris’s vibrant wine scene.