Dinner and Guided Tour with your Personal Scottish Sommelier

A Gourmet Journey Through Edinburgh with Your Personal Scottish Sommelier

If you’re looking to combine culinary delights with a touch of local history, this private dinner and guided tour with a Scottish sommelier offers a memorable way to explore Edinburgh. For $666 per person, you’ll spend about four hours sampling seasonal artisan foods, learning wine and whisky pairings, and discovering the city’s lesser-known culinary spots.

What we particularly love about this experience is the personal touch—your guide, Joanne, isn’t just any guide; she’s an expert in wine and whisky, ready to teach you how to taste like a pro. The tour is highly flexible, designed around your preferences, and takes you to hidden restaurants and bars that most visitors miss. One minor thing to consider is that the price might seem steep for some, but when you factor in the private, curated experience with a personal guide, it offers excellent value for an immersive, tailored adventure.

This tour suits those who crave a personalized, authentic taste of Edinburgh—whether you’re a foodie eager to discover local ingredients, a whisky enthusiast wanting to deepen your appreciation, or simply someone who loves exploring a city through its flavors. If you enjoy learning from experts and prefer an experience that evolves based on your tastes, this is an ideal pick.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Your guide Joanne customizes the evening based on your preferences.
• Hidden Gems: Tucked-away restaurants and bars, steeped in local flavor and history.
• Expert Guidance: Learn to taste wine and whisky, enhancing your appreciation.
• Authentic Edinburgh: Explore the city’s streets, discovering lesser-known, charming spots.
• Flexible and Private: Private group experience, perfect for a special night out.
• Includes Food & Drinks: All beverages and a delicious dinner are part of the package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Edinburgh with a Scottish Sommelier: What to Expect

This experience isn’t your typical food tour. Instead of just tasting and moving on, you’re invited into a personalized journey that combines gastronomy, history, and expert insights. Joanne, your guide, is passionate about sharing her knowledge of Scottish food, wine, and whisky, making every stop both educational and flavorful.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a choice of three pickup points—W Edinburgh, Gleneagles Townhouse, or The Balmoral—ensuring a convenient start no matter where you’re staying. From there, Joanne takes you through the winding streets of Edinburgh, revealing hidden restaurant gems, intimate wine cellars, and atmospheric whisky bars.

Each stop is selected carefully to showcase the best of Edinburgh’s culinary scene. Expect to visit three to four locations, including fine dining establishments, secretive whisky bars, and cozy restaurants. You might find yourself indulging in champagne tastings, cheese pairings, and traditional Scottish dishes, all served in intimate settings away from the crowds.

What makes each stop special?

The food offerings are crafted to highlight local ingredients and seasonal produce, which makes every bite feel authentic and fresh. Joanne’s expert guidance elevates the experience—she will teach you how to identify flavors, the differences in whisky styles, and how to pair wine with regional dishes.

The heart of the experience—food and drink**

The dinner itself is a highlight, featuring dishes paired with wines chosen specifically for your palate. You’ll learn how a well-matched wine can enhance the ingredients and transform your understanding of Scottish cuisine. The whisky tasting adds a whole new dimension, with Joanne revealing the subtle differences in flavor profiles, often in atmospheric bars steeped in history.

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Sightseeing and history blend seamlessly

Throughout the night, Joanne shares stories about Edinburgh’s historic streets and landmarks. Stops include the Edinburgh Castle, where you’ll get stunning views of the city, and hidden alleyways that whisper tales of the past. It’s a clever mix of culinary exploration and cultural discovery.

The Experience’s Unique Value

What sets this tour apart is the personalized approach. Every aspect, from the restaurants to the tastings, is tailored to your tastes and desires. If you’re curious about rare whiskies or want to explore modern Scottish cuisine, Joanne adapts the experience accordingly. The fact that it’s private means you won’t be part of a large group, allowing for a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

Why is this worth the price?

While $666 might seem steep, consider the value of a private, expertly guided tour that combines culinary education, cultural insight, and prime Edinburgh locations. You’re paying for a bespoke experience that offers far more than just a meal—it’s an intimate journey through Edinburgh’s flavors and stories. Plus, all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included, removing any surprise costs.

A Closer Look at the Highlights

Award-winning restaurants and seasonal foods

Edinburgh’s dining scene is vibrant, and the tour showcases establishments that pride themselves on fresh, local ingredients. The dishes are carefully curated to highlight Scottish produce, making each bite a glimpse into the country’s culinary soul.

Masterclasses in wine and whisky tasting

Joanne’s expertise transforms ordinary tastings into lessons that deepen your appreciation. You’ll learn to identify subtle notes in whisky and understand how to balance flavors in wine pairing. Many guests comment on how these skills elevate their enjoyment of similar drinks back home.

Hidden and historic venues

Rather than touristy spots, you get to explore secret bars and tucked-away restaurants that most visitors don’t discover alone. These locations often carry stories of Edinburgh’s past—adding a layer of historical charm to your tasting experience.

Customization and flexibility

Before the tour begins, Joanne will reach out to understand your preferences—whether you’re into rare whiskies, traditional Scottish dishes, or modern gastronomy—ensuring your evening is tailored to your interests.

Intimate, private setting

This isn’t a group event but a private, intimate experience—perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a personalized adventure. The small size allows for more interaction and in-depth learning.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour’s structure offers a balance of sightseeing, eating, and tasting, making it a well-rounded experience.

• The pickup options at W Edinburgh, Gleneagles Townhouse, or The Balmoral make it easy to start from your accommodation.
• The first stops often involve sightseeing—you might stroll past Edinburgh’s historic streets, with Joanne pointing out notable landmarks and sharing stories along the way.
• The champagne tasting and food tasting segments introduce you to Edinburgh’s celebratory side, often in atmospheric, tucked-away venues.
• A dinner with wine tasting in the Old Town is a true highlight, where traditional Scottish dishes are paired with wines selected to complement local ingredients.
• Visiting Edinburgh Castle offers a chance for stunning views and cultural insight, while the cheese and whisky tastings in cozy bars close out the evening, leaving you with a real sense of Edinburgh’s culinary heritage.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

The tour lasts roughly 4 hours, making it a manageable evening activity. It’s wheelchair accessible, and the private group format means you won’t be jostling with strangers.

Transportation within Edinburgh is included, so you don’t need to worry about navigating between venues. The pickup and drop-off locations are flexible, and the experience is suitable for those over 18.

The tour is cancelable up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if your plans change. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later, which is a helpful feature for flexible travel plans.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a foodie eager to explore Scottish cuisine in an authentic way, this experience is ideal. Whisky lovers will appreciate the knowledge shared, especially in atmospheric bars. History buffs will enjoy the storytelling woven into the walk through Edinburgh’s streets.

It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a private, customizable experience over large group tours. Couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a tailored evening will find this a perfect choice. If you’re interested in learning skills like whisky tasting or wish to discover hidden culinary gems off the tourist trail, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This dinner and guided tour with a Scottish sommelier offers more than just tasting; it’s an immersive journey through Edinburgh’s flavors, stories, and secrets. With Joanne’s expertise, you’ll leave not only with a full belly but also a deeper appreciation and new skills in wine and whisky tasting.

While the price might be a consideration, the private, curated nature and access to hidden venues provide excellent value for those seeking a premium, tailored experience. It’s especially ideal for travelers who wish to explore Edinburgh’s culinary scene beyond the usual tourist spots in a relaxed, intimate setting.

This tour is a wonderful way to celebrate a special occasion or simply to treat yourself to a night of gastronomy and storytelling—a true taste of Edinburgh’s heart and soul.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
While specific dietary needs aren’t detailed, the tour is tailored to your preferences, so you can communicate any restrictions beforehand.

How many stops are included during the evening?
The itinerary suggests visiting around three to four locations, including restaurants, bars, and sightseeing spots.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
Yes, all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included in the price, ensuring a seamless experience without extra costs.

Is transportation within Edinburgh provided?
Yes, transport is included between venues, making it easy to move from one stop to another without worry.

Can this experience be canceled or rescheduled?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s flexibility to reserve now and pay later.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18 due to alcohol consumption.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and possibly some outdoor time. Footwear should be appropriate for city streets; no bare feet allowed.

To sum it up, this private Scottish dinner tour offers a superb mix of local cuisine, expert-led tastings, and Edinburgh’s historic streets. Whether you’re a serious foodie, a whisky enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique, personalized way to experience the city, this journey promises a night full of flavor, stories, and discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: