Food & Wine Tour: 11- Course Lunch, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting

Rhodes Food & Wine Tour: A Taste of Authentic Greek Flavors

Imagine spending a few hours surrounded by scenic vineyards, learning how local wines are crafted, and then rolling up your sleeves to cook and savor a multi-course Greek feast. For just around $34, this food and wine tour offers an immersive half-day experience, blending vineyard visits, a cooking class, wine tasting, and an 11-course lunch. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Rhodes’ culinary roots, especially if you’re keen on authentic, hands-on activities.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see a family-owned vineyard, which adds a personal touch that’s often missing in larger commercial tours. Plus, the interactive cooking class makes for a memorable and delicious experience, with plenty of opportunity to sample local wines alongside the food.

One potential consideration is the duration—around four hours—which is not too long but enough to be a substantial part of your day. Also, remember to come hungry, as reviewers mention that you’ll be well-fed by the end. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy authentic experiences, good conversation, and a genuine slice of Rhodes’ culinary culture.

This experience made our article of Rhodes’s 9 Best Cooking Classes (With Prices & Reviews).

Key Points

• Authentic Setting: Visit a family-owned vineyard and distillery, not a big commercial operation.
• Hands-On Learning: Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare local dishes.
• Tastings & Lunch: Enjoy unlimited wine tastings and an 11-course lunch featuring local wines and dishes.
• Personal Guides: Engaging, knowledgeable guides who are passionate about their craft.
• Value for Money: At $34, it packs in multiple activities, food, and drink, making it excellent value.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 19) ensure a personal experience and relaxed atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into Rhodes’ Food & Wine Tour

What’s Included and How It’s Organized

Starting with an approximate 4-hour window, this tour is designed to maximize your exposure to Rhodes’ culinary scene. It kicks off with pickup service, easing the logistics if you’re staying near public transport or your cruise port. Once at the vineyard, you’ll get a guided tour that explains the history of wine-making in Rhodes, focusing on their local grape varieties and vinification process. The guide, often described as engaging and passionate, imparts knowledge that makes the tasting more meaningful.

The vineyard tour is particularly special because it’s run by a family, giving you a glimpse into traditional practices that keep Rhodes’ wine authentic. Visitors have described the setting as “beautiful,” and the family’s warmth makes the experience even more inviting. Expect to learn about wines, souma, tsipouro, and how these spirits are crafted, with a chance to taste the wines made onsite.

The Wine Tasting Experience

The wine tasting is led by a certified sommelier, ensuring you learn proper tasting techniques—appreciating the aroma, color, and flavor profiles. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the wine, often highlighting the deliciousness and variety. One reviewer mentioned that the host made sure guests had “more than enough to eat,” but it’s fair to say the wine selection complements every bite, making each sip a moment of enjoyment.

The Cooking Class

Once immersed in the vineyard atmosphere, you’ll head to the cooking area. Here, your host guides you through preparing some of the most popular Rhodesian dishes—think about simple, flavorful recipes like dolmades or other local specialties. The reviews describe the cooking lessons as fun and easy, even for beginners.

The highlight? Sitting down to indulge in 10 of the most popular dishes after cooking, paired with local wines. One reviewer noted that the lunch was delicious, and the wine kept flowing, creating a warm, convivial atmosphere.

The 11-Course Lunch

The final feast is a multi-course lunch featuring local recipes learned during the class. It’s described as generous but not overwhelming—just enough to satisfy without feeling heavy. Many guests mention that the lunch was one of the highlights of their trip, especially eating outside in the vineyard setting.

Logistics and Practicalities

The group size is small (up to 19 people), fostering intimacy and interaction. The transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, and the pickup service makes logistics hassle-free, especially if you’re coming from a cruise ship or hotel. The price—$34—offers significant value, considering the multiple activities, tastings, and lunch included.

The tour has a 24-hour cancellation policy, offering flexibility if your plans change, which is especially helpful if you’re booking last-minute or unsure about the weather.

Authenticity and Personal Touch

What truly elevates this experience is the family-owned nature of the vineyard. Guests frequently remark on the warmth and friendliness of the hosts, with reviews highlighting Jason and his family’s hospitality. This personal involvement means you’re not just a tourist; you’re a guest invited into a small part of Rhodes’ wine culture.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration might be the duration—a half-day—so if you’re looking for an all-day adventure or a deep dive into Rhodes’ history, this might feel somewhat limited. Also, if you’re not particularly interested in cooking or wine, this might not be your ideal experience. But for those eager to learn, taste, and create, it’s hard to beat.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for foodies, wine lovers, or anyone wanting a hands-on experience that combines learning with eating. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate authentic family-run businesses and want to step off the beaten path. If you’re traveling with a group or family, the intimate setting and interactive nature make it a memorable outing.

It’s also a great choice if you value local recipes and spirits, as many reviewers emphasize the delicious food and quality wines. Perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere with plenty of tastings and engaging guides.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle, making logistics straightforward and comfortable.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 4 hours long, giving enough time for vineyard visits, the cooking class, tastings, and lunch without feeling rushed.

What’s the price?
The tour costs around $34, which offers excellent value considering the multiple activities, tastings, and meal included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility if needed.

What is included in the experience?
You get a vineyard and distillery tour, wine tasting with a sommelier, a hands-on cooking class, and an 11-course Greek lunch with unlimited wine.

Are the food and wine suitable for everyone?
Most guests find the food delicious and the wine enjoyable. However, if you have dietary restrictions, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, many reviews mention a small group size and family involvement, making it potentially family-friendly, especially if kids are interested in food and wine.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and cooking, plus sun protection if you plan to stay outside for the vineyard tour.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small-group setting and friendly hosts make it ideal for solo travelers seeking an authentic, interactive experience.

In essence, this Rhodes food and wine tour offers a well-balanced blend of learning, tasting, and creating in a relaxed, authentic setting. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or simply curious about Greek traditions, you’ll walk away with new skills, memorable flavors, and a deeper appreciation of Rhodes’ culinary culture.