Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie, and Dessert

Looking for a relaxed, flavorful escape in Denver? This Wine Tasting with Cheese, Charcuterie, and Dessert experience offers just that. For $74 per person, you’ll spend about an hour at Blanchard Family Wines, a small, family-owned vineyard located in Denver’s trendy LoDo district. Expect four carefully selected wines, paired with a personal charcuterie board, cheeses, and tempting desserts like macarons or cake pops. It’s a perfect outing for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a taste of authentic Colorado wine culture.

What we love most about this experience is the personal touch from the hosts—friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share the story of their family vineyard—and the high-quality pairings that elevate simple wine tasting into a memorable event. Plus, the venue’s urban location, tucked into a lively alleyway among bars and restaurants, adds to its charm.

A potential consideration is that, according to some reviews, the value may not feel equivalent to everyone’s expectations, especially if you’re seeking a deeply educational or substantial food experience. However, if you value authentic small-batch wines and a cozy environment, this experience delivers richly.

This tour suits wine lovers looking for a relaxed, intimate setting that emphasizes quality over quantity, as well as those interested in learning about family-owned wineries without the fuss of large commercial operations. It’s also great for those who appreciate good food pairings and a laid-back atmosphere.

Key Points

• Intimate setting in Denver’s trendy LoDo district.
• Family-owned vineyard offering a personal and authentic experience.
• Four wine tastings paired with cheeses, charcuterie, and desserts.
• Knowledgeable hosts who share the vineyard’s story and wine nuances.
• Good value for those wanting quality over quantity.
• Accessible location, near public transit and easily reachable.

An Honest Look at the Denver Wine Tasting Experience

If you’re on the hunt for a relaxed, enjoyable way to sample local wines in Denver, this wine tasting tour at Blanchard Family Wines deserves serious consideration. Priced at $74 per person and lasting about one hour, it’s designed to give you a taste—not a full-blown vineyard tour—making it ideal for a short, memorable outing.

The setting itself is a highlight. Located at 1855 Blake St #120, right in the heart of Denver’s lively LoDo (Lower Downtown) district, it’s surprisingly tucked away—an alleyway among other cool spots that make for a genuinely city-centric wine experience. The urban vibe adds a layer of coolness many travelers appreciate, especially when paired with the warm welcome from your host, who will introduce the wines and the story behind the vineyard.

What Makes This Wine Tasting Special?

Most visitors rave about the quality of the wines and the approachability of the staff, particularly a host named Joe, who is noted to be friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. One reviewer mentioned, “Joe suggested some great wines to try — he was friendly and knowledgeable,” which hints at a personalized experience that goes beyond just pouring wine and walking away.

The pairings are carefully curated to complement the wines. A personal charcuterie board with crackers, pickles, olives, and nuts forms the backbone of your tasting, providing texture and flavor contrasts. The dessert options—artisan chocolates, macaroons, or cake pops—are served in different flavors, making the ending sweet but not overwhelming.

What to Expect During the Experience

Once seated, your host will give a brief overview of the four varietals you’re about to taste. Each wine is paired with the charcuterie and cheese, allowing you to appreciate how different flavors enhance each other. The cheeses are of good quality and complement the wines well. Reviews note the charcuterie is “good” and the desserts “delicious,” though some found the chocolates tiny or the desserts too small for a full “dessert” experience.

The group size is limited to about 20 people, which keeps the atmosphere friendly and intimate. Many reviewers appreciated the laid-back nature of the event, making it ideal for conversation and relaxed enjoyment.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and delicious wines. Several reviews mention returning for more drinks or recommending the spot to friends, emphasizing the confidence in the service and product. For example, one reviewer said, “We went back for more drinks a few days later!” showing how enjoyable the wines and setting are.

On the flip side, some reviews point out that the value might not meet everyone’s expectations. A few felt the food portions and desserts were a bit underwhelming—tiny chocolates or limited food offerings—leading them to perceive the experience as overpriced. One reviewer summed it up with, “Overpriced. None of wines were good,” which suggests that for some, the subjective taste or the portion size may not justify the price.

A common theme among those less satisfied was the lack of in-depth educational content—some wanted a more guided, instructive experience rather than just sampling wines and choosing from a menu.

Is It Worth Your Time?

If you’re happy with a casual, tasting-focused experience that emphasizes local, family-owned wines and a friendly environment, this tour hits the mark. It delivers on authenticity and quality, especially if you enjoy pairing wines with well-chosen accompaniments. It’s perfect for date nights or small groups seeking a relaxed but memorable outing.

However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into wine education or a full meal experience, you might find this less satisfying. The desserts, while tasty, are small, and some reviews suggest the overall experience could be more substantial for the price.

The Detailed Breakdown: What You’ll Experience

Meeting Point & Location
Your journey begins at Blanchard Family Wines, located at 1855 Blake Street, right in Denver’s lively LoDo district. The venue is accessible, with easy access to public transit, making it convenient to reach without hassle.

Arrival & Seating
Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted and seated comfortably indoors, perhaps in a cozy corner that fosters conversation. Your host will introduce the vineyard’s story, giving a glimpse into the family’s background and the unique traits of their wines.

The Wine Tasting
You’ll sample four different varietals. While the exact wines aren’t listed here, reviews indicate they are thoughtfully selected, showcasing the vineyard’s best offerings. Expect to learn about the nuances of each wine—such as flavor profiles, the impact of high elevations on taste, and what makes family-owned wines special.

Paired Food Offerings
The charcuterie board features crackers, nuts, pickles, and olives, alongside select cheeses. This pairing enhances the tasting experience, making each sip more interesting. The dessert options include artisan chocolates, macaroons, or cake pops, providing a sweet finish that many reviews praise.

Group Atmosphere & Service
The experience is designed to be intimate and personable, with a small group size. Reviewers commend the friendly and professional staff, especially highlighting the host’s attentiveness and knowledge.

Duration & Price
The tour lasts roughly one hour, making it perfect for a quick but meaningful outing. At $74, the price positions this as a mid-range experience—good value if you appreciate quality, small-batch wines and personalized service.

Balancing the Value: Is It Worth It?

Priced at $74 per person, this experience offers a taste of local, family-owned wine craftsmanship in a friendly, urban setting. While some reviews express concern about portion sizes and perceived value, many recognize that the quality of the wines and the relaxed atmosphere make it a worthwhile splurge.

Comparing the cost to similar tasting experiences, you’re paying for expert guidance, authenticity, and the chance to learn about a small vineyard’s story. If you’re a curious wine lover or simply looking for a cozy, social activity, this tour could be well worth the price.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a laid-back, intimate wine tasting in Denver. It’s perfect if you value small, family-run wineries and enjoy pairing wines with cheeses and desserts. It’s also suitable for small groups or couples wanting a relaxed date night, especially if you appreciate friendly guides and a genuine Colorado wine story.

However, if you’re after a full educational experience or larger-scale wine event, you might find this more modest. Likewise, if you prefer substantial food or full meals, you may want to look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the experience is designed to be accessible. The location is near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

How long does the tour last?
The tasting lasts about one hour, perfect for a quick break or an early evening outing.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll enjoy four wine tastings, a charcuterie board, select cheeses, and dessert options like chocolates or macaroons.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the wines high-quality?
Yes, the vineyard is family-owned, and many reviews praise the quality and variety of the wines available for tasting.

What if I want a more educational experience?
This tour is more focused on casual tasting and pairing rather than detailed wine education. For in-depth learning, look for other options or ask your host about the wines’ stories.

In the end, this Denver wine tasting experience offers a warm, authentic taste of a family-operated vineyard’s best offerings. It’s a lovely way to enjoy a laid-back afternoon or evening—especially if you appreciate good wine, friendly service, and a charming setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy some quality local wines, this tour provides a genuine, memorable experience you’re unlikely to forget.