Chocolate and Jenever (Belgian Gin)Tasting in Ghent

Experience the Sweet and Spirituous Side of Belgium: Chocolate and Jenever Tasting in Ghent

If you’re heading to Belgium and want to explore beyond the well-trodden paths of beer and waffles, this Chocolate and Jenever tasting in Ghent offers a refreshing twist. Offered by the charming Chocolade Ambassade, this 1.5-hour experience combines two of Belgium’s lesser-known but equally delightful traditions: artisanal chocolates and local jenever. Tucked into a beautifully preserved Flemish stairhouse near Gravensteen Castle, this tour promises a cozy, intimate setting with a maximum of six guests.

What I find particularly appealing about this experience is the personal touch—a dedicated guide from the shop personally leads the tasting, sharing insights into the craftsmanship behind each product. Plus, the chance to taste a 10-year-aged jenever paired with unique chocolates from four top Belgian chocolatiers is a real treat for those curious about authentic local flavors.

However, one thing to consider is that this is a specialized tasting involving alcohol, which means it’s not suitable for anyone under 18 or travelers with certain food allergies. Also, since the tour is relatively short and focused, it’s best suited for those wanting a focused, immersive experience rather than a full-blown tour of multiple sights.

This experience is perfect for foodies, curious travelers, and those interested in Belgian craftsmanship, who want a relaxed yet informative introduction to Belgian spirits and chocolates. If you appreciate good stories behind what you eat and drink, you’ll likely find this tour both enjoyable and educational.

Key Points

• Unique Focus: Combines chocolate and jenever tasting, two Belgian specialties not as commonly explored.
• Intimate Setting: Small-group tour with a maximum of 6 people, ensuring personalized attention.
• Authentic Location: Takes place in a historic Flemish stairhouse close to Ghent’s main sights.
• Expert Guidance: Led by one of the shop’s founders, sharing detailed insights and personal anecdotes.
• Tasting Variety: Five jenevers, including a rare 10-year-aged option, paired with chocolates from four premium chocolatiers.
• Ideal for Enthusiasts: Great for those wanting an authentic, less commercialized taste of Belgium’s craftsmanship.

A Detailed Look at the Chocolate and Jenever Tasting Experience

The Setting: A Historic Flemish House

From the moment you step into the Chocolade Ambassade, you’ll feel the charm of Ghent’s old-world architecture. The shop is housed in a 16th-century stairhouse, giving an authentic, cozy atmosphere that perfectly complements the tasting. Its central location near Gravensteen Castle makes it easy to combine this experience with sightseeing—a real plus for those with limited time.

The tasting room maintains a comfortable temperature of around 18°C, ideal for preserving the quality of the chocolates and spirits. If you’re sensitive to cold, bringing a light sweater is a good idea.

The Guide: Passionate and Knowledgeable

One of the highlights is the personal guidance offered by one of the shop’s founders. From the start, they share engaging facts about the history and craftsmanship of both chocolates and jenever, making the tasting both informative and fun. Their stories add context to each product, transforming a simple tasting into a mini-lesson on Belgian artisanal skills.

The Tasting: What to Expect

The experience features six tastings in total: four luscious chocolates from four different Belgian chocolatiers, and five jenevers, including a rare 10-year-aged version. The chocolates are carefully selected for their quality and diversity—think different textures, flavors, and styles—offering a balanced overview of Belgium’s chocolate craftsmanship.

The jenever tasting is equally compelling. Jenever is often overshadowed by Belgian beer, but it’s an ancient spirit with its own character. The guide explains how jenever differs from gin, emphasizing its distillation process and regional variations. The tasting includes a 10-year-aged jenever, which may resemble whiskey in taste and aroma for those unfamiliar with this spirit.

Flavor Pairings and Scenting Exercise

A particularly fun part, highlighted in reviews, is the scenting exercise—training your nose to identify different aromas. This not only makes the tasting interactive but also enhances your appreciation of the complex flavors involved.

The reviewers note that the pairings are carefully curated, resulting in incredible flavor combinations. One reviewer mentioned “incredible flavor pairings,” and another appreciated the “great explanations of the origins of the drink.” This shows that the hosts are committed to providing both tasting and education, elevating the experience beyond just sampling.

Post-Tasting: Shopping and Recommendations

If you fall in love with any chocolates or jenever, you can purchase them directly after the session. The guide offers tips on where to find more jenever and other local food and craft products in Ghent, which is a bonus if you want to bring a piece of Belgium home.

Analyzing the Value: Price and Experience

At $91.92 per person, this tasting might seem on the higher end for a 1.5-hour experience. However, when you consider the quality of the products, the personal guidance, and the unique opportunity to try rare aged jenever, it offers solid value. You’re not just tasting; you’re gaining insights, learning about craftsmanship, and experiencing Belgian tradition firsthand.

The limited group size ensures attention from the guide and a more relaxed environment—something that’s often missing in larger tours. The opportunity to taste a 10-year-aged jenever, paired with expertly selected chocolates, makes this a memorable indulgence.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for culinary enthusiasts eager to explore beyond typical Belgian fare. If you enjoy learning about spirits and chocolates from passionate artisans, you’ll find this highly rewarding. It’s also suitable for people looking for a relaxed, intimate activity that combines education with indulgence—perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a taste of authentic Ghent.

However, it’s not suited for children or those with severe food allergies, especially since the products may contain common allergens like nuts, milk, or gluten, and the tasting involves alcohol.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers craving an authentic taste of Belgium’s craft food and drink, this Chocolate and Jenever Tasting offers a delightful blend of history, flavor, and craftsmanship. The location’s charm, combined with expert hosts and high-quality products, makes for a memorable experience that goes beyond just tasting.

You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for Belgian chocolatiers and distillers, plus some new flavor favorites to enjoy back home. Whether you’re a foodie curious about spirits, a chocolate lover, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re after a personal, flavorful journey into Belgium’s lesser-known traditions, this is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon in Ghent.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, since it involves tasting strong alcohol, only those over 18 can participate.

Can I buy the chocolates and jenever after the tasting?
Yes, you can purchase the products on-site if something catches your eye or tastes especially good.

How long does the experience last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect short but sweet activity.

Where does the tour take place?
At Chocolade Ambassade, a historic chocolate shop located near Ghent’s main sights like Gravensteen Castle.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to and from the shop.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is fine, but bringing a light sweater is recommended to stay comfortable in the tasting room.

Is it possible to join last minute?
It’s best to book in advance—average bookings are made about 34 days ahead—due to the small group size and popularity.

This Chocolate and Jenever tasting in Ghent is a lovely, authentic way to deepen your appreciation of Belgian craftsmanship, offering a tasteful blend of history, flavor, and personal stories. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious traveler, it promises a memorable, flavorful afternoon.