Amsterdam: High Wine at wine bar Paskamer, 3-rounds

If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy Amsterdam’s vibrant food and drink scene, the High Wine experience at Paskamer offers a sophisticated yet relaxed taste of the city’s best wines paired with delicious bites. This 2-hour tour takes you into the heart of De Pijp, one of Amsterdam’s most lively neighborhoods, where you’ll be guided by a certified sommelier through a curated selection of high-quality wines and complementary snacks. With just enough time to savor and learn, this experience blends education, indulgence, and local charm.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on quality and storytelling—the sommelier’s explanations add depth to each glass, making the tasting more than just a sip-and-go. However, it’s important to note that this isn’t meant to replace a full dinner; portions are smaller, so if you’re hungry or seeking a substantial meal, you might want to extend your experience. Designed for wine lovers, curious travelers, or anyone eager to explore Dutch wine culture in a cozy setting, this tour offers notable value at a reasonable price.

Key Points

• Intimate setting in a highly-rated, hidden gem wine bar in De Pijp.
• Expert guidance from WSET-certified sommeliers for a richer understanding of each wine.
• Three carefully selected wines paired with small bites that highlight flavor harmony.
• Flexible options to extend the experience with extra food and wine upon request.
• Affordable price point of $41 per person for a memorable tasting.
• Ideal for small groups or private bookings wanting a personalized, relaxed experience.

What to Expect from Paskamer’s High Wine Experience

The Paskamer High Wine isn’t your typical wine tasting. It’s a curated experience designed to showcase some of the best quality wines in a lively, welcoming environment. The venue itself, a cozy and somewhat hidden gem in Amsterdam’s De Pijp, makes for an intimate setting perfect for small groups or private bookings. You’ll be guided through three rounds of wine, each paired with thoughtfully chosen bites that complement what’s in your glass. The goal is to enhance your appreciation of wine and food pairing without overwhelming your palate or wallet.

The Venue: Wijnbar Paskamer

The tour begins at Wijnbar Paskamer, a locally loved wine bar awarded the Wine Bar of the Year in the Netherlands in 2022. This accolade hints at their dedication to quality and innovation. The bar’s decor combines modernity with a welcoming charm, creating an atmosphere that’s both upscale and relaxed, perfect for sipping and socializing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The experience lasts roughly 90 minutes with a focus on three rounds of wine tasting, and you’ll be in the capable hands of a WSET-certified sommelier. The guide will walk you through the story behind each wine, sharing insights into why certain pairings were selected. Each round includes a small plate that matches the wine’s flavor profile, such as cheeses, tapas, or other Dutch-inspired bites.

While the specific bite types aren’t listed, reviews suggest the food pairs well and enhances the wine experience. One guest, Timothy, simply states, “Food is good well paired with wine,” emphasizing the thoughtful pairing process.

The Wines & Pairings

You can expect three quality wines—likely a mix of local Dutch varieties and international selections—each carefully chosen to complement the palate. The small bites are designed to unlock new flavor combinations and demonstrate the art of pairing, rather than serve as a full meal. For those keen for more, there’s an option for an additional round for EUR 11, which includes another wine and snack.

The Learning Aspect

This experience isn’t just about drinking; it’s educational. The certified sommelier will share stories behind each wine, explain the tasting notes, and shed light on what makes each pairing exceptional. This makes it an ideal activity for anyone interested in expanding their wine knowledge, especially given the WSET certification—a respected credential in the wine industry.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 2 hours, requiring around 90 minutes for the tasting itself.
• Price: $41 per person, which covers the three wines, the small bites, and guidance.
• Availability: Check current schedules; start times vary.
• Group size: Private groups are available, making for a personalized experience.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible—an important consideration for some travelers.
• Language: Conducted in English and Dutch, catering to a broad audience.
• Booking: Flexible options to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The Experience: Atmosphere and Authenticity

What truly elevates Paskamer’s High Wine is the atmosphere. The bar’s intimate, slightly hidden location creates a feeling of discovering a secret local spot. The lively surroundings of De Pijp add an energetic backdrop, but inside, the focus remains on the wine and conversation.

Guests have appreciated the quality of the wine—the selection is described as “beautiful,” and the guidance is clear and informative. Timothy’s review highlights the pairing as “well matched,” confirming the thoughtful curation.

Who Will Love This?

This tour is especially suited for wine enthusiasts or beginners looking to learn about pairing in a relaxed setting. It appeals to those who enjoy small, guided tastings rather than large, commercial wine experiences. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or curious travelers seeking an authentic taste of Dutch wine culture without the formality of a full dinner.

Additional Tips for Visitors

• Consider extending your visit if you’re hungry or keen to try more wines; the option for extra rounds makes this easy.
• Note that the small portions aren’t meant to replace dinner, so plan your evening accordingly.
• Remember to specify any dietary restrictions when booking—advances notice allows Paskamer to accommodate special diets.
• While not suitable for pregnant women or children under 18, this experience offers an excellent cultural and gustatory insight for adult guests.

The Sum Up: Who is This Tour Best For?

The High Wine experience at Paskamer is a delightful way to spend an evening in Amsterdam’s De Pijp neighborhood. It offers a blend of education, local charm, and high-quality wine, making it an excellent choice for small groups, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore Dutch wine culture without the fuss of a large tasting room. The attentive guidance from a certified sommelier ensures you’ll leave with a better understanding of wine pairing along with a few memorable sips.

If you value authentic, intimate experiences with quality wines and well-matched bites, this tour delivers great value at its price point. It’s a relaxed, enriching activity that will appeal to those who enjoy discovering the stories behind their drinks in a lively yet cozy setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for beginners? Yes, it’s designed to be accessible for all levels, with guidance from a certified sommelier explaining each wine’s story and pairing.

How many wines are served during the tour? Three high-quality wines, each paired with a small bite, are included in the standard experience.

Can I extend the experience? Absolutely. For EUR 11, you can add an extra round of wine and a snack. You can also request to stay longer for more food and wine.

Is the experience family-friendly? No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women, as it involves alcohol consumption.

How long does the tour last? The tasting itself takes about 90 minutes, but the total experience lasts around 2 hours.

What’s the price? It’s priced at $41 per person, offering a curated, guided wine experience at a reasonable rate.

In all, the Paskamer High Wine tour combines quality wines, expert guidance, and a welcoming atmosphere—making it a fantastic choice for those eager to enjoy a genuine, memorable taste of Amsterdam’s wine scene.