Rhodian Wines – Private Wine Tasting Under a Sommelier

If you’re visiting Rhodes and have a soft spot for good wine, this private tasting experience might just be your perfect afternoon. Held at the charming 10GR Hotel & Wine Bar, this journey into Rhodian winemaking history combines expert guidance, local flavors, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s an immersive way to deepen your appreciation of Greek wines, especially if you’re eager to learn from someone who truly knows their stuff.

What makes this experience stand out? For us, it’s the intimacy and the focus on authentic Rhodian wines with a certified sommelier guiding every sip. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll enjoy tasting four carefully selected wines accompanied by a cheese and charcuterie platter. One thing to note: it’s quite short at around an hour, so if you’re craving a more extensive tasting, you might want to combine it with other activities.

A possible consideration? Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to plan how to get to and from the venue. Also, it’s a private experience—perfect for those wanting a tailored, quieter session, but not suited for large groups or those seeking a broader social vibe. Overall, it’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a relaxed, educational, and delicious introduction to Rhodes’ wine heritage.

Key Points

• Authentic Rhodian Wines: Tasting four selected local wines, including the island’s first sparkling wine producer.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a certified sommelier who shares detailed insights about each wine.
• Local Flavors: Includes cheeses and charcuterie to enhance the tasting experience.
• Cultural Deep Dive: You’ll learn about Rhodes’ 3500-year wine production history.
• Intimate Setting: Small, private group setting for personalized attention.
• Value for Money: At $55 per person, it offers quality guidance, local wines, and food pairings in a compact session.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Starting Point: 10GR Hotel & Wine Bar

Your wine journey begins at the stylish 10GR Hotel & Wine Bar, a cozy spot known for its curated wine selection and friendly atmosphere. It’s a practical, easily accessible location in Rhodes town, perfect for dropping in without much fuss. The bar’s setting creates an intimate environment, ideal for focusing on what’s in your glass.

The Itinerary & What to Expect

The core of this experience is the tasting of four Rhodian wines, carefully curated to showcase the island’s winemaking diversity. The first pour is a sparkling wine (150ml), made by Rhodes’ most historic winery—the very first in Greece to produce sparkling wine. This fact alone adds a special touch, as you’re sipping a piece of local innovation that’s been around for thousands of years.

Following that, you’ll sample three more wines—White, Rosé, and Red (50ml each)—all crafted from prominent Greek grape varieties. These selections come from some of the best producers on the island, ensuring quality and authenticity. The goal? To introduce you to the distinct flavors and styles that define Rhodian wines.

A cheese and charcuterie platter is included, offering a perfect pairing to bring out the nuanced flavors of each wine. Light, fresh snacks are carefully chosen to complement the tasting rather than overpower it, making each sip more memorable.

The Role of the Sommelier

Guiding this experience is a certified sommelier, whose passion and expertise shine through in their explanations. Reviewers praise Kosmas specifically, highlighting his knowledge of wine as clearly his passion. He’s not just spouting facts but engaging in friendly conversation, making complex topics accessible and interesting. His insights help you grasp the significance of each wine and its place in Rhodian history.

Duration and Group Size

The tasting lasts about 50 to 60 minutes, making it an ideal quick yet enriching activity. It’s a private group experience, meaning you’ll have personalized attention and the chance to ask questions freely. While this intimacy is a plus for many, it could feel a bit short if you’re hoping for a lengthy exploration of Greek wines.

Cost and Value

Priced at $55 per person, this experience offers good value considering the quality of wines, expert guidance, and included snacks. Since there’s no need to pay upfront—thanks to a “reserve now, pay later” policy—you can book confidently, knowing you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty.

Accessibility and Practicalities

Transport isn’t included, so plan how to reach the venue. The meeting point at the 10GR Hotel is convenient within Rhodes town, and the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a range of travelers.

Why This Experience Works

Many reviewers emphasize the exceptional knowledge of the guides. Kosmas is described as friendly, approachable, and deeply passionate about Rhodian wines. One reviewer, Oliver, mentions, “Kosmas was incredible. His knowledge of wine was clearly his passion, and he explained everything so well,” which sums up the value of a guided tasting with an expert.

Viktoriia appreciated the intimate yet lively ambiance, saying it felt like the perfect balance between relaxed and engaging. The combination of informative narration and light snacks created an enjoyable atmosphere that made the evening unforgettable.

Busra also highlights Kosmas’ personable approach, noting the enjoyable conversation and friendly demeanor, making the experience feel more like a fun lesson than a formal tasting.

What Sets This Apart

This tour’s main strength is the focus on local Rhodian wines—including the island’s pioneering sparkling wine—and the expert guidance that makes each sip more meaningful. It’s not just about tasting wine but learning about Rhodes’ 3,500-year-old winemaking tradition.

The inclusion of cheese and charcuterie elevates the experience, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a small feast. The private setting ensures personalized attention, and the relatively short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy Rhodes itinerary.

Who Will Love It?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn about Greek and Rhodian wines in a relaxed environment. It’s perfect for couples looking for a romantic, educational outing or small groups wanting a private and guided experience. If you’re curious about local traditions and want to avoid overly commercialized tours, you’ll find this a genuine and worthwhile activity.

However, if you’re traveling with a larger group or prefer longer sessions, you might find this tasting a bit brief. Also, those relying on public transportation should plan ahead, as transfer isn’t included.

Final Thoughts

This private wine tasting at 10GR Hotel & Wine Bar offers a balanced mix of quality, authenticity, and expert guidance — all within a cozy, accessible setting. You’ll leave with a better understanding of Rhodes’ impressive 3,500-year-old wine history, plus some delicious local samples.

The price reflects the inclusion of four wines, cheese and charcuterie, and a knowledgeable sommelier, making it a sound investment for anyone wanting a taste of Rhodes’ wine culture. Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile or just someone looking to add a touch of local flavor to your trip, this experience will enrich your time on the island.

In sum, it’s a well-curated, enjoyable, and educational activity that highlights the best of Rhodes’ wine heritage—perfect for those who appreciate good wine and a good story.

FAQs

Is this a private tasting?
Yes, it’s a private group experience, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

How long does the tasting last?
The session lasts approximately 50 to 60 minutes.

What wines will I taste?
You will sample a sparkling wine (150ml) from Rhodes’ most historic winery, plus white, rosé, and red wines (50ml each) made from local Greek varieties.

Are food pairings included?
Yes, a platter of cheeses and charcuterie is included to enhance the tasting.

Does the price include transportation?
No, transportation isn’t included, so plan how to reach the 10GR Hotel & Wine Bar.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in English and Greek with a live guide.

Is this suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. The guide’s explanations make it accessible whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned drinker.

Whether you’re passionate about wines or simply curious to explore Rhodes’ rich tradition, this private wine tasting offers a genuine taste of local culture, guided by an expert who makes each glass memorable.