Amsterdam: Dutch Cheese Tasting Experience with Wine

Exploring Dutch cheese in Amsterdam doesn’t have to be just a snack break—it can be an educational and delicious adventure. This particular cheese and wine tasting experience, hosted by the Old Amsterdam Cheese Store, offers a well-balanced mix of learning, tasting, and fun. With a friendly, knowledgeable guide, you’ll sample five different Gouda cheeses, each paired with carefully selected wines, in a cozy, private setting. For just $28 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to deepen your understanding of Dutch cheese culture while enjoying some of the best flavors the Netherlands has to offer.

What really makes this experience stand out is the excellent reputation from past guests. The guides, notably Killian and Roberta, seem to bring a lot of personality, humor, and expertise to each session, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a memorable, often laugh-filled journey into Dutch culinary tradition. That said, one thing to consider is the location of the tasting room, which is on the first floor and accessible only by stairs—something to keep in mind if mobility is an issue. This activity is best suited for those eager to indulge their taste buds, learn something new, and enjoy an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn about Dutch cheese-making traditions firsthand from expert guides.
• Tasty Pairings: Enjoy five Gouda cheeses paired with three wines—red, white, and port—plus fig bread and water.
• Educational & Entertaining: Guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, making the session both fun and informative.
• Souvenir & Discount: Receive a certificate to remember your experience and enjoy discounts in the shop.
• Value for Money: At $28, it offers a well-rounded tasting with quality wines and cheeses.
• Accessible for Most: The experience is in a cozy, private setting, but note the stairs for access.

What to Expect at the Dutch Cheese and Wine Tasting

This 45-minute tour in Amsterdam is designed to be both engaging and relaxed. You meet at the Old Amsterdam Cheese Store, a charming shop centrally located, and then ascend to the tasting room on the first floor. Though the stairs might be a minor obstacle for some, the intimate atmosphere and the knowledgeable host make up for it.

The Setting and Atmosphere

The tasting room is cozy, well-lit, and designed to feel like stepping into a friend’s kitchen—warm, inviting, and perfect for conversation. Many past visitors have commented on the comfortable ambiance and the professional yet friendly hosting style. The room is air-conditioned, a thoughtful touch especially during warmer months, which makes the tasting more enjoyable.

The Cheese Tasting

You’ll sample five Gouda cheeses, including Old Amsterdam, a renowned brand crafted by a family-run business, Westland Kaasspecialiteiten. The history behind Old Amsterdam cheese, along with anecdotes about the family business, adds a layer of authenticity to the experience. As one reviewer puts it, “Our guide, Roberta, was exceptional. Her knowledge of the cheese, the history of the family business, and Gouda in general, made the tasting very informative and fun.”

The cheeses are presented with care, with each offering a different flavor profile, from young and mild to aged and more intense. The guide explains what makes each cheese unique, including hints about the recipes, which are kept closely guarded. Guests often enjoy understanding the subtle differences that make each Gouda special.

Wine Pairings

A highlight of the session is the pairing with three wines—a red, a white, and a port. The host carefully explains how each wine complements the cheeses, helping your palate appreciate the nuances. For instance, the white wine might refresh your palate between bites of older, more intense cheeses, while the port pairs beautifully with the richer, aged varieties. Guests frequently mention that the wine choices are spot-on, elevating the tasting experience. One reviewer shared, “The cheeses, the wine, and the presentation were all good; the guide made it a great activity.”

Additional Toppings

Beyond cheeses and wines, you’ll enjoy fig bread, which acts as a palate cleanser, and water to stay hydrated. Guests appreciate these thoughtful touches that enhance the tasting without complicating it.

Learning & Interaction

The guide’s storytelling adds charm to the session. Many guests comment on the entertaining, educational nature of the activity. For example, one reviewer said, “Our host, Ari, was a true legend—funny, informative, and very engaging.” This blend of humor and knowledge keeps the experience lively while teaching you about cheese production, the history of Old Amsterdam, and food pairings.

Takeaway & Souvenirs

At the end of the session, each participant receives a certificate—a nice keepsake to remember the experience. Guests also receive a 10% discount in the shop, making it easy to pick up some of their favorite cheeses to bring home or gift to friends.

The Value and Practical Aspects

While $28 might seem modest for a cheese and wine tasting, the value lies in the quality of the experience, the guidance, and the inclusions. Past guests have described the activity as “educational, enjoyable, and delicious,” emphasizing the value of learning about cheese while sampling standout products.

The session is structured to be concise but packed with information and flavor. The small group setting—generally intimate—allows for questions, personal interaction, and a more tailored experience, as mentioned in reviews praising how guides checked in with everyone.

The location at the Old Amsterdam Cheese Store is central, making it easy to incorporate into a day of exploring the city. Just remember, the room is on the first floor and accessible only via stairs, which could be a consideration for visitors with mobility issues.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This activity is perfect for food lovers, especially those interested in Dutch cuisine or cheese aficionados. It’s also suitable for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed, educational activity that’s more about quality than speed. With its approachable price point, it offers great value for those wanting a memorable, insider look into Dutch cheese traditions without breaking the bank.

It’s ideal if you’re looking for a short, engaging activity in Amsterdam that combines taste, education, and fun. However, if you prefer large, fast-paced tasting tours or have difficulty with stairs, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

Is the cheese tasting activity suitable for children?
No, since the activity involves wine tasting, the minimum age for drinking alcohol is 18 years old. Children might still enjoy the cheese but should be aware of the adult-oriented nature of the experience.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts around 45 minutes, making it a quick yet satisfying activity to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins at the Old Amsterdam Cheese Store and finishes back at the same location, so you don’t need to worry about transportation afterward.

Is the tasting room accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the room is on the first floor and accessible only by stairs, so those with mobility impairments might find it difficult.

Can I cancel this experience if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now with a “Reserve & Pay Later” option, giving you flexibility to confirm your plans without immediate payment.

Are the wines included in the price?
Yes, the price covers one red wine, one white wine, and one port wine, along with the cheese and additional accompaniments.

Will I get to take home any souvenirs?
Yes, you’ll receive a certificate to remember your experience and a discount voucher to buy cheese in the shop.

Final Thoughts

This Dutch cheese and wine tasting experience in Amsterdam offers a charming blend of education, flavor, and interaction. You’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for Gouda and Dutch cheese traditions, along with some delicious wines perfectly paired to each cheese. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and engaging personalities, making the 45-minute session feel like a fun, informal chat rather than a formal lesson.

For foodies, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a genuine taste of local culture, this activity provides excellent value. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy small, intimate experiences where questions and interaction are encouraged. Plus, the added bonus of a certificate and a shop discount makes it a thoughtful souvenir or a nice gift to bring home.

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and want to add a dash of culinary education to your trip, this cheese and wine tasting is a little gem that won’t disappoint.

Enjoy your cheese adventure in Amsterdam—delicious, educational, and memorable all in one.