LUXURY PRIVATE Wine Tasting in CRETE (also for CRUISE SHIPS)

Indulge in an exclusive wine tasting experience on the picturesque island of Crete. This private affair lets you savor a selection of the region’s finest vintages, each meticulously curated to showcase Crete’s rich wine heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or simply seeking a sophisticated adventure, this intimate exploration promises to enchant your senses and leave you eager to uncover more of Crete’s winemaking secrets.

Key Points

• Intimate and exclusive wine tasting experience showcasing Crete’s premium wine heritage.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off service within 15 km of Hersonissos, with additional options for Heraklion, Sissi, and Milatos.
• Choice between two tasting options: seven premium Cretan wines or seven wines paired with traditional Cretan cheeses and delicacies.
• Knowledgeable local guides provide insights into Cretan viticulture and lead the tasting for an enhanced appreciation of the wines.
• Flexible booking options with "Reserve now, pay later" and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Overview and Experience

Although suitable for cruise ship visitors, this luxury private wine tasting experience in Crete offers an intimate and personalized opportunity to explore the island’s renowned wine heritage.

With an overall rating of 4.9 from 7 reviews, the experience features two options: a 7-premium wine tasting or a 7-premium wine tasting paired with Cretan cheese and delicacies.

Guests are picked up within 15 km of Hersonissos and transported by an air-conditioned minibus with a personal local driver/guide.

During the tasting, water, paximadi, and olives are provided, and insurance is included.

The activity is suitable for adults and operates in all weather conditions.

Transportation and Pickup

The private wine tasting experience in Crete provides convenient pickup and drop-off services for guests.

Travelers can be picked up and dropped off within a 15 km radius of Hersonissos, including popular locations like Kokinni Hani, Gournes, Gouves, and Chersonissos.

For those staying in Heraklion, Sissi, or Milatos, there’s an additional charge of €20 per person.

The meeting point for the tour is at Eye Travel Excursions in Stalida.

With the included transportation and driver/guide, guests can sit back and enjoy the journey to the winery in an air-conditioned minibus.

Premium Wine Tasting

What does the premium wine tasting experience entail? Guests can choose between two options.

The first offers a tasting of seven premium Cretan wines, without any food pairings. The second option includes the same seven-wine tasting, but with the added experience of sampling selected Cretan cheeses and delicacies.

Both experiences provide water, paximadi (traditional Cretan hard bread), and olives to cleanse the palate between tastings.

The knowledgeable local guide leads the tasting, sharing insights about the wines and Crete’s winemaking traditions.

Travelers can expect a refined, immersive exploration of Crete’s renowned viticulture.

Cretan Cheese and Delicacies

For the second option of the premium wine tasting experience, travelers can indulge in Crete’s renowned cheese and delicacies alongside the seven exquisite wines.

The selection includes traditional Cretan cheeses like graviera, soft mizithra, and tangy anthotiro, accompanied by local produce such as sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and paximadi – a hard, twice-baked bread.

These pairings enhance the tasting, allowing guests to fully appreciate the complex flavors and textures of Crete’s culinary heritage.

With the guidance of a knowledgeable local guide, visitors can savor the perfect marriage of the island’s premium wines and artisanal food offerings.

Knowledgeable Local Guides

Accompanying guests on this premium wine tasting experience are knowledgeable local guides, who provide invaluable insights into Crete’s rich winemaking heritage. These guides skillfully navigate visitors through the region’s distinctive grape varieties and winemaking techniques, enhancing the overall appreciation of Cretan wines.

Guide Qualifications	Years of Experience	Areas of Expertise
Certified Sommeliers	5-15 years	Cretan Viticulture
Accredited Wine Educators	10-20 years	Indigenous Grape Varieties
Local Winery Owners	15+ years	Sustainable Winemaking

Through their extensive knowledge and passion for Cretan wine, the guides ensure that guests embark on a truly memorable and enlightening wine tasting journey.

Accessibility and Restrictions

While the luxury private wine tasting experience in Crete is designed to cater to a wide range of guests, there are a few accessibility and restriction considerations to keep in mind.

The minimum drinking age is 18 years, so the activity isn’t suitable for children. Pregnant travelers are also advised against participation.

However, the transportation is wheelchair accessible, and infant seats are available. The activity operates in all weather conditions, so participants should dress appropriately.

Booking and Pricing

Prices for the luxury private wine tasting experience in Crete start at $175.37 per person, with variations based on group size.

Guests can take advantage of the "reserve now, pay later" option, providing flexibility for booking. Plus, the activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, ensuring hassle-free planning.

The positive reviews from travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experiences, adding to the appeal of this offering.

Key booking details include:

• Prices start at $175.37 per person
• Reserve now, pay later option available
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior

Positive Traveler Feedback

Travelers have consistently praised the luxury private wine tasting experience in Crete, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable nature of the activity.

Across Viator and Tripadvisor, the experience boasts an impressive 4.9-star rating from 7 reviews. Guests laud the expert commentary provided by the local guides, who offer insights into the region’s winemaking traditions and pair the premium vintages with delectable Cretan cheeses and delicacies.

The convenient transportation and accessible location within 15km of Hersonissos further contribute to the seamless, hassle-free experience.

FAQ

Can We Visit a Local Winery as Part of the Experience?

Yes, the experience includes visiting a local winery where you’ll enjoy a premium wine tasting. The knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the winemaking process and the unique Cretan grape varieties.

How Long Does the Wine Tasting Event Typically Last?

The wine tasting event typically lasts around 2-3 hours, depending on the option chosen. The standard 7 premium wine tasting takes approximately 2 hours, while the wine tasting paired with Cretan cheese and delicacies lasts around 3 hours.

Are There Any Discounts for Larger Group Sizes?

Yes, there are discounts for larger group sizes. The price per person starts at $175.37 and varies based on the group size, with lower per-person rates for larger groups.

Can We Customize the Wine Selection for the Tasting?

Yes, the wine selection can be customized. Guests can contact the provider to discuss their preferences and request specific wines or grape varieties to be included in the tasting experience.

Do You Offer Any Packages for Multiple Excursions in Crete?

Yes, they offer package deals for multiple excursions in Crete. Customers can combine the wine tasting experience with other tours or activities to create a customized Cretan vacation. Discounts are available for bundled bookings.

Sum Up

Indulge in the rich wine heritage of Crete with a private tasting experience tailored for cruise ship passengers. Savor a selection of premium Cretan wines, accompanied by traditional cheeses and local delicacies, while knowledgeable guides provide insights into the island’s vibrant viticulture. This luxurious and intimate exploration offers a convenient, unforgettable journey for wine enthusiasts seeking to enjoy Crete’s renowned wine culture.