De Wallen Wine Tours: Top 5 Red Light District Tastings
Looking to experience Amsterdam’s famed Red Light District in a manner that is a bit different, perhaps? So, imagine swapping the usual pub crawl for something with a bit more sophistication: a wine tasting, right? Very few people realize you are able to actually sip exquisite wines whilst soaking up the sights and sounds of De Wallen, which is, to be honest, an awesome combo. Anyhow, let’s take a look at a few tours in the Red Light District for a memorable experience!
Why Pair Wine with a Red Light District Visit?
Wine tastings typically bring thoughts of vineyards and serene countryside, sure, but hear me out. Is that maybe pairing it with the Red Light District a complete change of pace? In some respects, what happens is that this pairing introduces a different dimension to your Amsterdam experience. So, you get to appreciate the city’s cultural side, right? And it has some very interesting historical areas all whilst enjoying some, I would say, pretty awesome wines. Is that perhaps the perfect counterpoint: refined tastes set against, to be honest, a backdrop that is known for its raw appeal?
- Offers a unique cultural mix.
- Provides a fresh take on sightseeing.
- Can enhance the appreciation of both wine and history.
Tour 1: ‘Red Lights & Rosé’ – The Original De Wallen Wine Walk
This very first tour has made its name combining history talks with a selection of fine rosé wines. So, the walk usually starts in a quieter corner of the district, typically near Oude Kerk, the oldest building in Amsterdam. Anyway, it sets a historical backdrop. The group gets introduced to several wines, and they’re paired these with cheeses, and chocolates, which is rather, very cool. Arguably, what I would say is, you learn about the history of the area while enjoying awesome Rosé!
- Perfect for rosé lovers.
- Learn the rich history and culture.
Tour 2: ‘Grapes & Sin’ – A Tasting Tour of Vice and Vino
Is that so perhaps ‘Grapes & Sin’ is designed, basically, to highlight the contrasts found in De Wallen? The tour typically takes you through some of the most famed streets. The wine tastings are strategically positioned in venues that each offer a glimpse into the area’s diverse facets. I mean, can you think of anything better, really? This tour focuses mostly on organic and biodynamic wines, as a matter of fact, so you’re getting a bit of green sustainability along with your sin!
- Highlights the stark contrasts in the Red Light District.
- Focuses on organic and biodynamic wines.
Tour 3: ‘Merlot Among the Mayhem’ – A Nighttime Wine Adventure
Want something in the evening? Okay so this nighttime adventure combines exploration, to be honest, with a laid-back wine tasting. The itinerary is slightly different depending, in some respects, on the night. What happens is the guide is able to change things around for any special happenings, or events. Actually, they focus on robust red wines. I’m talking about very much Merlot here; which provides some really amazing warmth that balances with the atmosphere, and arguably the thrill, I would say, of the location. Anyhow, this tour emphasizes seeing De Wallen after sunset with Merlot!
- Great for a late evening experience.
- Focuses on providing warmth.
Tour 4: ‘Riesling in Red Light’ – A Sensory Exploration
Riesling in Red Light is meant to explore sensory, that it brings. The experience begins with an introduction to different aromas, followed then by a guided wine session. It’s held, mostly, in one of the unique tasting rooms around De Wallen. Apparently, each wine is selected to challenge the palette, arguably giving contrast. And there’s the edginess you’ll come to know. After that you’ll explore. To be honest, this tour mixes intellectual stimulation with sensory. Plus you learn things about Riesling, yeah!
- Appeals to those seeking something more than simple drinking.
- A great introduction into wine tasting in general.
Tour 5: ‘Chardonnay & Canals’ – The Deluxe Wine & Water Tour
Okay, you fancy getting on a boat, and exploring, right? Well you’ll want to experience Amsterdam through this route: waterways, yeah! What happens, normally, is that it’s a deluxe wine tour. Apparently, there’s the additional perspective given by gliding on the canals. The Chardonnay here complements the gentle motion, while some appetizers are given for satisfaction, right? This tour combines relaxation, scenery, and premium wine. Cool right?
- Deluxe wine tour from the canals
- Combines premium wine, scenary and relaxation