Private wine tasting meals at Seville’s oldest tavern

This review explores an intriguing opportunity to sample some of Spain’s finest wines right in the heart of Seville, at the city’s oldest tavern, El Rinconcillo. For those with a passion for wine or just eager to deepen their understanding of Spanish flavors, this private wine tasting meal offers a blend of history, culture, and exceptional taste. Led by Roger from A Question of Taste, the experience is crafted to be both educational and enjoyable, with a focus on pairing wines from the Jerez region along with red and white varieties from wider Spain.

What I love about this experience is how it combines authentic setting with knowledgeable guidance. The historic ambiance of El Rinconcillo, which opened in 1670 and still preserves its original decor, makes the tasting feel like stepping back in time. Plus, the personal touch of a private group means you avoid the crowds and get tailored attention. The second standout feature is the quality of the pairings—delicious tapas like Iberian ham, prawns, cheese, and desserts carefully matched to the wines, elevating each sip and bite.

A potential drawback to consider is the price—at $179.25 per person, it’s a premium experience. While many reviewers feel the value matches the cost, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer casual drinking without food, this might be less appealing. Also, booking several weeks in advance (average of 21 days) is recommended, so plan ahead if you want to secure a spot.

Key points / Takeaways

• Historic Setting: Tasting takes place in the first-floor restaurant of Seville’s oldest bar, El Rinconcillo, blending tradition with wine.
• Expert Guidance: Roger’s 30 years of experience means you’ll get in-depth insights into Spain’s wine regions, grapes, and aging processes.
• Tailored Food Pairings: The meal includes Iberian ham, prawns, meat, cheese, and desserts, all chosen to complement the wines.
• Flexible Options: The guide can adjust wines and dishes based on your preferences, making it a personalized experience.
• Private Atmosphere: Only your group participates, creating an intimate and engaging environment.
• Good Value for Enthusiasts: Many reviews highlight the quality of wines and food matching as well worth the price, especially if you love in-depth tasting experiences.

Exploring Seville’s Oldest Tavern and Its Wines

Stepping into El Rinconcillo feels like entering a living museum. Opened in 1670, this tavern has the charm of bare brick walls, beamed ceilings, and a sense of centuries of stories. Sitting in the upstairs restaurant, which preserves much of its original decor, you’re surrounded by history, yet the focus is on the lively flavors of Spain.

The tour, led by Roger, offers a solid mix of cultural context and tasting expertise. He’s praised for bringing wines to life with engaging stories and maps, and for choosing interesting options—some from his personal cellar, which adds a special touch.

The Wine and Food Pairing Experience

What sets this experience apart is the pairing of wines from Jerez, known worldwide for sherry, with a curated selection of reds and whites from Spain. Roger explains the different regions, grapes, and how wines are made—especially emphasizing the unique aging process of sherry-style wines.

The accompanying dishes are thoughtfully selected to match each wine: from acorn-fed Iberian ham to fresh prawns from Huelva, robust meats, cheeses, and delightful desserts. Reviewers like the one who said Roger “brings wine to life” and that the “choices of wine to taste, talk about and compare were made perfectly,” highlight how well the food enhances the wine experience.

The Atmosphere and Setting

The ambiance of El Rinconcillo is an attraction in itself. It’s not just about drinking wine; it’s about savoring a piece of Seville’s history. The decor, with its original features, makes for an authentic backdrop, and the possibility to customize the food if you have dietary preferences adds a personal touch.

The Logistics: What to Expect

The tour lasts roughly 2 hours 30 minutes, offering ample time to enjoy each wine and food pairing without feeling rushed. It’s a private experience, so only your group participates, which makes the conversation more engaging. Meeting at the restaurant on C. Gerona is straightforward, and the tour ends right back at the starting point, simplifying transportation logistics.

Booking in advance is advisable since most travelers book about 3 weeks ahead. The price includes all beverages, the meal, coffee or tea, and the guided commentary—making it quite the comprehensive package. Note that soda or pop is not included, so if you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, you might want to bring your own or just enjoy the options provided.

Who Will Love This?

This tour is perfect for wine lovers eager to learn more about Spanish wines in an intimate setting. Food enthusiasts will appreciate the well-chosen tapas and the opportunity to see how flavors interact. It’s also a fantastic pick for couples or small groups seeking a memorable, culturally rich experience. If you’re curious about sherry or want a deeper understanding of Spanish wine regions, this is a good fit.

Those on a budget might find it a splurge, but many reviewers affirm that the quality and personalized attention make it worth the cost. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy historical atmospheres and authentic local venues rather than modern wine bars.

Price and Value

While $179.25 per person is not pocket change, consider what you’re getting: an engaging 2.5-hour private tasting, expertly guided by someone with decades of experience, in a historic setting, paired with a full meal. Many reviews describe it as a highlight of their trip, citing the excellent wine selection, delicious food, and friendly host. It’s a more immersive, educational experience than simply sampling wines at a bar—something many travelers find valuable.

Final Thoughts

This private wine tasting at Seville’s oldest tavern offers a deep dive into Spanish wine culture, paired with authentic tapas in a historic setting. It’s a chance to learn, taste, and soak up some of Seville’s rich history all in one go. If you enjoy good wine, tasty food, and stories that bring a city’s traditions to life, this experience is likely to be a highlight.

It’s especially suited for those who want a personalized, intimate experience away from the crowds. The combination of knowledgeable guidance, excellent pairings, and a memorable historic venue makes it a worthwhile splurge for anyone serious about their wine or eager to enjoy a genuine slice of Seville.

FAQ

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book about 21 days ahead, as the experience is popular and limited to private groups.

Is transportation provided?
Pickup is offered, but the main meeting point is the restaurant located on C. Gerona. It’s near public transportation, making it accessible.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers all alcoholic beverages, a full lunch, coffee or tea, and the guided tasting experience.

Can I customize the food or wine?
Yes, the host is happy to vary the wines or dishes to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, providing plenty of time for tasting and conversation without rushing.

Are children or non-drinkers allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but the experience is centered on wine tasting and food, so check with the provider if unsure.

What kind of wines will I taste?
Wines from Jerez (famous for sherry) and other Spanish reds and whites, explained in detail by the guide.

Is this experience good value?
Yes—many reviews praise the high quality of wines, delicious food, and personalized guidance, making it a memorable splurge.

What’s the best part of this experience?
Many say it’s the combination of history, expert guidance, and superb pairings—an authentic taste of Seville’s culture in a cozy setting.