Is prior wine knowledge required?

No, the experience is suitable for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Can I buy the wines and cheeses tasted?

Yes, select wines and cheeses will be available for purchase after the session.

Is this event suitable for children?

It is aimed at adult participants; minors are not permitted.

How long does the tasting last?

The session lasts approximately one hour.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?

Please inform us in advance to discuss any allergies or special diets.

Do I need to reserve in advance?

Yes, booking is recommended as places are limited.

Luxury Food & Drink Experience at Hodson Bay Hotel | Events | Food Tour

Hodson Bay Hotel, located in County Galway, Ireland, offers an exceptional culinary event that combines the art of wine tasting with the pleasures of gourmet cheese. Led by renowned Sommelier Andrzej, this experience is designed for wine aficionados and curious beginners alike. As guests gather in the elegant setting of the hotel’s tasting room, they are introduced to a curated selection of international wines that showcase a diverse range of flavors and regions. Andrzej's expertise transforms each sip into a journey, unraveling the stories behind the vineyards and grape varieties, while expertly pairing them with the hotel’s finest local cheeses. The pairing emphasizes Ireland's rich dairy traditions alongside global wines, creating a harmonious contrast that delights the palate. The hour-long session offers insightful tasting techniques, tasting notes, and the history behind each wine and cheese, making it both educational and entertaining. What sets this experience apart is the personalized attention and the deep knowledge shared by Andrzej, elevating a simple tasting into a memorable cultural encounter. The Hodson Bay Hotel’s sophisticated atmosphere and attention to detail make it a welcoming spot for food lovers eager to deepen their appreciation of wine and cheese. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a refined leisure activity, this tasting event stands out as an authentic way to enjoy Galway's hospitality and culinary excellence. An ideal addition to your adventure itinerary, this experience aligns with Ireland’s reputation for quality gastronomy and warm hospitality, offering a sophisticated flavor profile in a scenic location.

About Hodson Bay Hotel

Hodson Bay Hotel, located in Athlone in County Westmeath, is a full-service hotel that offers a range of on-site leisure experiences and guest services. The property hosts scheduled activities led by specialists, including a Cocktail Masterclass with a Resident Mixologist and a Wine & Cheese Tasting guided by Sommelier Andrzej. Guests can also book wellness sessions such as Yoga and Yogalates taught by named instructors, and high-energy fitness classes like Spinning and Aqua Aerobics. The hotel operates a swimming pool available for HOTEL residents only with family-friendly sessions and adult supervision for children under 12; pool booking is available 48 hours in advance.

Additional family-oriented programming includes a Kids Adventure Club featuring giant games, pool tables, Xbox entertainment, and arts & crafts for Saturday evenings and school holiday periods. The mix of classes and supervised activities is designed to accommodate a range of guest interests from relaxation to active fitness. Each experience has a clear duration or format, such as the one-hour Cocktail Masterclass and the guided Wine & Cheese Tasting, offering educational and participatory elements.

Hodson Bay Hotel emphasizes guest safety and structured scheduling for activities, with trained instructors and staff overseeing sessions. The combination of beverage-led workshops, wellness classes, family programming, and resident-only pool access positions the hotel as a destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and organized on-site experiences in Athlone. On-site schedules are updated seasonally and sessions are suitable for beginners through experienced participants, offering flexible options for short stays and extended visits.