There are wine tastings, and then there’s High Wine at The Dylan Amsterdam — an experience that sits somewhere between afternoon tea and an expertly choreographed dinner party. Twice now, I’ve found myself tucked into the hotel’s impossibly chic spaces, glass in hand, wondering why this isn’t a weekly ritual.

The first time, it was one of those rare Amsterdam summer days that feels like a gift. We sat in The Dylan’s courtyard, the sunlight warm on the paving stones and the whole space quietly alive with the season. The second visit couldn’t have been more different — a grey, rain-slick afternoon where the Keizersgracht felt hushed and empty. We settled inside, next to a fireplace that seemed designed for exactly this kind of day.

Both were perfect in their own way — proof that the appeal of The Dylan’s High Wine isn’t just seasonal; it’s about how effortlessly they set the scene.

What Exactly Is High Wine?

Not to be confused with high tea, High Wine Amsterdam is a four-course wine pairing experience served at The Dylan’s Bar Brasserie OCCO. Each course pairs a carefully chosen glass with a small plate — think of them as amuse-bouche with ambition.

At €55 per person, it’s surprisingly accessible for something this polished. It’s the kind of indulgence that feels entirely justified — partly for the wine, but mostly for the experience.

The Wines and Pairings

What I love most is how The Dylan High Wine avoids being predictable. You won’t just get a Sauvignon Blanc and call it a day — expect a mix of varietals, regions, and stories.

Each pour arrives with just the right pause in between, accompanied by a plate that doesn’t just go with the wine — it makes it better. One bite might be delicate and fresh, the next rich and earthy. You leave with a greater appreciation for both, and maybe a few new favourites you’ll spend weeks trying to track down.

With each glass, the staff tell you just enough about what you’re drinking — where it’s from, why it was chosen, what to notice — so you feel informed without sitting through a lecture. You leave knowing more about wine than when you arrived, but never once checking your watch.

And yes — you will probably leave a little giggly. The pours are generous enough that, by the end, the elegant walk along the canals may turn into a beeline for McDonald’s, because small plates (no matter how perfect) never quite erase the hunger wine creates.

The Setting: Courtyard or Fireplace?

One of the quiet luxuries of High Wine at The Dylan Amsterdam is that the venue adapts to the weather without losing an ounce of charm.

• Courtyard in Summer: Sun-dappled, leafy, and surprisingly peaceful given its location in the heart of the Nine Streets. The kind of place where time slows down.
  
• Fireplace in Winter (or Rain): Dim light, comfortable couches, and the sense that you’ve stumbled into a private club. Ideal for lingering long after your last glass.

Either way, the interiors deserve a mention. The Dylan’s design is both timeless and fresh — dark woods, muted fabrics, and just enough drama to make you feel you’re somewhere special.

Make It a Stay

High Wine is indulgent enough on its own, but if you really want to lean into the luxury, book a night at The Dylan. This 5-star boutique hotel is one of Amsterdam’s most elegant stays, set right on the Keizersgracht. Rooms range from modern minimalist to rich, historic suites, all with the kind of thoughtful details that make you want to linger.

Staying here means you can turn your High Wine afternoon into a full experience — no rushing to catch a tram, no checking your watch. Just stroll upstairs afterwards, slip into a robe, and enjoy the city at your own pace.

Check current rates and availability at The Dylan Amsterdam.

Why It’s Worth It

For me, this isn’t about value per calorie. It’s about setting aside a couple of hours to be looked after in the most effortless way possible. It’s also a reminder that luxury doesn’t have to mean stiff or formal — the staff here are polished but warm, happy to chat about the wine without turning it into a lecture.

Compared to other luxury Amsterdam experiences, this feels more intimate. It’s not a tourist conveyor belt, and that alone is worth the booking.

Planning Your Visit

Price: €55 per person (subject to change; check their site).
Location: The Dylan Amsterdam, Keizersgracht 384.
Booking: Highly recommended — weekends and sunny afternoons fill up quickly. Reserve here on The Dylan’s website.
Dress Code: There isn’t one, but you’ll feel more at home if you lean towards smart-casual or dressy.
Time of Day: Ideal for late afternoon, bridging that gap between sightseeing and dinner.

Final Thoughts

High Wine at The Dylan Amsterdam is one of those rare finds that lives up to the Instagram photos — a polished, memorable, and surprisingly unpretentious way to spend an afternoon in the city. Whether you’re in the courtyard under the summer sun or by the fire on a rainy day, it’s an experience worth dressing up for — and worth coming back to.

FAQs About High Wine at The Dylan Amsterdam

Is High Wine the same as High Tea?

No. High Tea focuses on tea, pastries, and sandwiches, while High Wine Amsterdam is all about curated wine pairings and savoury dishes.

How long does it take?

Around two hours, depending on how leisurely you want to be.

Is it suitable for solo travellers?

Absolutely — though it’s equally perfect for a date or a small group.