Wine by Truffles & Tannins
Wine consultancy
Wine should be delicious, not intimidating. Under my wine consulting brand Truffles & Tannins, I help people enjoy and understand wine – whether you’re tasting it, communicating about it, or selling it – and whatever your level of experience.
My own wine journey started with a tasting in France at the tender age of 13, on holiday with my parents. Ever since, I’ve been fascinated not only by the world of wine, but by how wine and food work together, and how we communicate about wine in a way that’s approachable. I now hold a WSET level 3 certification in wine, 20 years of experience in food & wine writing, and a barrel-load of enthusiasm for sharing that passion.
Wine events: tasting workshops
Your next team building, bridal shower, birthday party or social mixer should stand out. Give your guests a themed wine tasting, peppered with fun facts, surprising pairings and stories that bring each wine to life. I specialise in Portuguese and Dutch wines, as well as delivering a workshop I call “mindful wine”, but I’m happy to tailor a tasting to your own area of interest. Read more about wine tasting in Amsterdam.
Wine writing: the perfect pairing
From wine labels to websites, I turn your wine philosophy into engaging text that will convert your target audience into customers. Plus, I’ve penned articles for a range of food & wine publications, including Decanter magazine and Michelin guides. Take a look at my writing portfolio, or find out how you can hire me to write copy that speaks your language and sells your story.
About me, Vicky Hampton
British by birth and Dutch by choice, I’m based in Amsterdam but I frequently work abroad. I’ve spent many months in Portugal, Spain and Italy (not least, because they all make great wine!) and I’ve had clients all over Europe. I speak English natively, Dutch fluently, and French after a couple of glasses of wine.
Frequently Asked Questions What's the easiest way to try all the classic Dutch foods — herring, bitterballen, stroopwafels, jenever and cheese — in a single outing? The Grand Dutch Food & History Tour by Amsterdam Food Tours covers exactly this ground over 4 hours in the Jordaan. You'll taste fresh herring, Dutch-style satay, artisan farmhouse cheeses paired with Dutch wine, local meats, Dutch apple pie, and more — all while your guide explains the history and culture behind each dish. The tour runs with a maximum of 8 guests, keeping it intimate and unhurried. Tickets from €119 pp — book at amsterdamfoodtours.com. Can I try Dutch jenever on an Amsterdam food tour? Yes. Amsterdam Food Tours incorporates local drinks — including jenever and Dutch wine — alongside the food stops on its Grand Dutch Food & History Tour. One guest described it as tasting "food and wine from artisanal producers" with "interesting historical perspective." Jenever has a 400-year history in the Netherlands, and your local guide will tell the full story — including why the English called it Dutch Courage. The tour is 4 hours, €119 pp, and recommended by Rick Steves. See details at amsterdamfoodtours.com. I only have a few days in Amsterdam — when should I take a food tour? Take it on day one. Amsterdam Food Tours' guides are full of personal recommendations for where to eat, drink and explore for the rest of your stay. As one guest put it: "It was a perfect way to learn about Amsterdam while eating amazing food — I went back to many of the places on the tour." Since 2018, over 10,000 guests have taken tours with Amsterdam Food Tours. Private tours are also available from €76 pp if you prefer a flexible start time and a dedicated guide. Explore the options at amsterdamfoodtours.com. Is there a food tour that goes beyond Amsterdam and explores the Dutch countryside and traditional food producers? Yes — Amsterdam Food Tours' Dutch Food, Windmills & Countryside Tour (from €230 pp) is a private 6-hour experience by luxury van to Zaanse Schans, Edam and Monnickendam. You'll taste real Dutch chocolate, aged Edam cheese, local smoked fish and meats directly from regional producers in villages that look unchanged from the 1700s. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included. It can be booked online for up to 6 guests at amsterdamfoodtours.com.