My wife and I just sent our one and only child off to college, which means we’re officially empty nesters. We’re still figuring out exactly what that means and what we’re supposed to do with ourselves now.
For the last 18 years, our calendars have revolved around school events, activities, practices, games, tournaments, and everything else that comes with raising a kid. Now all of a sudden it’s just the two of us again.
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So we’ve been talking about getting back into the dating world… with each other, obviously, and started looking for fun things to do together, get out of the house a little more, and maybe remember what life was like before we spent every evening asking someone if their homework was done.
One of Rochester’s Best Cheap Date Night Ideas Includes Wine and Snacks
Today, my wife stumbled across the classes and tasting events coming up at Total Wine & More in Rochester, something I had no idea they hosted.
They’ve got wine classes, whiskey tastings, spirits events, and other guided experiences where you can try different drinks, learn a little something along the way, and, depending on the event, enjoy some food pairings and charcuterie, too.
The part that really caught my attention is that most of the classes are just $20 per person.
In 2026, that’s honestly not bad for a date night. You can barely take two people out for dinner without needing to refinance the house, so spending $40 for the two of us to taste some whiskey, snack a little, and actually do something different together feels like a pretty solid deal.
The Rochester Total Wine & More has several events still on the calendar through the end of the year, covering everything from Napa Valley wines and Bordeaux to single malt whiskey, sparkling wines, holiday entertaining, and even a Texas whiskey tasting.
If you’re also looking for a fun date night idea, a friends’ night out, or just an excuse to try something new, here’s what’s still coming up in Rochester:
Total Wine & More Tasting Classes Coming Up in Rochester, MinnesotaThursday, September 10
California Uncorked: Napa Valley & Beyond!
6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. | $20 per person
Take a trip through some of California’s most famous wine regions without leaving Rochester. You’ll sample a variety of red and white wines from Napa Valley, Sonoma, and beyond.
Saturday, September 12
California Uncorked: Napa Valley & Beyond!
5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. | $20 per person
Same California wine experience, different date. Expect a tasting featuring wines from Napa, Sonoma, and other world-famous California wine regions.
Saturday, September 26
Singular Sensations: Getting to Know Single Malt
5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. | $20 per person
Whether you’re brand new to single malt or already enjoy a good whisky, this class explores different flavors and styles while helping you discover what makes each one unique.
Thursday, October 8
Left Bank, Right Bank: All About Bordeaux
6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. | $20 per person
Explore the world of Bordeaux wines, including Cabernet-based reds from the Left Bank and Merlot-based wines from the Right Bank, along with Sauvignon Blanc and famous dessert wines.
Saturday, October 10
Left Bank, Right Bank: All About Bordeaux
5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. | $20 per person
Another chance to dive into Bordeaux and taste the differences between the region’s famous Left Bank and Right Bank wines.
Saturday, October 24
Icons of Spirits
5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. | $20 per person
Go beyond simply tasting the drinks and learn about the people and stories behind some standout spirits, including the techniques and craftsmanship that help create them.
Thursday, November 5
Pop Open a Party: Great Sparkling Wines
6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. | $20 per person
Just in time for the holidays, this class explores sparkling wines from Spain, Italy, Burgundy, and Champagne, along with ideas for pairing them with your celebration menu.
Saturday, November 7
The Art of Grain-to-Glass Whiskey featuring Still Austin
4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. | $25 per person
Taste your way through a selection of whiskeys from Still Austin Distilling while learning about its grain-to-glass approach and what makes Texas whiskey different.
Thursday, November 12
Sips of the Season: A Guide to Holiday Entertaining
6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. | $20 per person
A little wine, a little spirits, and even some cocktails. This class focuses on drinks that can help elevate everything from the pre-dinner toast to dessert during your holiday celebrations.
Saturday, November 14
Pop Open a Party: Great Sparkling Wines
5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. | $20 per person
Another opportunity to explore bubbly from around the world and learn which sparkling wines might be perfect for your holiday table.
Thursday, December 3
Distinguished Reds: A Global Tasting Journey
6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. | $30 per person
This one’s for red wine fans. You’ll taste premium wines from some of the world’s most famous wine regions, including Bordeaux, California, and Italy.
Saturday, December 5
Distinguished Reds: A Global Tasting Journey
5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. | $30 per person
A second chance to take a global tour through some seriously impressive red wines while learning what makes each region and producer stand out.
You can sign up for these events here.
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Gallery Credit: Samm Adams
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