How to Prepare for a Memorable Wine Tasting Experience

When it comes to the success of your wine tasting tour, it's not just about choosing the winery you want to visit; there is more to the preparation itself

Research the wineries and wines ahead of time

Plan your wine tasting tour ahead and do some research on the wineries you're about to visit. For example, if you love red wine, don't choose a winery known for its white wines. Get acquainted with some of the most popular wine types beforehand. Most wineries have a website you can browse to find out about their history, the wines they make, their prices, and reservation rules.

Call for the reservation

If you are a solo visitor in a region that doesn't require reservations, we still recommend calling the wineries in advance to ask about their walk-in policies for tastings and tours, especially on the weekends. Group visits require prior bookings, particularly for larger groups. Also, check with the wineries on their transportation rules, as special arrangements may be needed for large vehicles such as limo tour buses.

Make a wine tasting plan

Usually, there is a wide array of wines you can sample at a winery, so you can check their product list beforehand and prepare your tasting plan depending on your preferences and what the winery has to offer.

Some wineries provide wine tasting packages, and everything is guided by professionals, whereas at other wineries, you get the wine list and get to make your selection from there.

There are two basic types of wine tastings:

• You can sample one wine from each type, starting with sparkling wines and ending with full-bodied red wines.
• You can sample different wines of the same type, perhaps different samples of dry white wines.
  

Follow the winery dress code

Since wine tasting is not an everyday activity but one with a dash of sophistication, try to go for a more casually-elegant attire; but be aware that accidents/spills may happen. Therefore, we recommend choosing dark-colored outfits so that in the occurrence of getting your clothes stained, it won't be immediately noticeable.

It is also essential to put on layers as it can get cold in the cellar but warm outside during your vineyard tour. Hats and sunglasses are must-have items during hot summer months, especially if vineyard walks and picnics are on your wine tour agenda.

Another valuable tip is to wear flats instead of high heels and closed-toe shoes instead of sandals, since during the wine tour - which can last anywhere from one hour to a couple of hours - there will be a lot of walking and standing. It may take longer if the tasting includes additional activities such as the vineyard tour, food pairings, or educational presentations. A vineyard tour means uneven ground, paved walkways, and grassy areas, so it is highly advisable to dress accordingly so that you can fully enjoy your tour.

Avoid wearing strong perfumes

Wine tasting is an experience that delights all your senses - you'll get to see, smell and savor the wines. Wearing a heavy perfume, cologne, or deodorant can influence your perception of all the nuances of the aromas; therefore, try to keep your perfume use to a minimum before you go on a wine tasting tour.

We also recommend avoiding foods with a strong flavor, such as spicy or sweet, since they can also impact your wine tasting ability.

Prevent inebriation

Everyone has limits when it comes to alcohol, so drink moderately and responsibly. Yes, we know that it can be difficult to avoid getting drunk while sipping on alcohol, but there are some ways you can slow the process of getting inebriated. Therefore, never go on a wine tour with an empty stomach; eat a light breakfast or brunch before going to the winery.

Spitting the wine out is appropriate and even encouraged if you are on a guided wine tasting. It allows you to keep your palate fresh and your mind clear and sample multiple wines without getting intoxicated. If you are a novice at wine tasting, practice spitting at home, don't do it too hard or slow, and try to avoid any backsplash.

Be punctual

If you have a reservation, make sure to arrive on time. Typically, there is more than one group coming to a wine tasting, so it can happen that everyone will have to wait for you, or you'll miss a part of the tour, which can be unpleasant for all those present.

Have a designated driver

Now that you have read our tips on wine tasting etiquette, we have one last piece of advice that is also the most important: don't drink and drive; make sure to have a designated driver.

A party bus is the way to go when planning a private wine tour for a group. The bus has a professional chauffeur, so you won't have to deal with parking concerns. The chauffeur will pick you up and drive you safely to each winery you choose.

Following these primary wine etiquette tips should ensure an exceptional wine tasting, and purchasing a bottle of wine to enjoy at home is a great way to evoke the wonderful moments of your tasting experience. Cheers!