Tips for going Wine Tasting!

1. If you are new to wine tasting, check with local tourism offices to find the best regions to visit in a specific area. Then, look up the wineries nearby and which varietals each one makes. Make sure there is a balance of reds or whites, depending on your preferences.

Further, research the various kinds of wine experiences offered. And decide whether to go to tasting rooms or visit the wineries and vineyards. Some wineries will offer tours and packages, including a cellar walk-through and vineyard experience with or without food. If food is included, be sure to let the winery know of any food allergies.

2. Once you know which wineries you would like to visit, make reservations. Depending on the time of year and region, you want to secure seating and allow the winery ample time to prepare. Be sure to let the winery know if you prefer to taste indoors or outdoors/patio and if you need special arrangements. Further, if you are thinking of bringing Fido, check to see which wineries are dog-friendly.

Finally, map out your visits, starting with the furthest winery and ending with the closest to your accommodation.

3. Limit tastings to three wineries per day with lunch between the 2nd and 3rd visit. Whether you are a novice or a connoisseur, you can only taste so much wine before your palate starts to dull. Further, the more alcohol you consume, the less likely you are to form an opinion about the wine. Therefore, be mindful of proper etiquette and respect the winery’s work — their creation is meant for you to enjoy.

However, if you choose to use a spittoon (bucket for spitting before swallowing), you may be able to handle more visits.

4. Consider a transportation service or designated driver. Many wine country’s tourism offices offer tour buses, shuttles, and private drivers. And it is much cheaper and less of a headache than the alternative.

5. Find out if the winery provides light snacks. If not, bring bland water crackers or a baguette without seeds or spices to cleanse your palate between tastings.

Moreover, bring a small bag of coffee beans and sniff in between to get your senses back to neutral. Further, don’t eat spicy foods or drink anything with robust flavors before or during a tasting.

6. Do not wear perfume or scented body lotions. Any aromas that interfere with the tasting will likely clash with the wine.

7. Bring a water bottle. Most wineries have a water station, but people are more likely to stay hydrated when they bring their own. Make a conscious effort to keep refilling throughout the day.

8. Bring a cooler. If you plan to purchase wines and are not going directly home, this will be a courtesy to the health of the wine — particularly in hot weather.

9. For your trip back home, bring a wine suitcase or bubble wrap to ensure your bottle purchases are safe en route, whether flying or driving to and from your wine destination. Consider shipping larger purchases — it is legal in most states and more convenient.

10. Take notes to remember which wines you liked (and didn’t) and why. Photograph the bottles and write down the grapes and flavor profile. Was it dry, sweet, bitter, fruity, full or light-bodied? Understanding why you liked (or didn’t) a glass of wine will help develop your palate and make wine-tasting fun.

11. Tip your tasting room associate. Have cash handy if you are not purchasing bottles. They took the time to share their story and passion for winemaking with you. It’s just classy to show your appreciation!

Cheers, and happy tasting!