3 Things You Need To Know About Visiting Wine Tasting Rooms
If you've never taken a wine tour before, you're in for an unforgettable experience. Wineries and vineyards are situated in areas with abundant natural beauty -- after all, growing grapes is an agricultural endeavor that requires fertile soils and pleasant weather. Winery owners also keep their grounds well kept with lush, green lawns and vibrant flower beds in order to attract visitors. Preparing for a wine tour isn't in the least bit difficult -- following are three strategies designed to ensure that you have the best possible time on this wonderful adventure.
Layer Your Clothing
Most wine grapes grow best on hillsides, which means that they're usually located in areas with at least several separate microclimates. This means that the weather at the beginning of your wine tour may be mild and sunny while several miles later, it might be drizzling and windy. Dressing in layers keeps those on wine tours comfortable -- a lightweight jacket can be slipped on and off as conditions change.
Keep in mind that although wine tasting isn't a formal activity, you should avoid dressing overly casual when going on a wine tasting tour. Cutoff jeans, for instance, as well as loose, sloppy T-shirts and anything overly revealing or provocative is considered to be an insult to the winery owner. Khakis, tailored jeans, button-down shirts, cardigans and sundresses are all examples of proper tasting room attire.
Avoid Wearing Fragrance or Scented Grooming Products
Wearing any sort of fragrance on a wine tour interferes with your tasting experience as well as that of others. Even faint fragrances can alter the taste of the wine, so along with foregoing perfume, cologne, or body spray, use unscented hair products, deodorant, lip balm, aftershave and body and hand lotion. Even bug spray should be fragrance free.
Practice Tasting Room Etiquette
Many of those who are new to wine tours mistakenly believe that tasting rooms are the equivalent of bars and pubs. However, this is not the case. Winery owners and managers strive to create a friendly, comfortable environment for their guests, but the kind of loud conversation associated with bars is considered inappropriate. You should also avoid making any off-color jokes even in quiet tones. Enjoy the wine, but don't expect them to keep filling your glass. It's also important to be mindful of others on the tour and not monopolize the attention of the people doing the pouring.
For help with transportation during your wine tour, consider getting in touch with a business such as Ambassador Limousine.