There’s something genuinely special about visiting a winery — standing among the vines, tasting wines in the place where they were made, and talking with the people who actually made what’s in your glass. It’s one of the best ways to deepen your appreciation for wine, and it doesn’t require any special knowledge to enjoy. But knowing a little about what to expect before you go makes the experience even better.
This page covers both sides of a winery visit — the practical planning, including how to prepare for a day of tasting, what to expect in a tasting room, and the differences between places like Napa and Sonoma, and the tasting itself, including how to look at, smell and taste wine with more intention, what the etiquette is, and how to get the most out of every pour.
Whether you’re planning your first wine country trip or just want to feel more confident the next time you walk through a tasting room door, you’ll find useful guidance here.
Planning Your Visit
A little preparation goes a long way when visiting wine country — from knowing what to wear and eat beforehand to understanding what sets one region apart from another. These articles help you plan a visit that’s enjoyable, comfortable, and worth the trip.
Planning a Trip to Wine Country
How to Prepare for a Day of Wine Tasting
Wine Tasting
Tasting wine in a winery setting is a different experience from drinking it at home, and knowing what to look for — and how to behave — makes it far more rewarding. These articles walk you through the process of tasting with more intention, from the moment you raise the glass to the notes you take on the way home.
Wine Tasting Can Be Truly Eye Opening Experiences
How Does a Winery Tasting Room Work?
How to Get the Most Out of a Wine Tasting Visit
Wine Tasting Etiquette - Things to Do
Wine Tasting Etiquette - Things to Avoid
Why Do People Swirl Their Wine Glass?
What Do You Smell When You Smell Wine?
Beyond the 5 S’s of Wine Tasting
Aromas Play an Important Part in How a Wine Tastes