Touring Tips

CALL AHEAD

This is not as important at the peak of high season from May to October as it is the rest of the year, but it is advisable in the off season when some wineries may close their tasting rooms, or at least operate on reduced hours.

It's also a good idea to call ahead if you're touring with a large group (8 or more). Smaller wineries will be able to prepare in advance and may even be able to offer you a special tasting that caters to your group's needs.

DESIGNATE A DRIVER

Wines should be consumed responsibly. DO NOT taste and drive. Each winery will offer you up to 5 - 1 ounce samples over the course of a tour, and it is easy to consume far too much wine to be able to drive. Plan ahead and choose a designated driver before you begin your tour.

STRATEGIZE

Don't feel you have to try every wine made by every winery. Give your tour some focus and decide to taste reds only.  Or whites only.  Or be even more specific and taste Pinot Noirs or Rieslings only.  That way you're comparing apples to apples and can explore how a wine changes from vineyard to vineyard, winemaker to winemaker.

HIRE A TOUR COMPANY

Take the fear of drinking and driving out of your day and hand it over to the professionals. Tour companies are a good way to see the area, learn about the region and get guided tours of each winery. This takes a lot of hassle out of an enjoyable day. Here are the links to two regional wine tour operators: