The wine harvest begins post-summer and the onset of autumn. A perfect way to explore wine and its elements is to plan a good wine tour. But it may get a little intimidating if you are not used to wine tastings or if you're not a wine connoisseur! The best way is to visit some of the best wine regions in the world, wine vineyards and speak to the producers and growers there.
Yes, wine vacation or tour is one of the new ways of exploring wine. Many people often visit the vineyards to see harvesting, processing, and the drink preparation process. Wine tasters and wine lovers plan wine tours to taste varieties of the drink. A wine tour has its challenges and takes a little planning and organization to have a successful one.
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As such, check out the following tips to plan a successful wine tour and enjoy it the most while you're at it!
1. Set an All-inclusive Budget
It is good to decide beforehand how much you're willing to spend on your wine tour. It is a quick way to narrow down your options and priorities. If you're short on cash, your tour will limit a domestic experience. You can also plan a guided excursion to Ribera del Duero or choose convenient regions like the Texas Hill Country. But if you have cash loads to spend, go overboard with some pricey areas in the states like Napa Valley.
More authentic and exotic wine places give a better experience, like wine tasting in Piedmont, Italy, Rioja, Spain or Bordeaux, France, and New Zealand. All these places are an excellent choice for venturing out and exploring the world through wine. However, wine tasting in these regions tends to cost a bit more. Therefore, always set a budget before picking a destination so that you're not disappointed in case you can't afford your dream trip.
2. Select a Region and your Priorities
A crucial step when planning a wine tourism experience is to decide where you want to go. There are hundreds of "broad" wine regions, within which thousands of sub-appellations exist, so you have to narrow down your choices. Start by picking a country you want to visit for wine tasting. After that, narrow it down further to a broad wine region within that country.
You can further narrow your trip to selecting specific sub-appellations. Start by researching individual wineries that suit your preferences within those sub-appellations.
3. Time of the Year
The 'Time of year' is undoubtedly an essential factor you need to keep in mind while planning a wine tour. Yes, summer and fall are the busiest months in most locations, but they are also the best. If you choose September for wine tasting, you will be able to witness the gorgeous Harvest Season. Although winter is pretty calm, most of the wineries close or reduce their opening time, so make sure to call them in advance!
4. Visit Wineries Early in the Day
In high season afternoons, tasting rooms remain full. The staff would hardly get time to discuss the wines with you properly. It is best to visit a winery during the off-season or even midweek. Crush time is around late August to mid-October when it gets busy and buzzing. It is better not to expect the winemaker to be around for more than a few minutes around busy times.
Also, make sure to always check ahead on the website for more details or give them a call beforehand. It's better to have an early start to avoid the crowds and get the attention of the winemaker and the owners.
5. Enquire and make Notes
Explore more about the winery and the wine varieties by asking tons of questions. A simple question can truly offer valuable information. Start with questions about the founders of the property's founding date. Learning about your favorite wine at the tasting is one of the most enjoyable ways to get more out of your drink.
Most staffers you'll meet and greet during the tour will be friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to regale you with tales.
6. Take time and avoid 2+ tastings a day
If you're in a rush, you won't have time to understand what's happening at each location. By lingering, you can truly get an authentic tasting experience. A leisurely tasting will allow you to truly savor the wines and make the most of the experience. While some wineries require appointments on prior notice, others have limited parking.
You can make the appointments early in the morning, ahead of your planned visit, though the earlier the notice, the better.
7. Explore beyond your favorite wines. Be creative!
Every winemaker has their own unique and authentic winemaking style, so various wines like Merlot and Chardonnay will taste differently at each winery. It means that the wine styles may change as a winery develops its strengths or changes sources. We know that you have your favorites but don't just stick to your already familiar wines. Since you're at a winery, why not expand your horizon by trying out some new, unfamiliar flavors and varieties!
Conclusion
Present the suavest and deferential personality during wine tasting. Enquire about wines to purchase at the tasting room, especially those that aren't commercially available in stores. Don't be surprised; they almost always are, and they can be glorious. Wineries nowadays offer exclusive older wines in 'library wines' and remarkable 'club' wines.
These are wines available in tiny amounts and are phenomenal as they are exclusive. Make the wine tour a remarkable one by visiting places and wineries, clicking pictures, and exploring new wines.
