Wine Country Tour Tips

Plan your route ahead. Visiting wineries that are in close proximity limit driving. Call ahead to confirm hours.

Get a designated driver!  For a carefree day of tasting…it’s the prudent thing to do.  Take advantage of local tour services that are fun and affordable.

Avoid wearing any perfume, cologne or heavily scented lotions. It will interfere with your tasting experience as well as the experience of those around you.

Spit…like the professionals. Or use dump buckets that are often placed on tasting room bars. It’s the cool thing to do. You will be able to taste more fantastic wines.

Ask a lot of questions. This is your opportunity to educate your palate and learn more about the wine making process. Tasting Room staff and your driver/tour guide are friendly and love to share their knowledge with guests.

Check out a new wine tasting region.  Likely you’ll experience less congestion and you’ll have a great time tasting new wines! Check out our
Wine Tasting Routes for some ideas.

Likewise, try a new type of wine or “varietal” during your wine tasting.  You must taste the Valley’s signature Pinot Noirs, but don’t be afraid to try something new. You may like it!

Visit small wineries and larger wineries and enjoy a variety of wine tasting experiences.  Chat with winemakers in an intimate setting, taste from the barrel or enjoy some live music and specialty food pairings.

Don’t miss out on special discounts & offers at wineries during tasting events. And, if you discover a winery you really love, consider joining their wine club. You’ll likely receive discounts, exclusive deals, access to special releases and free tastings.

ADDITIONAL INFO.

  1. For current information on special events, check our site under current events to the left or visit www.oregonwine.org

  2. Tasting involves multiple senses. First look at the color of the wine in the glass.  Then swirl the glass and sniff, to savor the bouquet,; take a moment to identify the aroma.  Then sip the wine, enjoying the taste and feel of the wine in various areas of your mouth.  Identify the flavors, which ones you like and why and think about what foods would taste good with that wine.  Above all, don't be intimidated by these rituals; wine is all about pleasure!

  3. While some Oregon wineries still offer complimentary tastes, many wineries now charge a tasting fee of between $5 and $15, higher on holiday weekends.  Also, expect charges for special reserve wines and events, too.

  4. Tastes are small because you are sampling.  It is ok to taste, spit, and to pour out wine.

  5. If you are (or look like you are) age 26 or younger, Oregon law requires wineries to check your identification, so bring it with you.

  6. When you find a wine you enjoy, buy a glass, a bottle or a case.  Limited-production wines may be available only at the winery.  In hot weather, bring a cooler to protect your purchase.

  7. Many wineries have picnic areas with beautiful views.

  8. Laws relating to wine are "crazy", differing from state to state.  Oregon wineries can legally ship wine only to states with "reciprocal shipping laws." (For an up-to-date list , go to Direct Shipment Laws by State for Wineries), or check with any winery.

  9. Although airline regulations are in flux, at this time most airlines allow wine in checked luggage.  Secure appropriate packaging at the winery where you make a purchase, to avoid breakage.  Wine can also be carried on, within the carry-on limits. 

  10. Don't wait until the last minute to book your tour!  We recommend at least 2 or more weeks in advance, more on special holidays to avoid being disappointed.  For suggestions on great  lodging and dining, ask us when you are arranging your tour and we will be happy to help.  Wineries are open year around.

 

These travel tips are only a sampling.  Please contact us if you have further questions.

 

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