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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.
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For current information on
special events, check our site under
current events to the left or visit
www.oregonwine.org.
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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!
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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.
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Tastes are small because you are
sampling. It is ok to taste, spit, and to pour out wine.
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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.
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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.
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Many wineries have picnic areas with
beautiful views.
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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.
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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.
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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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