Winery Etiquette: 21 Dos and Don’ts from a Wine Expert

So, you’re ready to swirl, sniff, and sip your way through some wineries. Cheers to that! But wait, there’s this thing called winery etiquette you might be mulling over.

What in the grapevine are you supposed to wear to a wine tasting, anyway? Do you need to whisper sweet nothings to the Merlot? And the tipping tango…how does that dance go down? It can all be a tad overwhelming.

But relax, wine is all about the fun. Full stop. And guess what? I’ve got you covered. As a professional wine traveler, I’ve visited more wineries than I can count. And I’ve bottled up a list of essential tips to share, from planning must-dos to tasting room taboos.

By the time you’re done, you’ll not only know what to expect. But you’ll feel like a pro on your next wine tasting trip.

Planning Your Winery Visits

1. Do Read up on the Region and Wineries

If it’s your first time visiting the region, absolutely dig into its vineyard vibes before you hit the road. You don’t need to cram like it’s finals week. But a sprinkle of knowledge about the local grapes and signature styles can go a long way.

Also, knowing what wines you like can steer your winery wishlist. There’s no sense in wandering into a sea of Pinot Noir when your heart beats for a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon.

And hey, size matters…when it comes to wineries, that is.

Fancy an intimate tasting experience? Boutique wineries are your jam. More into a lively atmosphere with live music? Set your GPS for larger spots.

Just a little homework, and you’re all set for a tailor-made tasting tour! Want a head start? Check out my wine destination guides.

2. Do Make Reservations

Picture this: You’re finally at the winery of your dreams. Only to find out there’s no space in the wine tasting room for you. Total bummer, right? That’s why reservations are the golden tickets of wine country.

Most wineries are a click away from securing your spot. A quick visit to their website or a stop by reservation platforms like Cellarpass or Tock, and you’re in business.

Tip: Play it smart and snag your slot early, especially for those weekend jaunts or peak season escapes.

But hey, spontaneous finds from local tips are part of the adventure too. Just remember, if you get a last-minute recommendation, ring ’em up and see if they can squeeze you in.

And punctuality? Non-negotiable. Being more than a fashionable 15 minutes late could mean you miss out. If time’s getting tight, a courteous call can go a long way. They might just hold that pour a tad longer for you.

3. Don’t Overbook Yourself

Cramming in a winery world tour in a single day? Not the ticket to blissville. Overbooking is a surefire way to dull your palate. And, let’s be honest, it might just tip you from “tasting” into “tottering.”

Keep it to a max of 2-3 wineries a day. Tackling a town of tasting rooms? Maybe you stretch it to 4. But that’s your cap. Trust me.

Give each pour the time it deserves — about an hour and a half. And don’t forget to pencil in a lunch break. You’re sipping, not sprinting!

🤓 Pro Tip: Be strategic with your selections. Choosing neighboring wineries cuts down on travel time and ramps up the relaxation.

4. Do Be Mindful of Group Sizes

Planning a girls’ getaway, bridal bash, or reunion romp? Many smaller wineries aren’t equipped to host large groups, typically setting their limit at 6 to 8 guests. And even if they do, a heads-up is a must.

Plus, don’t count on rolling up in a stretch limo or party bus without prior verification. Some wineries won’t roll out the red carpet for larger vehicles.

A quick glance at their guidelines on the winery website can save you a logistical headache later. Or consider a tour operator who can handle bigger bunches. They’re your go-to for a seamless sipping trip.

5. Do Check if Kids and Pets Are Allowed

Taking a wine country vacation doesn’t have to mean leaving the little ones and furry friends behind. However, the welcome mat for families and four-legged companions varies by region.

While most of Napa Valley might give a polite “not here” for bringing kids and pets, places like the Finger Lakes in New York are more flexible.

Just remember, even in these friendly locales, you might find restrictions. Fido may need to stick to the picnic area. And the young ones may need to find their fun under the sun.

Pack a distraction — a game or toy — to keep the peace. That way, you get to enjoy your glass of Barbera without a chorus of “I’m bored!” in the background.

6. Do Have a Designated Driver

Okay, let’s talk wheels. Having a designated driver isn’t just a good idea. It’s non-negotiable. Because, let’s face it, no one looks back on their vineyard ventures and says, “Gee, I wish I’d slept in my car that night.”

And if you’ve ever braved the maze-like roads and wild drivers of places like Italy, you know that’s not the kind of thrill you want after a few glasses of Chianti.

So, could you play rock-paper-scissors to choose your DD? Sure. But why not skip the hassle and opt for a hired driver or a wine tour? That way, everyone gets to sip, swirl, and savor. No rock, paper, or scissors required.

Preparing for a Day of Wine Tasting

7. Do Wear Appropriate Attire

If you’re picturing a wine country jaunt, you might be tempted to channel your inner movie star with sky-high heels and a flowy dress. But let’s pause that film for a sec.

Vineyards are more “grapevines and dirt paths” than “red carpets and glam.” So, unless you’re practicing for a Vineyard Vogue photoshoot, keep it down-to-earth.

Think sun-smart with a chic hat and sunglasses that say, “I’m here to sip in style.” Slip into layers that play nice with Mother Nature’s mood swings and chilly barrel rooms.

And those feet? Treat them to comfy, walk-friendly shoes. Remember, stilettos and soil are a match made in twisted-ankle heaven.

And for the love of Merlot, don’t wear white. Unless you’re into the avant-garde look of wine splash art, darker colors are your best friends in the splash zone.

8. Don’t Wear Strong Scents

Heavy perfumes and colognes are like that one party crasher who can’t take a hint — overpowering and a vibe-killer.

Instead, go au naturel. Let the wines be the celebrities of the day with their scents stealing the spotlight. Your nose will thank you when it gets a clear whiff of that Gran Reserva everyone’s been praising, without the Eau de “Is that Chanel No. 5?” in the mix.

9. Don’t Go Wine Tasting on An Empty Stomach

Those dainty pours may look small. But they sneak up on you quickly. So don’t make the mistake of skipping your sunny-side eggs in the morning.

And when it comes to lunch, you’re more likely to spot a unicorn than a sandwich in some of these rural grape havens. Unless you’ve scouted in advance, don’t count on the winery to double as a deli. Many are all about the vino, not the panino.

My advice? Turn your car into a mobile pantry. Stock up on snacks that go well with wine. And water? It’s the unsung hero of the day. Hydrate like you’re crossing the Sahara.

For those on a tour, think of your bag as the Mary Poppins carpetbag of treats. “Purse cheese” — it’s a thing, and it’s fabulous.

🤓 Pro Tip: If you’re up for a little alfresco dining, nothing says “wine country connoisseur” like a vineyard picnic. Just do a quick check. Some spots prefer you to nosh on their nibbles only. If it’s a no-go, scout out a local park for a gourmet pit stop.

Wine Tasting Etiquette Tips

10. Do Come With An Open Mind

Be willing to push your wine limits. Trying different wines is how you go from wine lover to wine pro.

Maybe it’s a grape you can’t pronounce (hi Gewürztraminer). Or one that’s had a bad rap in your book (poor Merlot).

With a whole world of 10,000 varieties out there, there’s so much to explore beyond the handful everyone knows. Plus, you’d be surprised how different soils and cellars can flip the script on a wine’s flavor profile.

Who knows? All you ABCs (Anything But Chardonnay) might just fall in love with that unoaked Chablis.

11. Do Taste Your Wines in the Right Order

Many wineries offer guided tastings, where you’ll be taken through each wine in a planned order. No guesswork needed.

But if you’re flying solo with a pre-poured flight and not sure where to start, here’s how to steer through it like a pro:

• Start with white wines, then move to red wines.
• Sip from light to full-bodied.
• Taste dry and off-dry wines before finishing with dessert wines.

🤓 Pro Tip: Switching from white to red in the same wine glass? Introduce a little of the red wine to your glass first and give it a twirl. Then toss it or take it down the hatch. Rinsing with H₂O is like inviting water to a wine party. It dilutes the fun.

12. Do Practice Proper Tasting Techniques

Look, there’s no wine police telling you how to enjoy your vino. But if you want to maximize your experience, here are some wine tasting tips to make every sip count:

• See: Tilt your glass of wine at a 45° angle over a white surface and take a good look. What’s the vibe? Dark and opaque? Or light and see-through? The color clues you in on the story that’s to come.
• Swirl: Give that glass a gentle twirl. This isn’t just for show. Swirling opens the aroma of the wine, bringing its characters to life.
• Sniff: Go on, put your nose right in there, and take a deep breath. What do you smell? Grass? Berries? That old library book? It’s all part of the plot. Every sniff is a spoiler for the taste that’s about to hit your tongue.
• Sip: Here’s where the magic happens. Take a sip of wine, swish it around, and swallow. Then take another sip. Is it light or heavy? Smooth or gritty? Fruity or spicy? This is where the wine tells its story, so listen to every word.
• Savor: Pay attention to the aftertaste of the wine. Do the flavors linger like the finish of a page-turner? You know, where you’re not ready for it to end? You might just uncover some plot twists.

And remember, hold your glass by the stem. It’s not just a matter of wine etiquette. It keeps your hand from turning that perfectly chilled Lambrusco into a lukewarm letdown.

13. Do Spit Your Wine

Spitting in public? A faux pas in most places. But in wine country, it’s practically a sport.

So, grab that spittoon (the fancy word for spit bucket). Or snag an extra cup (bonus: it’s beginner-friendly). Spitting is your ticket to savoring your sips without the buzz.

If you’re feeling a bit awkward about the technique, give it a go in the privacy of your kitchen. Take a sip, swish it around, then use your tongue and lips to guide the wine out in a forceful stream.

The goal? A confident spit that’s more “elegant fountain” and less “garden hose mishap.”

14. Don’t Be Afraid to Dump Wine

In wine, there is truth. And the truth is you won’t adore every pour. It’s perfectly fine to pour out the remainder of a wine that doesn’t strike your fancy.

After taking a couple of sips, simply tip it into the dump bucket. No apologies needed. The tasting room staff understands.

15. Do Share Your Opinion on the Wines

What do you like (or dislike) about the wine? Chatting with your wine buddies is a great way to get to know your palate.

Remember, wine is a personal journey. There’s no “right” or “wrong” here.

Just keep your comments to the winery staff courteous. A gentle “not my favorite” beats a blunt “I’d rather drink two-buck chuck” any day.

🤓 Pro Tip: When a wine really wows you, a quick pic of the label is your future self’s bestie. Because after a day of tastings, even the most memorable wines can turn into a tasty blur.

16. Don’t Act Like a Wine Snob (but Do Ask Questions)

No one likes a know-it-all. Even if you’ve swirled more glasses than a sommelier, leave the wine-splaining at home. And don’t do things like correct your wine educator or name-drop your trophy bottles.

On the flip side, if you’re just starting to dip your toes into the world of wine, don’t be shy. Winery tasting room staff are your guides on this adventure. They’re passionate about sharing the winery’s tales and tastes with you. So, go ahead and ask away!

17. Don’t Get Drunk

Yes, we’re here for a good time. But keep it classy. This isn’t Coyote Ugly on a Saturday night. And you don’t want to be THAT person at a winery.

Plus, if you’re drunk you can’t actually taste the wines. And that’s the whole point of a wine tasting, right?

Hydrate during and between tastings. Pace yourself by spitting, dumping, or sharing tastings. And fill your stomach with plenty of food. Capiche?

After Your Wine Tasting

18. Do Expect to Pay a Tasting Fee

Gone are the days when winery tastings were on the house. 

These days, budget for an average of $15 to $35 per tasting. Though you might stumble upon some regions charging as little as $5. On the other end, expect to pay $50 or more in premium regions or for exclusive wine tasting experiences. Check out my guide to wine tasting prices by region.

Some wineries will waive your tasting fee when you purchase a few bottles to take home. So, not only do you get to savor the day’s flavors later, but you also save a little dough.

And don’t forget to peek at my travel resources and rewards tips. I’ve got the scoop on how to save even more with strategies like wine passports and savvy credit card points.

Pin for Later!

19. Do Tip for Good Service

Let’s talk tips! While the etiquette varies from country to country, if someone’s poured their heart into making your experience great, it’s nice to pour a little gratitude back. This is especially true if they’ve been ultra-generous with the tastings. Or if you’ve brought your whole crew along for the ride.

Stateside, the tip prompt is becoming as standard as a cork in a bottle when you’re wrapping up your tasting. But here’s a little tidbit: That gratuity often includes any bottles you’ve decided to adopt and bring home.

To avoid an oops-worthy moment when you see your statement, adjust your tip to reflect just the tasting if that’s more your speed.

For those who prefer to kick it old school, cash in the tip jar is like saying cheers with your wallet. Always appreciated and never out of style.

And if you’re globetrotting? A little detective work goes a long way. Each place has its own tipping customs, so ask your concierge or a local friend to fill you in. When in Rome…or Rhône, or Rheims…tip as the locals do!

20. Don’t Feel Pressure to Buy Wine (but Do if You Like It!)

While it’s always great to support the winery, you’re under no obligation to buy a bottle of wine just because you’ve graced the tasting room. If the wines aren’t your style, skip the guilt purchase.

But if it’s love at first sip, think twice before you walk out empty-handed. Many wineries have exclusive wines just for their tasting room visitors that you won’t find elsewhere.

And if choosing just one feels like picking a favorite grape on the vine, why not become a wine club member? It’s like sending your future self a postcard, but way better! Because…wine.

Just remember, this isn’t a sip-and-ditch relationship. Commit to at least a year of wine shipments. It’s a bit of a faux pas to join for the perks and bail after the first date.

🤓 Pro Tip: On the fence about buying a bottle? Circle back for a second taste by asking to “revisit” a wine. The pourers are usually more than willing to give you another sip to tip the scales. Just don’t overuse it.

21. Do Have a Plan for Getting Wine Home

Just snagged some sweet bottles? Great! But don’t just chuck them in your ride’s backseat like yesterday’s laundry. Trust me, a hot car will cook your new finds faster than you can nuke a Hot Pocket.

To keep your bottles cool, grab a cooler bag and some ice packs. No cooler? No problem. It’s often cool to carry a small bag of wine purchases into another winery. Just don’t roll up with a whole case like it’s your personal wine cellar on wheels.

Jetting home? A portable luggage scale is gold. And an extra carry-on bag can be a lifesaver for offloading your kicks and knits. Remember to pack some padded, sealable wine protectors. They’re the key to avoiding the tragedy of wine-soaked socks. Check out my favorite wine travel accessories.

But if you’d rather not play Tetris with your luggage, ask if the winery ships. Sometimes, buying by the case waives the shipping fee. Just do your homework on the alcohol shipping laws back home.

Final Thoughts: Winery Etiquette

At the end of the day, a winery visit is your time to kick back and relax, with the added bonus of picking up some wine wisdom along the way.

Don’t let worries over rules ruin your fun. It’s about enjoyment and discovery, not judgment. So, lead with curiosity and kindness. And leave the snobbery for those less savvy.