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PLANNING GUIDE

Wine Tasting Etiquette

Simple guidelines to help you feel confident, respectful, and enjoy every experience.

Do's & Don'ts
$ Tipping & Fees
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Be Respectful

Wineries are passionate about their craft. Arrive on time, follow their rules, and treat staff and other guests with courtesy.

Be Present

Slow down, enjoy the moment, and savor each wine with your full attention instead of rushing between pours.

Be Curious

Ask questions! The team is there to share their knowledge about the wine, the vineyard, and the winemaking process.

Be Grateful

A simple thank-you is always appreciated. If you enjoyed your visit, consider a purchase or leaving a kind review.

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1

Hold Your Glass by the Stem

This keeps your hand warmth from affecting the wine temperature and avoids leaving fingerprints on the bowl.

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2

Look, Smell, Then Sip

Observe the color, swirl to release aromas, inhale deeply, then taste. This method reveals the full character of the wine.

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3

You Don't Have to Drink It All

Spittoons are provided for a reason. Spitting doesn't mean you dislike the wine — it's a professional way to pace yourself.

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4

Take Notes

Jot down your favorites, the winemaker story, or flavor notes to remember each experience long after the day ends.

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5

Take Photos of Bottles

Snap a picture of bottles you love so you can easily find or order them later.

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6

Ask Questions

The tasting room team loves sharing stories. Ask about the vineyard, winemaking process, and what makes each wine unique.

Do's & Don'ts

Do

Make a reservation before you go
Arrive on time
Use a spittoon when needed
Take a bottle home if you enjoyed it
Leave a tip if service was great
Share your experience with a review

Don't

Arrive intoxicated
Wear strong perfume or cologne
Assume you can walk in without a booking
Touch the glass bowl
Interrupt the host during a pour
Dismiss wines you don't enjoy

Tipping & Fees

Standard Tasting

$5–$20 per person

Appreciated for good service at a standard seated or bar tasting.

Premium / Reserve Tasting

$5–$20 per person

Offered for elevated experiences with deeper pours or food pairings.

Private Experiences

$5–$20 per person

Customary for personal host-led tours and exclusive tastings.

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Good to Know

Tipping is never required but always appreciated. Many wineries include service fees for private experiences.

More Helpful Tips

Hydrate

Drink plenty of water between tastings.

Eat Before or During

A light meal or snack helps keep your palate fresh.

Pace Yourself

Take breaks and go slow to savor each pour.

Plan Your Transportation

Arrange for a driver, rideshare, or tour.

Check the CellarPass App

Manage your reservations from your phone.

Have Fun!

Relax and enjoy your wine country experience.

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The golden rule is simple: treat every tasting with curiosity and every host with courtesy.
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