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| Napa Valley Tours |
When you visit a winery, expect to see
beautiful sceneries everywhere. Beyond that, your experience will vary
depending on your location and region.
The Napa Valley, for example, has very
sophisticated facilities and programs for visitors. Others have a more simple,
and informal approach.
There are two ways to partake a wine tour:
One is to plan an itinerary on your own, the other is to enlist the guidance of
companies that offer wine tours. If you've never been on a wine tour before, I
suggest you take the second approach.
The benefits of touring on your own,
however, your costs are minimal. Most wineries don't charge for a wine tour and
sometimes they provide samples for free.
If you decide to go on an arranged tour
with a tour operator, expect to spend more. A one-day trip typically costs more
than $100, but you'll be in a group of 15 people on the same bus, limo,
horse-drawn carriage, or a hot air balloon.
Whether on your own or traveling with a
tour operator, these tours are similar.
First, you'll walk through the vineyards
while the host discusses the type of grapes grown in the region. Napa Valley and Sonoma wine tours in
California houses the broadest range of grape varieties in the world. Once you
return from the vineyards, the host will explain the different stages of
winemaking. You'll be able to see stainless steel vats and oak barrels which
are different in every stage of the aging process. This is where can enter the
tasting room and sample from four to six different types of wine.
After the wine tasting, you'll have time to
visit the souvenir shop. However, it's best to move on to the next stop if
you're visiting more than one winery. Some wineries offer live music or gourmet
meals, and some tour operators plan meals as part of their tour package. If the
meal isn't offered, don't hesitate to ask for recommendations.
Planning a Trip
Planning a wine tour saves time and money.
If you are in the United States go visit the Napa Valley and Sonoma Wine tours in California. These
places are well known for their vineyards. If in France, the best places to go
are in Burgundy, Loire, Rhone, Champagne, and Bordeaux. If in Italy, I suggest
you go to Sicily, Veneto, or Tuscany.
Once you have your destination in mind,
time to make reservations. It's best to schedule your wine tours during growing
seasons. While some wineries allow visitors during the winter months, you'll
miss out walking through the rows of grapevines with the fruits still hanging
on the vines.
When making reservations, don't forget to
ask what exactly is included in the package. Ask about the meal if it is
included, the accommodation, and the transportation. If traveling on a plane,
ask if they arrange the transportation from the airport or will you do that
yourself. The best way to ensure that your trip will go smoothly and as planned
is to ask questions.
