What to Expect on a Wine Tour

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.