Come curious.
Leave with a favorite.

You do not need to be an expert.

A tasting is an opportunity to discover what you enjoy and ask questions. You do not need a vocabulary of elaborate flavor descriptions. Tell your host what you usually like, explain what you are curious about, and let that be the beginning of the conversation.

Book the experience you actually want.

Read the description of your selected experience closely. A seated tasting, vineyard walk, cellar tour, and food pairing may be separate experiences with different prices and durations. Reserve directly, save the confirmation, and check the cancellation deadline.

Look up the policy for everyone in your group, including non-drinking guests and children. For example, Domaine Carneros requires visitors to be 21 or older, while other venues may offer different arrangements. Never assume one winery’s policy applies to another.

Arrive ready to enjoy the visit.

• Eat before the first tasting and make time for a meal during the day.
• Bring water and take breaks.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring a layer for changing temperatures.
• Let the winery know in advance about access needs or dietary requirements.
• Plan a sober way to travel before tasting begins.

Taste with curiosity.

Look at the wine, give it a gentle swirl if you wish, and take time to notice the aroma before tasting. These are ways to slow down and pay attention, not a test. If you prefer a wine to another one, ask what might account for the difference.

You are not expected to finish every pour. Ask your host for a spit or discard vessel if needed, and skip a pour whenever you want. A tasting should follow your comfort level.

Ask a question that opens a conversation.

Try “What makes this vineyard different?” or “What would you serve with this wine?” If a particular bottle interests you, ask about the grape, growing area, vintage, or winemaking choice. Specific questions often lead to more useful answers than trying to guess the “correct” tasting note.

Keep purchases separate from the tasting.

Ask whether any tasting-fee credit applies before assuming that buying a bottle changes the cost of the visit. If you want wine shipped, confirm the destination, delivery requirements, and complete charge directly with the winery. Take a moment to review any wine-club terms before joining.

Leave room between appointments.

Our recommended starting point is two seated tastings with lunch between them. That is a planning preference rather than a universal limit. The right number depends on the confirmed experience lengths, distances, and the preferences of your group.

For a practical example, follow the one-day Napa itinerary. For help choosing where to begin, browse our winery guide.