7 Smart Wine-Tasting Tips ... Lifestyle

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Visiting vineyards can be a great way to spend a weekend afternoon relaxing, and with the help of a few smart wine-tasting tips, you can be sure to get the most out of your experience.

Planning a bachelorette party?

Hoping to enjoy a romantic outing with your sweetie?

If you’re looking for professional advice on how to sip, sniff and swirl, this probably isn’t the best list of tips for you, but if you’re ready to start planning a fun and memorable day trip, here are seven wine-tasting tips sure to help you kick back and focus on having a good time.

1. Consider Varietals and Format

Are you a big fan of red or white wines, or is there a certain varietal you especially prefer, like chardonnay or Merlot?2

By far one of my most important wine-tasting tips is to research wineries in advance to find those that have a selection you’re especially excited to try, along with a format you like.

One of my favorite local wineries, for instance, allows tasters to sit down at tables and enjoy food pairings with their wine, rather than simply stand at a crowded counter.

Plus, as tempting as it can be to visit only the big-name wineries that everyone else is going to, remember that it’s also entirely possible to have a fun time and discover new wines you love at smaller, off-the-beaten-path vineyards.

2. Set a Budget

Along with serving different varietals and having different tasting formats, vineyards also charge different prices for their wine-tastings, depending upon the type and number of wines offered.

While tastings can occasionally be free, fees of $5-10 and up are also common, so be sure to keep this in mind when planning your trip.

Of course, you’ll probably also want to bring home a couple bottles of your newest favorites, so set a budget ahead of time to avoid overspending, which can be all too easy to do, especially after you’ve been drinking.

Arrange for a Designated Driver