Taking a trip out to a winery is becoming a popular tourist activity for wine enthusiasts and lay people alike. Considering the breadth and scope of a visit to a winery, what can you do to make the most of your trip?
A winery is so much more than a vineyard these days. In countries such as France, Spain, Italy and the US it is a tourist attraction that draws in millions of people every year.
It’s obvious why. Vineyards are by nature stunningly picturesque and for wine enthusiasts they offer the perfect chance to sample what the winery has coming up in the next season. For non-enthusiasts it presents a unique opportunity to learn more about the wine making process.
However considering just how vast the opportunities are that come with such a visit, how can you make the most of your time? There are a few simple tips that you can follow to do just that.
Start by having knowledge of what the winery actually produces. In this case it’s not enough to be a wine buff; you need to at least have a basic knowledge off their particular product. That way you have a base of knowledge on which the visit can build and you can come to some unique insights. A trip to winery really is a learning experience.
It’s also important to have an open wine. These wineries are so varied in what they produce and when it comes tie for the taste testing, there’ going to be something there that you are unfamiliar with. Don’t let this hold you back, embrace the unknown. You never know what this new experience could bring to you.
Also try going off the beaten track if you can. It’s always wise to start off by taking the official tour, but after that it’ll just hold you back. If you have the opportunity hire a car and find the hidden gems that can only be found off the beaten track. This’ll make it a unique experience you’ll always remember.
Finally take the taster approach. Taste, let the wine slide to sides of your tongue then spit. This isn’t a time to drink to get drunk. By taking the taster approach you can cleanse your palette and gain the opportunity to experience all the different types of drink the winery has to offer.
At the Ideal Wine Company we applaud those wineries that make themselves open to the greater public; after all how can people learn about this amazing tradition if they don’t have access to it? When you get the opportunity to visit a winery make the most of it!
