How to Organize the Perfect Group Wine Tour

Summary

How to Organize the Perfect Group Wine Tour

The coming of spring stirs in all of us the desire to get back out there after a winter’s hibernation, to hang with friends in a bucolic setting beneath blue skies and the warm sun. Wine aficionados are in a position to take that a step further, combining those elements with their passion for the grape by scheduling a group wine tour.

While there is no right or wrong way to plan such excursions, bear in mind there are certain strategies planners can take to ensure the trip comes off without a hitch. If you’ve been enlisted to take the lead in planning a wine trip for you and your favorite fellow enophiles, here are some tips that will help make it a vintage experience for all.

Destination Decision: The first thing to decide, naturally enough, is where you want to go. There are, of course, hundreds of appellations across the country and around the world worthy of your attention. Consult closely with your wine-loving friends to determine where the majority want to go and the dates they have available.

Timing Is Crucial: Once you’ve settled on an appellation and your friends’ general availability, it’s time to cross-reference that data with other relevant factors. For instance, you’d be wise to skip months when the weather will too hot, too cold or too rainy. Likewise, it’s smart to avoid warm-weather holiday weekends, when those tasting rooms are likely to be packed.

Think (and Book) Ahead: Given the fact you’ll need to consult with your wine friends weeks or even months ahead of time, it’s smart to contact the group’s favored wineries as soon as the itinerary is set. The most popular wineries often have limited availability, so reserving a tasting time for your group will ensure you're not shut out. This is particularly valuable if you plan to visit such high-traffic areas as Napa Valley and Sonoma County.

Know Your Limit: Always present when planning a group tour is the temptation to cram in as many wineries as possible. After all, this is a special event with friends and it's only natural to want to maximize your time among the grapes. It's smart, however, to resist this urge and instead visit no more than two or three wineries per day. That will ensure you and your friends enjoy each stop and savor each wine in a relaxing manner. And always make sure to have a designated driver on hand.

Wine Wear: Wine tasting is by its nature a casual affair, an afternoon amid the vines in a sprawling rural area. That said, while there is no reason to dress up, there are some wine apparel do’s and don’ts to bear in mind. For instance, do not wear your best whites if you are planning on drinking red wine, and always bring a sweater to cover yourself in case you are going to visit wine cellars. Don’t go overboard on the perfume or cologne either, as it may alter your sense of smell and that of those around you. Also it's best to skip the heels in favor of comfortable shoes.
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