Have you ever found yourself stuck in the routine of work and mundane life, yearning for a break to explore the world and savor delicious wines? As the three years of the Covid era pass, 2024 brings the perfect opportunity to plan a trip that rejuvenates your spirit. For wine enthusiasts, this means delving into the world of exquisite wines. Fear not, for the VinoVoss team is here to present you with a step-by-step guide to plan an extraordinary wine tour for your next adventure!

A wine tour can be a great opportunity to learn and explore more about wine (Photo: Flo P, Unsplash.com)

Step 1: Finding a Destination

While finding a destination might seem like the easiest part as you probably already have quite some destinations on your list, planning a wine tour requires a bit more consideration. For most wine lovers, the journey is not solely about wine. Visiting cultural attractions, sightseeing, experiencing the natural beauty of the region, or simply going to a place where is far away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolitans also play a role.

You might appreciate the wines from a specific region, but it could be a secluded area with limited attractions, or perhaps you're not fond of the nearby tourist spots.Research the potential regions to discover what other activities they offer, ensuring your trip combines the pleasures of a wine tour with a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Step 2: Consider the Time and Budget

Now, let's get down to the practicalities. Some destinations are ideal for summer, while others shine in winter. Consider timing to avoid summer heatwaves, tourist influx, and peak-season prices for flights and hotels. Additionally, steer clear of the harvest season, as wineries may be too busy with the vineyard and cellar work and not be able to host visitors.

The harvest season in the Northern Hemisphere starts from mid August and ends in October, depending on the wine region,  but with some extreme examples where they start from early August or ends in early November. For Southern Hemisphere it’s usually from Feburary to April.

Step 3: Book the experience

With your destination and logistics in place, it's time to book your wine tour and tasting experiences. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for larger groups, as many wineries have limited spots and arrange visits by appointment only.

If you've already identified the wineries you'd like to visit, you can reach out to them directly via phone or email, or make reservations through their website, specifying your preferred visit time and the number of people in your group. However, choosing between wineries can be challenging. Here's a tip: for those new to the world of wine or seeking a comfortable tour with a picturesque tasting room, opt for larger or more commercial wineries. These establishments typically have dedicated hospitality staff overseeing wine tourism, providing a pleasant experience and detailed explanations for visitors.

Wine tours often include guided tours at the winery, followed by wine tastings (Photo: Vitor Paladini, Unsplash.com)

For wine enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of wine production and terroir, consider selecting smaller, independent boutique wineries. Often, you will be guided by the owner or winemaker, offering a more personal touch. Keep in mind that many smaller wineries may lack elaborate tasting rooms or cheese plates and snacks to pair with the tasting. If you wish to fully immerse yourself in the ambiance of a wine country, waking up to vineyard views, consider exploring wine resorts or family-style farmhouses.

When booking your experience, be sure to check for language options. If you desire smooth communication and detailed explanations, some tour operators collaborate with wine professionals who can provide personalized wine tours and accompany you during the wine tour experience.

Step 4: Prepare for Your Visit

As you finally arrive in your dream wine region and prepare to go for the winery tour and tasting, ensure you are well-prepared. Here's your checklist before indulging in the tasting experience.

• Be Punctual: Given that most wineries are situated far from the city center, allocate sufficient time for the journey. Avoid keeping the winery staff and other visitors waiting.

• Avoid Strong Perfume: Refrain from wearing strong perfume, as it can distract your senses and interfere with the subtle aromas of the wine.

• Dress Comfortably: Wineries are often nestled in the countryside, and if your experience includes a brief tour through the vineyards, comfortable shoes are advisable. Additionally, be mindful that the wine cellar is typically cooler than the outside temperature during summer, hovering around 12 ℃ (56 ℉). Consider bringing a coat just in case.

Final Step: Enjoy the Wine and Document the Experience

The moment has arrived to relish the fruits of your planning. A typical wine tour includes a winery introduction, a vineyard or cellar tour, and a delightful tasting session. If you're driving, remember to spit out. It’s okay to drink it but only with moderation. During the tasting, don’t be shy to ask questions, interact with the winery staff, and document your experience. Some wineries offer free tastings, so it's a thoughtful gesture to purchase a bottle or two afterwards.

So, dear VinoVossers, are you ready for your next wine tour? With this comprehensive guide, your journey promises to be a fantastic exploration of the world of wine and its diverse regions.

Sylvia Ba