Picture this: You’re on vacation, the sun’s shining, you’re in a fabulous new place, and all you can think about is sipping on a glass of crisp wine, soaking in the views, and living your best life. But where do you start when it comes to finding the best local wineries? That’s where things can get tricky. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or someone just dipping their toes into the world of wine tasting while traveling, finding the right spots can sometimes feel like a bit of a treasure hunt.
No worries though, I’ve got your back! Let’s chat about how to discover the hidden gems, the quaint family-owned wineries, and those must-see vineyards on your next trip. It’s all about knowing where to look and how to make the most of your experience. Ready to pour yourself a glass and dive in?
In this guide, we’re breaking down the steps to find the best local wineries while you’re traveling. Whether you’re exploring the French countryside, California’s wine country, or anywhere in between, these tips will help you find the perfect spot to indulge in some wine tasting. We’ll cover everything from doing a little research beforehand to asking the locals (trust me, they know their stuff!). By the end, you’ll feel like a total wine travel pro!
1. Do Some Pre-Trip Research
Before you even leave home, get cozy with Google (or even Instagram!) and start scouting the best local wineries in the area you’re visiting. Type in “wine tasting while traveling” plus the location—this should give you a decent list of nearby vineyards or wineries. But, don’t stop at just the first page of results. Dive into reviews on Yelp, TripAdvisor, or even local blogs. These resources often have the best insider info.
2. Wine Tasting While Traveling – Ask the Locals about their favorite spots
When in doubt, ask a local! Whether it’s a friendly barista at the local café, or the person working the front desk at your hotel. Locals usually know the absolute best hidden gems for wine tasting. Sometimes, the most low-key spots aren’t even listed on tourist websites, but trust me, they’ll have some of the best wine you’ve ever tasted.
And hey, it’s a great way to strike up a conversation with someone who knows the area well!
3. Wine Tasting While Traveling – Visit Wine Bars First
If you’re not sure where to begin, hit up a wine bar. They’re like your pre-game to the winery scene. Wine bars often highlight local wineries on their menus, and the bartenders can be a wealth of knowledge. Ask them which local vineyards are worth the trip. They might even give you tips on how to score tastings at smaller, lesser-known spots that don’t advertise much but serve up amazing vino.
Bonus: Wine bars are also perfect for sampling a bunch of different wines from local producers before you commit to visiting a vineyard.
4. Wine Tasting While Traveling – Check Out Local Wine Tours
Let’s be real—sometimes the best way to explore an area’s wineries is by hopping on a local wine tour. These tours take the guesswork out of finding the best vineyards, and you also get the bonus of a designated driver (which, let’s be honest, is always a win!). Many places offer small-group or private tours that provide a curated wine-tasting experience, often including stops at boutique wineries that you might not discover on your own.
5. Timing is Everything
One thing to keep in mind when wine tasting while traveling is timing. Many wineries are open seasonally or have different hours based on the time of year. So, be sure to check their websites or call ahead to confirm they’ll be open when you plan to visit. Also, weekdays are often less crowded, so you might get a more intimate tasting experience. If you’re there on a weekend, try going earlier in the day to beat the rush!
BONUS: What to Wear to a Wine Tasting
Wine tastings can range from super casual to more upscale events, but the key is to be comfortable and chic. Think flowy dresses, stylish yet comfy shoes (because you might be walking on gravel or dirt), and a hat to keep the sun off your face if you’re outdoors. Layers are also a good idea—vineyards can be breezy! Just avoid wearing strong perfumes, as they can interfere with the wine aromas (and let’s be real, you want to fully enjoy the scent of that glass of rosé).
FAQ
Q: Can I visit a winery without booking a tour?
A: Absolutely! Many wineries welcome drop-in guests, but some require reservations, especially for tastings or tours. It’s always smart to call ahead or check their website.
Q: How many wineries should I visit in one day?
A: Typically, two to three wineries is a good number. It gives you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed or, ahem, overindulged.
Q: Are wine tastings free?
A: It depends! Some wineries offer complimentary tastings, but many charge a tasting fee. Sometimes that fee is waived if you purchase a bottle, so it’s worth asking.
What’s Next?
Now that you’re all set to find the best local wineries on your travels, it’s time to plan for your next wine adventure. If you want some quick getaway ideas, check out one of our recent blog posts titled “Top 5 Quick Getaways for a Weekend Escape” – packed with ideas for grabbing your best bud and enjoying a quick trip and be sure to add a wine tour or too.
On our next blog, we’ll be diving into all the must-have wine accessories to elevate your tasting experience – to a whole other level! Trust me, you won’t want to miss it! So, stay tuned, and let’s keep the wine conversation going!