Wine tasting etiquette: The dos and don’ts of wine tasting
Whether you are a wine newbie or an experienced taster, wine tasting events are a fun way to learn about what you like and don’t like.
It’s the perfect opportunity to try new wines without having to invest in a bottle if you don’t like it.
To help you out at your next event, we have compiled a list of our top dos and don’ts, so no matter how experienced you are, you will feel at home trying great wines.
There are different types of wine-tasting events, from more informal walk-around tastings, where different wines are set around the room on tables for you to go and try, to more structured wine tastings, sitting down at a table with a guide.
Whichever it is, here are the dos and don’ts of wine tasting.
Don’t complain about the size of the pour
A wine tasting is meant to be just that, a tasting. While some wineries are more generous in their pours than others, don’t expect to receive a full glass-worth for every wine.
Do wear comfortable clothing
While there are seldom formal dress codes at wine-tasting venues, wearing comfortable and casually elegant clothing is the norm.
Even if a winery is considered pretty casual, wine tasting is, for the most part, a more sophisticated activity that one shouldn’t arrive for inappropriately dressed.
When it comes to choosing what to wear, the first suggestion is to wear the right shoes. Some wineries have paved walkways and patios, others have grassy picnic areas for tastings and some may offer a tour of the vineyard, where dirt and uneven ground can be expected.
Consider the atmosphere you will be walking around and tasting in before you pick heels versus flats, closed-toed shoes versus sandals.
No winery host wants to see you fall because you chose to wear heels during the “vineyard trek” portion of your wine tasting.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions
Attending a wine tasting provides an excellent opportunity to discover more about the wine and the winery.
Don’t worry if you don’t know everything about wine before attending; the winery staff is there to help and educate you. It’s always better to ask questions than to assume things.
Each winery has its unique way of doing things, such as pouring wine in a specific order or letting guests choose their preferences.
Therefore, feel free to ask questions and clarify anything you’re unsure about. The staff will happily assist you and even offer recommendations based on your tastes and preferences.
Asking questions can also help you gain knowledge about the intricacies of making wine and how it tastes differently depending on the storage times, region produced, and other factors. So, don’t hesitate to ask.
Do try something new
Don’t just stick to what you know. Chances are you will be tasting a wide variety of wines, both familiar and unfamiliar.
If it’s a walk-around tasting with wines from different regions, check out your favourite grape but from a different country.
Leave your misconceptions at the door and try a wine you think you will hate. Worst case scenario, you end up spitting, but, you never know, you could discover your new favourite wine.