If you’re heading out for a day in wine country, there’s a good chance you’re focused on the fun part. Great views, good company, and even better wine. That’s exactly how it should be.
That said, a little awareness goes a long way. Wine tasting etiquette is not about being stiff or formal. It is about guaranteeing everyone has a great experience, including you, your group, and the tasting room staff.
Whether you’re booking private wine tours or joining group tours, here’s a simple guide to what not to do at a winery, along with a few easy tips to help you enjoy the day even more.
Don’t Wear Strong Scents
One of the biggest parts of any wine tasting experience is aroma. When you swirl a glass of Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon, you are meant to take in the full sensory experience before you even take a sip.
Strong perfumes, colognes, or scented lotions can interfere with that. Not just for you, but for everyone around you.
What to do instead:
Keep it neutral. Skip anything strongly scented so you can fully enjoy the wine and not overpower the tasting room.
Don’t Treat It Like a Party Bus
Wine tours are fun, but tasting rooms are not nightclubs. Loud behaviour, shouting, or treating the space like a party can take away from the experience for others.
Most wineries are designed to feel relaxed and welcoming. People are there to enjoy the wine, the setting, and the moment.
What to do instead:
Have fun, but be mindful of the space. If you’re in a large group, keep energy high without taking over the room.
Don’t Skip Listening to the Staff
Tasting room staff are there for a reason. They know the wines, the story behind them, and how to guide your tasting experience.
Talking over them or ignoring their guidance means you miss out on what makes each winery unique.
What to do instead:
Take a minute to listen. You’ll learn more about the wines, from how a red wine is made to what makes that specific vintage stand out.
Don’t Overdo It Early
It can be tempting to go all in at the first stop, but pacing matters. Wine has alcohol content, and even small pours can add up over the course of a day.
Overdoing it early can cut your tour experience short and make the rest of the day less enjoyable.
What to do instead:
Take your time. Sip, don’t rush, and feel free to use the dump bucket if needed. It’s part of normal wine tasting etiquette.
Don’t Forget to Eat and Hydrate
Wine tasting on an empty stomach is never a good idea. It affects how you experience the wine and how you feel throughout the day.
Many tasting rooms offer small bites or pairings, but it’s not always enough on its own.
What to do instead:
Plan ahead. Eat before your tour, drink water between stops, and take advantage of any food options along the way.
Don’t Assume Tastings Are Free
While some wineries may waive tasting fees with a purchase, not all do. Many tasting rooms offer curated experiences that come with a small fee. If you’d like to see a list of what wineries charge, we’ve compiled the Ultimate Guide To Kelowna Wine Tasting Fees
It is part of supporting the winery and the effort that goes into each tasting.
What to do instead:
Be prepared for tasting fees and see it as part of the experience. However, if you book with a wine tour company, these tasting fees will most likely be included in your wine tour package.
Don’t Be Glued to Your Phone
It’s easy to want photos, and you should absolutely capture the moment. But spending the whole time on your phone can take you out of the experience.
Wine country is meant to be enjoyed in real time.
What to do instead:
Snap a few photos, then put your phone away. Take in the views, the flavours, and the conversation around you.
Don’t Argue About Taste
Not everyone is going to love the same wine. That’s part of what makes wine tasting interesting.
Saying something is “bad” or arguing about preferences can create an awkward vibe, especially in a shared setting.
What to do instead:
Make it personal. It’s completely fine to say something is not your favourite. Everyone’s tasting experience is different.
Don’t Forget About Your Ride Home
Even with small tastings, the alcohol content adds up. Planning ahead is key to a safe and worry-free day.
What to do instead:
Book a wine tour company or have a designated driver. This way, you can relax and enjoy the day without worrying about logistics.
A Quick List of Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
- Listen to tasting room staff
- Pace yourself throughout the day
- Stay hydrated and eat properly
- Be respectful of the space and other guests
Don’ts:
- Wear strongly scented products
- Treat the winery like a party venue
- Ignore tasting etiquette
- Overdo it early in the day
Ready for a Great Wine Tour Experience?
At Vivid Wine Tours, we make it easy to enjoy wine country the right way. From relaxed group tours to personalized private wine tours, we focus on creating a smooth, enjoyable day from start to finish.
If you’re planning your next wine tour, feel free to explore our tour options. We’d love to help you create a tasting experience you’ll want to come back to year after year.
