Video:Tips for Tasting at a California Winery

Transcript:Tips for Tasting at a California Winery

Hi, I'm Annie Browne, co-founder of the Hoot 'n' Annie Wine and Adventure Blog. I'm here today at Edward Sellers Winery in Paso Robles, on behalf of About.com, to give you some tips for tasting at a California winery. To get the most out of your wine tasting adventure, consider the following.

Successful Visit to a California Winery

Depending on the region, the cost of a tasting can range from $5 to $25 per winery. For this price you usually get to sample three-to-eight wines. As a general rule of thumb, the more established regions, like Napa and Sonoma, tend to charge higher tasting fees, while tasting rooms in newer regions, like Paso Robles, are closer to the $5 and $10 range. It's important to note that tasting at a winery is not like drinking at a bar.

The goal is certainly to enjoy yourself, but also experience the wines you are tasting. Take your time with the tasting. Upon receiving the pour, swirl it around in the glass to open it up a bit. Hold it up to your nose and take in the bouquet. Then take a sip. See if the flavors you are getting correspond with the tasting notes provided by the winemaker.

Basics for Wine Tastings

Keeping that in mind, it's perfectly acceptable to pour out your left over wine when tasting. Whether it didn't sit well on your palate, or you simply want to taste without becoming intoxicated, pouring the remaining wine into the receptacles provided is perfectly fine. It's always a good idea to know a little bit about the wineries you're visiting, and what each does well.

California produces just about every wine you could ask for, but each winery will have itsown specialty. It could be a big bold Zinfandel, or perhaps a lighter Pinot Noir. If you're not sure or you need clarification, engaging the tasting room attendant is a good way to learn. Specific attire is not required at the vast majority of California wineries. While certain individuals may dress up for their own enjoyment, many favor wine tasting in jeans and a t-shirt and that's completely fine.

Keeping Your Wine Purchases at the Right Temperature

Finally, if you are purchasing wine after the tasting, you'll want to keep it cool. California can be warm year-round and a hot car will quickly spoil a nice bottle of wine. So consider traveling with a cooler in the trunk of your car to keep your wine nice and fresh!

Notes About Wine Tastings

Remember wine tasting should be a good time, so don't get too bogged down in what you should or shouldn't be doing. Taste responsibly and make fun a priority.

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