Wine tasting can be a fun and personal experience. Each winery offers different tasting experiences, so check each winery website to find the tasting that fits you and your group.
Not every wine is for everyone. Enjoy the stories of each winery and ask a lot of questions to help you better understand the Okanagan region as a world-class designer of wines.
Below are eleven frequently asked questions we have put together for you to help make your tasting experience a truly amazing one.
We can't wait to see you on the trail!
1
When is the best season to wine tour?
During the summer months, the tasting rooms can become busy with guests discovering new wines and touring the Northern part of the Okanagan. If you love the energy of the crowds, then the summer weekends are your best time to visit. If you really want to take your time experiencing all that each winery has to offer, April/May or September/October are great times to visit!
2
Should we have a designated driver?
It's always a good idea to plan ahead and have a designated driver. Remember there is zero tolerance for drinking and driving. If you are visiting the area and are unsure about driving, Wine Tour Operators are a fantastic option.
3
Is Identification required at each winery?
Winery staff reserves the right to verify you are of proper drinking age. Two pieces of ID are required in BC to verify age. Primary ID must be issued by a government agency (Canadian or other) and include the person’s name, birth date and picture. Secondary ID must include an imprint of the person’s name and include the person’s signature and/or picture.
4
What should I wear?
Wear what is comfortable. Casual but tasteful style in the tasting rooms is a sign of respect for wineries. Layering your outfit or bringing a jacket for the car is a smart way to make sure you’re never too hot or cold.
5 Are Children allowed in the tasting room? Yes, most tasting rooms are child friendly, however, it is primarily an adult experience that takes place on working farms, near active processing facilities and busy parking lots. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. For the enjoyment of all other guests, please ensure your children behave appropriately. 6 Are fragrances allowed in the tasting room? Keep your fragrances to a minimum when wine touring. Perfume or cologne—even heavily scented skin or hair products—can interfere with the aromas of the wine, making it difficult for you, and those around you, to fully appreciate what you’re sampling.
7
Are there tasting fees at each winery?
Be prepared to pay for the tasting. Tasting fees are upwards from $3 per person, depending on the type of wine tasting or experience you select. Not all wineries will waive or refund the tasting fee if you decide to purchase wine.
8
What if I only like one varietal of wine?
Be open-minded – drop all your preconceived preferences. Tasting is the perfect opportunity to try different varietals and styles of wine without the commitment to purchase. Taste the wines in order of strength (sparkling to white to red to dessert), sweetness (dry to sweet) and age (young to old).
9
Are there restaurants at each winery?
The scenic sip wine trail offers a variety of dining options. From farm-to-table restaurants to delicious to-go charcuterie packages for picnic areas, there is something for every dining style.
10
What If I don't like the wine I have sampled?
The point of a tasting is to sample the wine, and this can be done with just an ounce or two. Moderate your consumption if visiting several wineries – it's okay to pour out the Tasting samples after you have had an adequate taste of the wine. Spitting – it’s always acceptable when tasting wines! If you plan to sample a large number of wines on your tour, it’s best to spit (into communal or personal spittoons) after you’ve sipped each one. Remember, it's OK to leave what’s left in the glass and move on if you’d like. Wineries expect this, and you won’t hurt anyone’s feelings.
11
Do I have to purchase wines at every winery I visit?
Purchasing wines you’ve enjoyed is a great way to keep the memory going once you’re back at home. If you enjoyed what you tasted, taking home bottles is the ultimate compliment to the Vintner! Ask about case discounts.