Choosing a winery can be like trying to pick out your favorite chocolate from an unlabeled box of candies. How do you know if you like a wine before you actually try it? Is it worth your while to drive to a winery, only to discover that the wine they make is not your taste? Or, perhaps you might ask, are there REALLY wines that people don't like? In choosing the right winery, consider what is most important to you. Is it the wine, the scenery, or the size and notoriety of the vineyard?
The Wine
Most people have a preference when it comes to the taste of their wine. Do you enjoy wine on the sweeter side or on the dry side? When choosing your winery, take a look at the wines that they make. Visit their website and browse the list. If you prefer sweet wines than look for wineries that feature wines such as Riesling, Moscato, Sauvingnon Blanc and Muscadine wines. If you prefer a more dry wine, look for wineries that have wine such as Cabernet, Merlot, Pinor Noir or Chardonnay. Choosing a winery that serves the type of wine you like is key to a great visit, but don't be afraid to try new wines. Half of the fun of visiting a winery is trying something you haven't. You might just find a new favorite!
The Scenery
Consider the scenery of the winery. Look at pictures on their website to see what you will be seeing when you visit. Nothing is better than enjoying a glass of wine with a beautiful view. Think about things such as, do you want to be in the mountains or the countryside? Do you want more of a rustic feel or do you prefer something on the fancier side? Pick an atmosphere that you will absolutely love when choosing your winery. There are so many beautiful wineries with gorgeous vineyards to walk through, you are sure to be impressed with whatever you pick.
Size and Notoriety
Decide if you want to visit a winery on the small size or a larger one. With a small winery, you may get more of that intimate feel. There is most likely a better chance to ask more questions and interact with the owners of a smaller winery. Or maybe you prefer to visit a larger winery that is well known. This can be just as exciting. Although be prepared for more crowds at the more popular it is. Do a little research and see what people have to say. That is the beauty of the internet, narrow it down to the one that has the best reviews! Chances are, you will agree.
Now, go and enjoy the winery of your choice. Don't forget a few key things before you go-
-Have a designated driver.
-Eat before you go, or find out if the winery has food. Most wineries do offer small plates or some type of food.
-Think about the distance and decide how far you want to drive.
-Go earlier, rather than later in the day to beat the crowds.
If you purchase wine, don't leave it in a hot car while you sip your wine.
-Most of all, be prepared to buy some delicious wine!
