Wine Tasting Room Etiquette

A tasting room is designed to be a place to sample and learn about wine. While each winery’s tasting room is unique, here are some general tips to get you started.

Before you go:

Some wineries charge for tastings and others do not.   Likewise, some wineries allow children, picnics and pets, while others do not. Read up ahead of time and respect the establishment’s rules.

There is no set dress code at wineries.  In the tasting room you will most likely be on your feet, so wear something comfortable.  If you plan to sit outside, dress appropriately.  Remember, accidents happen, so you may want to skip the white shirt or your favorite, new light colored jacket.

Avoid heavy perfumes and cologne on the day of your scheduled tasting. Strong scents can not only interfere with your tasting experience but also those around you. 

While most wineries post their hours on their website, it is always a good idea to call ahead and verify hours and/or special events. This is especially true if you are traveling a long distance to get there or if you are bringing a large group.

Remember you are visiting wine country. Get directions and don’t rely on your GPS to get you there. You may lose reception along the way, and we don’t want anything keeping you from enjoying The Country’s First Wine Country.  Download the Missouri Wines iPhone app to help you get there with ease.

Plan ahead. Designate a driver or arrange transportation before you leave home. Drink Responsibly.

When you arrive:

Every tasting room is different. Some are small boutiques and others are large elaborate rooms. Head for the tasting bar. A host should greet you and explain their tasting process.

All different types of tasting vessels are used for tastings. Be prepared for Riedel wine glasses, plastic tasting cups and everything in between.  

Typically white wines are tasted first, then red wines, followed by dessert wine. For more information on how to taste wine visit our Guide to Serving and Tasting Wine page. 

Taste each wine carefully and remember the 3 sip rule. If you don’t like the first taste of a wine, give it a second try because it could change depending on what you tasted before it or had to eat that day.

Most wineries will provide you with some kind of tasting notes. Use it to take notes about the wines you taste and to guide your purchase decisions. Or go paperless and keep your notes in your Missouri Wines iPhone app. If you find a favorite, snap a photo of the label and save it in your Wine Log.

Skip around. Don’t feel like you have to taste all of the wines offered.  If you only like dry wines or certain varietals, you may request them. If you are doing a tasting with others, simply cover your glass to let the pourer know you are not interested in a particular wine. 

Don’t feel like you have to finish your glass. Dump buckets are provided on the bar for you to pour your wine into if you don’t like it or if you are driving.  Remember to drink responsibly. You may also request a cup to spit or pour into.

Water should be provided for you to rinse your glass or cleanse you palate. Rinsing your glass is a good idea when moving from whites to reds or reds to dessert wines. Sometimes a neutral food like a cracker is also available for cleansing your palate. 

It is a good idea to drink lots of water to stay hydrated, especially on hot summer days. A general rule of consumption is water, wine, water, wine in a glass to glass ratio. 

Share the bar and be respectful of others. During the busy seasons (fall and summer), tasting rooms tend to get crowded. Be patient. If you want a more private tasting, it is best to visit the winery in the off-season (winter) or during the week rather than on the weekend.

Don’t pour your own wine. Remember you are a guest.

Pick up a winery passport and request to get it stamped! Visit our Winery Passport Tasting Journal page for more information about how to use your Missouri Winery Passport.

Ask questions, engage with the staff and keep your notes in your Winery Tasting Journal so when you get home you can remember what you liked best about each winery. 

Ask about special offers, wine clubs and upcoming events to take full advantage of your tasting.

If wineries provide a complimentary tasting, it is in good taste to purchase a bottle of wine (especially if you asked for a second taste of something). However, it is not required and you should only purchase wine if you like it. 

Drink responsibly and designate a driver. All those little tastes can add up, so don’t take any risks. It is industry standard to sip, swish and spit.

Most importantly, have fun!