Everything You Need to Know Before Taking a Connecticut Vineyard Tour

"Do I have to know anything about wine?"
"What should I wear?"
"How much walking is there?"
"What if my husband doesn't drink wine?"
"Is it weird if I come by myself?"
Those are all real questions people ask me before they book a vineyard tour.
And honestly? I love getting them.
Because it tells me something important.
For a lot of people, taking a vineyard tour is something they've wanted to do for a long time... they just weren't quite sure what to expect.
So let me answer the questions I hear most often and hopefully make planning your day just a little easier.

You do NOT need to know anything about wine. Seriously. (What to Expect at a CT Wine Tour)
Nobody is going to quiz you.
Nobody expects you to swirl your glass like a sommelier or describe aromas of blackberry with "a hint of leather."
If you know what you like, great.
If all you know is "I like the sweet one," that's great too.
The people pouring your wine genuinely want you to find something you'll enjoy, and they're happy to answer questions without making anyone feel intimidated.

Wear whatever you're comfortable in. This isn't Napa. (What to wear on a CT Vineyard Tour)
Connecticut vineyards are relaxed. 
Most guests wear jeans, shorts, sundresses, sneakers, sandals... whatever makes them comfortable.
The only thing I recommend is shoes you're comfortable walking on gravel in. Every vineyard we visit has gravel paths or parking areas, and one vineyard has a short flight of stairs to reach the tasting room.
Otherwise, there's very little walking. Usually it's just from the van to the tasting room.

Yes... there's food. (But, Can I bring my own food?)
This might be the question I get more than any other.
Lunch from Sift Bake Shop  is included on my tours, along with bottled water and snacks. But FEEL FREE to bring all the food you want. You do have to share with me though. LOL
If you're taking someone else's tour, check what's included before you book because every company is different.
And if you're planning to visit vineyards on your own, definitely don't skip lunch. Wine is a lot more enjoyable when you've actually eaten.

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What if someone in our group doesn't drink? They're still welcome. (Wait? CT Has Vineyards?)
Some Connecticut vineyards offer beer or cider in addition to wine, and on my tours there's also a Zero Proof ticket option for guests who simply want to enjoy the experience without the alcohol.
Because honestly...
The vineyards, the scenery, the conversation, and the day itself are what people remember most.

Is it awkward to come alone? Not even a little.
I have solo travelers on tours all the time.
Some are outgoing.
Some are pretty quiet when they climb into the van.
By the end of the day?
They're usually chatting with everyone else like they've known each other for years.
I'm pretty outgoing, so I tend to adopt everyone anyway.

You'll probably be surprised by the van. (Why I Started Middle of the Vines)
One of my favorite comments at the beginning of almost every tour is:
"Wow... this is really nice!"
People expect transportation.
They don't expect comfortable executive seating, bottled water, snacks, room to spread out, and a place to relax between vineyards. I was reallllllly picky when I chose this van and it took a long time to find it. I didn't want this to feel like a crew van, or squished in any way. It's got super tall ceilings so all but giants will be able to stand comfortably. 
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Those little in-between moments often become part of the experience. (there may or not be videos on instagram of people dancing on the bus between tours. :D )

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If you find a wine you love... buy a bottle. (Six Beautiful Vineyard to Visit in SECT)
You certainly don't have to.
Nobody is under any pressure to purchase anything beyond what's included.
But the vineyards really appreciate it when guests support them, and I love supporting these local businesses too.
If you're worried about carrying bottles around all day, don't be.
You can leave them in the van, and if they need to stay cool, I'll happily tuck them into the cooler.

A couple of vineyard etiquette tips 
These aren't rules... just little things that help everyone have a great day.

• Don't be afraid to ask questions. There are no "wine rookie" questions.
• If you love a wine, buying a bottle is always appreciated.
• Don't forget to tip the vineyard staff if they've taken great care of you.
• Relax. Seriously. Nobody is judging how you taste wine.

The biggest surprise? Almost everyone tells me one of three things at the end of the day.
"I didn't know Connecticut had vineyards like this."
"It was so nice not having to drive."
"It was so nice not to PLAN and everything was included!"
Or my personal favorite...
"Thank you for giving me a day off."
That last one makes me smile every single time.
Because that's exactly what I hope people leave with. Not just a bottle of wine. Not just pictures. But the feeling that, for five hours, someone else handled the planning. Someone else did the driving. Someone else worried about the schedule. All they had to do was show up, relax, laugh a little, and enjoy the day. And honestly... I think we all need more days like that.

Ready to experience Connecticut's vineyards for yourself? Whether you've never set foot in a vineyard or you've visited dozens, there's always something new to discover.
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I'd love to show you around.

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Hop In. We're going Wine Tasting