Whether you’re a first-time wine taster or a seasoned pro, there are a few things you should always bring with you on a wine tour. From sunscreen to snacks, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 essentials for any wine enthusiast. So, pack your bags. We’re going on tour to taste some of the best wines in the world!
10. Red Wine Stain Remover
We’ve all been there before: you’re enjoying some delicious, red wine when you accidentally spill a bit on your favorite shirt. Instead of worrying about what to do next, be prepared with a stain remover that’s specifically designed for removing red wine stains.
Chateau Spill Red Wine Stain Remover is the best solution for any fresh or old wine stain woes. This professional, commercial-grade formula can be used on the spot to quickly and effectively remove wine stains from clothing, carpets, and furniture upholstery. Plus, Chateau Spill Red Wine Stain Remover is non-toxic and gentle enough for all fabric types.
9. Wine Charms
Wine charms are a great way to make sure you don’t lose track of your glass during a tasting event. Simple and affordable, these charming little decorations can be put around the stem of each person’s glass, to ensure that everyone knows which glass is theirs. Never be forced into asking “Who’s wine is this?” again!
With the 10 Piece World Travel Themed Wine Charm Set from Palm City Products, you can easily identify your glass during a wine-tasting event. And the best part? The world map design will spark some friendly conversation with fellow travelers while you sip and savor.
8. Snacks
It’s a well-known fact that keeping your body nourished while imbibing can help to reduce the effects of alcohol and prevent you from becoming too inebriated. Packing nutritious snacks while wine tasting is always a good idea. Some great snack options include fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds, whole-grain crackers, and even protein bars. You’ll thank us in the morning for this tip when you wake up hangover-free!
The CLIF Energy Bar is the ultimate snack for wine enthusiasts. These protein bars are packed with organic ingredients, and have a great balance of carbs and protein to help you stay energized for your wine tour. Plus, CLIF Energy Bars are free of artificial sweeteners and are made with no high-fructose corn syrup.
7. Sunscreen and Sunglasses
Always remember to include a hat and sunscreen in your wine-tasting essentials kit. The sun can be intense in many wine regions, so it’s especially important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. You’ll be thankful to have both items when it’s time to take pictures – no one wants their vacation memories filled with red noses and squinty eyes!
Maui Jim sunglasses make great companions for wine tours. Their PolarizedPlus2 lens technology shields your eyes from glare and harmful UV rays while also making the wine country landscape come to life. Whether you’re looking at rolling vineyards or sipping a crisp rosé, the great outdoors will be more vivid and vibrant thanks to Maui Jim’s color-boosting patented technologies. Plus, all their sunglasses are built with incredible durability so they can last even through the most active days.
6. Tasting Journal
Have you ever visited a winery, sampling different wines, and been unable to remember which was the best? Don’t miss out on those moments spent sipping great wines — bring along a tasting journal so you can jot down your thoughts and impressions. You could throw together a makeshift one with some paper and a pen, but wine tastings journals tailored to student wine aficionados are also available. These journals include helpful hints for getting the most out of a tasting, plus space for descriptive notes about individual wine tastes.
Vine Leaves’ Wine Tasting Journal is the perfect tool for anyone interested in improving their wine-tasting abilities. Its comprehensive Wine Tasting Guide provides helpful instruction, Wine Pairing Tips, and a useful Wine Aroma Chart. The 80 easy-to-fill-in pages make recording details like name, vintage, price, producer, and tasting notes simple and fun. Show up to the tasting room with this journal tucked under your arms and everyone will know you mean business!
5. Wine Saver
A wine saver vacuum pump helps you get the most out of every bottle. Just attach the pump to your open wine bottle and remove the air from inside – this process prevents oxygen from damaging the wine and makes it last longer. You never know when you might need to store a little extra wine, so a wine saver is an essential item for any wine lover’s backpack.
If you are looking for a great product to make sure your wine remains fresh, the Swissmar Epivac Wine Saver Set is a great choice. It seals in the flavors and aromas of your favorite wines, while also keeping bacteria out. The best part? The stoppers are reusable, meaning you can use them as often as you wish!
4. An Insulated Tote Bag
For a wine lover, this item is an absolute must. Instead of lugging multiple wine bottles in your arms during the tour, an insulated tote bag lets you carry all your favorite wines in style. Plus, a tote bag will keep your wine bottles chilled, which is great for when you have finished wine tasting for the day and are ready to enjoy a bottle of wine with your fellow tour-goers.
There are many brands of insulated totes bags on the market, so be sure to find one that best suits your needs. For example, if you’re looking for a small and compact bag to carry one wine bottle or four, Cana & Co’s 4 Bottle Wine Carrier is a perfect choice. Featuring three layers of insulation, a durable zipper to ensure your bottles stay secure, as well as a modern two-tone design, this stylish bag will keep your bottles chilled all day long.
3. A Picnic Blanket
When you’re wine tasting, most of your time is spent outdoors. Make sure to have a quality blanket with you at all times—you never know when you might want to stop for a picnic and enjoy your wine under the sunset.
The Myra & Ish Premium Foldable Waterproof Picnic Blanket is a beautiful blanket crafted from waterproof fabric and vegan leather. Plus, its zip pocket, shoulder strap, and handles ensure you can carry it wherever you go.
2. Headache Relief
When you’re out wine tasting, it’s easy to get carried away and drink a little more than your recommended daily limit. And while the effects of one glass too many may be a lot of fun, they can also lead to serious headaches.
Fortunately, there is always Tylenol. So, be sure to carry some with you at all times and use it as soon as you start to feel a headache coming on.
1. Local Knowledge
One of the best ways to get the most out of a wine tour is by signing up for an experience that is led by a knowledgeable local guide. This way, you will not only have the chance to learn about the best wineries in the area, but you’ll also get to know more about the rich history, culture, and local characters that make the wine region so special.
If you’re looking for a great wine tour in Willamette Valley, be sure to check out the offerings from Wine History Tours. Embarking on one of their wine tours will unlock a world of unparalleled wine knowledge. Journey through the AVAs of the Willamette Valley as your guide transports you through time, telling captivating stories illustrating wine’s integral role in history. Our tailor-made wine tours create eye-opening experiences to spark your imagination and bring Oregon pinot noir – and wine in general – to life. With passionate, knowledgeable guides and an atmosphere built to meet the needs of each individual group, you won’t find a wine tour quite like this anywhere else.
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