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Hi Reader,

Ever start planning a wine trip…only to get overwhelmed 5 minutes in trying to choose between 100+ wineries?

It’s tempting to just pick a few of the most popular ones and call it a day.

But that’s how you end up somewhere that looks great on Instagram…and feels more like a party bus stop 🪩🚌 than a wine experience.

No judgment if that’s your thing (I’m not above a good rosé slushy 🍧).

But if you’re looking for a trip that actually feels like you, here’s how I narrow it down.

🍷 Know the Different Types of Wineries

Not all wineries are set up the same, and that plays a big role in what your visit will feel like.

• Small, Family-Run Wineries → more personal, often quieter, sometimes hosted by the owner or winemaker
• Larger Producers → more polished, structured tastings, bigger production
• Estate Wineries → vineyards on-site, more connection to how the wine is grown and made
• In-Town Tasting Rooms → convenient, but less of the “vineyard” feel

None of these are better or worse. But they lead to very different kinds of visits, so it helps to know what you’re looking at.

🍇 Pay Attention to Wine Style

It helps to start with what you tend to enjoy, but the real value comes from looking a level deeper.

Instead of just “reds vs whites,” look for things like:

• Grape Varieties – what the winery specializes in
• Vineyard Practices – estate-grown vs. sourced fruit, sustainable or organic farming
• Winemaking Approach – traditional vs. modern, natural/low-intervention, oak usage
• Overall Style – fruit-driven vs. earthy/savory, light and elegant vs. more structure and body

Also keep in mind that many regions specialize in a certain style, but individual wineries often take different approaches within that.

🥂 Think About the Experience You Want

Once you have a sense of the wine, decide how you actually want to spend your time.

Some wineries are built around quick tastings at the bar, while others focus on seated, guided experiences. You might also see options like:

• Vineyard or cellar tours
• Food and wine pairings
• Educational tastings or classes
• Live music or special events

Two wineries can serve great wine but offer completely different experiences.

👀 Look Beyond the Website to Get the Real Vibe

The website shows what the winery wants you to see. It’s helpful, but it’s only part of the picture.

To get a better sense of what it’s actually like:

• ​Check guides from trusted sources (hi 👋)
• Look at photos and videos online and on social media from recent visitors
• Read a few reviews (beyond the rating) and look for patterns on things like service, experience, and atmosphere

You can usually spot pretty quickly if a place feels like your kind of vibe.

Once you’ve narrowed down the wine style, experience, and vibe, your list should start to feel a lot more manageable.

Pick a few that seem like a good fit and go from there.

You don’t need the perfect lineup. You just need one that makes you excited to show up!

Cheers,

Laura

🌎 Wineries I'm Loving ​Guides to my top winery picks by region

⚙️ Travel Tools I'm Testing ​This site for finding winery experiences

🍷 Wine Tools I'm Using ​This app to track wines you like

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