Warm weather brings with it the urge to be outside enjoying the sunshine and gentle, warm breezes. Wineries like to make a showing at a wine festival that they see as an opportunity to let the public know about them. As in any industry, marketing is of prime importance. This also benefits wine enthusiasts, as a number of wineries are all available at the same spot. While there is most likely a fee for entering the festival grounds, tastings are free. This enables visitors to taste wines they may not be familiar with but will enjoy. The downside to attending a wine festival is that one does not get the experience of actually visiting a winery and perhaps missing a tour of the facility. However, by visiting wine festivals you have the advantage of tasting different wines from different wineries without traveling to them. If you enjoy wine or want to learn more about it, consider visiting wine festivals and wineries. Below are some tips for attending wine festivals.

1. Consider purchasing your tickets in advance, prices are usually reduced.
2. Wear sunscreen whether it is sunny or cloudy.
3. Take a bottle of water or plan to purchase it at the festival. For every ounce of wine you drink, you should drink one ounce of water.
4. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. You never know what type of surface you will be walking on and this should be a fun day.
5. Eat before you leave for the festival and take a picnic lunch or purchase food at the festival. As always, don’t drink on an empty stomach.
6. Remember sunglasses.
7. A small canvas bag always comes in handy.

Once you are at the festival, you will realize that you cannot taste every wine available. You may want to choose only a certain variety to taste, or you may want try tasting only reds at one festival and whites at another festival.

Drink responsibly and have a great time!

Cheers! Kathy