Visitor Guidelines for the Tasting Room
Wearing Perfume in the Tasting Room Is Not a Good Idea
So much for cologne fantasies! Strong scents (perfume, cologne, aftershave, scented lotion, etc.) can overpower the delicate aromas of the wine and spoil the tasting experience for everyone nearby. Keep fragrances minimal or skip them entirely—your nose (and fellow tasters) will thank you.
Keep an Open Mind
Leave preconceived notions at the door. Even if you’ve never enjoyed a certain style before (rosé, orange wine, off-dry Riesling, etc.), give it a fair try. Tasting rooms are the perfect place to discover something new—many visitors are pleasantly surprised!
Don’t Show Off Your Wine Knowledge Too Much
Avoid turning the tasting into a lecture. Tasting room staff (often entry-level) aren’t always deep experts, and over-explaining can come across as bragging. Ask thoughtful questions instead—everyone learns something, and the experience stays enjoyable.
Know-It-Alls Are a Pain—Don’t Be One
Presenters are there to share what they do, and all levels of knowledge are welcome. Don’t pretend you work in the industry just to get discounts or special treatment—even genuine passion is better expressed through curiosity than one-upmanship.
It’s OK to Swallow
Spitting isn’t mandatory. If you’re enjoying the wine and not overdoing it, swallowing a small amount is perfectly fine—especially on a relaxed tasting or tour. It’s about enjoyment, not just education.
OK to Dump
Pouring out wine—even ones you like—is never rude. Use the dump bucket freely to keep your palate fresh. “Spit” and “dump” are polite terms in tasting rooms—staff expect and encourage it.
Do Not Inquire About the “Good Stuff”
Avoid asking for the “good stuff” or “reserve list” right away—it can feel entitled. It’s fine to politely ask if any library or special wines are available beyond the flight, but be aware it may create pressure to buy.
Linger, but in a Meaningful Way
Wineries are happy to let you revisit wines you’re considering buying—as long as you’re not getting drunk or monopolizing the bar. Lingering is fine when it’s thoughtful and respectful of others’ time.
Purchase Wine
Many tasting rooms waive the fee ($10–$15) if you buy a bottle or two. Purchasing supports the winery and is the best way to take home favorites. Staff understand if you’re flying home and can’t buy much—just be upfront.
But, Do Not Haggle
Treating wine like a car purchase rarely works. Prices are set, and haggling can come across as disrespectful. Focus on enjoying the experience—most wineries already offer fair value.
Tips?
Opinions vary: some say “it’s a tasting room, not a bar,” while others tip for exceptional service. If the pourer is knowledgeable, friendly, and goes above and beyond, a small tip ($5–$10 per couple) is appreciated but never required.
Those Who Still Disobey the Rules?
It’s not millennials—older patrons tend to break rules more often. Younger tasters are generally more appreciative, considerate, and open to guidance.
Also see: The Best Kelowna Wineries
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