TASTES RIGHT – A friendly guide to wine room etiquette.
If you’ve ever wandered into a wine tasting room and felt a little unsure of what to do (or what not to do), you’re not alone. I’ve seen it all – from folks nervously sipping and nodding like they understand everything, to people knocking back five glasses like they’re at a beach bar.
As one who lives in Portugal, where wine is woven into daily life, I spend lots of time in tasting rooms. Whether it’s a tiny family-run adega in the Douro or a sleek modern space in the Alentejo, one thing is always true: tasting wine is a joy. It’s also a chance to slow down, learn something, and connect with the people behind the bottle.
So, if you’re heading to a wine tasting soon (especially for the first time), here’s a relaxed, no-pressure guide to help you enjoy the experience without accidentally committing any major faux pas.
I am happy to share that my new article has already been published in the June issue of the Algarve Plus Magazine in Portugal.
The magazine is readable online or downloaded for free here.
Or read my whole article here:
Savor with Style
A friendly guide to wine tasting room etiquette
If you’ve ever wandered into a wine tasting room and felt a little unsure of what to do (or what not to do), you’re not alone. I’ve seen it all – from folks nervously sipping and nodding like they understand everything, to people knocking back five glasses like they’re at a beach bar.
As one who lives in Portugal, where wine is woven into daily life, I spend lots of time in tasting rooms. Whether it’s a tiny family-run adega in the Douro or a sleek modern space in the Alentejo, one thing is always true: tasting wine is a joy. It’s also a chance to slow down, learn something, and connect with the people behind the bottle.
So, if you’re heading to a wine tasting soon (especially for the first time), here’s a relaxed, no-pressure guide to help you enjoy the experience without accidentally committing any major faux pas.
1. Yes, make a reservation (even if you’re spontaneous by nature)
In Portugal, many wineries still welcome walk-ins, especially in less touristy regions, but more and more are moving to bookings only. Why? Because a good tasting experience takes time, attention, and preparation. The winemaker might have set aside special bottles just for your group, or even rearranged their schedule to greet you personally.
So, before you hop in the car and set off for a tasting afternoon, check the winery’s website or call ahead. It only takes five minutes and can make a world of difference.
2. Dress for the vines (but leave the perfume at home)
You don’t have to dress up like you’re going to a wedding, but tasting rooms tend to have a certain vibe – think relaxed elegance, not flip-flops and football jerseys.
Also, a big one: avoid strong perfumes, aftershaves, or scented lotions. Smell is a huge part of wine tasting, and your cologne could overpower the delicate aromas everyone’s trying to pick up in their glass.
And if you’re visiting a vineyard, wear shoes you can walk comfortably in. Portugal’s wine country is full of cobbled paths and hilly terrain – cute but not high-heeled-friendly.
3. Tasting fees are normal (and worth it)
Gone are the days when tastings were free with a smile. Today, most wineries charge a small fee, usually covering several wines and a guided tasting. In Portugal, this could range anywhere from €10 to €25, depending on the place and whether food pairings are included.
But here’s the nice part: many will waive the fee if you buy a bottle or join their wine club. So if you fall in love with that silky Touriga Nacional or crisp Vinho Verde, taking one home often feels like a win-win.
4. You don’t have to know anything about wine (really!)
There’s no test. No judgment. The whole point of a tasting is to try new things and learn what you like, not to impress anyone with how many wine terms you know.
Ask questions. Ask weird questions! That’s how we all learn. The person pouring your wine is there to help, and trust me, they’d much rather talk to someone curious and genuine than someone pretending to be a sommelier.
5. Taste like a pro (without getting too technical)
Okay, here’s the basic tasting flow – no need to overthink it:
- Look: Give it a glance. Notice the color. That’s all.
- Swirl: Gently swirl the glass (on the table if you’re nervous).
- Sniff: Stick your nose in and take a good whiff.
- Sip: Take a small sip and let it coat your mouth.
- Savor: Think about what you’re tasting. Fruity? Earthy? A little spicy?
- Spit (or don’t): Spitting is 100% acceptable and very normal, especially if you’re visiting multiple wineries. It doesn’t mean you don’t like the wine – it just means you want to keep your head clear.
Pro tip: You don’t need to finish every pour. No one will be offended if you pour a bit into the spittoon.
6. Hold your glass by the stem
It’s not about looking fancy – it’s practical. Holding your wine glass by the stem keeps your hands from warming the wine, and it keeps fingerprints off the bowl so you can see the wine clearly.
If you catch yourself gripping it like a water glass, no worries. Just adjust when you remember.
7. Be nice about wines you don’t like
It’s totally okay if you don’t enjoy every wine you taste. Some might be too bold, too funky, too oaky, whatever. Just keep it classy. Instead of saying, “Ugh, this is gross,” try, “This one’s not really my style.”
Wineries pour their heart and soul into these bottles, and there’s always someone nearby who loves that wine. Respect goes a long way.
8. Stay hydrated and don’t skip lunch
Wine is sneaky. You’ll think, “It’s just a few small sips,” and then suddenly you’re giggling in the gift shop with purple teeth. So: drink water between tastings. Eat something hearty beforehand (or during, if the winery offers food).
In Portugal, many tastings come with delicious local bites – cheeses, olives, bread, maybe some chouriço or canned sardines. Don’t skip those. They’re not just tasty – they help you taste the wine better.
9. Ask before taking tons of photos
We get it – vineyards are gorgeous, and those wine glasses beg to be Instagrammed. Just be respectful. Don’t block others, knock over tasting tables, or treat the place like a runway.
That said, most wineries love it when you share your visit online. Tag them, use their hashtag, and show a little love. It helps support small producers more than you might think.
10. To tip or not to tip?
In Portugal, tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated – especially if someone gave you a really special experience. A couple of euros or rounding up the bill is a kind way to say thank you.
If the host went above and beyond (shared rare wines, answered all your questions, gave extra pours), then yes – tipping is a great idea.
11. Don’t feel pressured to buy (but it’s nice if you can)
You’re not required to buy a bottle, but if you found something you love, go for it. Buying direct from the winery helps them keep doing what they do – and you get something delicious to take home.
And if you’re traveling and worried about packing wine in your suitcase, ask if they ship internationally. Many do.
12. Say thank you before you leave
Before heading out, take a moment to thank your host. Let them know what you enjoyed. Even just a warm “Obrigadinho, that was lovely!” goes a long way.
And if you had a great time, leave a nice review online. Word of mouth is gold for small producers, especially in lesser-known regions.
Final thoughts
Wine tasting isn’t about being fancy – it’s about discovery. It’s about slowing down, connecting with the land and the people behind the bottle, and finding joy in every sip.
So don’t worry about using the right words or knowing all the grapes. Just be curious, respectful, and open-minded. The rest will come with time – and plenty of tasting.
Whether you’re touring the Douro, exploring the hidden gems of Dão, or sipping by the sea in the Algarve, I hope this guide helps you feel confident and relaxed.
Saúde!
No Comments Found