Some tips to prepare for your trip to Salem Wine Country
What to wear for Oregon wine tasting?
Sweater or jacket – First and most importantly, bring a light jacket or sweater! One of the reasons this area makes such exquisite Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay is due to the Van Duzer Corridor winds. These winds are favorable to the grapes as they usually come later in the day and allow for quick cooling of the grapes in the valley. However, it is not uncommon for a gust to sneak up on you at any time of day. You could choose to go inside, but who wants to when you have a prime outdoor spot overlooking the valley? Better to keep that view and bring that sweater.
Don’t wear white – Unless you are planning to sip exclusively only whites for your trip, white apparel may not be the best idea. For most of the wineries in the area, Pinot Noir makes up at least 50% of the tasting options, so why limit yourself? And, since part of the tasting experience is to swirl that sample to release the fruity aromas, why chance an overzealous twirl onto your favorite white top?
Comfy shoes – You don’t have to wear running shoes to the tasting room for comfort, but easy shoes are recommended. This is obvious if you have a vineyard tour planned, which often involves rough terrain or production room tours. However, even if you think it is safe to wear those heels because you don’t have any tours planned, don’t forget about those instagrammable selfie moments in front of vines – you’ll need to navigate a bit of the terrain for that as well.
Is it ok to taste the wine with food?
Take advantage of small bite offerings, or bring your own – The obvious reason should go unsaid: never taste on an empty stomach. The small pours can add up fast, so keeping snacks on hand is a good idea, no matter where you are tasting. Many wineries allow you to bring a picnic as well (just ask!), although you may be asked to enjoy your picnic outside.
Pinot tastes best with food – There is another reason to take advantage of small bites offered by the Willamette Valley wineries. Many wines were made with the intention of enjoying with food. Pinot Noir in particular is the perfect wine to enjoy meals with as it is extremely versatile. It also has a good amount of acid which holds up well to so many foods. Similarly, Chardonnay is often enjoyed alone, but why not sip and snack while on your porch? Popcorn anyone?
Are reservations always required?
Not always, but due to occasional private events, and as a result of Covid, many wineries highly recommend reservations. This makes it easier to safely accommodate their guests. It is always a good idea to check the winery website, or call in advance to guarantee space for your group. Secondly, it will ensure there are no private events planned at the winery on your tasting day.
Should I cellar or immediately drink the wine I plan to buy?
While all wines can be consumed immediately, some are worth buying a few of, to taste as they age. The rule of thumb for Pinot Noir storage is 5-7 years. However, a well made Pinot Noir can be stored for longer. Whites on the other hand, tend not to store as readily, so it’s safe to plan to drink those sooner. Your best bet is to ask the winery you are buying from for their recommendations.
Should I tip the winery staff?
Although in the past it has not been customary to tip winery staff, that trend is changing, and tips are very much appreciated. The level of knowledge winery staff often has – everything from time in barrel to location of vines on the property – can be quite impressive. So, while tipping is not a requirement to taste, it is becoming a more common way to show your appreciation to the staff for their time and attentiveness. Some wineries do offer a sales commission, but not all – and it’s hard to know which ones do. Finally, it doesn’t have to be a set 15 or 20%, depending on your bill, but even a small amount is an extra way to say thanks.
What else should I bring or do?
Here are a few more general tasting tips that should apply anywhere you go wine tasting:
- Bring and drink water – hydration is the #1 way to avoid wine headaches
- Wear sunscreen – if sunny, you will want to enjoy the views outside
- Avoid perfume – focus on the aromas of the wine
- Beach blanket – some wineries have picnic areas
- Wine cooler – avoid leaving your wine in a hot car by themselves
Did we miss any good tips for Salem wine tasting? Add them in the comments below!
