Your Guide to Planning the Perfect Wine-Tasting Trip
Need help planning a wine-tasting trip? While many factors go into planning a getaway to wine country, the time of year should be pivotal in your decision-making. Lucky for you, Santa Maria Valley boasts a perfect climate year-round, making any time of year a great time to plan a wine-tasting getaway. Grab your family, pals, or significant other and make a break for the Central Coast for a weekend of full glasses and fun times. Read on for tips and tricks on planning a wine-tasting trip.
1. Pick your locale
While planning your trip to wine country, the first – and arguably the most important – decision you have to make is your destination! When picking a wine-tasting locale, be sure to consider the preferences of everyone in your tasting party. Keep in mind that different wine regions tend to produce different types of wine, and your party’s favorite varietals should be a deciding factor in your destination. Another big part of knowing how to plan a wine-tasting trip is being mindful of your budget. Wine tasting can get pricey, so be sure to budget accordingly.
Santa Maria Valley is a great place to taste if you like cool-climate wines like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Sitting in the heart of Santa Maria Valley is the Central Coast’s first official AVA (American Viticultural Area), boasting one of the world’s most dynamic wine-growing regions. As a bonus, Santa Maria Valley is much more affordable than similar California tasting destinations, allowing you to taste more for less and makes planning your wine-tasting trip a breeze. Learn more about Santa Maria Valley’s varietals and what makes our wine region special.
2. Plan your wine tasting stops
Once you know where you’re heading (and let’s be honest, we know you want to come to Santa Maria Valley), you can plan out the specific winery tasting rooms you’d like to visit. On a weekend, you should have plenty of time to visit a winery that will fit the taste and preferences of everyone in your party. Between our buttery chardonnays and vintage syrahs, Santa Maria Valley is sure to satisfy your taste buds. With 30+ tasting rooms and over 7,500 acres of the first official American Viticultural Area (AVA), you should have no problems mapping your stops while planning your wine-tasting trip here on the central coast.
To prepare for winery tours, make sure you’re hydrated, have eaten a satiating meal, and know the area. Be sure to research ahead for any special deals that your selected tasting rooms may offer while planning your wine-tasting trip. It’s also a good idea to call ahead and book a tasting in advance. Most tastings last 30-45 minutes, but the amount of time you spend at each winery is entirely up to you.
3. Explore local dining, attractions and events
Just because you’re taking a wine tasting tour doesn’t mean the entire trip needs to be about wine! After all, you don’t quite know all there is to know about how to plan a wine-tasting trip if you’re not making the most of it! Most wine regions offer world-class dining experiences, fun events and other great attractions for you and your group to explore.
In Santa Maria Valley, we have traditional Santa Maria Style barbecue, which pairs wonderfully with regional Pinot Noirs, as well as other delicious dining options and breweries. Outdoor lovers will also feel at home here. The Santa Maria Valley is home to 24 hiking trails, 15 beaches and nearly endless cycling trails within a half-hour drive. You can also browse local events and fun happenings for more things to do while planning your wine-tasting trip.
4. Browse lodging and book your stay
Now that you know how to plan a wine-tasting trip like a pro, it’s time to book your wine tasting trip! See if your selected destination offers specialized itineraries or other information about booking a trip to the region. And since we know you’re planning your trip to Santa Maria Valley, browse lodging options, check out our mouth-watering barbecue, book your trip, and have a fun and safe time with loved ones. We can’t wait to host you. Cheers!
***
In Santa Maria Valley, there’s so much to do from here. Hit the road and explore it all with our 24 hiking trails, 34 tasting rooms, seven unique AVAs, 13 beaches, and a growing selection of local breweries, all within a beautiful 30-minute drive. There is no need to venture far if you are looking for sand dunes, cycling and authentic Santa Maria Style dining. You’ll find it’s the perfect home base, where you can eat, drink and do more for less.
