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When choosing the best vineyard, wine grower, or organic single-vineyard to visit, research the company’s background carefully, noting how long it has been in business, affiliations, and contact information. Visit with a few stores, shops, premium produce vineyards, or organic single-vineyard websites to see which one can meet your needs, whether you’re an occasional wine drinker or connoisseur. Do your research on the wine process and what’s involved, such as advantages to red and white wine, new and used kits, harvest, de-stemming, crush, fermentation, alcohol, pressing and potassium. Look into how to make your own wine cellar, complete with racks, door, and temperature controls. Many vineyards and wineries, which usually feature a large open grape valley with a small shop or store, are open to the public, whether you’re part of a family, corporate tour, or school tour. Use an online directory finder to search for a local vineyard, premium produce grower, or winery near you. Many local vineyards offer oenology classes for people to learn about the wine bottling and production process. In your search for a reputable vineyard or winery lot, stop by each and take a taste test, get a tour, and learn about local growers in your area. Consider whether the store or business is neat and well maintained, with courteous, knowledgeable staff members. Ask about product line, which can include Zinfandel, Merlot, Riesling, champagne, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. If you’re a wine maker at home, make sure the vineyard offers quality products for production and bottling, at reasonable prices. Take note of business hours, location, prices, taste test schedule, tours, and wine quality before you commit. Go in with a budget and stick to it, whether your goal is to taste test some wine, or take a full-blown tour of the estate facilities.
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