What is Wine Country?

Are you interested in taking a vacation or even just a weekend trip? If you
are, you may hear that wine country is an area that you should visit. If you
are like many other Americans, you may be curious as to what exactly wine
country is. If you are, you will want to continue reading on.

When looking to understand what wine country is, you will find some variations.
This is because wine country is a phrase that is used to describe areas in the
United States that are well known for their production of wine and their large
assortment of wineries and vineyards, many of which are open to the general
public. The general gist of wine country is that it is the perfect destination
for those who enjoy drinking wine and learning about how it is made.

As previously stated, there are a number of areas in the United States that are
commonly referred to as wine country. Generally speaking, when you hear someone
talking about wine country or when you use the internet to research wine
country, you will find that most are talking about California. California wine
country is an area in Northern California, which includes both the Napa Valley
and the Sonoma Valley. With that said, two other areas also commonly referred
to as wine country are the Finger Lakes Region of New York and Woodinville
Washington.

As nice as it is to know what wine country is and where some wine country areas
are located, you may be curious as to what makes wine country a great vacation
destination. One of the many allures of wine country is all that you can do and
see, as there is so much. Popular activities that you can enjoy in wine country
include wine country tours, wine tasting, private winery tours, and so much
more. It is also important to mention that many wineries host their own private
events, such as courses that focus on paring wine with food, the history of
wine, and so forth.

Speaking of events, wine country is not only a great place to vacation, but it
is also a great place to get married. In fact, wine country weddings are
popular and they come highly rated and recommend. Many public wineries and
vineyards have spaces on their properties that can be rented for wedding
receptions, wedding ceremonies, or both. If you or someone that you know would
like to get married in wine country, be sure to make your plans to do so as
soon as possible.

Another question commonly asked by those new to wine country is where they can
stay. When vacationing in wine country, tourists usually have a number of
different options, in terms of lodging. Unfortunately, many individuals believe
wine country is solely filled with wineries and vineyards, but this isn't the
case. Scattered throughout many wine country areas, namely California's wine
country, you will find a number of lodging options, including inns, bed and
breakfasts, RV parks, and public campgrounds.

Now that you know more about wine country and a few of the things that you can
do and see while visiting it, you may be interested in planning a trip. As a
reminder, California wine country comes highly rated and recommend, but if you
are unable to travel that far, you may have a number of options locally or at
least a little bit closer to home.

All You Need to Know About California Wine Country

Do you enjoy drinking wine? If you do, you may be interested in learning more
about it. After all, many wine drinkers are curious about the drink that they
know and love. Many want to know about its history, how it is made, and what
impact the future will have on wine. If you are one of those individuals, you
will want to consider visiting California wine country. When doing so, you will
likely get answers to all of your questions, as well as have an amazing time.

As nice as it is to hear that you should visit California wine country, you may
be looking for more information on why. Many individuals wonder what is so great
about California's wine country. Many know that other areas in the United States
are also commonly referred to as wine country, such as the Finger Lakes Region
of New York. For that reason, many wonder what sets California wine country
apart from the rest. For more information on California wine country, as well
as why you should visit it, please continue reading on.

California wine country is a phrase that is used to describe a region in
Northern California. This region is known for its wine production. Due to
having perfect weather conditions and a great climate, California is perfect
for wine production. In keeping with location, wine country is used typically
to describe the Napa Valley and the Sonoma Valley, which, as previously stated,
are both located in Northern California.

As for the history of wine country, wild grapes have pretty much always been
found in Northern California, but it took time and knowledge before the
potential was realized for these wild grapes. According the websites of many
wine country wineries, George Calvert Yount was the first person to plant a
vineyard in the Napa Valley Region. Later, in 1861, the first commercial
vineyard was developed and opened, also in Napa Valley.

Although wine country got off to a small start, the number of wineries in the
area more than doubled in size in the early 1900s. Today, there are over four
hundred wineries and vineyards in California's wine country. In fact, that is
why the region is so popular with tourists, as they have so many options. There
are so many things for visitors and wine lovers to do and see.

Speaking of things to do and see, you will never find a moment of boredom when
visiting California wine country. That is just one of the many reasons why you
are encouraged to visit the area, especially if you are a wine lover. Many of
the local wineries and vineyards have tours available of their properties, as
well as wine tasting available everyday of the week. On the other hand, area
wineries often have special scheduled events. For example, the Wineries of Napa
Valley offers a course in Fine Wine and Artisan Cheese. This event is designed
to prove that it is easy to pair wine with food, especially California cheese.

As for overnight accommodations, visitors will find no shortage of
accommodations in wine country. With that said, it is still important to make
your overnight accommodation reservations, should you decide to visit the area,
well in advance of your trip. As wine country tours increase in popularity, the
best hotels and resorts quickly fill up with reservations. In addition to
traditional hotels and vacation resorts, other options for overnight stays
include inns, vacation homes, vacation cottages, bed and breakfasts, RV parks,
and public campgrounds.

As an important side note, the wine country area of California is most well
know for its wine themed activities. With that said, there is much more to both
Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley. Other popular activities and attractions include
shopping, hiking, camping, and sightseeing. Perhaps, that is one of the
greatest reasons why you should at least consider traveling to California wine
country. If you are traveling with a large group and for an extended period of
time, wine tours can be just a small portion of your vacation.

5 Reasons Why Every Wine Drinker Should Visit California's Wine Country

Do you enjoy drinking wine? Do you consider yourself to be a wine enthusiast?
If so, have you ever visited California wine country? If this is a trip that
you have yet to make, you will want to consider adding it to your to do list.
After all, California wine country is most well known for its large number of
wineries and all of the great activities they hold.

As nice as it is to hear that you should visit California's wine country, you
may be looking for more reasons why. After all, you may be content with sipping
your favorite wine from the comfort of your own home. Even if this is your
preferred method of drinking wine, there are still a number of reasons why you
should make the trip to wine country. Just a few of those reasons, five to be
exact, are touched on below.

1 -- Your Options

Your options are unlimited, literally, when visiting California wine country.
Did you know that California has over four hundred vineyards and wineries? They
do and most are open to the public, often all year round. What does this mean
for you? It means that you can have the vacation of your dreams, as you are
able to hand pick just about every step you take.

2 -- Winery Activities

The biggest draw to California wine country is the wineries. As previously
stated, you have a large number of wineries and vineyards to choose from. Those
aren't your only options either. California wine country has so many wine
related activities for you to enjoy that you may not even know where to start.

Although you will find some variations, depending on the public winery in
question, many offer similar activities. These activities may include wine
tours, individual winery ground tours, wine tasting, educational classes with a
focus on wine, annual wine festivals, and much more. With so much to do and see
in wine country, it may be best to request a few free vacation guides.

3 -- Easy to Plan

Whether you live in New York State or in California, planning a trip to
California's wine country is relatively easy to do. Did you know that many
vacation packages are available to you? These vacation packages may include a
stay at a hotel, your airline reservations, as well as a car rental. Vacation
packages are a nice way to make travel arrangements, as they are quick, easy,
and convenient.

As for wine tours, they are also easy to plan. Tourists have the option of
touring local wineries on their own, independently, or they can book
reservations for a guided wine tour. Guided wine tours are often the simplest
option, as every aspect of your tour is already planned out for you.

4 -- Other Fun Activities for You to Enjoy

As if the above mentioned wine themed activities that you can in enjoy in
California's wine country weren't enough, there is so much for you to do and
see in the state of California. If you are interested in planning a vacation,
you can make visiting and touring wine country just a portion of your vacation.
However, may recommend spending at least two days touring the area and local
wineries. Many other fun vacation activities in California include driving to
the coast and enjoying a day at the beach, hiking, boating, shopping, and much
more.

5 -- An Experience You Will Never Forget

Perhaps, the greatest reason why you should consider planning a trip to
California wine country is because it is something you will remember for years
to come. Even those who aren't wine drinkers, report having a memorable
experience. The beauty of California wine country is breathtaking. With that
said, you are more likely to enjoy at trip to wine country if you are a wine
drinker yourself. This is because, as previously stated, most of the activities
you gain access to have a wine theme, such as winery tours and wine tasting.

Why You Should Take a Wine Country Tour

Are you wine drinker? If you are, have you ever thought about the history of
wine, such as how it is made or why wine drinking and tasting is known as a
popular activity? If you have, you may want to plan a visit to wine country.
With that being said, a "traditional," visit isn't all that you should do, you
should also take a wine country tour.

As nice as it is to hear that you should visit wine country and take a wine
country tour, you may be wondering why. After all, depending on where you live,
you may need to travel quite far to visit an area that is referred to as wine
country. After a close exanimation, you will see that there are a number of
reasons why you should not only visit wine country, but also take a wine
country tour.

One of the many reasons why you should arrange to take a wine country tour is
because of the options you have. For starters, wine country is a phrase that is
used to describe an area that is known for their production of wine. When many
of us think of wine country, California, namely Northern California, is often
what first comes to mind. With that said, there are other areas in the United
States that are commonly referred to as wine country as well, such as part of
New York State and Washington State. Many of these other areas and their
wineries also offer tours for wine enthusiasts.

As previously stated, depending on where you live, you may have to travel quite
a distance to arrive at California's wine country or another state's wine
country. Even so, you are still urged to examine your options. This is because
wine tours make for great vacations. Depending on where you visit, you can
spend a few hours touring local vineyards and wineries or you can spend a few
days doing so. Also, in terms of being a great purpose for being a vacation,
many of the communities surrounding well known vineyards and wineries have an
unlimited number of fun activities, such as hiking and dancing, as well as
affordable overnight accommodations.

Returning back to the options that you have, it is important to know that wine
tours come in a number of different formats. Guided wine tours are perfect for
tourists who want to see the "best parts," of wine country, as well as those
who are unfamiliar with the area or may not have their own mode of
transportation. Although you will find some variations, many guided wine tours
have tourists meet in a public place and then travel is provided, often by van
or bus.

Although guided wine tours are popular with tourists, there are many more
individuals, including both tourists and locals, who are interested in taking
independent wine country tours. Independent wine tours are ideal for wine
enthusiasts who want to enjoy wine and its history without feeling rushed or
pressured by other tourists and tour guides. Most wineries and vineyards in
California, as well as Washington and New York, have open doors. If not,
information on ideal times for visiting should be readily available online.
This information is typically posted to prevent conflict with planned events,
such as weddings.

For the most part, tourists find that taking wine tours are affordable. Many
wineries and vineyards provide free access to visitors, but there are no
guarantees. For most part, the costs associated with wine tours comes from wine
tasting, which is a must do. However, you still shouldn't have to be worried
with the costs. Most wine country wineries and vineyards have affordable wine
tasting rates, which are typically between five and fifteen dollars per person.
As for taking a guided wine tour, you will likely be charged a fee, but your fee
may include wine tasting at a number of wineries along the way.

Perhaps, the greatest reason why you should take a wine country tour is because
it is an experience that you will never forget. Not only are wine tours fun for
wine drinkers, but they are also enlightening and educational in nature.

Tips for Planning a Last Minute Wine Country Tour

Were you recently given unexpected free time, namely a few days? Whether you
received some vacation time at work or if your previous plans fell through, you
may be looking for something fun and exciting to do. In fact, you even may be
looking to take a last minute mini vacation. If you are, you may want to
examine the wine country of California.

Should you decide to take a last minute trip to California's wine country, the
first thing that you will want to do is make your travel arrangements. Even if
you simply just have to get in car and drive an hour, it is still nice to have
a plan. On the other hand, long distance travelers will need to make important
travel arrangements, such as those for airline reservations or a car rental. If
your last minute trip to California's wine country requires a drive of more than
two hours, be sure to map out your intended route before you leave.

If you need to stay overnight, when visiting wine country, be sure to make your
overnight accommodation reservations right away. This is important for all last
minute travelers, as their options may be limited. With that said, it is vital
that you make your reservations at a local hotel or inn in advance if you are
visiting wine country during peak travel season. Many California wineries
report that their peak seasons are May through October and that Saturdays are
the busiest days.

Next, it is important to decide which type of wine country tour you would like
to take. As a visitor to California's wine country, you should know that you
have a number of options. Guided California wine country tours are popular
options. Even when taking a last minute trip, you should still have a number of
guided wine country tour companies to choose from. You can easily research your
options online before you even leave for your trip. When doing so, be sure to
pick those with affordable rates. With that said, also be sure to get the most
value for your money. Generally speaking, the more wineries you are able to
visit for the lowest price is the best deal.

Even if you would like to take your own independent California wine country
tours, it is still important that you do the proper amount of research before
you leave. This is important as you have over four hundred options when
visiting California's wine country. Even if you have a week to spend, you still
likely will not be able to visit them all. Since many last minute trips are
short, you should decide which wineries you want to visit first. You can get a
good idea of which ones are rated must sees by other tourists online, with a
standard internet search. Once you have an idea, make sure you map out your
intended stops. Try and create a path that works in a way that you can maximize
your time.

The above mentioned steps are just a few of the many that you will want to
take, should you decide to take a last minute trip to California's wine
country. As a reminder, it is important to do even a little bit of preparation
for last minute trips, especially if your travel distance is quite long.

How to Plan a Wine Country Vacation

Are you interested in taking a wine country vacation? If you are, you are
definitely not alone. Wine country trips are increasing in popularity,
especially among wine enthusiasts. By taking a wine country vacation, you not
only get to sample great tasting wines, but you are also able to learn about
the history of wine making, as well as what the future holds for it as well.

The first step in planning a wine country vacation involves choosing a
destination. When we often think of wine country, California is often the first
thing that comes to mind. With that being said, more areas in the United States
are being called and referred to as wine country, such as the Finger Lakes area
of New York State. For that reason, your first step in planning a wine country
vacation should involve choosing a specific destination. As nice as all of your
options are, if you are truly looking to learn about the history of wine and its
future, Northern California's wine country should be examined.

Once you have decided on a destination, for your next wine country trip, you
will want to decide how you will get there. Making all of your travel
arrangements and well in advance of your intended travel dates is important.
You may need to make airline reservations, car rental reservations, or map out
a road trip with your own car. As a reminder, be sure to plan ahead. Planning
ahead is particularly important for long distance travelers, as the biggest
cost of taking a wine country vacation is often associated with travel.

In keeping with making wine country travel arrangements, it is also important
to examine your overnight accommodation options. You will want to remember that
you do have a number of different options. These options include vacation
resorts, hotels, and bed and breakfast inns. Many of your options, in terms of
overnight accommodations, are located a reasonable distance away from the heart
of wine country. For a nice home like and hassle-free stay, bed and breakfast
inns should be examined. In fact, many large wineries and vineyards may have
onsite overnight options for travelers.

It is also important to decide what you want to do and see on your next wine
country vacation. Wine tours and wine tasting are a must. Typically, you will
find that wine tasting and wine tours are combined activities, especially if
you are on a guided tour. Speaking of guided tours, be sure to research your
options ahead of time, as many are limited in the number of reservations they
can accept. On the other hand, if you would like to visit wineries and
vineyards independently, you will want to examine your options online. Which
locations have open doors for tourists and what are their admission costs or
wine tasting prices?

Speaking of cost, you will want to make sure that you set aside money for your
next wine country trip. This is important if you are on a budget; try to set
aside a few dollars a week before your trip. Be sure that you have enough money
to enjoy your next trip to wine country to its fullest extent. As previously
stated, wine tours are an important part of taking a wine vacation; therefore,
ensure that you can afford them. Also, many wineries and vineyards are known
for their amazing gift shops, many of which are right onsite. Having extra
money will allow you to buy gifts, like wine country gift baskets, for those
back home or souvenirs for yourself.

As highlighted above, there are a number of important steps that you will want
to take, should you be interested in visiting wine country. By making all of
your travel arrangements well in advance of your trip, by researching guided
tours, as well as vineyards and wineries that you can visit independently, your
next visit to wine country can be a dream vacation.

How to Make the Most Out of Your Trip to California Wine Country

Are you interested in visiting California wine country? If you are, you may be
unsure as to how you should proceed, in terms of what you should see and do.
With over four hundred wineries and vineyards in the area, as well as an
unlimited number of fun activities, perfect for just about every trip, you may
be wondering how you can make the most out of your time. For tips on how you
can do so, please continue reading on.

The best way to make the most and get the most out of your next trip to
California wine country is to plan ahead. You will want to know what each and
every one of your options are. This should include everything from guided wine
tours to overnight accommodations. Proper planning and preparation are key to
having the vacation or trip of your dreams.

In terms of overnight accommodations, you will find a large number of options.
Popular options in wine country for tourists include hotels, vacation resorts,
vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, as well as inns. For starters, you will
want to ensure that you make your reservations well in advance, to help ensure
that your first choices, like a vacation home rental, aren't all filled up with
reservations. Secondly, it is important to stay at a place that is conveniently
located. This can help you get most out of your wine country trip by
eliminating unnecessary travel.

A big staple of visiting wine country is taking a wine country tour. When
looking to do so, you will find that you have a number of options. If you are
looking to take your own independent tour, be sure to arrange for a designated
driver. You will want to stay safe. If you everyone in your traveling party
wants to drink, a guided wine tour may be in your best interest. Yes, a guided
wine tour will cost extra money, but you are usually provided with travel,
either by small bus or van. This makes is so that you don't have to worry about
ruining your fun or the fun of someone else in your group by requiring that just
one person doesn't get the opportunity to wine taste.

As previously stated, wine tours are a good idea for those who all want to be
able to wine taste and without worry. Before choosing a guided wine tour
company, be sure to examine all of your options first. Many will outline on
their online websites which wineries and vineyards their tours stops at, for
how long, and the costs of doing so. The best way to make the most out of your
next wine country trip is to get the most value for your money.

If you would like to tour local wineries independently and have arrangements
for a designated driver, be sure to examine all of your options, in terms of
wineries and vineyards in the area. Since you have hundreds to choose from, you
will want to prioritize. Which are must sees for you? Most vineyards have open
doors, tours of their grounds, and wine tasting available on a daily basis;
however, you may also want to examine other planned events. For example, if a
winery is having an educational class on the making of wine during your trip
dates, it may be worth making plans to attend.

In keeping with independent wine tours, you will want to create a map for
yourself. Once you have an idea of which wineries and vineyards you would like
to visit, mark them on a map. Then, what you will want to do is decide on a
method of travel. Try to visit all of the wineries you checked off on your map
in an order that allows you to maximize your time. The best way to do this is
to create a set path to follow, namely one that does not result in you
backtracking.

Wine Country Travel Tips

Are you interested in planning a trip to California's wine country? If you are
and if this is your first time looking to do so, you may be searching for some
guidance. After all, there is so much for you to do and see in wine country. To
get you started, some helpful tips are outlined below.

One of the best ways to have a fun and memorable trip to California wine
country is by examining all of your options. This is particularly true where
wine tours are concerned. Do you want to visit wineries on your own or would
you like to take a guided tour? If you would like to be a part of a guided
tour, you will want to make your plans well in advance, especially if you will
be visiting during peak tourism times.

Even if you would like to independently visit wineries in California's wine
country, you will still want to examine all of your options ahead of time. This
is easy to do with the internet, as you can find many online travel guides for
wine country. Knowing which wineries you have the option of visiting can help
you decide on a plan, which can allow you to develop a map yourself to follow.
With over 400 wineries and vineyards to choose from in California, research
enables you to prioritize.

In terms of getting there, you will want to make your travel arrangements well
in advance of your trip date. For starters, examine vacation packages. Vacation
packages are offered for California wine country and many are not only
convenient to purchase, but money saving as well. You may be able to get
standard vacation packages, which include hotel accommodations, airline
reservations, and a car rental. With that said, many local inns partner with
wineries so that they are able to offer packages and other discounts.

As for touring wine country, if you decide to tour the area on your own, you
may want to mix it up a little bit. Many recommend visiting a combination of
wineries that are both large and small in size. When doing so, you often learn
and see different things, as well as taste wines that differ in both style and
taste. Unfortunately, as convenient as guided wine country tours are, you don't
have much freedom or say, if any, in the wineries you stop at along the way.

Another great tip to help you enjoy your next trip to wine country involves
your stay time. Of course, you can enjoy a single day of touring and wine
tasting in California wine country, but you may want to stay longer. In fact,
many wineries recommend spending at least two days touring local wineries and
participating in wine tasting events. The longer that you stay, the more you
will be able to see, taste, and learn.

Since wine tours and wine in general has increased in popularity, you may be
concerned with the crowds. If you would like to enjoy calm and relaxing wine
tours, you will want to avoid Saturdays, as they are the busiest day of the
week. Many wineries in California also report high visitor levels between the
months of May and October. For the best luck, mid-week tours are your best
option.

As previously stated, you have the option of touring wineries in California
wine country on your own. Should you choose this option, be sure to have a
designated driver. Although you will likely only have a few sips here and
there, it can add up quickly. And, it is always better to be safe than sorry.
As previously stated, many wineries recommend staying in the area at least two
days. If you do so, you can work out an arrangement with someone in your
traveling party. For example, you can be the designated driver one day and they
can be the next.

When planning a trip to California wine country, the above mentioned tips are
just a few of the many that you will want to keep in mind.

Tips for Planning a Trip to Woodinville Wine Country

Do you enjoy drinking wine? Would you even go as far to say that you a wine
enthusiast? If you so, you may be interested in taking a trip to wine country.
If a trip to wine country interests you, you will want to examine the
Woodinville wine country, which is located in the state of Washington. After a
close look, you will see that it is a great vacation destination, especially
for those who enjoy wine.

As previously mentioned, the Woodinville area of Washington state is commonly
known as and referred to as wine country. For some individuals, this may cause
some confusion. When many of us hear of wine country, Northern California is
the first destination that comes to mind. Yes, Northern California is the
destination most commonly referred to as wine country, but that is slowly
changing. There are many more areas in the United States, including
Woodinville, that are being noticed for their production of fine wine. For
many, it is a better option to visit Washington than to travel to California.

Before you make travel arrangements to visit the Woodinville area of
Washington, there are a number of important points that you will first want to
take into consideration. The weather should be one of those points. The weather
in Washington state can sometimes be unpredictable, especially in late fall to
winter. For that reason, you will want to carefully plan your travel dates.
Yes, you will find that some wineries are open all year round and some may even
have fun activities and events planned in winter, but you may have the best luck
traveling to the Woodinville wine country area during the summertime.

Once you have decided that you would like to visit the Woodinville wine country
area of Washington, you will want to start doing a little bit of research. This
research is easy to do online. When examining Woodinville wine country, you
will see that you have a number of wineries to choose from; however, not all
are open to the public and many more have limited hours. Examining a few of the
local wineries will allow you to map out your intended location, which is ideal
for prioritizing your time and making the most out of your trip.

Although taking a Woodinville wine country tour is a great activity, it is
important to note that there are many more wine related activities and events
that the area has to offer. For example, you may be able to go behind the
scenes and see how wine is made, wine taste, as well as learn about the history
of wine in a small educational class or seminar. If you are planning your wine
country trip well in advance, you may want to request free vacation guides,
namely those that have a focus on local wineries and wine themed events,
festivals, and activities.

Although the Woodinville wine country isn't as large as California's wine
country, there is still plenty for you to and see in the area. That is just one
of the many reasons why Woodinville is a big tourism draw. Since it is emerging
as a popular destination for tourists, you will want to try to make your travel
plans, including your overnight accommodation reservations, well in advance of
your trip. When doing so, you will have hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts to
choose from.

Pros and Cons of Guided Wine Country Tours

Are you interested in visiting wine country? Whether you choose to visit the
wine countries in California, New York, or Washington, you may be pleased with
all of the options that you have, especially where wine tours are concerned.
One of those options is making reservations for a guided wine tour, as compared
to touring local wineries yourself.

When it comes to deciding how you should tour wine country, you may be unsure
which option is best for you and the rest of your traveling party. To help
assist you in the decision making process, a few pros and cons to guided wine
tours are outlined below. By examining these pros and cons and then applying
them to your own personal wants and needs, you can determine if a guided wine
tour is the right choice for you and your next wine country trip.

As for the pros or plus sides to making reservations for a guided wine tour,
you will find that there are a number of them. Perhaps, the most influential
one is that you automatically have a designated driver. This is an important
factor that many do not take into consideration right away. For many
individuals, a few sips of wine here and there can quickly add up. This is not
an issue that you will have to worry about with a guided wine tour, as most
companies will provide travel arrangements for you, like in a small bus or van.

Another one of the many pros or plus sides to seeing wine country with a guided
tour is the discounts that you may receive. Did you know that some companies
include admission and wine tasting fees in their prices? Many do so because it
is not uncommon for local wineries to work with wine tour companies to offer
discounts and other savings, which can benefit tourists just like you. If a
wine country tour company provides you with discounts or other special savings,
they will likely outline so on their online websites.

Another pro or plus side to guided wine tours is the options that you have. As
wine tours continue to increase in popularity, so do the number of tours that
are offered in the area. This means that you should have a number of wine tour
companies to choose from, especially if you travel to California wine country.
When examining all of your options, which is easy to do online, be sure to
examine rates, stops, length, and company reputation.

Although there are a number of benefits to booking reservations for a guided
wine tour, there are also a number of cons or downsides to doing so as well.
One of those is the added expense. Should you choose a guided wine tour company
that doesn't provide you with any deals or discounts for wine tasting, the cost
should be looked at from an added expense. If you are on a budget, this is an
important factor that needs to be taken into consideration.

Another drawback to guided wine tours is that you don't have much freedom. Many
wine tour companies and their winery stops are predetermined. This, however,
does allow you to do research online, as many companies will outline specific
tours that they have available on their websites. You will want to research and
compare wine companies to ensure that are able to visit at least a couple of
popular and well known wineries. You will also want to take quality into
consideration; make sure that you are getting a good value for your money.

The above mentioned pros and cons are just a few of the many that you will want
to take into consideration, when trying to determine how you should tour wine
country. As a reminder, examine your own personal wants and needs. For example,
does everyone in your traveling party want to drink and enjoy wine tasting? If
so, a guided tour may be in your best interest.

Planning a Napa Valley Wine Tour

Are you in the process of planning a trip to Northern California? If you are,
you will want to take the time to examine Napa Valley, especially if you are
wine drinker. Napa Valley is in California's wine country. If you are going to
be in the area, you may want to stop by for a day or two and take a Napa Valley
wine tour or two.

If you are already going to be in the Northern California area, you will not
need to make any additional travel arrangements. However, if you are interested
in spending a day or two in wine country, namely Napa Valley, you may want to
checkout a few of the inns and bed and breakfasts in the area. Many come highly
rated and recommended and most are also conveniently located for those on wine
tours.

Should you wish to take a Napa Valley wine tour, you will find that you have a
number of different options. For example, you can drive yourself in your own
vehicle or in a car rental or you can make reservations for a guided wine tour.
Guided wines are popular in wine county, but you don't have as much freedom as
you would traveling through the area touring local wineries on your own.

If you are interested in stopping by local wineries and vineyards for tours and
wine tasting on your own, without a guided tour group, you will want to start
examining all of your options as soon as possible. Wine country is filled with
hundreds of wineries and vineyards and most of them are open to the public.
Since you will not be able to visit all of the wineries in the area, you will
want to handpick the ones that you do stop at. When doing so, examine admission
fees, wine tasting costs, hours, and events that may be occurring, such as an
educational class on the history of wine making.

As it was previously stated, you will want examine cost when deciding which
wineries and vineyards you should visit in the area. Not all charge an
admission fee, but some do. That is why you will want to try and research local
wineries online first. There are a number of online travel guides that can help
you do so. As for wine tasting, you should be prepared to pay a small fee.
While you will find some variances, average wine tasting fees are typically
between ten and twenty dollars. As for any special events, like an hour long
educational class, rates will vary significantly.

As mentioned above, you can use the internet to learn more about local wineries
and vineyards in the Napa Valley area. What you may also want to do is search
for printable wine country maps. Once you have a printed map, you can then
circle each winery you would like to stop at along the way. Printable wine
California country maps can easily be found with a standard internet search.
You may also be able to find similar maps available for pickup at wineries and
other establishments throughout Napa Valley.

In conclusion, you have a number of different options when looking to take a
Napa Valley wine tour. As reminder, if you will be drinking, be sure to display
caution. Many large groups make the decision to choose a designated driver and
your traveling party may want to do the same as well.

Wine Country Tours: Your Travel Options

Are you interested in taking a wine country tour? If you are, you will have a
number of decisions to make. Although some of these decisions may be difficult
to make, they are important to ensure that your next wine country trip is just
how you wanted it to be.

As previously stated, there are a number of decisions that you will have to
make, when looking to plan a wine country trip. One of those decisions is how
you will get around. When touring wineries in wine country, you will likely
make a lot of stops along the way. For example, should you choose to travel to
California wine country, you will have hundreds of vineyards and wineries to
choose from.

When looking to tour wine country, one of your options is to drive yourself.
When looking to do so, you will still have a number of options. If you live
nearby, you may be able to drive your own vehicle. On the other hand, if you
flew into wine country, like California's wine country, you may have to make
reservations for a car rental.

For many, the thought of being able to drive themselves around wine country is
nice, as you have the freedom to stop and visit whichever wineries you want.
Freedom is nice for many. With that being said, there are a number of downsides
to doing so as well. One of those downsides is the risk. If everyone in your
traveling party plans to wine taste, you may unnecessarily be putting you and
others at risk. What you need to remember is that a few sips of wine can easily
add up overtime.

Since there are some dangers associated with wine tours and driving, you may be
interested in making reservations for a guided tour. When you do so, you will
still have a number of different options with how you can travel. As wine tours
continue to increase in popularity, so do the number of individuals and
companies who offer guided wine tours. With that said, many do so with
different tools, such as vehicles. Two popular modes of transportation with
guided wine tours are that of bus and van.

Since most wine country tour guides will outline how they transport tourists on
wine tours, you will want to examine your wants and your needs. For example, are
you interested in having room to move around or would you at least not like to
be cramped into a small space? If so, bus tours, even small bus tours, may be
your best option. If you are looking for a laidback environment, where you and
the rest of your traveling party can carry on private conversations with tour
guides and each other, a small tour with a van may be in your best interest.

As highlighted above, you have a number of different options, in terms of
transportation, when looking to tour wine country. As a reminder, you will want
to examine the pros and cons of each. For example, driving your own car may
increase your chances of driving while intoxicated and endangering others. On
the other hand, guided tours can enable you to drink wine freely, without
having to worry about how you and the rest of your group will return back to
your hotel, resort, or vacation rental.

Wine Country Tours: The Importance of Examining All of Your Options

Are you in the process of planning a trip to wine country? If you are, you will
want to take a wine country tour or even a number of them. Wine tasting and wine
tours are, perhaps, the two activities most commonly associated with trips to
wine country.

When looking to take a wine country tour, it is first important that you
examine all of your options. This is important, as you, literally, have so many
to choose from. Starting with location, Northern California, the Finger Lakes
area of New York State, and parts of Washington State are known for their great
wine production. This results in multiple areas in the United States being known
as wine country, especially by locals. With that said, Northern California is
the area most commonly talked about on both national and international levels.

Another one of the many reasons why you are encouraged to examine all of your
options, when looking to take a wine country tour, is because wine tours come
in a number of different formats. For tourists who are unfamiliar with the
area, guided wine country tours are a popular option. Many guided wine tour
companies have participants meet at a public location, where everyone is then
boarded on to a bus or a traveling van. The only downside to guided wine tours
is that they often limited on the number of available spots they have. Also,
many tend to visit only a specific number of wineries and those wineries are
often predetermined ahead of time without input from tourists, like you.

In keeping with wine country tour options, you also have the ability to take an
independent tour. This is where you will, essentially, be transporting yourself
to wineries and vineyards in the area. Independent wine tours are ideal for
those who do not want to be rushed, those who have a way to get around, like
with a car rental, as well as those who would like to visit specific wineries
and vineyards that may not be visited by guided tours. Many tourists like
taking their own independent wine tours, as they have much more freedom to do,
see, and taste what they want.

Speaking of the wineries and vineyards that you can visit, you have an
unlimited number of options. That is just another one of the many reasons why
you are encouraged to examine all of your options before making any official
arrangements concerning wine country tours. For example, did you know that in
California's wine country, you have around four hundred locations to choose
from? You do. If you would like to take a guided wine tour, examine some of the
vineyards and wineries that will be examined. Are they ones that you would like
to visit? If you are interested in independently taking your own wine tour, be
sure to examine as many options as you possibly can.

Cost is another one of the many reasons why you should take the time to examine
all of your options, when looking to take a wine country tour. Cost is and
should be important with both independent and guided wine country tours. Does
the cost of a guided wine tour include wine tasting? If not, make sure that the
rate you are charged is at least semi affordable. For independent tours, examine
the rates that each vineyard or winery charges. Also, examine their method of
collecting money. Are you just charged for wine tasting or are you also charged
an admission fee?

Perhaps, the greatest reason why you are urged to take the time to examine all
of your options, when looking to plan a wine country tour is because of
satisfaction. By examining all of your options, you are more likely to choose
guided wine tours or wineries to visit independently that you are actually
interested in attending. By handpicking your vacation activities, you are more
likely to enjoy yourself.

Long Distance Wine Country Trips: Your Travel Options

Are you interested in taking a trip to California's wine country? If you are,
you may be required to travel a long distance. Whether you are coming from
Ohio, New York, or Florida, you will want to examine your long distance travel
arrangements. When you need to travel farther, there are even more travel
arrangements that you need to make.

The first step in making your long distance California wine country travel
arrangements involves examining all of your options. You will need to decide
how you want to get to wine country before you make all of your travel
arrangements. For that reason, a few of your options are highlighted below.

Air travel is one of the most common ways to get to California's wine country.
As previously stated, California wine country is popular, but it is somewhat
considered isolated for many parts of the United States. For many individuals,
they prefer hopping on a flight that may last six hours as opposed to spending
four or more days in the car.

If you are interested flying to California wine country, you will find that you
have a number of different options. There are many airports in California for
you to choose from, but be sure to choose one that is located close to wine
country or at least your intended vacation destination. Also, be sure to
examine vacation packages, as many enable you to receive a discount for airline
reservations and hotel accommodations. You will also want to make arrangements
to get a car rental, once you arrive in the area.

As previously stated, you also have the option of driving to wine country
yourself. This is an ideal option if you live only a few hours away. With that
said, since most of wine country cannot be explored in just a day, you are
encouraged to make a weekend trip out of it. If so, you will also need to make
your overnight accommodation reservations as well. For many who do not need
vacation packages, inns and bed and breakfasts come highly rated and
recommended.

Even if you live a relatively long distance away form California wine country,
you may still be interested in driving yourself, especially if you are a motor
home owner. Even if you are not a motor home owner, you may still have rental
options. For many individuals visiting wine country, traveling by RV is a great
option for those on extended trips or large families. Depending on your own
personal situation, you may be able to save yourself a considerable amount of
money when traveling to wine country by RV.

Speaking of traveling by RV, you may be pleased to know that the wine country
area of California has a number of RV parks and public campgrounds with motor
home accommodations to choose from. Anyone traveling by RV is encouraged to
examine these overnight accommodation options, as they are affordable. In wine
country, you can camp at public campgrounds, as well as many national or state
parks.

As you can see, there are a number of different ways that you can get to
California wine country, no matter where you are coming from, as well as a
number of different places to stay. As a recap, vacation resorts, vacation
rentals, hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, public campgrounds and RV parks all
come highly rated and recommended.

Factors to Consider When Planning a Wine Country Trip

Would you like to take a trip to wine country? If you are a wine drinker, if
you would like to learn more about the history of wine, or if you are just
looking to have a good time, a wine country trip may be perfect for you.

When looking to plan a wine country trip, you will see that you have a number
of different options. For that reason, there are a number of important factors
that you will first want to take into consideration, before making your travel
plans. These factors, when taken into consideration, can help to ensure that
your next wine country trip is perfect.

Perhaps, the biggest factor to take into consideration, when looking to plan a
wine country trip, is your intended destination. Did you know that there are a
number of areas in the United States that are commonly referred to as wine
country? These areas include parts of Northern California, Woodinville
Washington, and the Finger Lakes Region of New York. Typically, when you
examine wine country online, like when looking for lodging information or maps,
you will find that wine country is used to describe the Napa Valley and Sonoma
Valley regions of Northern California.

Your intended dates of travel should also be another factor to take into
consideration. Did you know that wine country tours are increasing in
popularity all across the country? They are. For that reason, you may want to
carefully choose your travel dates. To see wine country in full swing, most
recommend coming in late spring and summer; however, it is also important to
remember that these months are peak seasons for wine country tourism. One of
the easiest ways to avoid the crowds is to avoid Saturday tours.

Weather is another factor that you should take into consideration, when looking
to plan a trip to wine country. As previously stated, wine country is often used
to describe a number of locations that are known for their production of fine
wine. While most wineries are open for visitors all year round, California is
the best for tours. You may find limited activities during the wintertime when
visiting the Finger Lakes Region of New York, Woodinville Washington, as well
as other smaller wine country areas.

How you plan to get around is another one of the many factors that you will
want to take into consideration. Since most wineries have wines for visitors to
sample, you may end up with quite a bit of wine in your system at the end of the
day. For that reason, you will want to seriously examine your method of travel.
In California, there are a number of guided wine tours that provide you with
transportation and some other areas have these tours as well. Another option is
to have a member of your traveling party be the designated driver. This may not
be fun, but it is safe.

The above mentioned factors are just a few of the many that you will want to
take into consideration, when looking to plan a trip to wine country. Another
one involves deciding which activities you would like to participate in, as
well as which wineries you would like to visit. In wine country, especially in
California, there are so many wine activities, events, and festivals for you to
choose from.

California Wine Country: Your Overnight Accommodation Options

Are you interested in visiting California's wine country? If you are, you may
want to make arrangements to make it a vacation. After all, many wineries in
the wine country area state that you should spend at least two days in the
area. Since you are encouraged to spend as much time touring wine country as
possible, you will want to review your overnight accommodation options.

Since Northern California's wine country area is relatively large in size, you
will find a large number of options, in terms of your overnight accommodations.
With that being said, you are still encouraged to make your reservations well in
advance of your trip. This is particularly true on the weekends. For that
reason, you will want to take the time, now, to review all of your options.

Hotels are one of the most popular ways to stay in wine country. They are ideal
because most are affordably priced. When renting a hotel room, you get the
basics, such as beds, a television, and a bathroom. Although you may find an
onsite restaurant, you will typically have to buy or prepare your own meals
elsewhere. For those interested in spending every minute of the day outdoors, a
hotel room is a nice accommodation.

If you like the convenience that is associated with most traditional hotels,
but want something more, you will want to examine vacation resorts. Vacation
resorts come in a number of different formats. In California, they are commonly
referred to as spa resorts, as many have onsite spas. What is nice about staying
at a vacation resort is that you often gain access to great features, services,
and other amenities. For example, you may gain access to an onsite spa,
restaurant, laundry service, and so forth. Generally, vacation resorts are more
elegant in nature than traditional hotels.

Inns are another one of your overnight accommodation options when visiting
California wine country. Inns are defined as lodging that serves both food and
drinks to visitors. Typically, you will find that most inns are known for their
food and drinks, but they also happen to offer overnight accommodations above
the bar or restaurant. For many, inns are a great option when hotels or
vacation resorts are filled up with reservations.

Similar to inns, are bed and breakfasts. Bed and breakfasts are overnight
accommodations that are popular in wine country. This is because many bed and
breakfast establishments are scattered all throughout wine country, making them
conveniently located. In fact, many bed and breakfasts are located right on the
property of some wineries. One of the many appeals of bed and breakfasts is the
small home like feel. The only downside to staying at a bed and breakfast is
their popularity, as they are typically small in size.

Vacation rentals are another option that you have when looking to visit
California wine country. Vacation rentals are one of your most expensive
options, but many recommend vacation rentals. Vacation rentals come in a number
of different formats, including homes, cottages, and villas. What draws many
tourists to vacation rentals in the wine county area is their privacy. Due to
having the ultimate level of privacy with most vacation rentals, like homes and
cottages, they are ideal for those traveling to wine country with the purpose of
achieving romance.

RV park and public campgrounds are another one of the many options that you
have when looking to visit California wine country. RV parks are ideal for
motor home owners or renters who must travel a long distance or for those who
plan to stay in the area long. Public campgrounds are nice, as they accommodate
to both RV owners and traditional tent campers. For many, camping is another fun
activity all on its own. Camping is also one of the cheapest ways to stay
overnight in California wine country.

As outlined above, you have a number of different options, when looking to
travel and stay in wine country. If you are on a budget, you may want to
examine all of the above mentioned options and compare the cost of each.

California Wine Country: A Perfect Wedding Venue

Are you currently engaged? If you are, congratulations! This is an exciting
time in your life and you may want to get started with planning your wedding
right away. One of the first decisions that you will have to make is deciding
where to have your wedding. If you do not already have a set venue in mind, you
are urged to examine California wine country. After a close examination, you may
be surprised exactly just how much the area has to offer.

As nice as it is to hear that you should get married in California wine
country, you may be curious as to why. For starters, you may live in New York
State. If you live clear across the country, it can sometimes be inconvenient
to travel and get married in California. With that said, it can also be fun,
exciting, adventurous, and romantic. With long distance travel like this, your
wedding in California, should you choose to get married there, would now become
a destination wedding. Over the past few years, destination weddings have
increased in popularity, especially in wine country.

Despite the fact that destination weddings are increasing in popularity and
that many individuals choose California wine country as their destination,
locals are also urged to examine wine country. As a local, you likely already
know that there are over four hundred wineries in the state of California. Many
are not only open to the general public, but many also have banquet rooms or
other options for hosting wedding ceremonies and wedding receptions, as well as
other private events.

Wineries and vineyards are known for their picture perfect looks and feels.
There are many that are just breathtaking. When getting married, this is the
type of backdrop and scenery that you will want to have. Most wineries and
vineyards in California wine country have a beautiful, yet natural look and
feel to them. This type of environment created is sought after by many brides
and grooms. Most want to have a picture prefect wedding, but most also don't
want to have a "forced," environment and setting. With wine country in
California, this isn't an issue.

When examining why wine country makes for the perfect wedding venue, it is also
important to touch on other features. For starters, you have a number of
different options when looking to plan a wedding reception and a wedding
ceremony. Of course, you have the option of getting married in a church, but
many choose to have their wedding and wedding reception in the same place. It
is not uncommon for vineyards and wineries, who are set up to host wedding
receptions, to have private and beautiful areas set aside for wedding
ceremonies as well. In wine country, it should be easy for you to find a
minister who would be willing to travel to your destination.

As for other aspects of planning a wedding, wine country has all that you need.
In the wine country area of California, you will find a number of professional
photographers, DJs, catering companies, and so forth. In fact, by carefully
choosing which winery you choose to have your wedding reception at, you may be
provided with a meal options for an affordable price. Some will actually have
wedding packages for you to choose from. While you will find some variations,
wine country wedding packages, should they exist, are likely to include food
and wine.

Finally, overnight accommodations need to be examined. Since California wine
country is a well known and popular vacation destination, you will find no
shortage of overnight accommodations. Still, with that being said, it is
important to plan ahead. During peak travel times, such as on Saturdays or from
May to October, many hotels and vacation resorts quickly fill up with
reservations. For private and romantic overnight accommodations, you will want
to examine bed and breakfasts, as well as private vacation rentals, such a
vacation homes and cottages.

As highlighted above, there are a number of reasons why you should at least
consider wine country as a destination for your upcoming wedding. Whether you
already live in the great state of California or if you are looking to plan a
destination wedding, wine country has everything that you could ever want or
need on your special day.

Wine Country Gift Baskets: Your Buying Options Reviewed

Are you looking for that perfect gift for your special someone? Whether your
special someone is a close friend, family member, or a romantic partner, you
may want to take the time to examine wine country gift baskets. As long as your
intended gift recipient is twenty-one years of age or older, a wine basket may
make for the perfect gift.

As nice as it is to hear that wine country gift baskets make great gifts and
for just about any occasion, you may be curious as to how you can go about
finding them for sale. The good news is that you have a large number of
options. A few of those options are highlighted below for your convenience.

One of the many ways that you can go about finding and buying wine country gift
baskets is by visiting wine country yourself. In all honesty, this option is the
fun one! Visiting wine country is easy to do if you live in the state of
California. With that said, there are many other areas in the United States
that are commonly referred to as wine country as well. Two of these areas
include Woodinville in Washington State and the Finger Lakes Region of New
York. No matter which wine country you choose to visit, you will not only have
fun visiting local wineries and sampling amazing wine, but you can also buy
wine country gift baskets and right from the source.

Even if you do not live in Northern California or in another area that is also
commonly referred to as wine country, you can still purchase gift baskets in
person. Wine country trips are increasing in popularity, as they are relatively
affordable and fun. If you are able to take a vacation, even just a short one,
consider taking a vacation with a wine theme. As previously stated, when
visiting local wine country wineries and vineyards, you receive ground tours
and get to sample many wines. As stated above, many specialty wineries have
onsite gift shops that sell gift baskets.

The internet is another great way to go about finding and buying wine country
gift baskets. For many buyers, the internet is the easiest option. Due to an
increase in wine consumption and an increase in interest with wine in general,
many wineries have developed online websites. These websites not only contain
pictures and detailed information, which is typically designed to lure in
tourists, many also contain online stores or online gift shops. If you buy a
wine country gift basket through a winery's online website, you can typically
have the basket shipped to you or directly to your gift recipient.

You also have a number of other options when looking to find and buy wine
country gift baskets online. These other websites can easily be found with a
standard internet search. You will typically find that most either specialize
in the selling of wine and liquor in general or gift baskets. When shopping
online for wine country gift baskets that contain wine, be prepare to have your
age verified. This may seem like it is a hassle, but it is generally easy to do
and you can do so from the comfort of your own home.

Another one of the many places that shoppers turn to when looking for wine
country gift baskets, namely those that are cheap in price, is online auction
websites. Should you do the same, you may find some baskets available for sale,
but they will be wine-free. This is because many online auction websites
prohibit the sale of alcohol. With that being said, you can still find a nice
themed basket or an attractive gift bag with a wine theme. These items may
still come in handy for you, should you decide to make your own homemade wine
country gift baskets instead.

As outlined above, you have a number of different options when looking to buy
wine country gift baskets to give to those that you know and love. As a
reminder, wine baskets are ideal for just about any occasion, but they are
perfect for Christmas, Valentine's Day, and for weddings.

Wine Country Gift Baskets: Why They Make Great Gifts

Are you in need of a gift? Whether that gift is for a close friend or family
member and for their birthday, Christmas, or another special occasion, you may
be looking for the perfect gift. If your gift recipient is twenty-one years of
age or older, you may want to give the gift of a wine country gift basket.
After a close examination, you will find that there are a number of reasons why
wine country gift baskets make great gifts.

One of the many reasons why wine country gift baskets make great gifts is
because they are perfect for a wide range of occasions. As previously stated,
wine themed gift baskets make great gifts for birthday, Christmas, and other
special occasions. They also make great "just because," gifts for close friends
and family members. One occasion in particular that wine country gift baskets
are perfect for is that of weddings. Wine country gift baskets are also the
perfect gift for wine drinkers or at least those who are known to consume
alcohol.

Your buying options are another one of the many reasons why you should consider
giving the gift of a wine country gift basket. In terms of the gift basket
itself, you will find that you have so many options to choose from. For
starters, there are many wine country gift baskets available for sale with
themes. These themes may be congratulations, get well, Valentine's Day,
Christmas, or just a simple miss you theme. It is also important to remember
that many wine gift baskets have much more than just wine in them. Often times,
the wine is paired with other great items, such as California cheese or even
wine jelly.

In keeping with buying options, there are a number of ways that you can go
about buying wine country gift baskets. One of the easiest ways is to place an
order online. With a standard internet search, with a phrase like "wine country
gift baskets," you are sure to find many sellers. Many of these individuals are
actually winery owners themselves! When shopping online, be on the lookout for
deals and discounts, including free shipping. This is ideal as it can sometimes
get expensive to ship full gift baskets, especially those that are large in size.

In addition to ordering wine country gift baskets online, you can also do so in
person. If you have the opportunity to visit a wine country, whether you do so
in California, New York, or Washington, you will want to. For many wine
enthusiasts it is worth the travel time. When there, be sure to examine wine
country baskets. In fact, wine country gift baskets not only make great gifts
for close friends and family, but for yourself as well. If you ever choose to
visit wine country, a wine basket can be a nice souvenir of your trip.

As you can see, from being highlighted above, there are a number of reasons why
wine country gift baskets make for great gifts. No matter who the gift is for,
as long as your intended recipient is twenty-one years or older, and no matter
what the occasion, a wine basket may be the perfect choice. If you need your
gift soon, be sure to place your order online as soon as possible or use the
internet to plan a trip to wine country.

What a Wine Country Tour Can Do For You

Are you thinking about taking a wine country tour? If you are, you may be
wondering what a wine country tour can do for you. What do you get out of
taking a tour? In all honesty, the answer is a lot. When taking a wine country
tour, you will find that there is so much for you to do, see, and learn.

When looking to plan a wine country tour, you will find that you have a number
of different options. For example, some wine countries have guided tours
available. Even with guided tours, you have the option of driving yourself
around. For many tourists, this option is nice, as they have more freedom to do
and see what they want.

As previously stated, there is a lot that a wine country tour can do for you.
One of those things is that you get to taste and sample a large selection of
fine wines. Wine tasting is one of the many reasons why wine country tours are
so popular. For a small fee, most wineries will give you a number of wines to
sample. Chances are, you won't leave most wineries without purchasing a full
size bottle of wine for yourself.

In addition to wine tasting, many wineries in wine country will offer tours of
their establishments. These tours should not be confused with a traditional
wine country tour. A wine country tour is technically defined as touring the
region in general and stopping at a number of wineries and vineyards along the
way. As for private tours offered by wineries and vineyards, you may be
surprised with what you see. You, essentially, can get a behind the scenes look
at how wine is made or how wineries operate.

By taking a wine country tour, you also get opportunity to learn about the
history of wine making or the history of wine country. This is done a number of
different ways. It is not uncommon for some wineries to have special activities
and events planned. One of the activities you may find is a small course on the
history of wine being offered. You may also find educational resources available
for free and others for a small fee located along many wine country trails.
These resources and guides may be able to provide you with insight into the
history of wine county, as well as wine in general.

Perhaps, the greatest thing that you can get out of taking a wine country tour
is a good time. Wine country tours are both educational and exciting. Whether
you use visiting wine country for a romantic getaway or a trip with friends,
there is so much fun waiting for you. As an added tip, it may be a good idea to
first examine wineries and vineyards before leaving for your wine country trip.
If you plan to do your own traveling, as opposed to taking a guided tour, you
will want to know which wineries are the best to stop at, as well as what
activities, events, and festivals may be going on during your dates of travel.

As you can see, there are a number of reasons why you should take a wine
country tour, as there is so much that you can get out of doing so. As a
reminder, wine country is a phrase that is commonly used to describe Northern
California; however, there are other areas in the United States that are also
commonly referred to as wine country as well.

Tips for Planning a Trip to Finger Lakes Wine Country

Are you a wine enthusiast? If you are, you may be interested in taking a trip
to wine country. If so, you may want to take the time to examine the Finger
Lakes Region of New York State. When doing so, you will find that it is a great
vacation destination, especially for wine enthusiasts.

As previously stated, the Finger Lakes Region of New York State is commonly
referred to as wine country. When many hear this, some are confused. This is
mostly due in part to the fact that many associate wine country with Northern
California, namely Napa Valley. Yes, many consider this area to be the "true,"
wine country, but other areas that are known for their wine production are
slowly emerging as "wine countries," too.

As for why you should consider visiting the Finger Lakes Region of New York
State, you will want to keep location in mind. If you live in the northeast or
even along the east coast in general, traveling to California wine country may
not be possible, either because of costs or travel time. With that said, just
because you cannot make it California wine country doesn't mean that you still
don't want to take a wine themed trip or vacation. It does, however, mean that
you should examine your other options, like the Finger Lakes Region of New York
State.

Before planning a trip to the Finger Lakes wine country, there are a number of
important factors that you will first want to take into consideration. One of
those factors is the weather. Unlike California, where the weather is almost
always bright, sunny, and attractive, New York State is known for its sometimes
wild weather. Typically, you will find that the best times to visit the Finger
Lakes wine country area is in late spring, summer, or early fall. Winter is one
of the worst times to visit the area. Although many activities, like wine
tasting are still available in the winter, many more activities, like ground
tours, are available in the peak wine months.

Should you decide to visit the Finger Lakes wine country area of New York
State, you may want to do a little bit of research first. This is particularly
true if you are limited on time. In this area, you will have a number wine
trails to choose from. These trails include the Seneca, Keuka Lake, Cayuga wine
trails. With over one hundred wineries to choose from, you may want to first
prioritize. This will enable you to see all of wineries that you wanted to
visit, as well as maximize your time to its fullest potential.

In addition to touring local wineries in the Finger Lakes Region of New York
State, there is so much more than this wine country area has to offer. As
previously stated, you will want to do a little bit of research when planning
your trip. This will allow you to examine events, activities, and festivals
that you may want to attend. Many wineries offer wine tasting and ground tours,
many times on a daily basis, there are other events, such an educational segment
on the history of wine, that take place throughout the year. In terms of wine
related events, the Finger Lakes Wine Festival, which takes place every year in
July, is a big draw.

Should you decide to visit the Finger Lakes wine country, be sure to make your
overnight accommodation reservations as soon as possible. Along many wine
trails, you will find a number of small inns and bed and breakfasts which are
perfect for many tourists. With that being said, their small size often limits
the number of reservations accepted. Although a little bit off the beaten path,
many nearby cities have hotels and vacation rentals are popular along the lakes.

As previously stated, visiting the Finger Lakes wine country area of New York
State is a nice alterative for many who are unable to visit California wine
country.

Tips for Planning a Trip to California Wine Country

Are you a wine enthusiast or do you at least enjoy drinking wine? If you enjoy
wine, you may be interested in taking a trip to wine country. After all, it is
not uncommon for wine enthusiasts to want to learn as much as they can about
the drink that they love. If this is something that you want to do, you will
want to take the time to examine California wine country. After a close
examination, you will find that California wine country is the perfect vacation
destination for wine lovers.

As previously stated, there is an area in California is that commonly referred
to as wine country. This area is located in the northern part of California and
it includes the Sonoma Valley and the Napa Valley. When examining your travel
options, you will see that there are other areas in the United States that are
also commonly referred to as wine country. One of these areas is in the Finger
Lakes Region of New York Sate. With that said, most professionals and online
travel guides are speaking of California when they speak of wine country.

If and when you decide to visit the California wine country area, you will want
to take the time to do a little bit of research first. This is particularly true
if you are limited on time. With over four hundred wineries and vineyards in
California wine country, your options, are literally, unlimited. First
examining which vineyards are open to the public and when and then deciding
which vineyards and wineries you want to see the most, you can make the most
out of your trip. Prioritizing and coming up with a plan are two important keys
to a successful trip to California's wine country.

In addition to touring wineries in the California wine country region, there
are many other wine related activities that you can enjoy. As previously
stated, you will want to do a little bit of research before planning your trip.
This research will allow you to examine planned events, activities, and
festivals that the area may be offering. For example, did you know that some
wineries have courses on how to properly match up food and wine, as well as
short educational classes on the history of wine making? They do. In addition
to simply touring the grounds of a California winery and tasting wine, you may
want to participate in some of these activities.

If you decide to visit California's wine country on the weekend or during the
summer, you will want to make your travel arrangements, namely your overnight
accommodation reservations, well in advance of your trip. Wine country is a big
draw and tourist attraction for California. Along many of the trails, you may
find some bed and breakfasts and inns, as well as vacation rentals. These
overnight accommodations are easy, in terms of convenience. In keeping with
your options, wine country is also home to a number of RV parks, public
campgrounds, hotels, and vacation resorts.

As previously stated, there are many others areas in the United States that are
starting to popup on the map as "wine countries." Although these areas, like
Woodinville Washington or the Finger Lakes Region of New York may be well known
for their production of fine wines, most are talking about California when they
speak of wine country.

Wine Country Trips: Tips for Choosing a Destination

Have you heard of wine country before? If you have, you may want to plan a trip
to wine country. Even if you have never heard of wine country before, there is a
good chance that you will want to visit it after you take the time to
familiarize yourself with wine country.

Speaking of wine country, there are many individuals who wonder exactly where
it is. In all honesty, you will find that it depends. Wine country is a phrase
that is commonly used to describe areas that have a large number of wineries
and vineyards, as well as areas that are well known for their production and
distribution of fine wines. Although you will find some variances, the phrase
"wine country," is commonly used to describe California.

As stated above, wine country is commonly used to describe California. For that
reason, when you research wine country online, like when looking for guided wine
tours or information on local wineries, you will likely be presented with
information for those located in Northern California, the Sonoma Valley and
Napa Valley to be exact. With that said, it is also important to remember that
others areas of the United States are also commonly known as and referred to as
wine country. For example, Washington, New York, Texas, and Virginia all have
areas that are known as wine country, most often by locals.

Since you do have a number of options to choose from, when looking to take a
wine country trip, there are a number of important factors that you will first
want to take into consideration. One of those factors is distance. The farther
you have to travel to visit a wine country, the more you will likely spend in
travel costs. If you are on a budget or if you have a limited timeframe, you
may be better off visiting a wine country area that is local. For example, if
you live in Pennsylvania, you may be better off traveling to the Finger Lakes
Region of New York, and so forth. With that in mind, it is important to
remember that California wine country is more than worth the extra travel costs.

Speaking of travel costs, it is important to price compare. In fact, you may
want to compare your options and their prices before you officially make a
decision. In keeping with the example sited above of living in Pennsylvania,
you may assume that it is too expensive to travel to California. Yes, it may
be, but did you know that you can find great travel deals online? In fact, many
hotels and resorts in the area offer moneysaving vacation packages. For that
reason, you may want to refrain from making assumptions, in terms of cost,
until you do the proper amount of research first.

Your intended dates of travel, as well as the weather should also be taken into
consideration, when looking to choose a wine country area to visit. For all year
round visiting, California wine country comes highly rated and recommended, as
the weather is always typically sunny and pleasant. As for other wine country
areas, such as those located in New York, Washington, and Virginia, the weather
may limit the number of wine themed activities you are able to participate in.
With that said, many wineries still have a number of activities for you to
choose from, including wine tasting, in the middle of winter.

Visiting Wine Country? 5 Reasons Why You Should Buy Wine Country Gift Baskets

Are you in the process of planning a trip to wine country? Whether your trip
involves traveling an hour to the wine country region of California or if your
trip requires a cross-country flight or drive, you are sure to be pleased with
your experience. Visiting wine country is not only ideal for great wine tasting
and wine education, but it is also a great opportunity to buy wine country gift
baskets.

When it comes to buying wine country gift baskets, many vacationers, especially
those who must travel long distances are concerned about doing so. Yes, it may
be inconvenient to fly back home with bags full of wine baskets, but it is
important to remember that doing so is not your only option. If you flew to
wine country, instead of drove, you can often arrange to have your purchases,
which should include gift baskets, shipped directly to your home or even to
your gift recipient. This is something that most wineries shops will do for a
small fee or you can handle the shipping arrangements yourself.

Since you do have a number of options, when looking to buy wine country gift
baskets and other souvenirs, you are encouraged to do so. In fact, five reasons
why you should are outlined below.

1 -- Wine Country Gift Baskets Make Great Gifts

Wine country gifts baskets make great gifts, especially for those who are back
home. If you have any close friends or family members who either love wine or
who would have loved to visited wine country with you, a wine country gift
baskets may be the perfect gift.

It is also important to mention the options that you have. When many of us
think of wine country gift baskets, wine is often the first thing that comes to
mind. While almost all specialty made wine country gift baskets do contain wine,
many also have so much more. Other popular items include California cheese, wine
jelly, and so forth.

2 -- Wine Country Gift Baskets Make Great Souvenirs

Although gift baskets are often associated with Christmas gifts, birthday
gifts, and gifts for other special occasions, a wine country gift basket can
also be the perfect souvenir for yourself. What is nice about this option is
that you can choose the perfect gift baskets, such as one that comes with wine
and chocolate or one that comes with wine and California cheese. Whether you
choose to drink the wine in your basket or save it as a memento of your trip,
you should purchase a wine country themed gift basket for yourself.

3 -- Wine Country Gift Baskets Are Easy to Buy

Ease of buying is another one of the many reasons why all wine country visitors
are encouraged to buy wine gift baskets, either for themselves or those that
they know. In most wine countries, you will find a number of gift shops and
specialty stores. These locations likely sell wine country gift baskets, along
with other specialty California items. In fact, most public vineyards and
wineries have gift shops right onsite and many make their own gift baskets. In
these instances, you can save time by making your purchases when you are on a
wine tour.

4 -- You Can Buy Wine Country Gift Baskets Straight from the Source

As previously stated, most public vineyards and wineries have onsite gift shops
that sell wine country gift baskets, as well as assortments of other wine
related or themed gifts. By making your purchases through onsite gift stores
and shops, you are going straight to the source. Although you may not think
about it at the time, by buying a gift basket from a local wine country winery
or vineyard, you are helping to support the local economy. Even if you are not
originally from the area, you should be proud with this.

5 -- Why Not?

Finally, the greatest reason why you should buy wine country gift baskets on
your next trip to a wine country is because why not? Honestly, you are there
and if you traveled a long distance to get to wine country, you may not ever
have the opportunity to return again. Therefore, if you can, spend a few
dollars to buy a small wine country gift basket. Whether you keep that gift
basket for yourself or give it to someone that you know, you will likely not
regret your purchase.

Getting Married in Wine Country: Important Factors to Take Into Consideration

Have you recently decided that you would like to get married in California wine
country? If you have, you are not alone. California's wine country is not only a
popular vacation destination, but it is also a popular wedding destination!

Whether you are a local resident who is just taken in by the beauty of wine
country or if you live clear across the country and you want to plan a
destination wedding, you will have a number of important decisions to make.
These decisions, a few of which are outlined below, should not be made on
impulse. Even last minute wine country weddings should require some planning
and preparation. After all, you do want your special day to be just as you
imagined it in your dreams, right?

One decision that you will have to make, when planning a wedding in California
wine country, concerns your venue. Where do you want to get married? Where do
you want to hold your wedding reception? For many, the perfect location is a
winery or a vineyard. Many have spaces, such as private outdoor patio areas or
indoor banquet style rooms that are perfect for weddings, as well as other
private events. You can easily learn more about these wineries and vineyards by
using the internet. Many have online websites, which should outline whether or
not they have spaces on their property available for rent.

Another important decision that you will have to ask yourself is if you would
like to have your wedding reception and ceremony in the same place. If your
religious faith calls for a church, you will find a number of churches in the
area for you to choose from. With that said, if you are more flexible with your
options, you may find the best success when having your wedding reception and
ceremony at the same place. While you will find some variations, there are many
wineries in California wine country who have beautiful, private spaces set up,
often outdoors, that are perfect for a wedding ceremony. This is in conjunction
with an outdoor patio area or banquet room that is available for rent for a
wedding reception.

How much you have to spend or how much you want to spend on a California wine
country wedding is another important decision that you will need to make. If
you are planning a destination wedding, it is important to take your travel
costs, like your airline reservations, into consideration. With that in mind,
remember that you can also save money on travel costs by having your wedding
ceremony, wedding reception, as well as honeymoon all in wine country. As an
extra way to save money, be sure to look for moneysaving vacation packages.

Nearby accommodations should also be examined, when looking to plan a wine
country wedding. Not only will you want to make arrangements for yourself and
your new spouse, but for your guests as well. Even if you are not paying for
your guests to stay in the area, be sure that accommodations are available for
your wedding date. You may also want to look for hotels and resorts that have
wedding packages available for sale. Many of these packages not only provide
you with affordable rates, but they may also include an onsite wedding
reception and ceremony.

The other common aspects of planning a wedding should also be examined. For
example, will you be able to find a local wedding photographer, DJ, or catering
company? If you can, book your wedding date well in advance, especially if you
will be getting married in late spring or summer. Also, be sure to keep
vacation packages in mind. Local hotels, resorts, and wineries may have wedding
packages available where most of your needs, like food, music, and wedding
pictures, are included in the overall cost of your wedding.

The above mentioned decisions are just a few of the many that you will have to
make, when looking to plan a wine country wedding. By taking the factors
highlighted above into consideration, you should be able to have the wedding of
your dreams in wine country, without having to spend too much money doing so.

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