Do You Have to Pay for Wine Tasting in Napa?

When you are visiting Napa Valley, it is hard not to go to wineries and have a sip of the great-tasting wines they produce. As one of the best winemaking regions in the world, Napa has become a favorite destination of wine lovers and enthusiasts. Who can blame them? There are already award-winning Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays that have come from the valley so a Napa trip would not be complete without getting a taste of these wines.

For those who are planning to go to Napa, you might ask: Do I have to pay for wine tasting? If so, how much will I spend? 

Most wineries set a price for wine tasting. The cost varies from one winery to another and will differ in how they offer this activity to their guests. Simple wine tasting can cost around $10 to $50 per person. However, this can be waived if you purchase a bottle after tasting. The wine tasting price will go up if the winery partners it with another activity such as food pairing or a winery tour. A more inclusive wine tasting experience can cost around $75 to $150 or higher per person. There is also the option to join an exclusive club of a winery in order to get discounts or news about their products. 

One example is the Fantesca Estate & Winery. This winery is located in St. Helena with a perfect view of Spring Mountain. Before you can go visit, you need to book an appointment first. The cost of Fantesca’s wine tasting is $250 per person but it will be worth it since you will have the chance to taste some of their popular and rare wines. Plus, you can enjoy it with a stunning view of the mountains and vineyard. They also have a mailing list aptly named FEW (Fantesca Estate & Winery) Friends which interested guests can join and have exclusive benefits such as first-to-know updates and first-to-purchase new wine releases. 

Another example of a wine club in Napa is the Beringer Wine Club. Having a membership in this club allows you to get complimentary samples and tastings at private areas in the Rhine House mansion which are usually not open for guests on normal days. Members will also have the benefit of receiving invitations to recitals, performances, and other occasions such as food pairings. 

Are wine tastings worth it?

When you plan on going to Napa Valley, wine tastings must be on your agenda. A Napa trip would not be complete if you do not go on a wine tour or a tasting. Even small wineries offer this activity to promote their handcrafted wines. The most important thing to do before you go is to read up on the places that have wine tastings. What kind of atmosphere do you like when tasting wines? Do you like to have food pairings to accompany your wine tasting experience or do you want breathtaking views so that your pictures would turn out great? 

Whatever you want, the Napa Valley wine tasting experience has so much to offer. No matter what your budget is, you will definitely create some good memories while getting a taste of the best Napa wines.