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Aug 07
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Alumni Highlights from Our Chile and Argentina Wine Tour

By Taste Vacations, Wine No Comments

While we love all of South America, traveling to the wine areas of Chile and Argentina is truly special. The cuisine is delectable and unique, the vineyards and landscapes are breathtaking, and the wineries are world-class.

Hear From Our Alumni

Here’s what some of our past travelers have to say about their wine journey through Chile and Argentina with us:

“I honestly can’t give one favorite moment. It went from incredible moment to incredible moment. It was literally a beautifully orchestrated trip!” – Marta R. (2023)

“We experienced small wineries to large wineries. Small hotels in the middle of vineyards to elegant hotels in cities. We experienced food that was incredible from small barbeques over an open fire to Michelin-rated restaurants including an 8-course meal. Everything was new, different and memorable.” – Craig S. (2024)

“Fantastic, one-of-a-kind trip. It made us feel like VIPs!” – Carolyn S. (2024)

“This was an amazing memorable adventure. everything was precisely planned and coordinated. Our guide Lorena was absolutely amazing. The history, culture and sites were explained in detail. the food and dining was a once in a lifetime experience. Simply we were Spoiled.” – Gib C. (2024)

“This trip went above and beyond our expectations. We have made lifelong memories. I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves food, wine and culture.” – 2024 Alumni

“Literally not one negative thing about the trip. It was terrific!” – 2023 Alumni

“This trip is definitely all about the wine and food which is excellent because that’s why I came. Very informative and I liked that we were able to sample so many wines from vineyards with varied backgrounds, i.e. traditional, locally owned, foreign-owned, new age, old age, etc.” – Adam T. (2023)

“Every day we had different experiences. I can’t say that one was better than the other. They were different, wonderful and that is exactly what I wanted to experience.” – 2024 Alumni

Our Awesome Local Guide

A key element that elevates our 9-day tour is our exceptional local guide. Their deep knowledge of the region, combined with a passion for sharing the rich history, culture, and nuances of South American winemaking, makes the journey even more enriching and unforgettable. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect from our guide:

“Lorena was absolutely amazing. She was very knowledgeable and made sure we understood everything. She made sure that all of us were happy with the tour. She is one of the best guides I’ve had the pleasure to tour with. She knew her wines, the food, the countries and their history and she was especially proud of her hometown Mendoza. If I could, I would rate her a 10.” – 2024 Alumni

“Lorena was the best tour guide we have ever had! Friendly, knowledgeable, accessible, helpful – Lorena was perfectly wonderful! Lorena’s enthusiasm and love of Chile and Argentina and the people and culture of these areas was contagious. She became part of our family!” – 2024 Alumni

Trip Highlights

This Taste Vacation includes curated experiences designed to immerse you in the best of South American wine culture:

  • Explore diverse wine regions in both Chile and Argentina.
  • Visit and taste at over a dozen wineries, including a hands-on experience blending your own wine
  • Enjoy the wonderful people and relaxed pace of two beautiful South American countries.
  • Visit world-class wineries, including; Viña San Esteban, Bodegas Salentein, and Vina Von Siebenthal
  • Stay in lovely upscale hotels, savor great food, and indulge in plenty of vino!

Join us on this unforgettable journey and discover why Chile and Argentina are such enchanting destinations for wine lovers on our public tour or a private tour of our own. Cheers to new adventures and lasting memories!

Jun 01
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five myths about wine tours

Five Myths About Wine Tours—And Why They Are Wrong

By Taste Vacations, Wine No Comments

Wine + Travel can equal an unforgettable vacation. But, organized wine tours may feel intimidating for a variety of reasons—some of which are just misconceptions! Here’s five myths about wine tours— and why we think they are flawed.

1. You Have to Be an Expert to Enjoy a Wine Tour

This is absolutely not true! The number one reason people travel in general is to learn and experience new things. Essentially, a wine tour’s purpose is to learn more about the vineyards, wineries, varietals, climate, cuisine, and even the history and culture of a specific region.

What better way to learn about wine than through a hands-on experience? You don’t need to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy a wine tour. In fact, many people embark on these tours precisely because they want to expand their knowledge and appreciation of wine.

2. Wine Tours Are Expensive

This one can be true for some wine tours—but if you do your research, you can find ones that are comparable to any group tour experience. We offer a variety of wine tours to fit a range of budgets.

For instance, our Washington Wine Tour is $3300 for a 5-day private trip with a personal wine guide. Or if you have more room in your budget and your calendar, you can take a 9-day Chile & Argentina Wine Tour for $5850. There are many affordable options out there that provide excellent experiences without the hefty price tag.

3. The Only Places to Visit on a Wine Tour Are in California or France

Yes, Napa, Sonoma, and regions in France like Champagne or Bordeaux are extremely well-known for their wines—but that doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy a wine tour to a lesser-known region. In fact, you may enjoy the novelty of a unique destination even more.

When you seek out the smaller wine regions, you begin to feel the passion of wine and winemaking. You can usually spend some quality time with the people behind the bar or even in the vineyards or cellars. You get to experience how the wine is intertwined with the local culture. Plus, every wine region typically has one or two varietals they are known for, so you won’t be lacking in good wine either. Regions like the Willamette Valley in Oregon, the Barossa Valley in Australia, and even emerging regions like the Finger Lakes in New York offer unique and enriching wine experiences.

4. It’s Going to Be All About Wine 100% of the Time

If you are booking a one-day wine tour, then yes, your tour may be all about the wine. But if you are looking for a multi-day wine tour, you can find options that blend a few different interests into a fun and engaging itinerary.

For instance, on our Tuscany Food & Wine Tour, you’ll not only taste some of the finest wines this region has to offer, but you’ll also enjoy truffle hunting with a local agriculturalist, learn from a chocolatier and coffee roaster at an Italian cafe, and visit several UNESCO World Heritage sites. Though we love to learn about wine, we try to also provide a fuller picture of the region’s cuisine and culture. These experiences enrich your journey and make it more memorable.

5. People on Wine Tours Are Pretentious

Yes, there are pretentious people in the wine industry—we know, we’ve met them. But, that doesn’t mean everyone is. We’ve met far more passionate people who are genuinely excited to meet visitors and share their knowledge and enthusiasm about their wines.

We’d like to think Taste Vacations fits into the latter category. We are serious about creating memorable wine vacations but like to keep things casual and fun. When researching a wine tour operator, pay attention to how they describe their tours. If it sounds pretentious online, there’s a good chance the tour will be that way too.

Wine tours are a fantastic way to explore new regions, learn about wine, and immerse yourself in local culture. Don’t let these myths hold you back from embarking on what could be a truly unforgettable journey. Cheers to your next wine adventure!

Apr 29
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How to Pack Smartly for Your Next Wine Vacation

By Taste Vacations, Travel Tips, Wine No Comments

Embarking on a wine vacation is an opportunity to indulge in the finest vintages, explore picturesque vineyards, and savor the flavors of new terroirs. Whether you’re journeying to the sun-kissed valleys of Australia or the rolling hills of Tuscany, packing strategically can enhance your wine-tasting experience and ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here are some essential tips to help you pack smartly for your next wine vacation.

Wine Carrier or Protective Packaging

If you plan on bringing home bottles of wine as souvenirs, investing in a sturdy wine carrier or protective packaging is essential. Opt for padded wine bags or specialized wine suitcases designed to safeguard your precious cargo from bumps and bruises during transit. Alternatively, consider collapsible wine bottle protectors that can be inflated and placed in your luggage for added security.

Lightweight Clothing and Comfortable Footwear

All of our wine vacations involve exploring vineyards, attending tastings, and indulging in leisurely walks through picturesque landscapes. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for varying weather conditions, including comfortable layers for cooler evenings. Don’t forget to include a pair of sturdy yet comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots to navigate uneven terrain with ease.

Sun Protection and Hydration Essentials

Spending extended periods outdoors in wine country calls for adequate sun protection and hydration. Pack sunscreen with a high SPF, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.

Versatile Daypack or Tote Bag

A versatile daypack or tote bag is indispensable for carrying essentials during your wine excursions. Choose a lightweight, durable bag with ample storage space for sunscreen, water, snacks, a camera or smartphone for capturing memories, and any souvenirs or wine purchases you may acquire along the way. Look for a bag with adjustable straps for added comfort during long walks or hikes.

Wine Journal or Tasting Notes

Keep track of your wine discoveries and tasting experiences by packing a compact wine journal or tasting notes booklet. Jot down your impressions, favorite wines, and memorable moments. Alternatively, utilize a smartphone app designed for wine enthusiasts to record tasting notes and recommendations on the go.

Pack smartly for your wine vacation and you’ll enhance your overall experience and ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey from start to finish. Cheers to your next wine adventure with Taste Vacations!

Dec 21
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science-of-wine-glass-shapes

The Science of Wine Glass Shapes: How to Enhance Your Wine Experience

By Taste Vacations, Wine No Comments

Wine is a complex beverage that engages all of our senses. To fully appreciate its flavor and aroma, it’s essential to choose the right wine glass. But did you know that the shape of a wine glass can actually affect the way you experience the wine? Let’s explore the science of wine glass shapes and how we perceive the wine’s aroma, flavor, and texture.

Bowl Shape

The bowl of a wine glass can be narrow or wide, deep or shallow. The shape of the bowl determines how much surface area of the wine is exposed to air, which affects the wine’s aroma and flavor. For example, a narrow and deep bowl concentrates the aroma and flavor, allowing you to savor the wine’s nuances. This bowl type is ideal for full-bodied red wines like Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon and Chilean Syrah. On the other hand, a wide and shallow bowl exposes more wine to air, enhancing its aroma and flavor. This bowl type is perfect for light-bodied wines like Oregon Pinot Noir and South African Chardonnay.

Stem Shape

The stem of a wine glass is essential for holding the glass without affecting the temperature of the wine. It also plays a role in how we experience the wine’s texture. For example, a longer stem can help keep the wine cool by preventing your hand from warming the bowl. A shorter stem, however, allows you to hold the bowl, which can help you appreciate the wine’s texture. If you don’t know what we mean by “wine texture,” simply put, texture refers to how the wine feels. Words commonly used to describe texture include “heavy,” “silky,” “sharp,” “bright,” “gritty,” and “smooth.”

Rim Shape

The rim of a wine glass can also impact how we perceive the wine’s flavor. A thin rim allows the wine to flow smoothly onto your tongue, while a thicker rim can distract from the wine’s taste.

4 Steps on How to Choose the Right Wine Glass

Choosing the right wine glass depends on the type of wine you’re drinking. Here are a few tips to help you select the perfect wine glass:

  1. Consider the wine’s characteristics. Full-bodied wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, require a glass with a narrow and deep bowl, while light-bodied wines, such as Pinot Noir, need a glass with a wide and shallow bowl.
  2. Look for a glass with a thin rim. A thin rim allows the wine to flow smoothly onto your tongue, enhancing its flavor.
  3. Choose a glass with a stem. A stem keeps the wine at the right temperature and prevents your hand from warming the bowl.
  4. Consider the size of the glass. A smaller glass can help concentrate the aroma and flavor of the wine, while a larger glass can enhance the wine’s aroma.

By understanding the science behind wine glass shapes, you can choose the perfect glass to enhance your favorite wines’ flavor, aroma, and texture. So the next time you’re enjoying a glass of wine, consider the shape of the glass in your hand and savor every sip. Don’t hesitate to join us to learn as you go in an outstanding wine destination such as Sonoma, Spain, or South Africa.