Any wine enthusiast (and let’s be honest, that’s most of us!) has considered going on a wine tour at some point. It’s a popular “bucket list” activity, but it can also be a fun staple of any vacation.
While a visit to a vineyard is definitely a great outing for the whole family, that can depend on where you go. Some vineyards are just that – a vineyard, with a few sips of wine at the end. Since wine tours can be a little expensive, it’s important that you get the most bang for your buck.
But how can you pick a great wine tour? Can you bring the kids? And are they really worth the money?
Wine Tours vs Wine Tasting
Wine tours and wine tasting trips are sometimes used interchangeably, but there is a difference. Simply put, a wine tour focuses more on the vineyards and the way wine is made. If you’re travelling with kids, a wine tour might be a little more family-friendly.
Vineyards are often beautiful, ethereal locations and many wine tours will add extra activities and cater to kids.
Wine tastings focus more on – you’ve guessed it – tasting the wine. Wine tastings would definitely interest any wine enthusiast. However, if you’re looking for a family day out, some wine tours include a brief tasting session at the end. Some vineyards offer bottles of soda or juice drinks to the kids, in lieu of anything alcoholic!
Picking a Great Location
If you’re choosing your holiday based on the available wine tours/tastings, the world is your oyster. Or maybe your wine glass.
Certain regions might specialise in a certain type of wine, or predominantly produce red, white, or rose. The best places in the world for wine tours are Italy, France, Spain, the USA, and China. Of course, that doesn’t mean you can’t find great wineries in other locations. Australia, among other countries, offers plenty of vineyards. This is handy for a day trip if you’re going on a family holiday nearby, instead of seeking out good wine locations.
Wine is popular pretty much everywhere, and where’s there’s a demand for wine, there’ll be a winery somewhere.
Family Wine Tours – Are they Practical?
The kids might get a little bored at a wine tasting. However, many fine wine tours offer much more than just a few glasses of wine. Tours of a vineyard itself can be great and education for children. The production of wine can be fascinating, and some vineyards offer tours by vehicle, or fun, scenic walks.
It’s also standard practice for vineyards to cater to kids, whether you need baby seats or just something to keep your little dears occupied.
Don’t Skip Your Research
Wine tasting is all about culture and atmosphere. If you’re going to a vineyard with your family, check out what they have to offer and whether they cater to children first.
It’s worth noting that wine tours can be a fantastic romantic destination. If that’s the case, you might be better off leaving the kids at home!
