Navigating the Wine Tasting Experience on the Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail
There are new wine releases to try and fall in love with , outdoor spaces expanded for you to sit , sip and relax in , and processes streamlined through the use of technology that ’ s created elevated tasting experiences and positive reviews from consumers exploring the Santa Clara Valley ’ s wine region this year .
To help you navigate the wine tasting experience at local wineries , here are a few key guidelines and things to expect – all with your health and safety at heart :
by Stacy Giannini , Director of Marketing , Wineries of Santa Clara Valley
ABOUT THE WINERIES OF SANTA CLARA VALLEY ( WSCV ):
WSCV is a non-profit 501c3 Corporation , made up of member wineries who grow and produce wines that are grown in the Valley . Producing wines from other regions fruit is also permitted . The specific purpose of this Corporation is to educate people about wine and wineries , grape growing using sustainable agricultural winemaking and production practices related to the highest standard of quality winemaking in Santa Clara Valley , and to provide educational opportunities and promote public awareness about the cultural heritage , health benefits and enjoyment of wine in a socially responsible manner , and to be recognized as a positive , contributing member of the community .
Tastings by Appointment or Monitoring of Capacity Limits Many wineries are using the appointment-only model that includes time limits , while others are monitoring their space capacity limits and only allowing you to enter once a table is free . Both of these models help the wineries monitor customer flow to ensure they ’ re operating at a reduced capacity for safety reasons .
Small Groups Only Time to book that long-awaited party bus with your friends ? Not so fast . Your group size for a tasting is restricted . Most wineries are limiting group size to no more than six people .
No Symptoms Allowed It goes without saying that you are required to exercise the same precaution as in any public situation . If you ’ re showing any signs of coronavirus whatsoever , please stay home .
Face Coverings Required , Unless Tasting Face coverings are required to enter all wineries and while it ’ s expected for the winery staff to wear face coverings at all times , you are allowed to remove your face covering once seated and wine service begins . If you need to use the restroom or walk around the property , put your face covering back on and maintain 6 feet distance from others , unless they are a member of your party .
Wine Tasting While Social Distancing Crowded tasting rooms with standing-room only are a thing of the past for now . All tastings take place outdoors and your table will be at least six feet from other groups to keep customers at a safe distance from each other .
Expect Reduced Interactions Less contact with tasting room hosts is the norm . Don ’ t be surprised if handheld menus are replaced with those posted on a chalkboard or wine is prepoured before your arrival . Other measures like contactless ordering from your phone are put in place to limit interactions between customers and tasting room hosts . Many wineries also have contactless payment systems available for tastings , food purchases , and bottles to-go .
Plan Your Visit Now that you ’ re aware of what to expect , it ’ s time to get your calendar out and plan your visit . If you have questions about visiting a specific winery , please give them a call or visit the Wineries of Santa Clara Valley at www . santaclarawines . com to find more information and for direct links to our wineries websites .
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