Welcome to the world of Hunter Valley wine tasting! Many of our clients ask us what to expect in the Hunter Valley when wine tasting.

How to Prepare for your Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tour

• Try avoid tasting on an empty stomach. If you haven’t eaten, the alcohol levels can often add up before you know it.
• Avoid coffee and chewing gum. Especially right before wine tasting, as it will affect your palate.
• Bring bottled water with you. Staying hydrated is critical—drink as much water as possible.
• Avoid anything that interferes with your sense of smell. Avoid wearing strong perfumes or aftershaves. Smokers note, the smell of smoke could affect the tasting experience for you and others.
• Dress in layers and wear comfy shoes. Weather is generally humid, we encourage guests to protect themselves from the suns harmful UV rays, and wear a hat, sunglasses and SPF 30+ sunscreen. 

When you Arrive at the Tasting Room

• No phones! Remember to switch your phone to vibrate and if you need to take a call, step outside. Tasters will be concentrating on hearing descriptions of the wine and answers to questions.
• Ask questions. The winery staff are well trained to interact with those new to wine, through to wine connoisseurs.
• Take notes. This will help you remember what you tasted and it is frequently a signal to the pourers that you are serious about the tasting exercise. Often this will get you a more personalized treatment, and sometimes a few wines to taste that aren’t not on the schedule.
• Use the spitting bucket. Do pour out (or spit) the wine after you have had a sufficient tasting—your pourer will not be offended and will recognize that you are ready for the next taste.
• Be courteous. Many of the wineries enhance their employees’ salaries based on commission on what is sold, so purchases are appreciated. If you receive special service, a letter to the winery tour owner or manager is a nice way to show your appreciation. Also If you need to alter your plans, letting them know in advance is the best thing to do.
• Always be safe. Drink in moderation. Drinking and Driving is illegal in NSW, and all other states in Australia. This is another great reason for choosing Shiraz Tours, as we do all the driving. All you need to do is enjoy yourself.
• Spitting? Yes! It is encouraged for wine tasters to spit their wine into the spitting buckets, as the purpose of the tasting is for the taster to get to experience the flavours of selected wines, and not to get drunk. 

Enjoy your Hunter Wine Tasting experience with Shiraz Tours!