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What to Wear to a Wine Tasting Event

July 18, 2022

Attending a wine tasting event is an exciting opportunity for wine enthusiasts to taste delicious wines while visiting BC wine country.

wine tasting event

But if you’ve never been to a wine tour before, the experience may seem a bit daunting. 

Not knowing what to expect - or wear - can quickly turn that excitement into intimidation. 

Read on to learn the best tips for going to a wine tasting trip with confidence.


What to Expect at a Wine Tasting Event

Wine tasting events allow wine lovers to sample a range of wines. The events may be more formal such as seated dinners or fundraisers, or they may be more like a weekend wine tour with live entertainment, where the guests mill about informally, enjoy a glass of wine while taking in live music 

Most tastings will have more wine than you can possibly try in only a few hours. If you can get a list of the wines or producers ahead of time, it’ll be easier to go in prepared. A good plan is to start with lighter varieties like sparkling wines, then move on to tannic reds and richer whites. 

If you’re not attending a formal dinner, some wine tasting events offer hors d’oeuvres, but don’t depend on this — have a light dinner before arriving so you’re not tasting wines on an empty stomach. Drink water in between tastings to stay hydrated, and don’t forget to spit! The buckets are there for a reason. 


What to Wear to a Wine Tasting Event

Here are some tips to ensure you dress for the occasion:

  • Wear dark colours to hide any spills. Some wine tour outfit ideas are dark wash jeans, or dress slacks
  • Avoid dangling sleeves to prevent spills
  • Tie back long hair to make it easier to spit
  • Always ensure you have a free hand to use (don’t carry around a clutch or your phone, a purse with straps is best) 
  • Wear comfortable and preferably closed toed shoes — flats or low heels are best
  • Blue jeans pair nicely with a blouse and wedges
  • Find a balance between being under and overdressed. Not sure? Bring a spare pair of shoes, a dressy scarf, and fancier earrings so you can alter your look when you arrive
  • Avoid wearing perfume, cologne, and scented body products— they interfere with the subtleties of a fine wine
  • Button-down shirts, khaki pants or jeans, and golf attire are excellent choices for men
  • Wear layers so you can adjust accordingly


Looking to Taste the Best Wines in BC?

Escape from the ordinary with the family-run Larch Hills Winery — the #1 Salmon Arm winery in the North Okanagan, proudly using only grape varieties that grow in British Columbia

Book your wine tasting tour or private event today.


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