Can I just turn up at a winery for a visit?

Yes and no.

Many New World wineries are set up with tourism in mind and have a tasting room known as a ‘cellar door’ where you can taste and buy the producer’s wines. The local tourist office or the winery’s website will give you opening hours and let you know if there is a small fee to taste. If you buy a bottle, the tasting fee is often reimbursed.

In Europe, things can be a little trickier – particularly in Bordeaux. If you want to visit a particular chateau, it is best to make an appointment.

Written by