Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather appropriate clothing, and closed-toed shoes are best. Keep in mind that some wineries have gravel walkways and we may have the opportunity to walk in the vineyards and production areas.
How much are tasting fees?
Tasting fees typically range from $25 to $40 per flight with some fees $50 or more. A flight usually includes five to six wines. We advise guests in advance of the fees and can tailor tours for all budgets.
Our tours do not include tasting fees but can be added upon request at an additional fee based on the wineries chosen (on private/large group tours). On shareable tours we choose the wineries based on preferences of all guests with an option to add fees for $60/person at checkout.
Most wineries will waive tasting fees with wine purchase (typically 2-3 bottles or $50-$75 purchase) or club membership.
Is tipping your tour guide expected?
Tipping is not required, but always appreciated! Unlike other tour and limousine companies, we don’t add a gratuity automatically. However, you do have the option to pre-determine a gratuity percentage when you make your reservation. Tips can also be added after your tour via credit card, Venmo or cash
How long is the wine tour?
A tour typically lasts seven hours with traffic to and from Portland. This relaxed pace ensures plenty of time to enjoy the wines and the winery at each stop. Tours usually start around 10 AM with a Portland pick up or 10:30 AM with a Willamette Valley pick up. Once the agenda is set you will receive confirmation of your pick up time.
How many wineries do you visit?
Are your tours kid friendly?
Since our tours are educational in nature and encompass a full day, we do not accept guests under 21 years old. We are happy to refer you to kid friendly tour companies upon request.
How do you choose the wineries?
When you book your tour we will ask for your wine and winery preferences. We will match your wine interests with our favorite wineries based on your pick up location and include a variety of wine styles and sub AVAs (American Viticultural Areas). Often we will provide a list of wineries we think are a good match and you can make the final choice (or let us choose our favorites!)
Our favorites have these three things in common: great wine, great people and great scenery. However with hundreds of wineries to choose from and many wine different wine palates we are happy to take you to your favorites too!
What is the difference between your tours and the competition?
Our tours’ educational and small group focus sets us apart from the competition. Michele, your tour guide and owner is CSW (Certified Specialist of Wine) trained. We will share with you what makes Willamette Valley wines special, and then place them into the context of the greater world of wine. You won’t get that by hiring a driver!
We are also covered by commercial liability and commercial auto insurance. We are fully certified by Portland Bureau of Transportation which includes annual vehicle inspection, driver background checks and expanded insurance requirements. Before you hire someone else, ask if they are. The answer may surprise you…
Will food be provided?
Yes. Snacks (cheese & crackers, popcorn, nuts) and bottled water are included between stops as well as a light lunch. Lunch (typically a charcuterie platter) is provided at your second winery stop. Private and large group tours can also opt for an expanded lunch at an additional fee. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options available, please indicate any dietary restrictions at time of booking.
Do I need to bring a bag or box for my wine if I buy wine?
Wineries will provide bags or boxes for you if you buy wine. You can purchase a shipping box ($12-$15) from us or at the wineries which you can check as a piece of luggage when you fly home (Alaska Airlines and Southwest will ship 1 case -12 bottles for free). This is the least expensive, quickest, and safest way to get your wine home. Oregon does not have sales tax, if you purchase wine and take it with you, you will not be charged sales tax
Wineries are also happy to ship wine direct to your home or office (shipping rates vary by winery). Weather holds (summer and winter) can delay ground shipments.
How much does wine cost at the wineries?
Wines in the Willamette Valley can range from $20 to $125, with most white and rose wines costing around $20 to $40 per bottle. Red wines average about $40 to $60 per bottle. This is a broad range, please check winery websites for specific prices. Please be aware that the wineries we visit typically don’t distribute their wines out of state. So buy at the winery or join their wine club to enjoy shipping and pricing discounts once you get home.
When do you tour?
We tour year-round – call or text us with questions about availability (503-476-1006) or click on book a tour button to see real time availability for shareable tours (available Thursday thru Sunday) and private tours (available very day).
When is the best time to visit?
Early Spring and Fall wine tours are the most amazing, colorful, and interesting. Though there are benefits to touring in any season!
How large are the tour groups?
We limit our Shareable and Private Wine Tours to six guests. This keeps our tours intimate and focused on the wines! Larger groups (7-10 people) can call to inquire about large curated custom tours.
What other activities should I consider during my wine tour?
Check out our Staff Recommendations page for some great ideas on where to stay and what to do… from a local’s perspective! Enjoy our great restaurants, hiking, olive oil tasting, lavender fields, alpaca farms and more!
