Whether you're a visitor to Texas or a local that wants to explore the many wineries Texas has to offer, a wine tour is a great way to learn more about the stunning wineries and talented winemakers in our great state. However, with the increase of Texas wineries comes an increase in wine tour companies, and not all are created equal. With many tour companies to choose from, it can be hard to find the right tour to make your wine tasting day a wonderful experience. Luckily, there are several things to look for to make sure you choose the right tour for your needs. Keep reading to learn the things to look for when choosing the right company for your Austin winery adventure.
Read the Reviews
First, you'll want to find a company that has great online reviews. Who else to recommend a company than those who have taken the tour? Reviews can also tell you a bit more about the experience and why the travelers enjoyed it so much (or didn't). You might get insights about the tour leaders that you wouldn’t get from the company website. Reviews are especially helpful if you have never been on a wine country tour before. Check out Yelp or Tripadvisor to see how other's have rated their experience with different tour companies.
Learn More About What's Included
Once you have an initial list of the companies you're interested in, view their websites to learn more about what's included on the tours. You should look for knowledgeable tour guides that know about the process of making wine, and who can recommend wines you may enjoy based on your taste preferences. Their van should be clean and comfortable, and provide enough space to comfortably seat everyone in your group. Guides should also be from the area, and know the Texas wine scene like the back of their hand.
Customization is Key
Find a company that will let you customize the wine tasting experience for your group. For example, you may want to stop at a local restaurant or choose specific wineries to visit. A small private group or custom tour can be arranged with the right company, so be sure the company offers different types of tours. An intimate setting is ideal, especially if you want to meet the winemaker or learn more about wine production.
Avoid Big Bus Tours
Try to avoid companies that cram a busload of people into a chartered bus and expect you to have a memorable experience of the wineries of the Texas Hill Country. Sitting elbow to elbow with 90 strangers is not an intimate experience of a wine tour, and learning about the wine and winemakers is hard in large groups. For the most memorable experience, choose quality over quantity when selecting a wine tour company.
Contact Heart of Texas Wine Tours Today
Known for its memorable Austin wine tours and exceptional tour guides, Heart of Texas Wine Tours fulfills all the requirements for a great wine tour. Our knowledgeable guides will create wonderful memories for friends and family. Contact us today to learn more, and take a look at our online reviews to see how others have enjoyed their experience with us.