Tasting room tips
It’s rare to find a free wine tasting these days Wine Country.
Average tastings can cost between $5 to $25, often being waived with a purchase of a bottle of wine or two.
When Pangloss Cellars opened a few months ago in downtown Sonoma, I brought a few friends in for a food and wine pairing. We had a great experience, sitting in cozy seats in the front window, with tasting room staff helping us explore the food, refill our glasses, and provide us whatever other comforts we needed.
At the end of our experience, I tipped.
And I’ve started tipping at almost every tasting room experience I have. Even a couple of bucks if I buy a bottle of wine.
I reached out to a long-time industry friend who works at one of the most popular tasting rooms in Sonoma Valley, and his answer about tipping was simple:
“Tipping should be based on your experience – it’s never expected, but always appreciated.”
That has resonated with me, especially in a time when people are underpaid and overworked, especially in our community where rent has increased so dramatically over the past decade.
Here is my tip on tips: if you’re popping into a tasting room for a glass of wine, or for a tasting, bring a few extra bucks with you for a tip.
Granted, I am less likely to tip if I join a wine club (since that is commission based) or make if I purchase a lot of wine, but, if you’ve had an extra special experience – a few extra bucks left under your empty wine glass is totally acceptable – and always appreciated.
