Make a reservation (even if you’re spontaneous by nature)
Before you hop in the car and set off for a tasting afternoon, check the winery’s website or call ahead. It only takes five minutes and can make a world of difference.

Dress for the vines (but leave the perfume at home)
Tasting rooms tend to have a certain vibe – think relaxed elegance, not flip-flops and football jerseys.

Also, avoid strong perfumes, aftershaves, or scented lotions. Smell is a huge part of wine tasting, and your cologne could overpower the delicate aromas everyone’s trying to pick up in their glass. And if you’re visiting a vineyard, wear shoes you can walk comfortably in. Portugal’s wine country is full of cobbled paths and hilly terrain.

Tasting fees are normal (and worth it)
Today, most wineries charge a small fee, usually covering several wines and a guided tasting. This could range anywhere from €10 to €25, depending on the place and whether food pairings are included. But here’s the nice part: many will waive the fee if you buy a bottle or join their wine club.

You don’t have to know anything about wine
The whole point of a tasting is to try new things and learn what you like, not to impress anyone with how many wine terms you know.

Ask questions. The person pouring your wine is there to help, and trust me, they’d much rather talk to someone curious and genuine than someone pretending to be a sommelier.

Taste like a pro (without getting too technical)
Here’s the basic tasting flow – no need to overthink it:

• Look: Give it a glance. Notice the colour. That’s all.
• Swirl: Gently swirl the glass (on the table, if you’re nervous).
• Sniff: Stick your nose in and take a good whiff.
• Sip: Take a small sip and let it coat your mouth.
• Savour: Think about what you’re tasting. Fruity? Earthy?

A little spicy?

Spit (or don’t): Spitting is 100% acceptable and very normal, especially if you’re visiting multiple wineries. It doesn’t mean you don’t like the wine – it just means you want to keep your head clear.

Pro tip: You don’t need to finish every pour. No one will be offended if you pour a bit into the spittoon.

Hold your glass by the stem
It’s not about looking fancy – it’s practical. Holding your wine glass by the stem keeps your hands from warming the wine, and it keeps fingerprints off the bowl so you can see the wine clearly.

Be nice about wines you don’t like
It’s totally okay if you don’t enjoy every wine you taste. Some might be too bold, too funky, too oaky, whatever. Instead of saying, “Ugh, this is gross,” try “This one’s not really my style.”

Stay hydrated and don’t skip lunch
Wine is sneaky. You’ll think: “It’s just a few small sips” and then suddenly you’re giggling in the gift shop. So: drink water between tastings. Eat something hearty beforehand (or during, if the winery offers food).

Many tastings come with delicious local bites – cheeses, olives, bread, maybe some chouriço or canned sardines. Don’t skip those. They’re not just tasty – they help you taste the wine better.

Ask before taking tons of photos
That said, most wineries love it when you share your visit online. Tag them, use their hashtag, and show a little love. It helps support small producers more than you might think.

To tip or not to tip?
In Portugal, tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated – especially if someone gave you a really special experience.

Don’t feel pressured to buy (but it’s nice if you can)
You’re not required to buy a bottle, but if you found something you love, go for it. Buying direct from the winery helps them keep doing what they do – and you get something delicious to take home.

Words: Lívia Mokri