Things More People Should Do at a Wine Tasting, From a Server

As a server with six years of experience at a bustling Oregon-based winery, I’ve developed a deep understanding of what makes an ideal guest.

From reservations to tipping etiquette, there are many unspoken rules of wine tasting that I feel more people should be aware of.

Here are five things I wish every guest at a wine tasting would do.

Respect the winery’s reservation policy

Whether it’s a casual tasting or a group event, sticking to a winery’s reservation policy makes everyone’s experience smoother.

When I serve guests, I find their experience feels more elevated when I can prepare their table with chilled water, food-and-wine menus, and tasting information — details that reservations allow us to organize in advance.

Most importantly, a quick call is always appreciated if you’re running late or need to cancel. It allows us to adjust our priorities, accommodate walk-ins, or better serve other guests without disruption.

Engage with the servers and ask questions

Though some servers may work at a winery for a side job with a view and a generous wine discount, others are soon-to-be sommeliers.

In my opinion, the best guests ask their servers about their background in the wine industry. Many staff members I’ve met have unique insights from formal wine education, hands-on vineyard work, or years of tasting and studying wines.

I especially recommend taking the time to get to know your servers if you visit frequently. They’re often the staff who will guide your future tastings and provide personalized recommendations.

Showing interest in your server’s knowledge and history creates a personal connection and makes the interaction more meaningful. After all, it’s not just about the wine — it’s about the shared passion for the experience.

Keep the table tidy during and after the tasting

It never goes unnoticed when guests make a point to bring their glassware back up to the bar. It’s a thoughtful gesture that shows a customer respects the space and the staff’s efforts.

If you’ve used napkins, snack plates, or other items during your visit, neatly gathering them before you leave can help staff maintain a clean, inviting environment for the next guests.

Small actions like these create a positive atmosphere and are always appreciated, especially during peak business hours.

Tip the servers accordingly

Tipping is a meaningful way to show appreciation for the time, knowledge, and effort the staff puts into your experience.

However, I’ve noticed many guests don’t realize that, just like restaurant staff, servers in wineries often rely on tips.

Even if you get a complimentary wine tasting, I still recommend tipping $5 to $15 per person. My favorite guests are the ones who come for a free glass and leave a $5 bill for the staff.

Be mindful of the winery’s closing time

Paying attention to the winery’s posted closing time is a small but significant courtesy.

Take it from me: There’s nothing more awkward than vacuuming around customers as a casual way of saying, “We closed 30 minutes ago, and I’m ready to go home.”

Some wineries have strict rules about when they can serve alcohol, and staying late often means the staff have to delay their cleanup and end-of-day tasks. Wrapping up your visit on time shows respect for the team’s schedule and ensures a smooth experience for everyone.

I recommend asking about a winery’s hours before arriving or planning an earlier visit if you plan to stay for a while.

This story was originally published on January 26, 2025, and most recently updated on May 16, 2025.