Wine tasting is an experience that will be fun and memorable whether it is your very first time or if you are an experienced wine connoisseur. Regardless, you are probably wondering what makes Eos Wine Tours unique and what details to expect with our wine tours. Here are some common questions:

Q. How many wineries will we go to?

The number of wineries you visit depends on how long your group decides to spend at each place. Some people want to taste as many wines as possible, and others like to take their time and take in the beauty of the vineyards and surrounding area by going to just a few. Typically, our package tours include tastings and reservations at three wineries. Most of the time, we find that visiting three wineries is perfect for most groups because quite honestly, most people are pretty toasty after three! However, we are always happy to take you to any additional wineries you wish to visit. Tasting fees at additional wineries are usually at client’s cost.

Q. Which wineries will we be visiting?

Since Eos Wine Tours caters to your personal needs and preferences, the winery choices are up to you! If you need some suggestions to get you started, check out our list of the most popular wineries in the area.

Q. How much do the wineries charge for tasting fees?

Our package includes tastings at the first three wineries but in general, most wineries charge $10-$20 per person.

Q. How long do the wine tours last?

Typically our wine tours last five hours but extra time is always available for an additional flat rate so you never need to feel rushed.

Q. What time do we start the day?

Since our wine tours are always private, you also have the luxury of choosing what time you would like to start your day. We suggest beginning sometime between 9am-11am but since we do not combine groups, the schedule is entirely up to your preference.

Q. How many people can we take and what kind of vehicle will we be going out in?

Overall, we have found the best wine tasting experience to be in the forward facing vans, busses, and luxury SUV’s we operate. We can accommodate groups ranging from 2-24 guests in our comfortable and spacious vehicles with great views of the surrounding countryside. A common question people have is whether we operate stretch limos. Currently we do not offer limo service. Limos often leave guests without a good view of the road. When you combine this with wine and the winding highways in Santa Ynez, you get a car sick party.

Q. When do we eat?

With all that great wine, you will definitely need some sustenance. Eos Wine Tours provides each guest with a gourmet picnic lunch to enjoy out on one of the beautiful vineyard grounds. Each guest is able to personally select their choice from four sandwiches, four side salads and a delicious cookie of the day. The lunches are prepared freshly in the Santa Ynez Valley’s famed gourmet deli, El Rancho Market and bottled water is always included.

Q. Is gratuity included?

Our per person rates includes a five hour wine tour, the vehicle and driver, tastings fees at three wineries and a gourmet picnic lunch. There is also a flat tip rate embedded in the per person price for the driver. Additional gratuity is always welcomed and appreciated.

Q. What do we do after our wine tour? Is there nightlife in Santa Barbara?

After wine tasting in the most beautiful California vineyards, finish off the day by skipping the lines at the most popular nightclub in downtown Santa Barbara. Take advantage of the special packages we have created which combine your wine tour with VIP Services at our premiere nightclub and lounge, Eos Lounge. We specialize in Bachelorette parties, birthday parties and groups looking for a memorable, fun and unique Santa Barbara weekend. We have created packages that combine a full day of entertainment from your wine tour to dinner to VIP entrance at Eos. And the best part is, with Eos Santa Barbara driving you safely to each activity, you do not need to worry about designated drivers, directions, or even having to separate your group as you celebrate. Sit back, relax and have some well deserved fun as we take care of planning all the good times and photo worthy moments for you. See our Special Occasions page for more details and per person group rates.

Q. Are there any particular rules or etiquette to wine tasting I should know about?

Check out the Wine Tasting 101 article, appearing in the January 2011 issue of The Santa Barbara Independent, for helpful advice about what to expect for a day out at the vineyards. These are just some simple etiquette guidelines and ideas on what you can do to make your wine tour more enjoyable. Feel free to email us to request our more in-depth, Guide to Wine Tasting. This PDF guide includes tips on what foods to avoid before tasting and how to judge wines based on appearance, smell and taste.

If you have any questions don’t hesitate to call us at 805.683.9636