Ok to share a tasting?

Question

First time visitor to Napa Valley. Wife only drinks white, basically only drinks Sauvignon Blanc, and I'm strictly a red guy. See that most of the tastings are fairly expensive and offer a variety of reds and whites. Is it acceptable to get 1 tasting and split the reds and whites between us, or is their an expectation that each person pay for an individual tasting?

Answer

When visiting Napa Valley for the first time, it’s common to have questions about tasting etiquette, especially when you and your spouse have different wine preferences. Here’s a detailed guide:

Most Napa wineries structure tastings per person, and each guest is typically expected to pay for their own tasting. The tasting fees usually cover a flight of several wines, often including both reds and whites. However, wineries understand that guests may have different preferences.

Sharing a tasting is generally possible, but it depends on the winery’s policy. Many wineries are flexible if you explain that one person prefers whites and the other reds. Some tasting rooms may allow you to split the flights, so your wife can taste just the Sauvignon Blancs while you focus on the reds, but they might still charge for two tastings if it’s a seated or guided experience. Others may have tasting flights designed to cater individually, which means paying separately ensures you each get the full experience.

Options to consider:

Contact the winery in advance and explain your preferences. Ask if they can customize the tasting so one flight focuses on whites and the other on reds.
Some wineries allow tasting flights to be shared informally, especially smaller or more casual tasting rooms.
If cost is a concern, consider doing a combination of one paid tasting plus purchasing a bottle of your preferred style to sample together, or ask if they have a “partial flight” option.

In summary, while splitting a single tasting is sometimes acceptable, the safest approach is to check with the winery beforehand. That way, you ensure you follow their rules, enjoy the full tasting experience, and avoid any awkwardness at the tasting bar.