•Pick ~3-4 wineries to visit each day

•The valleys are relatively close to each other but you don’t want to spend the day in the car...so check a map while you plan your day

•Some wineries welcome walk-ins and some are either so small they can't staff a tasting room or so exclusive they're only open to "members"

•Make reservations for parties > 6 people

•Book reservations for “appointment only” wineries in advance

•Bring a sweater...the caves & cellars can be cool

•Ladies: stilettos make your legs look fab but are awkward when walking through a vineyard...

•Don’t forget to eat! There are so many gorgeous picnic sites...bring a box lunch with you (Some wineries have started to disallow picnicking. Call first to make sure!)

•Drink lots of water

•Join your favorite winery’s Wine Club...great discounts, access to limited wines and my personal favorite: fun parties for wine-club members!

•Wear sunscreen

•Make dinner reservations as soon as possible...popular restaurants book up quickly

•The people pouring the wine know so much...ask them questions

•Drink responsibly...better yet...hire a driver