HOW TO WINE TASTE ON A BUDGET

Anyone else out there on a budget? Well, I am and I have definitely found myself accidentally spending way too much money when I have gone wine tasting with friends. Here is my guide to staying in budget while also still being able to enjoy a fun day.

1. Budget the amount of money you are willing to spend that day and stick to that amount.
2. Research the area you are wine-tasting and know ahead of time what the tasting fees are. 
3. Figure out the wineries you are going to attend and subtract those tasting fees from your budget (pro tip: if a winery has a tasting fee but it is waived with a purchase, figure out if the purchase is less expensive - then you get a 2 for 1: a tasting and a bottle of wine!). 
4. If you are in the industry, take advantage of this! “In the Industry” means that your job is in the wine industry. Bring your business cards wine tasting and you will usually get a free tasting and as much as 30% off of purchases.
5. Take advantage of current wine clubs - are you a member or is someone in your family a member or even someone in your group? Most Wine Clubs offer a complimentary tasting for members and a limited number of guests. Contact the specific winery to find out more information.
6. Pack your lunch and snacks - You eat every day, so this should be built into your monthly budget, not your budget for this day. While it might not be as fun as splurging on a fancier lunch or snack, bringing food you already have is a great way to save money.
7. Purchase a bottle of wine with friends instead of by yourself - In love with a wine you tasted but don’t want to break the bank? Share the cost of a bottle with a friend. Plus, it is a great excuse to get together again and share the wine.
8. Be the DD - I know that this sounds like a downer move, but honestly I have done this, and have been able to still enjoy myself and the company of my friends, without spending much money at all. Bonus: you'll have a lot of great stories to tell later on.