Remember when a wine activity meant either just a tasting or a grape stomp, or perhaps a vineyard tour? Wine outings today have gotten more diverse than ever, branching away from the everyday—and often even the vineyards themselves—to become unforgettable adventures.
Here’s a sampler of some awesome options to amaze your attendees.
Maine Windjammer Wining
The schooner Stephen Taber, part of the Maine Windjammer Association fleet, will offer several wine-tasting cruises this year, beginning with a daytime sail around the islands of Maine’s mid-coast followed by an evening wine tasting exploring the varietals of a particular country and discussing its wine history. Dinners are prepared from scratch aboard a cast-iron stove using only fresh local ingredients, and meals generally include eight wine pairings per night.
Winemaker for the Day, Santa Barbara, Calif.
Santa Barbara’s Bacara Resort & Spa is now offering “Bacara Crush,” an activity that offers groups the chance to play winemaker for a day, from walking the vineyards to sorting grapes to substantial product testing as well. Participating vineyards include Firestone Vineyard, Foley, Brewer-Clifton, Carhartt Vineyard and Harrison Clarke.
“At Bacara, we believe groups should get to enjoy memorable experiences, too,” says Kathleen Cochran, general manager of the resort. “This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for wine lovers.”
Pinot Express Zip Line, Santa Margarita Ranch, Calif.
Elsewhere on California’s central coast, Margarita Adventures is now conducting a Pinot Express Zip Line at the historic Santa Margarita Ranch, which combines ziplining through scenic vineyards with wine-tasting and other fun. The ranch is home to Ancient Peaks Winery and can host of groups of up to about 80 for some zipping and sipping.
“Our zipline canopy tours have been a big hit with groups,” says Karl Wittstrom, ranch proprietor. “People really come together when they’re on an adventure like this. They learn a lot about each other and themselves, and it’s something they never forget.”
Water to Wine, Sedona, Ariz.
The Water to Wine tour from L’Auberge de Sedona resort kicks off with a one-hour kayak trip provided by Sedona Adventure Tours on an inviting section of the Verde River and ends in the shadow of massive Cottonwood trees, where a trail winds through the vineyards to the Tuscan farmhouse at the Alcantara Vineyards for wine tasting and snacks. The Alcantara Vineyards is a favorite on the Verde Valley Wine Trail, featuring acclaimed wines and knowledgeable sommeliers. The Classic Water to Wine tour boasts great photo ops, amazing scenery, wildlife viewing and, of course, excellent wine.
