PRESERVE YOUR PALATE You're there to taste, so why interfere with your sense of smell or taste? Avoid wearing colognes or perfumes and forgo gum and spicy foods. Generally, you should begin with sparkling and white wines then move to rosé and reds. You'll notice that the staff at the winery will likely serve you a progression from light to fuller-bodied wines. ASK AWAY Here's the rule: there are no dumb wine questions. Winery staff will be happy to help you learn about wines, grapes and the region as a whole - it's their job and their passion. Besides, there are probably a few other people in the room wondering the same thing that you are. LOVE IT? BUY IT Many of Ontario's best VQA wines are only sold at the winery store, so if you fall in love with a vintage at the tasting bar, you should grab a few bottles to take home. Some wineries will even waive your tasting fees if you purchase a bottle. Plan ahead in the summer and bring a cooler to protect your bottles from the sun and heat. Want to save yourself the hassle of bringing your wine selections home? Ask about delivery service at the wineries. Lastly, see if you can sign up for e-newsletters or wine clubs at the wineries you enjoyed most. Check out our FAQs section on page 96 for more helpful tips on travelling with wine. winecountryontario.ca VQA | 2017 Travel Guide 19http://www.winecountryontario.ca