How to Plan a Long Beach Wine Tour

Long Beach, California, is often celebrated for its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and bustling harbor. But beyond the coastal charm lies a thriving, lesser-known wine culture that’s gaining momentum among locals and visitors alike. While Napa and Sonoma dominate the national conversation around wine tourism, Long Beach offers a uniquely accessible, intimate, and diverse wine experience—without the crowds or the price tag. Planning a Long Beach wine tour isn’t just about tasting wine; it’s about discovering local artisans, supporting small producers, and immersing yourself in the region’s evolving palate.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to planning a memorable, well-organized Long Beach wine tour. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned wine enthusiast looking to explore beyond the usual suspects, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to create a seamless, enjoyable, and enriching experience. From selecting the right wineries to navigating transportation and pairing flavors with local cuisine, every element is designed to elevate your journey.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Define Your Goals and Preferences

Before booking a single tasting, take time to reflect on what you want from your wine tour. Are you seeking educational experiences, social outings, or quiet relaxation? Do you prefer bold reds, crisp whites, or natural/organic wines? Are you traveling solo, with a partner, or in a group? Your answers will shape every decision that follows.

For example, if you’re interested in sustainable viticulture, prioritize wineries that emphasize organic farming or low-intervention winemaking. If you’re looking for a romantic outing, choose venues with scenic patios or indoor lounges. If you’re with a large group, ensure the wineries can accommodate reservations for 6+ people. Clarity at this stage prevents wasted time and ensures maximum enjoyment.

Step 2: Research Local Wineries and Tasting Rooms

Long Beach doesn’t have vineyards sprawling across hillsides—but it does have a growing network of urban wineries and tasting rooms. These are often boutique operations where wine is produced in small batches and served on-site. Start your research by compiling a list of established and emerging names.

Key venues to consider:

• Wine Bar LA – A stylish tasting room featuring wines from California’s Central Coast and beyond, with rotating selections and knowledgeable staff.
• Long Beach Wine Company – A local favorite offering small-lot wines made from grapes sourced from Santa Barbara and Paso Robles.
• Cellar 33 – A hidden gem in the downtown arts district, known for its curated selection of natural wines and intimate atmosphere.
• Wine & Co. Long Beach – Offers guided tastings with food pairings and monthly wine club events.
• Wine & Roses – While technically in nearby San Pedro, this venue is a short drive away and offers a luxurious setting with panoramic harbor views.

Use platforms like Google Maps, Yelp, and Wine Folly’s directory to read recent reviews, check hours, and note whether reservations are required. Pay attention to seasonal closures—many small wineries operate on limited schedules, especially during weekdays or off-season months.

Step 3: Determine Your Tour Duration and Schedule

A typical Long Beach wine tour lasts between 4 to 6 hours, allowing time for 3–5 tastings with breaks in between. Avoid over-scheduling. Rushing from one venue to another diminishes the experience and can lead to palate fatigue.

Recommended itinerary structure:

• 12:00 PM – Arrival at first tasting room (lunch pairing optional)
• 1:30 PM – Second stop (focus on white or rosé wines)
• 3:00 PM – Third stop (red wines or sparkling selections)
• 4:30 PM – Final stop with a cheese or charcuterie board
• 5:30 PM – Departure or casual dinner nearby

Include a 20–30 minute buffer between each stop for travel, restroom breaks, and conversation. If you’re using a rideshare or private driver, confirm pickup/drop-off logistics in advance.

Step 4: Make Reservations and Confirm Policies

Unlike large commercial wineries, most Long Beach tasting rooms operate on a reservation-only basis—even on weekends. Walk-ins are often turned away due to limited capacity.

When booking, ask:

• Is there a tasting fee? If so, is it waived with a bottle purchase?
• What is the group size limit?
• Do they offer food pairings? Are they included or extra?
• Are pets allowed? (Some venues permit leashed dogs on patios.)
• Do they offer private or custom tours?

Book at least 7–10 days in advance for weekend visits. For groups of 6 or more, consider requesting a private tasting session, which often includes personalized service and exclusive access to reserve bottles.

Step 5: Plan Transportation

Never drink and drive. Long Beach is a car-dependent city, but with proper planning, you can enjoy your tour safely and comfortably.

Options include:

• Designated Driver – Assign one person in your group to remain sober and handle navigation and parking.
• Rideshare Services – Uber and Lyft are widely available, but surge pricing can occur during peak hours (4–8 PM). Schedule pickups in advance using the app.
• Private Wine Tour Chauffeur – Companies like SoCal Wine Tours and Beachside Wine Experiences offer customized chauffeur services with curated itineraries. This is ideal for groups seeking a turnkey solution.
• Public Transit + Bike – For the adventurous, the Long Beach Transit system connects major neighborhoods. Combine with bike rentals (via Lime or Jump) for short hops between nearby tasting rooms.

Pro tip: Download the Transit app and Google Maps offline for real-time updates. Some tasting rooms have limited parking; verify street parking rules or valet availability ahead of time.

Step 6: Prepare for the Tasting Experience

Wine tasting is both a sensory and social activity. To make the most of it, come prepared.

• Bring a notebook or use a wine app – Jot down names, grape varieties, tasting notes, and scores. Apps like Vivino or CellarTracker help you remember what you liked.
• Wear comfortable clothing – Avoid strong perfumes or colognes that can interfere with aroma detection. Neutral scents let you focus on the wine.
• Stay hydrated – Drink water between tastings. Many venues provide water, but bring your own bottle if you’re sensitive to tap water.
• Eat before you go – Never taste on an empty stomach. Have a light meal with protein and complex carbs to slow alcohol absorption.
• Bring a reusable tote – Many wineries offer bottle purchases. A foldable bag makes carrying your selections easier.

Step 7: Purchase and Transport Wine

If you find wines you love, purchasing them is encouraged. Most Long Beach wineries offer bottles for sale, and many will ship directly to your home (within legal limits).

Before buying:

• Check California’s alcohol shipping laws—only 2 cases per person per month can be shipped to most addresses.
• Ask if they offer discounts for multiple bottles.
• Confirm whether they can pack fragile items securely for travel.
• If flying home, check airline policies on alcohol in checked luggage (usually up to 5 liters, under 24% ABV).

Pro tip: Buy one bottle of each wine you taste to compare later. You’ll be surprised how much your perception changes after a day or two of rest.

Step 8: Extend the Experience with Local Food and Culture

Wine doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Pair your tour with Long Beach’s culinary scene to deepen your connection to the region.

Consider:

• Lunch at Bluewater Seafood – Fresh oysters and grilled halibut complement crisp Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs.
• Afternoon snack at Little Tokyo Deli – Japanese-inspired charcuterie boards pair beautifully with Pinot Noir and Gamay.
• Dinner at El Pescador – Authentic Baja-style fish tacos and agave-based cocktails make for a perfect finale.
• Stroll the Long Beach Museum of Art – Many galleries host wine and art nights during the weekend.

Many tasting rooms collaborate with local chefs for exclusive pairing menus. Inquire about these when booking.

Step 9: Document and Share Your Experience

Take photos (respecting privacy and venue rules), write a short review on Google or Yelp, and share your journey on social media. Tag the wineries—they often repost guest content and may offer future discounts.

Consider creating a digital scrapbook using tools like Canva or Google Slides. Include:

• Wine labels and tasting notes
• Photos of the venue and staff
• Food pairings and locations
• Personal reflections

This becomes a cherished keepsake—and a valuable resource for friends planning their own tours.

Step 10: Reflect and Plan Your Next Visit

After your tour, take a few days to review your notes. Which wines surprised you? Which venues made you feel most welcome? What would you change next time?

Use this insight to refine your preferences. Maybe you discovered a love for orange wines or a passion for biodynamic producers. Perhaps you want to return in spring for their new vintage release or attend their annual harvest party.

Wine tourism is a journey, not a destination. Each visit deepens your understanding and appreciation. Keep a running list of wineries you want to revisit—and those you’re curious to try next.

Best Practices

Respect the Craft

Wine is an agricultural product shaped by climate, soil, and human hands. Avoid making flippant comments like “I don’t like reds” or “This tastes like vinegar.” Instead, ask questions: “What inspired this blend?” or “How does the terroir here differ from Paso Robles?”

Engaging with staff shows appreciation and often leads to insider tips—like limited-release bottles or upcoming events.

Spit or Sip? Know Your Limits

Professional tasters spit to avoid intoxication. As a visitor, you’re not expected to spit—but do pace yourself. One ounce per tasting adds up quickly. If you feel lightheaded, pause, drink water, and eat a snack.

Never feel pressured to finish a glass. It’s perfectly acceptable to leave a portion behind.

Tip Appropriately

Unlike restaurants, tasting rooms don’t always include gratuity. If your server provided exceptional knowledge, offered extra pours, or went out of their way to accommodate your group, a $5–$10 tip per person is thoughtful and appreciated.

Be Mindful of Sensory Fatigue

After 3–4 tastings, your palate becomes less sensitive. To reset:

• Drink sparkling water with lemon
• Chew on a plain cracker
• Take a 5-minute walk outside

These small resets enhance your ability to detect subtle flavors and aromas.

Support Local, Not Just Popular

It’s tempting to stick with well-known names. But some of the most memorable experiences come from tiny, family-run operations with no online presence. Ask staff at one venue: “What’s a hidden gem you love that’s not on this list?”

These recommendations often lead to the most authentic and rewarding stops.

Plan for Weather and Seasonality

Long Beach enjoys mild weather year-round, but coastal fog can roll in during summer mornings. Bring a light jacket for outdoor seating. In winter, some venues close early or host holiday-themed events—check their calendars.

Spring and fall are ideal for wine tours: mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and new vintage releases.

Avoid Overindulgence

Wine tourism is about enjoyment, not competition. Don’t feel obligated to taste every wine on the menu. Focus on quality over quantity. One deeply appreciated bottle is worth more than five rushed sips.

Learn Basic Wine Terminology

Understanding terms like “body,” “tannins,” “acidity,” and “finish” enhances your experience. You don’t need to be an expert—but knowing what they mean helps you articulate preferences.

Quick primer:

• Body – Light, medium, or full (think skim milk vs. cream)
• Tannins – A drying sensation in red wines from grape skins
• Acidity – The crisp, refreshing quality that makes your mouth water
• Finish – How long the flavor lingers after swallowing

Tools and Resources

Wine Discovery Apps

• Vivino – Scan wine labels to see ratings, reviews, and price comparisons from thousands of users.
• CellarTracker – Track your personal collection and share tasting notes with a global community.
• Wine Folly – Offers visual guides, flavor wheels, and beginner-friendly tutorials.

Transportation and Logistics

• Google Maps – Use “Transit” mode to plan routes between tasting rooms. Enable offline maps for areas with spotty signal.
• Uber/Lyft – Schedule rides in advance to avoid wait times. Use “Group Ride” for shared costs.
• SoCal Wine Tours – Offers private chauffeur services with customizable itineraries. Ideal for groups of 4–12.

Event and Reservation Platforms

• Eventbrite – Search “Long Beach wine tasting” for special events, masterclasses, or seasonal festivals.
• Resy – Some tasting rooms list availability here, especially those partnered with restaurants.
• Wine.com – For shipping options after your tour. Many local wineries use this platform for direct sales.

Local Guides and Blogs

• Long Beach Post – Wine Section – Regularly features interviews with local winemakers and tasting room spotlights.
• LA Weekly – Best Wine Bars in Long Beach – Curated lists with insider tips.
• Instagram: @longbeachwinecollective – A community-driven account showcasing new releases and events.

Books for Deeper Learning

• The Wine Bible by Karen MacNeil – Comprehensive guide to global wine regions and styles.
• Wine Folly: The Essential Guide to Wine by Madeline Puckette – Visually engaging and beginner-friendly.
• Uncorked: The New World of Wine by Paul Lukacs – Explores the rise of small producers and urban winemaking.

Wine Tasting Kits

For those who want to replicate the experience at home:

• Wine Tasting Kit by VinoLog – Includes 6 wine glasses, tasting journal, and flavor wheel.
• Wine Aroma Wheel – A printed chart to help identify specific scents (e.g., blackberry, wet stone, vanilla).

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Visitor

Emily, a college student from Ohio, visited Long Beach for spring break. She’d never tasted wine before but wanted to try something “classy.”

She booked a 3-stop tour with Wine & Co. Long Beach, choosing a morning slot to avoid crowds. Her itinerary:

• 11:00 AM: Wine & Co. – Tasted a Sauvignon Blanc and a Pinot Noir with a cheese plate
• 1:00 PM: Cellar 33 – Tried a natural orange wine (her favorite) and a sparkling Rosé
• 3:00 PM: Wine Bar LA – Sampled a Zinfandel and bought a bottle to take home

She used Vivino to note her favorites and later wrote a blog post titled “How I Discovered Wine in Long Beach.” Her post went viral on campus, inspiring a group of friends to plan their own tour the following semester.

Example 2: The Corporate Group

A tech company from Irvine organized a team-building retreat in Long Beach. They hired SoCal Wine Tours for a full-day experience.

The itinerary included:

• 10:00 AM: Arrival at Long Beach Wine Company – Welcome tasting with sparkling wine
• 11:30 AM: Interactive wine blending workshop
• 1:00 PM: Lunch at Bluewater Seafood with paired wines
• 3:00 PM: Private tour of a small-production winery in San Pedro
• 5:00 PM: Group toast with custom-labeled bottles they created

The team received personalized wine labels with their company logo. Each bottle came with a handwritten note from the winemaker. The event received glowing feedback and became an annual tradition.

Example 3: The Solo Explorer

James, a retired teacher from Oregon, traveled solo to Long Beach for a quiet getaway. He spent three days exploring tasting rooms at his own pace.

Day 1: Wine Bar LA – Met the owner, who shared stories of sourcing grapes from Mendocino.

Day 2: Long Beach Wine Company – Tasted a rare Tempranillo and bought two bottles to age.

Day 3: Wine & Roses – Enjoyed a sunset tasting with a charcuterie board and a conversation with a local sommelier.

He kept a handwritten journal, which he later turned into a self-published zine titled “Wine on the Water: A Solo Journey.” He mailed copies to the wineries he visited—each one sent him a thank-you note and a free bottle.

FAQs

Can I do a wine tour in Long Beach without a car?

Yes. Many tasting rooms are clustered in downtown, the Pike Outlets, and the Arts District. Use rideshare apps, public transit, or bike rentals. However, if you want to visit wineries in San Pedro or Lakewood, a car or chauffeur is recommended.

Are there vegan or gluten-free options available?

Most tasting rooms offer vegan-friendly cheese and charcuterie boards. Always ask when booking. Many wines are naturally vegan, but some use animal-derived fining agents. Ask for “unfined” or “vegan-certified” wines.

How much should I budget for a wine tour?

Expect $25–$50 per person per tasting room. Additional costs include food pairings ($15–$30), bottle purchases ($20–$80), and transportation. A full-day tour with a chauffeur can range from $150–$300 per person.

Can I bring my own food to a tasting room?

Most venues don’t allow outside food, but they often have excellent in-house pairings. If you have dietary restrictions, inform them in advance—they’re usually happy to accommodate.

Are children allowed on wine tours?

Children are permitted in some tasting rooms but not during wine service hours. Always check policies. Many venues offer non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice for kids and have outdoor spaces for them to play.

What’s the best time of year to plan a wine tour?

April–June and September–October offer the best weather and the most events. Spring brings new releases; fall features harvest festivals. Avoid July–August if you dislike heat and crowds.

Do I need to be a wine expert to enjoy a tour?

Not at all. Most tasting rooms cater to all levels of knowledge. Staff are trained to explain wines in simple terms. Ask questions—no one expects you to know everything.

Can I book a private tour for a special occasion?

Yes. Many venues offer private events for birthdays, anniversaries, or proposals. Some even provide floral arrangements, custom playlists, and photo opportunities. Book at least 2–3 weeks in advance.

Conclusion

Planning a Long Beach wine tour is more than a checklist of wineries and tastings—it’s an invitation to slow down, connect with local culture, and discover flavors you never knew you’d love. Unlike the grand estates of Northern California, Long Beach’s wine scene thrives on intimacy, innovation, and community. Here, winemakers are neighbors, not celebrities. Tasting rooms are living rooms with wine racks.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—from defining your goals to documenting your journey—you transform a simple outing into a meaningful experience. You become not just a visitor, but a participant in Long Beach’s evolving wine story.

Remember: the best wine tours aren’t the ones with the most bottles tasted, but the ones that leave you with new friendships, lasting memories, and a deeper appreciation for the art of wine. So pack your curiosity, leave your pretenses behind, and raise a glass to the unexpected delights waiting just blocks from the Pacific.

Now, go plan your tour—and don’t forget to bring a notebook.