FAQs

Booking and Pricing

How much do tastings cost?

Guided wine experiences start at $250 and vary based on tasting experience, guest count, travel distance, and selected add-ons. This does not include wine (see 'Wine and Sourcing' below).

Final payment is due 3 days prior to the event. 

How do I secure my date?

The date is secured after receiving the invoice, signing the service agreement, and paying the 50% deposit. This time is needed to ensure that another event does not interfere with yours and to verify that I have enough time to drive from one event to another on days with multiple bookings, as everyone deserves the same great experience. 

It's best to book at least 14 days in advance and up to 6 months out.  If you would like to request a date within 10 days, please be aware that a Short Notice Fee of 20% base rate will be incurred and the full payment will be required upon booking. You may need to pay for expedited shipping on your wine, price subject to licensed retailers.

What if I need to cancel?

Bookings are secured with a non-refundable deposit. Cancellations made at least 7 days before the event may be rescheduled once within 90 days, subject to availability. In cases of documented illness or family emergency requiring less than 7 days' notice, Tastings By Tori may allow a one-time reschedule within 90 days at the Educator's discretion.

Can guests pay you individually?

For private events, the host secures the booking and covers the service fee. 

How do I pay you?

I accept debit or credit and will send an invoice via email for all payments.

Wine and Sourcing

What makes this different from a winery tasting?

Unlike a winery visit, this is a private, curated experience designed specifically for your group. You'll receive guided education in a relaxed setting without tasting room crowds. 

Do you provide the wine?

Per Virginia law, I cannot provide the alcohol. Wine is purchased separately by the host through licensed retail partners to be shipped to the host's address or place of event. I provide a curated list of wines and send a one-click purchase link after the deposit is received. I provide the education, structure, and guided tasting experience on the day of the event. 

What if a wine on your list is out of stock?

If this happens, please notify me as soon as possible so that I can send a replacement suggestion. I do check availability before sending the list, but it is ultimately subject to the retailer. 

Do I need to go to multiple stores to find the wine?

No. I will send a single link with all the wines you need for your tasting. Some licensed retailers may allow for a pick up at a nearby location, but all retailers will offer shipping to your address (or the address of your event). If you have a preferred retailer, I'm happy to review their selection and make suggestions as to what to purchase. 

Logistics

How many guests may I invite?

For a comfortable and cozy experience, ~8-10 people. If you expect more than 14 guests, please let me know at the time of the booking request. Please note that there may be an additional $75 fee to accommodate extra staffing, and you may need to purchase multiples of each bottle to ensure everyone gets to try each wine. 

What if I have questions in between booking and the event?

Feel free to reach out with any questions that you have. I'm here to help facilitate. Please allow 24 hours to respond to any messages. 

Do you travel?

Yes. Travel within 25 miles of Fredericksburg, Virginia, is included. Additional travel may require a mileage fee of $1.25 per mile beyond 25 miles, roundtrip. Please list at least the City/Zip Code in the booking request for the most accurate mileage quote. Will need the full address upon booking. 

Do you offer public tastings or ticketed events?

I specialize in private, host-booked wine experiences. If you are a caterer or restaurant looking to partner, please reach out via email at TastingsByTori@gmail.com. 

Can you work with a caterer for a private event/pairing?

Yes. I'm happy to coordinate with licensed caterers or venues for full pairing experiences. 

What do I need to provide?

A table or comfortable gathering space, guest count confirmation, and wine purchased in advance. While I do provide complimentary mini bottles of water for guests, as well as palate-cleansing crackers, you may also want to provide additional food for your guests, such as charcuterie, brunch, or sweet treats. 

Do you provide glassware?

Optional glassware rental is available upon request. The minimum amount to rent is 6 glasses. Any broken or missing glasses will result in a $30 replacement fee per glass lost. 

Are gratuities included?

Gratuity is not required or expected, but is always appreciated for exceptional service. 

How long are the events?

Events range from 90 minutes to 2.5 hours, depending on the package. Tasting experiences will showcase 4-6 wines.

Overtime may be charged if event exceeds the allotted time. Overtime begins after a 15-minute grace period and is billed at $50 per 30-minute increment.

What if my guests are late?

Tastings begin at the scheduled time. Guests arriving late will join at the current point in the tasting to respect the group’s experience.

What if you are late?

In the rare event I’m delayed, I’ll always communicate promptly and ensure your experience feels complete.