Ben wrote:

> Just got back from a trip to the Oregon coast. Along the way my wife and I
> stopped at a number of wineries (McMinnville) to sample and purchase the
> local products. The tasting fees ranged from $5.00 to $15.00!! I was
> appalled at the high dollar tasting fees charged and the arrogance of not
> applying the fee to a purchase!

In my experience in California, the practice of "Napa Valley: tasting fees;
everywhere else: no charge" is historical at best. At this point, I expect
everywhere to charge a fee in the tasting room; if they don't it's a bonus.

Actually, I don't mind if they charge me; it's a nominal amount, they need
to defray their expenses, and it keeps down the marauding hordes of "let's
hit all the wineries in the area and get blitzed" people. But if they don't
apply the fee to a purchase, I do think it's arrogant.

Curt