Whether you’re sipping Sauvignon Blanc in Sonoma or trying out Vino Nobile di Montepulciano in Tuscany, you may have the opportunity to attend a pairing dinner. These wine country events give you the chance to sample multiple courses of elevated regional cuisine, each served with one (or several) splashes of wine. For the newbie wine fan though, this type of experience can be a bit daunting. Here are 10 tips for getting the most from a wine soirée without feeling overwhelmed:

1. Go easy on the aperitifs: You may be offered a welcome flute of bubbly or a signature cocktail as you arrive. Enjoy it, but it’s best to stick to just one since there’s a lot of wine ahead.

2. Strategize with your dining partner: If you’re given a choice of wines (or dishes) for a course, select one and have your dining companion pick the other one, then taste and compare.

3. Drink lots of water: Whether your preference is still or sparkling, keep your palate sharp and stay hydrated by sipping more than whites and reds during the evening. Skip the slice of lemon or lime in your glass so it doesn’t compete with the wines.

4. Keep your wines during the dinner: If space allows, ask servers to keep your glasses on the table so you can sample each wine with each course and find your own perfect pairing. Reds will often continue to open up as the night goes on, though the aromas and flavors of really aged ones may die out, which is normal. The notes of whites initially served too cold will often intensify as they get just a little warmer.

5. Don’t be shy if you don’t want to finish a wine: If new glasses aren’t being provided for each wine, ask for a pour-out bucket for the table if one hasn’t already been placed there. Also, keep in mind that wine professionals taste and spit, and you can do the same; if it’s too awkward to spit into a bucket, ask for an opaque mug or cup.

6. Be mindful of continuous refills: Well-intentioned servers know guests want to get their money’s worth from what’s often a spendy experience, and they may keep the vino flowing. Feel free to take a pass on another pour, especially if you’re driving.

7. On the flip side, ask if you want to re-taste a wine: If you finished a wine and really loved it — or want to see how it goes with the next course — ask nicely for another splash.

8. Snap pics for future reference. Ask the server to allow you to take a picture of the wine label as they pour so you can look for it at a local shop or after you get home (or search for it on Vivino). Ditto for the printed menu, which makes for an easier souvenir than carting the actual one home.

9. Be curious but respectful: If the winemaker or another expert is on hand, ask questions about the wine, winery or region, but don’t monopolize their time.

10. Have fun: Pairing dinners can be a great way to immerse yourself in the wines of a region. Enjoy the experience, and hopefully you’ll walk away with more information (and perhaps a new favorite bottle).