While every detail was expertly crafted (which meant we didn't miss any little bit of the experience -- from balloon up, to celebratory photos, to landing ON the trailer, to the final toast), it in no way felt touristy or fabricated. That is an art! We loved that we met at an actual vineyard. The host, Bill, was outstanding, caring and extremely experienced. We weren't sure that we wanted to spend the extra money on this experience for my sister's 40th birthday in wine country, but it turns out that it is the thing she mentions the most when she tells others about her birthday. If you're on the fence, do it. It was the perfect way to celebrate! (BTW, you do share a portion of the basket - in total it holds 16 - so if you go as a couple, you'll be sharing a basket segment with another couple...that's something that wasn't clear to me when I was booking).