Hmmm... Sounds like he is expecting this "initial task set" information as part of the bid, in which case you are doing the work for free
Because of the nature of research, it is really hard to pin down what would be involved time wise due to the availability of resources, which is what I would express to the potential client. I would quote him an hourly rate and, as Tess expressed, send a sample of similar research you have done in the past. I
would not research ANY part of the initial wine question as, again, you are giving this information, and your time, away for free.