10 Destinations every wine lover should visit

Vineyard Vacations: 10 Trips every wine lover should take

Amanda Lim

07 Oct 2015

updated the 12 October 2015 à 08:02

1/10
Bordeaux, France
One of France’s top wine regions, Bordeaux is a charming land of idyllic chateaus and home to some of the finest wineries and vignerons. No list of wine destinations would ever be complete without the inclusion of the spiritual home of French wine. If you like your wine bold and strong, Bordeaux is for you.
2/10
Burgundy, France
Truth be told, Bordeaux is only one half of the spiritual heart of French wine. Bordeaux’s next-door neighbour and rival is the other. The last vestiges of the medieval times are scattered all around Burgundy, making it feel like you’re stepping into a bygone era. If you’re all about finding rare wines, then a trip to Burgundy is a must. Though we must suggest visiting both halves to get a complete and fulfilling experience.
3/10
Central Otago, New Zealand
Central Otago is the southernmost winemaking region in the world. It is located in New Zealand’s South Island, along the Karawau River. While relatively young, the region grows one of the best selections of pinot noir grapes. The Peregrine winery, which is designed to look like a falcon’s wing, is a must-visit when you’re in the area.
4/10
Barossa Valley, Australia
Australia’s largest premium wine region is also one of its oldest. Barossa Valley is steep in history and home to some of the oldest Shiraz vines in the world. So it is no surprise that Barossa is best known for their Shiraz. Almost all wineries here offer wine tastings and many even offer free tours.
5/10
Napa Valley, U.S.A.
One of America’s largest and finest wine-producing regions is Napa Valley, north of San Franciso. Set against a backdrop of rolling hills, there are over 400 vineyards to visit, including the famous Mondavi estate of Robert Mondavi.
6/10
Finger Lakes, U.S.A.
On the opposite side of the country is this not-so-well-kept secret wine region in upstate New York. Over a hundred wineries dot along the three main lakes, Cayuga, Seneca and Keuka. Although home to an array of wines, Finger Lakes is known especially for their Rieslings.
7/10
Sonoma County, U.S.A.
Napa’s neighbour is fast eclipsing it as a top viticulture region. Sonoma produces some of the world’s best cool-climate Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. Apart from wine, you will also find oysters, Dungeness crab and artisanal cheeses in this beautiful county.
8/10
The Aegean Islands, Greece
Surrounded by deep blues of the Mediterranean Sea, the Aegean Islands are probably not thought of as a top wine destination. The winemaking traditions of the Greek islands can be traced by to the Neolithic ages. Its rich history makes it one of the top vacation spots for oeonphiles.
9/10
Patagonia, Argentina
Patagonia is made up of three provinces, Río Negro, Neuquén and La Pampa. This viticultural region is best known for the slow and lengthy ripening of their grapes. Top Argentinian wineries have positioned themselves in the area where it is considered one of the best places in the country to cultivate wine.
10/10
Piedmont, Italy
Home to some of the most celebrated vineyards in Italy, Piedmont was just elected a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. It is famous for Barolo and Barbaresco wines which are made from the Nebbiolo grape. The region is also a culinary paradise, with many world-class restaurants, making it an ideal place for foodies to visit.

Explore the world of winemaking by embarking on a pilgrimage to some of the best wine producing regions in the world.

The aroma and taste of a vintage wine is enough to transport you to its region. However, for oenophiles, there’s nothing more enchanting as sipping a glass of wine in the setting of a beautiful vineyard.

Wine, like all produce, tastes better at its source, but that is not the only advantage to visiting the viticulture regions. You will also be able to immerse yourself in the winemaking culture and meet others who share the passion.

These days, vineyards are a significant part of tourism in countries. It is easy to fine a vineyard that offers tours and tastings to visitors. The only chore is deciding which regions to visit.

From the nearby wineries of Australia to the far-flung vineyards of Patagonia, the list of wine centric destinations is always expanding. For some ideas, check out the gallery for 10 classic and up-and-coming viticultural destinations you should plan your next trip around.

Amanda Lim

Photos: Getty Images

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