A great wine holiday combines spectacular vineyards with rich heritage and top-notch wine. Whether you’re a novice or connoisseur, these world-class regions promise the experience of a lifetime. Learn more about your favorite wines, enjoy the local attractions and take in the beautiful landscapes.
Piedmont, Italy
Situated on the borders of Switzerland and France, Italy’s second largest region is home to the legendary reds, Barbera and Nebbiolo. The charming hilltop town of Asti is where you’ll also find the sparkling Italian white, Moscato d’Asti. It’s this impressive legacy which makes Peidmont one of the best destinations in Italy for the wine lover.
Some of the vineyards such as Roero and Monferrato have even been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Expect magnificent scenery in the nearby Alps and be sure to indulge at one of the many fine dining restaurants.
Rhone Valley, France
Boasting 13 wine trails, this picturesque landscape in Southern France stretches an impressive 150 miles. Producing wine for over 500 years this region is responsible for many full bodied reds and was the birthplace of Syrah.
Visitors can explore the many quaint villages and take culinary workshops which are offered throughout the region. You’ll be given pairing advice for locally sourced foods including truffles and cheeses. The active individual can also enjoy an array of activities from hiking the Mont Ventoux or if you’re feeling brave, you could cycle the entire length of the Rhone.
Galicia, Spain
Nestled in the northwest corner of Spain, this verdant region receives plenty of rainfall throughout the winter. It creates a lush green landscape unlike anywhere else in the country.
Tour the famed vineyards of Ribeira and Monterrei where you’ll find plenty of opportunities to taste the wine and find out more about producing methods. The region is also home to Albarino wine which is becoming increasingly popular on the international stage. Be sure to sample some of Galicia’s world class seafood and visit the many historic sites including the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral.
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Travel down the awe-inspiring Garden Route on the southeastern coast of South Africa and you’ll eventually stu8mble upon a wine mecca. The famed route covers dozens of exclusive wineries, showcasing the regions signature Pinotage and Chenin Blanc wines.
The spectacular backdrop of mountains provide the perfect setting for a full day tour where you’ll visit beautiful vineyards including the famed DeMorgenzon. These masters of production play baroque music throughout their estate as it is believed to enhance the ripening process! From here, finish your adventure by visiting the bustling capital, Cape Town which is home to plenty of great restaurants and chic bars.
Treat yourself to an indulgent holiday in one of these wine destinations and you’ll be guaranteed a one-of-a-kind experience.
Image by puliarf used under Creative Commons License.
