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Traveling can create quite a few memorable experiences, but the best experiences are
undoubtedly those that take place with a glass of wine in hand. If you're itching for a
wine vacation but don't know where to go? I've got you covered. I've put together a
list of six wine destinations around the world that are worth visiting.
Switzerland
Most wine drinkers are familiar with the Old World wine-making countries of France,
Italy, Germany, and Austria. Even though Switzerland shares a border with them, it's
often overlooked as a wine destination. Swiss wine is evenly split between white and
red wine. On visiting Switzerland, you can expect familiar grapes like pinot noir and
merlot and more region-specific wine grape varieties like Chasselas blanc, which is
mainly grown in Switzerland. Switzerland is a wondrous fairy-tale that's waiting to be
explored. The best time to plan a wine vacation is in late July and August, after the early
summer rainy period.
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Stellenbosch is South Africa's oldest town and one of the most stellar, wine, food, art, and cultural destinations. It is the heart of the South African wine industry and boasts
over 150 wineries. Cabernet Sauvignon is the region's most widely planted grape
variety, while Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, and Shiraz are also quite good here. The
vibrant and breathtaking natural beauty of Stellenbosch's terroir is more than enough to create a memorable wine experience for you. The best time to visit is September
to April, where the weather is warm and dry, making it the perfect time for a wine
vacation.
Willamette Valley, Oregon
The Willamette Valley is Oregon's leading wine-producing region and is known to
produce some delicious Pinot Noir. The valley is home to over 150 wineries where you will also find exceptional Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Riesling, and Chardonnay. Along with being a spectacular wine destination, the valley also has many beautiful options for outdoor recreation — hiking, cycling, boating, and fishing. The best time to visit is from September to October, when the weather is as perfect as it gets. It's around this time that you'll also get to witness the foliage transform into beautiful fall colors.
Pico Island, Portugal
Portugal is so much more than port wine. In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean lies the Azores, an autonomous region of Portugal consisting of dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, and green pastures. Its second largest island, Pico Island, is also known as “The Island of Wine.” Home to a volcano, Pico Island produces top quality wine from its mineral-rich lava soil and hot, dry climate. Due to the unique viticulture where vines are protected by rock walls rather than a trellis, Pico’s vineyards were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2004. The most well-known variety produced in this region is Verdelho, a white wine.
Mendoza, Argentina
Argentina is the sixth largest wine-producing country, and the city of Mendoza is
recognized as a Wine Capital around the world. The beautiful city is guarded by the
Andes Mountains and is home to more than 1000 wineries. Argentina is known for many
different wines like Tempranillo, Syrah, Bonarda, and Cabernet Sauvignon, but it is
most famously known for its production of Malbec. If you want to experience Argentina's culinary offerings, you can visit local eateries that also serve regional wines. The best months to visit this spectacular country are October through April.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
The Dalmatia wine region is located along the coastline of Croatia. The rugged and
steep vineyards of the Dalmation Coast are home to several unique wines. Plavac Mali and Prošek are some of the varieties that you need to taste. Central and
South Dalmatia are where the best of Croatia's wines are made. Along with being able to see the best wineries Dalmatia has to offer, you'll also get to spend time in the beautiful and
well-preserved town of Split. The best months to visit are in the summer months of June
to October, when the weather is warm and perfect for enjoying the blue waters.
There you have it...my list of five wine destinations that need to be on your radar. Whether you want to visit one or all five, contact me, and I have you enjoying a glass of wine in no time!