Wine & Dine: The Best Destinations For Wine Lovers
Are you someone who would choose a perfect glass of red wine overlooking a picturesque rolling vineyard rather than a margarita in hand at the beach? While I can appreciate both there is something just so wonderful about visiting wine regions and getting to not only taste these incredible drinks but also hear about the history and the processes. And if that appeals to you too then you are in the right place!
Below I share what I truly believe are the 8 best destinations in the world for wine lovers. The regions below are all not only known for one or multiple types of wine but they also have unique historic elements and experiences too. So you can find the perfect one for your next wine focused adventure.
Let’s get into it so you can start trip planning today-
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Wine & Dine: The Best Destinations For Wine Lovers
Where to travel to if you love wine:
Wine lover destination 1: Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux is immediately where my mind (and so many others I’m sure) when thinking of a wine region. Not only is it one of the most prestigious wine regions but it also has an amazing dood and cultural scene to check out in between wine tastings.
Since they are most known for their bold red wines I really do suggest you prioritize tasting their incredible Merlot blends and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Definitely add this to your wine lovers bucket list!
Wine lover destination 2: Napa Valley, California, USA
How cool is it that we can stay domestic and still visit one of the most amazing places in the world for wine?
Napa Valley is the embodiment of luxury wine. From chardonnays to pinot noirs be prepared to be impressed by amazing wines from the most picture worthy vineyards.
There also is so much to do around Napa as well including farm to table restaurants that if you like food even half as much as wine you will have to check out when visiting.
Wine lover destination 3: Tuscany, Italy
Chiantis have my whole heart when it comes to wine. They are so delicious and flavorful and guys truly nothing compares to the vineyards and atmosphere of Tuscany.
The most beautiful rolling hills, castles sprinkled around, and of course incredible Italian food make Tuscany a top contender for any travelers. But if you love wine you have to leave the major cities of Italy and make it over to the countryside.
We went for a wine tasting tour that was just one day long while staying in Florence and it was amazing but it was no where near enough time and next time we go back I plan to stay in the countryside to be closer to the vineyards!
Wine lover destination 4: Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza is at the very top of my personal wine bucket list. Imagine drinking a glass of the best Malbec in the world with a view of the Andes Mountains?! Sounds like a literal dream.
Plus the region has over 1500 wineries which means you can always find a tasting that is suited to your preferences and maybe even paired with a unique feature like high altitude tastings or an amazing food and wine pairing.
I’ll make sure to report back when (one day!) I make it to Argentina and get to experience their wine region first hand.
Wine Lover Destination 5: Rioja, Spain
Of course this wine lover bucket list could never be complete without including the most famous wine region of Spain- La Rioja.
Known for rich, oak aged Tempranillo wines that you can enjoy from a historic winery nestled in a village or a modern winery sharing their advancements… or anything in-between!
If you enjoy an old-world red more than the next then you need to make this a priority trip for you.
Also, if you want an incredible wine focused experience you need to come during the annual Batalla Del Vino AKA wine battle. It’s an epic festival where you not only get to taste wines but also get drenched and pour wine on others (both locals and tourists!) Definitely a bucket list experience for me!
Wine Lover Destination 6: Champagne, France
If you know me then you know this is far from a shock to be included on this list- I choose a glass of sparkling wine over still 90% of the time.
All of the champagne houses we dream about are located in Champagne (specifically the towns of Reims and Epernay). Im talking all the notable names- Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Dom Pérignon.
Getting to experience the champagne region of France is more than a bucket list item for me- it’s closer to a life dream. So stay tuned 😉
Wine lover Destination 7: Douro Valley, Portugal
History lovers rejoice! Douro valley is considered the oldest wine region in the world.
I will admit- the history is the most appealing part of this for me as the Duroro Valley region is primarily known for their ports. Which unfortunately my body is not a fan of however they also have amazing (and not so heavy) reds and whites so don’t let the ports scare you off if you share my sentiments!
Wine Lover Destination 8: Barossa Valley, Australia
If you like a big and bold wine then you need to go to the Barossa Valley! Their Shiraz wines are not only delicious but also amazingly historic. Some of their producing vines are over 150 years old!
This region is definitely one of the most notable in the southern hempishere and for good reason. An intense glass of red is calling your name and you can go basically year round with their gorgeous mediterranean-esque climate.
Korra the Explorer
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