6 Trips for Wine Lovers


Spring is finally here, which means sunny weather and outdoor activities! Take a vacation to one of the world’s great wine regions, where you can see stunning vineyards as you taste some of the best vintage wine available. These 6 trips for wine lovers will inspire you to book your next trip in the world of winemaking and wine tasting.

1. Stellenbosch, South Africa: 

Founded in 1679, the town of Stellenbosch is set near the beautiful mountains. Here, you can check out wine tours along the Stellenbosch Wine Route, which is the oldest in South Africa. There are dozens of wineries that produce the region’s signature chenin blanc and pinotage wines. Many of these wineries offer additional attractions, such as carriage rides or wildlife adventures, so take advantage of these opportunities!

2. Tuscany, Italy: 

If someone were to poll wine lovers regarding their favorite Italian wine regions, Tuscany would most likely come in first place. Creator of Italy’s most famous wine, Chianti, Tuscany is also home to some of Italy’s other most prestigious wines. These include Brunello di Montalcino and Nobile di Montepulciano. Not only is the wine great, but the scenery is exquisite.

3. Central Otago, New Zealand: 

Picture this: green valleys, tranquil rivers, and snow-capped peaks. Now imagine wine tasting in this beautiful scenery. New Zealand has a booming winemaking industry. In the southernmost wine growing region in the world, you will be able to taste white wines such as pinot gris, riesling, and gewürztraminer as well as pinot noirs.

4. A Rioja, Spain: 

With more than 500 wineries producing a wide variety of reds, La Rioja is the perfect destination for wine lovers in Northern Spain. Many tourists stay at Marqués de Riscal, the most talked about winery hotel. Quality and prices of wine start at simple and cheap and can go up to be very expensive. The main grape in the region is Tempranillo, but Rioja’s vineyards also grow Garnacha, Graciano and Mazuelo, among red grapes. The principal white grapes of Rioja are Viura and Malvasia.

5. Napa, California: 

Napa is famous for its wineries. The best time to visit Napa for some wine tasting is in the fall, when the grapes are harvested. Although, many people do visit in the summer as well; this is when there will be long lines and lots of tourists. Be sure to visit Domaine Chandon. It’s the perfect place to start your day of wine touring, and it even features champagne! You should also be sure to visit Robert Mondavi. In 1861, Charles Krug established Napa’s first commercial winery, which was later bought by the Mondavi family in 1943. By the mid-sixties Robert had a falling out with Krug, changed the pronunciation of his last name, and then began building his reputation as one of the finest winemakers in Napa. This winery has beautiful grounds and some of the best tours in Napa.

6. Burgundy, France: 

Burgundy is one of France’s two powerhouse winemaking regions, and definitely a must-visit for wine lovers. There are overnight tours that barge along scenic rivers and canals, passing the Romanesque churches and rolling green hills. If you’re not into the overnight tour, you can go on day trips as well! Be sure to book any tours in advance.