For those whose taste for exploration applies to their palates as well as their passports, we present 10 of our favourite wine destinations around the world. (If you’re a wine-o waiting for a flight, check out our Airport Wine Guide, too.)
Santiago, Chile
Located between the Andes Mountains and the coastline, Santiago shares similarities in geography with Casablanca Valley, the Maipo Valley and San Antonio. Winemaking here dates back to the 16th century, and Chile is now one of the largest exporters of wines in the world, and one of the top 10 producers. Try their native Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Carmenere.
Jerez, Spain
Though not especially versatile, we like Jerez for its dedication to what it does best: Sherry. Simultaneously dry and smooth, Sherry made in this region goes well as an aperitif with rich flavours, like olives or cheese. Visit more than 100 vineyards in the region.
Central Otago, New Zealand
New Zealand is constantly recognized for its sense of adventure, and the fun continues in its winemaking. The country owns the title for the most southerly wine-producing region in the world – some varieties even hail from the floors of glacial valleys. The highly-respected Central Otago area boasts a lavish mix of stunning scenery and love for Pinot Noir.
Adelaide, Australia
Once you get your wine in Adelaide, the fun part is bringing it to one of the many “BYO” restaurants nearby. The Adelaide Hills, Lenswood, and Picadilly Valley are well-respected in the industry. Experience the capital of the Australian wine industry.
Mendoza, Argentina
Celebrated as much for its party atmosphere as it is for its wine culture, Mendoza is surrounded by vineyards. It accounts for almost two-thirds of the entire country’s wine production. Some vineyards near the Andes and Mount Aconcagua are planted at some of the highest altitudes in the world. Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo and Chardonnay are of particular interest here. This is often known as the heart of Argentina’s winemaking industry.
Tuscany, Italy
Located in central Italy and extending as far as the Mediterranean coast, Tuscany is notable for its Chianti, Brunello and Sangiovese grapes. It also serves up delicious desert wine, Vio Santo, which is a blend of grapes from various parts of the region. Most wineries here boast a devotion to environmental responsibility.
Bordeaux, France
We could have written an entire top 10 on French wine alone, but Bordeaux is our top pick. While it sometimes veers to the wine world’s more expensive side, there are in fact deals to be found on Bordeaux alongside more modest fare. White Bordeaux, made from Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon are more subtle, clean, and mineral driven. Almost all wines here are blended (most famous are the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon).
Mosel Valley, Germany
Known mostly for its sweet-tasting Riesling, Mosel produces what some consider to be the world’s best white grape. Surrounded by steep slopes of slate soil, the vines grow without much exposure to direct sunlight. This is the place for a saccharine sip of authentic German Riesling.
Cape Town, South Africa
Chenin Blanc is the star player here, as the Cape Fold Mountains provide the perfect soil for grape growth and wine making. Stellenboch, world-renowned for its variety of soils, is just outside Cape Town and making a name for itself with its reds. Other parts of the region that prove enticing to wine lovers include Franschhoek, Wellington, Constantia and Paarl.
Douro Valley, Portugal
Its steeply terraced vineyards make the Douro Valley one of Portugal’s premier wine regions. The area used to be known for ordinary-tasting table wine, but with industry leaders working hard to develop its specialty, the region has flourished and is winning prestige for its wines – its reputation for producing the best Port is recognised around the world.
Additional Resources
Love That Languedoc: A blog written by Ryan O’Connell of Domaine O Vineyards, which explores the splendours of the wine from the Languedoc-Roussillon region
Joseph & Curtis Custom Wine Cellars: Custom wine cellars and custom wine racks for the wonderful gems you’ll come home with from your wine vacation.
(Main image: bayhaus)
