27 May Top 10 Wine Tour Destinations: A Must-Visit for Wine Lovers

True oenophiles can definitely appreciate the experience of tasting wines in various settings and ambiances. Not only does the location change the experience of wine drinking, but it adds an element to your overall understanding of the vintage. It’s one thing to enjoy a Sauvignon Blanc from Tuscany; it’s another to enjoy that same Sauvignon Blanc in Tuscany.

With that said, here’s a list of the 10 best wine tour destinations that are a must-visit for wine lovers everywhere.

1. Napa Valley, U.S.A.

Writer Robert Louis recognized the significance of Napa Valley on a visit to the California locale way back in the late 1800s. He said, “Wine is bottled poetry,” and as Napa Valley has grown to become one of the premier producers of wine not only in North America but in the world, it has concurrently become a vacation hotspot, with wine culture as its main draw.

2. Tuscany, Italy

Florence is the capital of what many call the world’s most famous wine region. Tuscany’s fame comes from its production of red wine, namely Chianti and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, plus other significant vintages. Located in central Italy, its scenic landscape filled with a series of remarkable rolling hills makes it a much-desired destination.

3. Mosel Valley, Germany

Much like Tuscany, the scenic beauty of Mosel Valley is enough to entice anyone, regardless of their level of appreciation for wine. But make no mistake: Mosel Valley is highly regarded for its production of Riesling.

4. Queenstown, New Zealand

A region filled with spectacular vineyards, Queenstown has forged a name for itself with close to 75% of its production going toward Pinot Noir. It is considered the most the wine-growing region located the furthest south in the world, and one of the most beautiful destinations for wine lovers everywhere.

5. Burgundy, France

Burgundy offers an exclusive wine tour experience, with trips organized to cruise past the rolling hills, churches, rivers, and canals associated with the winemaking area. You will certainly need a reservation as pop-up guests are not typically welcome, but the opportunity to try a Chardonnay or Pinot Noir from the region is worth any inconvenience.

6. Margaret River, Australia

Considered an esteemed wine region in western Australia, Margaret River boasts up to 120 wine producers. The region specializes in Chardonnay, Semillon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Merlot. Margaret River pairs these great-tasting wines with award-winning restaurants, making for a full dining experience.

7. Constantia Valley, South Africa

Located minutes away from Cape Town, tourists make it a point to visit this suburb and embrace its wine. Constantia offers a mix of mountainside views with modern architecture, and it has been able to produce award-winning wine to further attract visitors to the region.

8. The Douro River Valley, Spain and Portugal

The Douro River is one of the reasons Spain lays claim to being the world’s third-largest wine producer. The actual Douro River touches both Spain and Portugal and all wine is produced by grapes along this river path. Both reds and whites are popular from this region, which is known for its famous winery, Vega Sicilia.

9. Willamette Valley, U.S.A

This region, located in Oregon, houses over 500 wineries and is most popular for its production of Pinot Noir. Vistas surround these wineries and tasting rooms, and have earned the region a reputation for elegant-tasting wine.

10. Geneva and Neuchatel, Switzerland

Wine lovers gather in this region during the spring, when the wineries welcome visitors coming to taste the previous autumn’s crop. Both Geneva and Neuchatel are considered to be the country’s top wine-producing areas, but it almost seems like all of Switzerland can be viewed as one big vineyard. The country’s history with wine is also deep, rivaling that of France and Germany.