9 Destinations for Wine Lovers in 2019
We created a list of the best 9 destinations for wine lovers in 2019. Whether you are looking to embark on a classic European trip or you have an itch for adventure in Africa, we found the wine spots for you. So grab a glass and get ready to sip your way around the globe.
1. Chianti, Italy
Ah, Chianti. This region of Italy looks exactly like you think an Italian vineyard should. Rolling hills dotted with villas and cypress trees. The Chianti region stretches across Florence and Sienna, both of which are amazing cities to visit. To get your wine fix you can easily stay in either city and take day trips to wineries. You can also stay in the countryside in a villa, B&B, or a winery itself!If you are seeking history, wine, and classic views - Chianti is the perfect place to plan your next trip.
2. Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza is often referred to as "the Napa Valley of South America". Nestled at the foot of the Andes mountain range, Mendoza has a beautiful landscape and ideal climate for wine making. The region produces 2/3 of the country's wine and is especially known for their Malbec.If you are a lover of red wine paired with a good steak - this is the destination for you.
3. Stellenbosch, South Africa
As if you weren't already drawn to South Africa for their safaris and stunning coastline, did you know they have an amazing wine region as well? Stellenbosch is an hour east of Cape Town and its mountainous landscape gives the region many micro-climates. These micro-climates allow the region to boast a variety of wines.If you want a bit of adventure to pair with your wine tasting - Stellenbosch is the perfect destination to add on post-safari.
4. Provence, France
Provence is well known for their lavender fields and of course, their wine. They have been making wine in this region for over 2,600 years and therefore it is the oldest wine region in France. While they produce a variety of wines, 88% of their production is Rosé. Be sure to visit Côtes de Provence, which produces the majority of the regions wine.If you are a fan of lavender fields, Rosé, and delicious food - the Provence region of France is the perfect destination.
5. Napa Valley, California
California can lure just about any traveler in with its wide array of attractions, and wine lovers are no exception! Napa Valley is set just north of San Fransisco with rolling hills that give the region a very European vibe. The region is most known for their Cabernet Sauvigon but with over 400 wineries in the area, you are sure to have a wide variety. You can tour the many wineries by car, bike, or by the wine train!If you want a trip where you can have a variety of activities - Napa Valley may be the perfect getaway for you.
6. Vienna, Austria
Austria may not be the first country that pops to your mind when you are thinking of wine destinations, but did you know that Vienna has more vineyards within the city limits than any other city in the world? There are 155 wineries set across 1,600 acres in the suburbs at the edge of the city limits. The city produces mainly white wine and since the grapes are grown in colder temperatures, you will find the wines to be lighter and more tart.If you love the charm of European cities and don't want to leave them to find nice wine - Vienna is the perfect destination.
7. Douro, Portugal
Many say that Douro is one of Europe's most underrated wine regions. With terraced vineyards set down the mountains on either side of the Douro River, the dramatic landscape alone could convince you to visit. Back in the day, Douro was remote and very difficult to get to. Today it is much easier to reach and is only 1.5 hours outside of Porto. The region is most famously known for their Port, but has fine red table wines as well.If you want an off-the-beaten-track destination with an amazing landscape - head to Douro for your dream trip.
8. Marlborough, New Zealand
While New Zealand is often though of as the adventure capital of the world, they boast amazing wines as well. Marlborough is the largest wine region in the country, producing 2/3 of the total wine production and is set on the Marlborough Sound. The region is most famous for their zesty whites, especially their Sauvignon Blanc, which pair perfectly with the region's delicious seafood. If you need an escape from all the wineries, take a day boat tour or cruise through the Marlborough Sound.If you are a lover of water, fresh seafood, and white wines - Marlborough is the ideal wine destination for you.
9. Penedés, Spain
Pendés is a region within Catalonia, Spain and it has a varied landscape from the Pyrenees mountains to the Mediterranean coast. The region lies in the northeastern part of the county with close proximity to Barcelona. The Catalan wines are known to have a fuller body and higher alcohol content. While Catalonia only produces 25% of Spain's total wine, half of its production is Cava (sparkling wine). The Pendés region is often thought of as the "home of Cava" and almost 75% of Cava cellars are within this region.If you can't decide whether to spend your vacation at the beach, the mountains, or in the city - Catalonia is the best of all three worlds.
Have you been to any of these destinations? Let us know your favorites in the comments!Follow my blog with Bloglovin