Whew! After a year of intense travel, I finally made the definitive (at least in my book), wine tasting location ranking. Here’s a ranking of the best places to go for wine, including recommendations for local restaurants and places to stay near each area:
1. Piedmont, Italy
- Why go: Piedmont offers stunning vineyards and a deep history of winemaking, with plenty of budget-friendly options outside Barolo.
- Stay: Opt for accommodations in Dogliani, like the cozy Borgo di Rivalta, where you can find entire homes for around $35/night.
- Eat: Head to Trattoria della Posta in Monforte d’Alba for traditional Piedmontese dishes, paired with local Barolo wines.
- Wine Highlight: Barolo and Barbaresco are must-tries.
Wine tasting in Provence – Brad & Angelina’s Estate
2. Rhône Valley, France
- Why go: Affordable and full of variety, Rhône is famous for its Côtes du Rhône wines, and tastings are often free in regions like Gigondas.
- Stay: Les Florets in Gigondas offers a charming stay with vineyard views, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
- Eat: L’Oustalet in Gigondas serves exquisite dishes, blending Provençal flavors with the region’s finest wines.
- Wine Highlight: Grenache-based wines are the stars here, but also look for Châteauneuf-du-Pape whites.
3. Alsace, France
- Why go: Known for friendly winemakers and beautiful landscapes, Alsace is an enchanting region for wine lovers.
- Stay: Book a charming room at La Maison des Têtes in Colmar, a perfect base for exploring the Route des Vins.
- Eat: Dine at Wistub Brenner, where traditional Alsatian dishes meet Riesling and Gewürztraminer pairings.
- Wine Highlight: Rieslings and Gewürztraminers, paired with the region’s rich, flavorful cuisine.
4. Beaujolais, France
- Why go: A more relaxed and tourist-friendly region compared to its neighboring Burgundy, Beaujolais is affordable and scenic.
- Stay: Château de Pizay offers beautiful accommodations surrounded by vineyards.
- Eat: Auberge du Cep in Fleurie is a fantastic spot for local cuisine, paired with the fresh and fruity Beaujolais wines.
- Wine Highlight: Light, vibrant Beaujolais Nouveau and the more structured Cru Beaujolais.
5. Moselle Valley, Germany
- Why go: Astonishing landscapes and excellent value for high-quality Rieslings.
- Stay: Hotel Villa Hügel in Trier offers modern luxury with easy access to local wineries.
- Eat: Enjoy traditional German fare at Weinstube Kesselstatt in Trier, paired with superb local Rieslings.
- Wine Highlight: Rieslings dominate, ranging from dry to sweet styles.
6. Languedoc-Roussillon, France
- Why go: Dirt cheap, with vast wine options and many lesser-known gems.
- Stay: Try Les Jardins de Saint-Benoît, nestled in the heart of the region, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat.
- Eat: Auberge de l’Ecole in Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert offers hearty local cuisine.
- Wine Highlight: Explore Carignan and Grenache-based blends, and keep an eye out for organic producers.
7. Georgia
- Why go: An ancient wine region with hospitable locals and unique winemaking traditions.
- Stay: Stay in a local guesthouse in Sighnaghi for an authentic experience.
- Eat: Pheasant’s Tears restaurant offers delicious Georgian food paired with their famous qvevri wines.
- Wine Highlight: Try wines made using the traditional qvevri method, especially the amber wines.
8. Cape Winelands, South Africa
- Why go: Affordable with breathtaking landscapes and top-quality wines.
- Stay: Babylonstoren, a luxury farm hotel, is a perfect escape in the heart of the wine region.
- Eat: Dine at The Tasting Room at Le Quartier Français in Franschhoek for creative dishes paired with local wines.
- Wine Highlight: Chenin Blanc and Pinotage are the stars of South African wine.
9. Paso Robles, California, USA
- Why go: Great value for high-quality Rhône varietals, with a laid-back, unpretentious atmosphere.
- Stay: Hotel Cheval offers boutique accommodations in the heart of Paso Robles.
- Eat: The Hatch serves up great comfort food with a wine list that features local favorites.
- Wine Highlight: Rhône blends, especially Grenache and Syrah.
10. Mendoza, Argentina
- Why go: Argentina’s wine capital offers stunning mountain views and world-class wines at a fraction of European prices.
- Stay: Casa de Uco Vineyards & Wine Resort is an intimate stay surrounded by vineyards.
- Eat: 1884 Restaurant by Francis Mallmann offers incredible Argentinian cuisine paired with Malbecs.
- Wine Highlight: Malbec reigns supreme, but don’t miss out on Cabernet Franc or Torrontés.
These regions are perfect for an unforgettable wine journey with your friend, filled with local charm, great food, and plenty of tastings!