Best Wine Vacations
Gorgeous vineyards, colorful landscapes, and (of course) top notch vino—these are the essentials of a wine vacation. To help you plan a wine-lover's retreat (where winery tours and tastings are just the start), we've tracked down the best destinations across the globe. Each region or city promises beautiful scenery, delectable grapes, and a distinguished wine culture. So grab a glass, pour some "Cab," and start packing.
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Why Go: Tuscany's world-renowned Chianti Classico draws grape-seekers in droves. But another major draw is the region's verdant landscape with its rolling hills and leafy vineyards. For a heavenly glass, visit Castello del Trebbio, a palace-turned-winery skirting Florence. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Tuscany
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Why Go: For an incredible grape escape, visit California Wine Country. Filled with cozy caverns, scenic vineyards, and over 50 types of grapes, this wine-lover's retreat sits just 55 miles north of San Francisco. Head to Frog's Leap and O'Brien Estate for an intimate setting. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Napa Valley
Why Go: This picturesque region of France consists of regal châteaus, lush vineyards, and ambient rivers. The gentle Loire River slivers past vineyards that yield some of the finest French vintages. Here, you'll try sweet Muscadets and crisp Sauvignon Blancs as well as smoky Cabernets.
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Why Go: This fertile New Zealand region boasts magnificent vineyards. Tour the Queenstown Wine Trail, and you'll savor spectacular scenery along with Sauvignon Blancs. The crisp air, the gorgeous vineyards, and the aromatic flavors are sure to leave you craving more. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Queenstown
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Why Go: Head 30 minutes south of Cape Town, and you'll find the Constantia Valley. The valley's wine caught the attention of big wigs, including the likes of Napoleon Bonaparte. Here, you'll sip sparkling Chardonnay as you gaze at the picturesque Table Mountain. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Cape Town
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Why Go: Wine-lovers adore Mendoza, Argentina's wine-producing region and home to beloved Malbecs and Merlots. For aficionados with an itch for a fresh red, there's plenty of wine-sampling to be had in Buenos Aires' Palermo neighborhood. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Buenos Aires
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Why Go: Want to savor red wine while admiring volcanic remnants and cerulean sea? Here, full-bodied Greek vino flows almost as freely as the hot springs near the island's volcano. A trip to the Boutari Winery in Perissa is a must for red wine admirers. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Santorini
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Why Go: This is the wine destination for those who study the art of wine-making. The region's dark soils and dry climate enables wine-cultivators to produce delectable Syrahs and Chardonnays. Sample the vintages at local wineries dotting the Pacific coastline. Read More»
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Why Go: To taste the smoky Pinot Noirs of Oregon, drive an hour outside of Portland to the Willamette Valley. Oregon hosts some of the most celebrated Pinot Noir appellations, so you're sure to uncork smooth vintages. Many notable wineries hug Oregon's 99W highway. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Portland, OR
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Why Go: Vast vineyards surround Monticello, Charlotteville's premier wine destination. Chardonnay lovers will want to visit Blenheim Vineyards, a winery located about 10 miles southeast of town and pioneered by Charlottesville native, Dave Matthews. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Charlottesville
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Why Go: Here, you'll find a wide selection of sparkling cava along with dry Catalan whites, rosés, and reds. And though you're unlikely to try fruity Rioja (produced in Northern Spain), the aromatic Catalan whites are sure to delight even the most discerning aficionados. Read More»
Read On: Top Things to Do in Barcelona
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