Wine tourism is incredibly popular, and rightly so. There’s something uniquely romantic about visiting vineyards and sipping fine wines in picturesque locations across the world. Adding that some of the world’s most famous wineries are located in historic regions, going on an international wine tour can be a memorable adventure.
Here are five international destinations for wine lovers. If you love wine tasting, medieval towns, chateaux, and scenic landscapes, add these locations to your bucket list.
1. Douro Valley, Portugal
The Douro Valley is one of the most scenic locations in Portugal and home to dozens of wine estates and vineyards that rise above the Douro River. The region is known for the popular white wine called Vinho Verde, a traditional Portuguese creation. Douro wineries also produce the world-famous Port. Wine tasting at historic wineries and guided tours are available for visitors. The most popular attraction is the wine cruise on the Douro River.
2. Bordeaux, France
France has several major wine-producing regions, and Bordeaux produces some of the finest medium- to full-bodied red wines. Over 90% of them are made with Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Bordeaux is home to dozens of tourist attractions connected to the wine-making history of the region, including the rustic winery Les Cordeliers, located in a 14th-century monastery. Research must-visit wineries in advance to make the most of your visit.
3. Piedmont, Italy
Just like France, Italy has several world-famous wine regions, each with its signature wines and stunning scenery. Bordered by the Alps, Piedmont is known for its dramatic landscapes and excellent vineyards that produce the famous red wines Barolo and Barbaresco. In Piedmont, you can visit centuries-old wineries and go on wine tasting tours in the historic towns Alba and Asti, which are at the heart of the wine industry. While in Piedmont, don’t miss Turin, the region’s Baroque capital where you can taste not just local wines, but also the famous Italian cuisine.
4. Mendoza, Argentina
Argentina’s reputation in the wine industry has grown slowly but steadily, and Mendoza is the best-known wine region in the country. At the foothills of the Andes, Mendoza is full of gorgeous landscapes, and its wineries have a very versatile production. Interestingly, the vineyards are planted at higher altitudes than almost any other vineyards in the world. The most famous wines from Mendoza are Malbec, Cereza, and Criolla Grande.
5. La Rioja, Spain
With hundreds of acres of vineyards, Spain produces a rich variety of red and white wines. The most popular Spanish wines are Tempranillo, Garnache, Mazuelo, and Viura, which come from La Rioja. Spain’s smallest province, La Rioja has a solid reputation in the wine industry since it is home to the country’s oldest vineyards. Visitors who come for the enticing wines are also seduced by the mix of rugged landscapes and historic sights.
Your passion for wine can take you to the most beautiful places in the world, but don’t forget that you can enjoy the same world-famous wines from the comfort of your home. Until your next trip, try online wine stores to purchase the world’s finest wines. Find your favorites and pair them with international dishes from the same region for a fully immersive experience.
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