5 European destinations every wine-lover must visit
Raise a glass to these decadent destinations.
1. Champagne, France
There’s just something about the word ‘champagne’ that gets us all excited. Arguably the most famous type of wine in the world, champagne was first developed right here in the south of France by monk Dom Perignon in the 17th century. Today, you can tour some of the world’s oldest and most iconic producers – like Taittinger, Veuve Cliquot and Ruinart – then bed down in beautifully restored country chateaux.
2. Piedmont, Italy
Sitting in the northwest of Italy on the border with Switzerland and France, the Piedmont (pronounced Peh-ah-mont-ay) region is famous for its rich reds like Barbera, Dolcetto and Nebbiolo, and crisp white Cortese, Arneis and Erbaluce. As well as some excellent – and ancient – cellar doors, there are high-end hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants and indulgent spas.
3. La Rioja, Spain
Earlier this year Vogue magazine called La Rioja the wine region to visit right now, so you know it’s got to be good. The landscape is made up of gnarled vines, shimmering olive groves and walled medieval villages, all set under pale blue skies and near constant sun. It’s only a small region but there are more than 500 wineries turning out excellent varietals, ranging from deep reds to delicate rosé and fresh whites. Don’t miss a stay at Marqués de Riscal, arguably the world’s most famous wine hotel, designed by Frank Ghery.
4. Douro Valley, Portugal
The Romans introduced wine to the Douro Valley in northern Portugal as far back as the third century AD. Over time, it’s become known for its steeply terraced vineyards, small family-run quintas (winemaking estates) and port. Everything here centres around the Douro River and vineyards run all along its winding banks. You can see this enchanting region by road or hop aboard a small ship and cruise along the river at a stately pace – with plenty of stops for tastings.
5. Velké Bilovice, Czech Republic
It might not be as famous as the others on this list, but Velké Bilovice is something special. The Czech Republic’s most famous wine producing town has the good stuff running through its veins. It has a population of just 3,900 yet is home to more than 1,000 winemakers tending 2,000 vineyards. Every building in town has something to do with wine and every day during the season a different cellar door will open for tastings – just look out for the sign reading ‘degustace’.
Have you ever been to these destinations?