5 Lesser-Known Wine Regions to Explore in 2023 for Your Next Wine Tour

Explore the wine regions with amazing landscapes (Photo: Daniel Vogel, unsplash.com)

Wine tours can be a wonderful addition to your vacation. Exploring vineyards that boast stunning landscapes and rich histories, tasting wines paired with local delicacies, and engaging in meaningful conversations with the people behind the wines are all part of the experience. While Napa Valley, Bordeaux, and Tuscany are renowned wine tour destinations, numerous lesser-known wine regions beckon adventurous wine enthusiasts. Here are five such regions with unparalleled landscapes and exceptional wines that you should consider for your next journey.

1. Douro Valley, Portugal: Where Natural Beauty Meets Rich History

Situated along the winding Douro River, Portugal’s Douro Valley presents a picturesque landscape adorned with terraced vineyards that have stood for centuries. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, the Douro Valley is celebrated not only for its breathtaking vistas but also for its profound winemaking legacy.

The Douro Valley is renowned as the birthplace of Port wine, a fortified beverage. To stabilize the wine during transport, the British introduced the process of fortification. However, the Douro Valley’s offerings extend beyond just Port. The region also boasts exceptional still reds and whites. These wines blend the unique terroir with native grape varieties like Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Gouveio, Malvasia Fina, Rabigato, and more.

A wine excursion in the Douro Valley promises stunning panoramas, charming historic villages, and the chance to savor wines that truly embody the region’s distinct terroir.

The picturesque Douro Valley (Photo: Rach Sam, unsplash.com)

2. Dalmatian Coast, Croatia: A Coastal Paradise with Ancient Roots

Croatia might not be the first place you think of for wine, but it’s making waves in the wine world. With unique grapes like the strong red Plavac Mali and the fresh white Pošip, it tells a story of traditional winemaking and the Mediterranean climate.

Thanks to creative winemakers, Croatia’s wines are getting noticed on the global stage. Just picture enjoying a wine while looking at the bright blue Adriatic Sea. That’s the magic of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. This area isn’t just about wine. It also has beautiful beaches, old towns, and tasty food. With its mix of culture, history, and great wines, Croatia is becoming a must-visit for wine lovers

The city of Split on the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia (Photo: Chris Curry, unsplash.com)

3. Savoie, France: Alpine Wonders and Delicate Wines

Hiding in the shadows of the fame of other French wine regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy or Champagne, Savoie, a wine region surrounded by the majestic French Alps, is a paradise for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts.

The cool climate of Savoie gives rise to pure and delicate wines, primarily made from native grapes like Jacquère, Altesse, and Mondeuse. The whites are refreshing and delicate, while the reds are vibrant and full of character.

Besides wine, Savoie offers many outdoor activities, from hiking in summer to skiing in winter. Its pretty villages have charming chalets and filling mountain food. If you want a wine tour with some mountain fun, Savoie is a great pick.

Immerse in nature in Savoie (Photo: Clémence Bergougnoux, unsplash.com)

4. Alto Adige, Italy: Where German Precision Meets Italian Passion

Alto Adige, situated in northern Italy, seamlessly merges German and Italian traditions. The region’s varied climate and altitudes give rise to an extensive range of grape varieties, including Pinot Grigio, Gewürztraminer, and Lagrein.

This picturesque area captivates with its majestic Dolomite mountain ranges, ancient castles, and vast apple orchards. The region offers endless activities such as hiking, skiing, and visits to top-tier wineries where time seems to stand still.

The local cuisine, a delightful blend of German heartiness and Italian flair, perfectly complements the region’s crisp, refreshing wines.

Village in Alto Adige with the landscape of the Dolomites

(Photo: Stefano Bazzoli, unsplash.com)

5. Patagonia, Argentina: Where Wild Beauty Meets Exquisite Wines

If you venture to the far south of Argentina, you’ll discover Patagonia, a wine region marked by its wild terrain and adventurous ethos. Patagonia has carved a niche for itself in the global wine scene with its premium Pinot Noir. Owing to the cool climate, these wines are nuanced and elegant, mirroring the spirit of their breathtaking environment.

For those who are both nature enthusiasts and wine aficionados, Patagonia presents the perfect blend of thrilling adventure and exquisite wines. Imagine savoring a glass of Patagonian wine as you gaze upon the stark beauty of glaciers, towering mountains, and untouched lakes.

The unembellished beauty of Patagonia (Photo: Diego Jimenez, unsplash.com)

While celebrated wine regions have their enduring charm, exploring lesser-known vineyard destinations adds a touch of excitement and novelty to one’s oenophilic pursuits. So, on your next vinous adventure, why not toast to the uncharted wine terrains? Embark on a journey that promises unique and unforgettable moments!

by Sylvia Ba