Travel Tuesday 2023 - 10 Wine Tourism Wonders For Your Bucket List

As the world emerges from the confinement of lockdowns, the call of exploration beckons louder than ever. It's time to pack your bags and embark on a wine-filled adventure to destinations you might not have considered. Here's our curated list of the top 10 wine regions that should be on every traveller's radar in 2024 for an unforgettable wine tourism experience.

Beautiful view of Mount Fuji under autumn leaves. Lake Kawaguchi, Yamanashi, Japan (Credit: Sunil Naik, unsplash.com)

10. Japan - Yamanashi

Delve into Japan's winemaking history, which traces back to the 8th century. Yamanashi, located near Mount Fuji, boasts a temperate climate, ample sunshine, and volcanic soils—creating an ideal environment for viticulture. Taste the unique Koshu grape wines, light-bodied with high acidity, perfectly complementing Japanese cuisine. Explore wineries like Château Mercian for a delightful tour and tasting amid picturesque landscapes.

9. Hungary - Tokaj

Embark on a journey through Hungary's Tokaj Wine Region, with a winemaking history spanning over a thousand years. Taste the famous Aszú wine, known as the "Wine of Kings," and explore historic cellars carved into volcanic rock. Tokaj's unique microclimate creates wines with a distinctive taste, making it a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

Salgesch, Switzerland (Credit: Artiom Vallat, unsplash.com)

8. Switzerland - Valais

Valais, responsible for one-third of Swiss wine production, offers a picturesque landscape with vineyards extending over 100km along the Rhône. Savour Petite Arvine and Cornalin, among many other local grape varieties, as you explore terraced vineyards set against the backdrop of the Alps.

7. South Africa - Elgin

Discover Elgin Valley, one of South Africa's most dynamic wine regions. Nestled in the heart of the Overberg, this cool-climate area produces outstanding Chardonnays, Sauvignon Blancs, and Pinot Noirs. Explore the young yet award-winning wineries, benefitting from the region's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and unique microclimate.

6. Portugal - Algarve

Explore the millennium-old wine tradition of Algarve, where Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors all contributed to its viticultural heritage. Taste Negra Mole and other indigenous varieties, expressing the region's unique terroir. Cliff Richard's vineyard, established in 1997, adds a modern touch to Algarve's rich winemaking history.

Red Rock Algarve (Credit: Teddy Jansen, unsplash.com)

5. Greece - Santorini

Santorini, the ancient wine region of Greece, offers more than just breathtaking views. Assyrtiko, the island's flagship white grape, produces wines with character and longevity. Taste the unique expression of Santorini's volcanic soils, where tradition and innovation merge. Visit local winemakers using ancient techniques, such as cultivating vines in kouloura (traditional baskets), contributing to the region's distinct terroir.

4. Argentina - Mendoza

Mendoza, Argentina's wine heart, produces three-quarters of the country's wine. With over 150,000 hectares of vineyards, Mendoza stands as a viticultural giant. Discover the rich tapestry of Malbec, Torrontés, and other varietals thriving in this diverse region. Experience the warmth of Argentine hospitality while sipping world-class wines against the backdrop of the Andes.

3. Canada - Okanagan Valley

Amidst climate change, Canada emerges as a winner in wine cultivation. With 548 wineries managing around 12,000 hectares, the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia stands out. Experience a burgeoning wine industry set against stunning landscapes. Sample diverse varietals and enjoy the fruits of a region that has embraced winemaking with passion and dedication.

2. USA - Oregon

Oregon, with its cool climate, provides an ideal environment for growing Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Gamay. The Willamette Valley, renowned for its Pinot Noir, shares a latitude with France's Burgundy, ensuring stellar wines. Explore the diverse offerings of this premier wine region, where the beauty of nature aligns with the excellence of winemaking.

1. Georgia - Kakheti

Discover the roots of current wine trends in Georgia's Kakheti region, known for its skin-contact wines and ancient winemaking techniques dating back over 8,000 years. Explore the birthplace of wine, where iconic native grapes like Saperavi and Rkatsiteli flourish. Kakheti's amber wines, fermented in clay amphorae, offer a unique profile and a distinct savory complexity. Immerse yourself in UNESCO-listed winemaking traditions and witness the magic of this historic region.

In conclusion, Travel Tuesday 2023 beckons wine lovers to venture into unexplored territories, savor unique flavors, and create lasting memories. Pack your bags, raise a glass, and let the journey begin!

Cheers, Your VinoVoss Team.

By Lotte Gabrovits