If you’re a wine lover, Europe is your perfect destination. With centuries of winemaking history and diverse climates and terroirs, there’s no shortage of amazing wine regions to explore. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-drenched vineyards of the Douro Valley, here are some of the best wine regions in Europe to add to your travel itinerary.
Tuscany, Italy: Home to Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.
For a good reason, Tuscany is one of Italy’s most famous wine regions. It’s home to some of the country’s most iconic wines, including Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. In addition, the region’s warm, sunny climate and hilly terrain provide the perfect conditions for growing Sangiovese grapes, which are the backbone of many Tuscan wines. When visiting Tuscany, explore the charming medieval towns and picturesque countryside, and don’t miss the chance to sample some of the region’s world-class wines.
Bordeaux, France: Known for its red blends and prestigious chateaus.
Bordeaux is one of the most famous wine regions in the world, and for a good reason. Located in southwestern France, the region is known for its rich, full-bodied red blends made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc grapes. Bordeaux is also home to some of the world’s most prestigious chateaus, including Chateau Margaux and Chateau Lafite Rothschild. When visiting Bordeaux, explore the city’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sample some of the region’s delicious wines at one of its many tasting rooms and wine bars.
Rioja, Spain: Famous for its Tempranillo-based wines.
Rioja is one of Spain’s most famous wine regions, located in the northern part of the country. The region is known for its Tempranillo-based red wines, aged in oak barrels to give them a rich, complex flavour. Rioja wines are classified based on their ageing process, with Crianza wines aged for at least two years (with at least one year in oak), Reserva wines aged for at least three years (with at least one year in oak), and Gran Reserva wines aged for at least five years (with at least two years in oak). When visiting Rioja, explore the region’s picturesque vineyards and sample some of its delicious wines at one of its many bodegas (wineries).
Mosel, Germany: Produces some of the world’s best Rieslings.
The Mosel wine region in Germany is known for producing some of the best Rieslings in the world. The region’s steep slopes and cool climate create the perfect conditions for growing this aromatic grape variety. As a result, the wines from Mosel are typically light-bodied with high acidity and a distinct mineral character. When visiting the region, take a scenic drive along the Mosel River and stop at some local wineries for a tasting. Also, take advantage of the opportunity to try a Trockenbeerenauslese, a sweet dessert wine made from grapes affected by noble rot.
Douro Valley, Portugal: The birthplace of Port wine and stunning scenery.
The Douro Valley in Portugal is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. This region is the birthplace of Port wine, a fortified wine produced here for centuries. The steeply terraced vineyards along the Douro River create a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site landscape. In addition to Port, the region has excellent red and white wines. When visiting the Douro Valley, take a river cruise, visit a Port wine cellar, and enjoy the local cuisine.