With its renowned wine regions dotted across the continent, Europe is a mecca for wine-lovers seeking exceptional vintages. If a wine-tasting getaway in Europe is on your wishlist, these three destinations are must…tastes! They offer stunning scenery, top-notch vineyards, wine varietals to suit every palate, and so much more for an unforgettable holiday. Cheers! To these European wine tasting destinations.
Tuscany, Italy
Inviting vine-covered hills, exquisite wines, mouthwatering cuisine, and postcard-perfect towns…what’s not to love about Tuscany? As Italy’s prominent wine region, Tuscany spoils wine lovers with the likes of Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Base yourself in a charming town like Montalcino to tour its acclaimed Brunello producers or the Chianti wine district to experience the region’s vibrant wine culture. Don’t miss the Super Tuscans—the famous blended reds that pioneered new paradigms for Italian winemaking.
Finish off tastings with platters of pecorino cheese, prosciutto, and other Tuscan delicacies that complement the wines flawlessly. This sublime wine destination never disappoints!
Rioja, Spain
The wines of Rioja enjoy immense prestige in Spain and across the globe for good reason—they’re that exceptional! From vibrant young Tempranillos to intricately complex Reservas and Gran Reservas nurtured in oak barrels for years, Rioja yields Spanish wines with real character and finesse. The regions’ wineries range from avant-garde architectural marvels like Ysios to sprawling old-world estates with underground cellars housing countless bottles. Travel along the Rioja wine route to tour and taste award-winning wines in unique bodegas paired with pinchos (small bites) that accentuate the wines’ notes.
With its idyllic countryside, striking mountain backdrops, medieval architecture, and extraordinary wines, La Rioja sets the scene for an extraordinary wine retreat.
Burgundy, France
For sheer wine pedigree, Burgundy is tough to beat. As France’s foremost wine region, it gave rise to legendary Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays that wine connoisseurs consider the pinnacle. A journey along the fabled Route des Grands Crus unveils renowned domains cultivating Grand Cru vineyards for centuries. Their cellars contain rare old vintage bottles and alongside the newest releases awaiting your discerning tastebuds.
Village wine shops are great places to rub shoulders with winegrowers while sampling regional specialties. Besides the wine, you’ll adore Burgundy’s mustard fields, medieval towns with Gothic cathedrals, and rolling green hills dotted with vines. Come during harvest season to witness the crucial grape-picking process culminating in these coveted French wines.
Cheers! To these European wine tasting destinations. With this insider guide, get ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime European wine tour taking in Tuscany, Rioja, and Burgundy—the cream of the vineyard’s crop for wine tastings! Let your palate delight in their stellar wines against gorgeous backdrops.