Whether it’s Gerwurztraminer from Alsace or Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, every wine evokes the characteristics of its particular region. Because wine is so closely linked with the land, wine-themed trips are a great way to learn more about local culture and even geology when on vacation.
With no shortage of oenophiles on staff, we asked the team for their top tips on vineyards to visit. Here are our 4 favorites, with reviews from folks who’ve visited personally.
Pure and simple Chateauneuf du Pape in Provence, France
Action shot of wine in the process of aging at Chateauneuf du Pape. Photo: Jean-Louis Zimmerman.
From Greg Martin, who spent a year eating and drinking his way around Provence.
My favourite wine region is Chateauneuf du Pape, where I learned that the area’s rocky soil is a key element in creating great grapes. The rocks absorb heat from the sun during the day, which helps to keep roots warm as the temperature drops overnight. A combination of this rocky soil and Les Mistral — the strong seasonal winds that keep the bugs away and avoid the need for pesticides — provides perfect conditions for growing some of the best grapes in the world! The actual village is small, but filled with enticing Caveau Degustation (tasting cellars).
History and scenery in Alsace, France
Sample some Dopff & Irion at the walled medieval city of Riquewihr. Photo by Russ Bowling.
From Robert Barlow-Busch, sharing his favorite stop on the Alsace wine route between Strasbourg and Switzerland.
Driving the Alsace wine route was one of my favorite excursions during a 2-year stay in neighboring Belgium. It’s a gorgeous, scenic drive along the Rhine river valley at the border of France and Germany. My favorite stop is Riquewihr, a walled and fortified medieval city in which automobiles are prohibited (you park outside and walk in). As a result, it seems to have frozen in time in the 1500s.
The nearby Dopff & Irion winery is well worth a visit. Their wine is sensational, especially if you’re in the mood for something on the sweeter side. The Alsace region in general is renowned for its Gerwurztraminer; I’ve developed quite a taste for it, following my tour! The region’s Riesling and Pinot Gris are also outstanding.
New world wine on Waiheke Island, New Zealand
Pull up a seat and lift a glass on the patio at Mudbrick Vineyard and Restaurant. Photo: Daniel Ngu.
Lindsay Johnston discovered the value of both vineyards and boxed wine while backpacking through NZ.
Only a hop, skip, and ferry ride from Auckland, Waiheke Island is a beautiful retreat with a handful of great vineyards. Though less popular than Marlborough (where much of the famous Sauv Blanc is grown), Waiheke is well worth a visit. I went with an organized vineyard tour to avoid driving from place to place, and it was without a doubt one of my very best days in New Zealand.
From the stunning view to the knowledgeable staff, Mudbrick left a lasting impression. A light lunch was complemented by a variety of tasters, including Cab Franc, Cab Sauv, and Chardonnay. I visited mid-day and the view of the bay was stunning, but they swear that sunset is even more impressive — and I can imagine why!
Beautiful barolo in Piedmont, Italy
Spectacular views from a spectacular room at the Ceretto winery. Photo: Taz.
Carolyn Ellis is a professionally trained chef who knows a thing or two about good wine!
Located in Alba, the Bricco Roche location of the Ceretto winery is located on top of a hill that provides magnificent views of both the vines and the area. The Barolo’s created here are beautiful, smooth, and worth waiting for while they mature in the bottle.
Bonus: Like bubbles? Veuve Clicquot was our hands-down winner for best tour (and best drinks!) in the Champagne region of France.
Posted January 13, 2012 by The Demeure Team | Print This!