Santorini is such a beautiful sun-kissed island that you will probably be in danger of forgetting about the fascinating wineries there. Though Greece’s wines did suffer a lot during Ottoman rule, since joining the EU, wine has flourished where little else has. The native Greek grapes mean the taste here is very different from most of the wines you’re probably familiar with.
Many people are surprised to learn that Texas produces such quality wine, but the that’s the truth. Though the summers here are long and tough, Texas is home to a burgeoning wine growing community that does its very best to come up with some terrific variety for all of us wine lovers. Traverse highway 290 between Fredericksburg and Stonewall for the best action.
It’s not just Marsala that can be found here, recently the wine Nero d’Avola has been making great waves. Sicily is such a splendid island that it will be hard to pick where to go to, because wherever you stop you’re sure to be nearby some magnificent vineyards. This is definitely an island to be enjoyed by rental car.
South Africa is such a beautiful country, and it’s also justly celebrated for its long history of wine making. Grapes have been grown in this region since at least 1679. The local tipples are Cabernet, Merlot and Shiraz.
Lots of amazing wine comes out of South Australia, just a short drive away from state capital, Adelaide. Shiraz is the predominant grape here, yet you will also find Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache and Cabernet tugging on its coat tails.
Mostly known for port, Douro also produces claret and Burgundy style wines. The whole amazing area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It would be best to take a 4-wheeler with you to explore the Coa Valley Archaeological Museum and Park. You’ll find the city of Porto a little more than an hour away.
This region is the pride of Hungary, producing, for around nine centuries, the world famous Tokay sweet wine. Though the capital Budapest is only two and a half hours away, you’ll find that the area closely borders neighboring Slovakia, Ukraine and Romania.
Few regions can ever hope to outshine Bordeaux in the classy wine stakes. The majority of the wine is Bordeaux, otherwise known as red claret, though some white wine is produced. Every two years the world’s most important wine fair, the Vinexpo, is hosted. The next is due in 2017. I hope to see you there.
Only two and half hours from Niagara Falls, this area offers over 100 first class wineries. These hills produce dozens of different wines. While here you may as well enjoy a tour on the wonderful lakes.
The valley is simply beautiful, and hosts some 131 different wineries for you to visit. If you come here in winter you can enjoy some great skiing. But in summer the area becomes a backdrop to some exciting water sports.