10 Best Wine Travel Destinations 2015

Within the world of fine wines, the Finger Lakes wine region in upstate New York is a soon-to-be revealed secret. Nestled amidst bucolic farmland and the spindly glacial lakes for which the region is named, it’s home to some of the best cool-climate wines in America. Known particularly for world-class Riesling, it’s also home to an increasingly diverse array of wines, from Grüner Veltliner to Teroldego. Over 100 wineries surround the three main lakes, Cayuga, Seneca and Keuka. But with spectacular sights and a blossoming local food culture, the region is unlikely to stay hidden for long. —Anna Lee C. Iijima

Where to Dine 

With specialties like the Whole Hog (housemade sausage topped with local cheese curds, bacon and egg), poutine and a boozy Oreo Stout milkshake, FLX Wienery is a cardiologist’s worst nightmare, but it’s irresistibly delicious. To savor local wines and international standards side-by-side, head to Microclimate Wine Bar, a popular winemaker hangout. For dinner, enjoy sunset views over Seneca Lake at Dano’s, an Austrian heuriger, or wine tavern, which offers modern spins on classics like schnitzel and spätzle.

Where to Stay 

The Harbor Hotel in Watkins Glen is the region’s mainstay for upscale accommodations. Overlooking Seneca Lake, it boasts a convenient downtown location and plush bedding. If visiting with a group or children, seek out one of the region’s numerous vacation rentals. The Villa, a duplex guesthouse owned by Seneca Lake winery Bellangelo, is both luxurious and family friendly. Appointed with fully equipped kitchens, grill and laundry, the house is located just steps from the lake and neighboring wineries.

Other Activities 

Hiking through the 19 waterfalls within the 500-foot ravine at Watkins Glen State Park feels like you’ve stumbled into Middle Earth from J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic novel, The Hobbit. If traveling on horseback is more your style, Painted Bar Stables, located just minutes from Watkins Glen, offers guided trail rides through the Finger Lakes National Forest.

Budget Tip 

Dine like a king at pauper’s prices by taking advantage of the spectacular local produce, meats, cheeses and more available at the many farm stands found along the wine trails.

When to Go

In spring, the weather is mild and vineyards verdant, but summer and fall are the best seasons.

Where to Taste

Because the wine trails frame the lakes, it’s best to plan your itinerary by lake. On Seneca, which has the greatest concentration of wineries, the pioneering Hermann J. Wiemer remains one of the best ambassadors of Finger Lakes Riesling. Shaw Vineyards offers rich, concentrated Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and more. Other Seneca Lake notables like Kemmeter, Red Tail Ridge and Bloomer Creek are so focused on small-volume winemaking that their wines are scarcely available outside the region. Their tasting rooms let you savor latest releases while often chatting with the winemakers themselves. Keuka Lake is home to Dr. Konstantin Frank, one of the oldest and most celebrated wineries in the region, as well as standout producers like Keuka Lake Vineyards, Ravines and Heron Hill. On Cayuga Lake, classic, pristine wines from Sheldrake Point and Hosmer offer a contrast to the unusually earthy Bellwether wines (also a fine stop for hard apple cider).

Prominent Wines

Riesling is king here. Despite generations of naysayers who insisted Vitis vinifera would never succeed, Riesling particularly triumphs on the sloping, slate-rich soils that surround the lakes. From bone dry to lusciously sweet, Finger Lakes Riesling can be rich in peach and yellow cherry notes, yet streaked with acidity and minerality. Increasingly, red varieties like Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and Syrah are stealing the spotlight, exhibiting a spectrum in style from delicate and mineral to powerful, rich and ripe. Finger Lakes Chardonnay shows promise in both still and sparkling forms, often with vibrant, spine-tingling acidity and minerality.

Local in the Know 

Master Sommelier, winemaker/owner at Element Winery and chef/owner of the FLX Wienery, Christopher Bates suggests a visit to the town of Dundee for a slice of upstate farm life. “Get up early for breakfast at the Crossing Diner. Stop by Crystal Valley Produce for local fruits and vegetables, and Shirks Meats, a Mennonite butcher, for locally raised, antibiotic- and hormone-free meats. Don’t forget to grab some housemade beef jerky and bacon.”

Other Hot Local Tips

Local Food: Garlic Cabernet Hot Sauce
Local Drink: Black Magic Stout from Empire Brewing Company
Fun Fact: The women’s rights movement has deep ties to Seneca Falls, and is home to the National Women’s Hall of Fame.

Located in northwest Italy and bordering Switzerland and France, Piedmont is Italy’s second-largest region, and the most mountainous. The majestic, snow-capped Alps make a stunning backdrop to the rolling, vine-covered hills. And these aren’t just any vineyards. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2014, vineyards in the Langhe, Roero and Monferrato areas are amongst the most celebrated in Italy. They’re home to famed reds made from Nebbiolo, Barbera and Dolcetto, as well as Moscato d’Asti, a lightly frothy dessert wine. Piedmont, which means “foot of the mountain,” is also a culinary paradise, famed for its rare white truffles. Throw in outstanding lodgings, and you have a wine lover’s dream destination.

Where to Dine 

At Michelin-starred La Ciau del Tornavento, Chef Maurilio Garola turns out contemporary renditions of the area’s traditional dishes and boasts an extensive wine list. In Alba, dine on classic Langhe cuisine at Enoclub, with its vaulted stone ceilings. If you want to dine like a local winemaker, head to Trattoria Risorgimento for regional dishes and informal dining. And don’t miss Da Felicin in Monforte, where Chef Nino Rocca revisits time-honored recipes using locally sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay 

A luxury country hotel and outstanding restaurant, Castello di Sinio is run by an American, Denise Pardini, who’s an expert on local cuisine, wines and estates. It set the benchmark for the area when it opened in 2005. Nestled in the hills of Moscato d’Asti, Relais San Maurizio offers Old World grandeur, a wellness spa and a Michelin-starred restaurant, Guido da Costigliole. In Serralunga, the modern Il Boscareto Resort & Spa delivers world-class amenities. Hotel Barolo offers slightly more informal lodging.

Other Activities 

If you ski, you’ll love Piedmont’s premier Alpine resort, Sestriere, home of the 2006 Winter Olympics. The region also offers numerous golfing resorts like Golf Feudo d’Asti, located in the Monferrato hills. And if walking is your thing, consider trekking on a truffle hunt.

Budget Tip 

Book a self-catering apartment at an agriturismo, a farmhouse-style lodging, and head to the specialty shops for local cheeses like Castelmagno or handcrafted salamis. Pair with a local red and finish with chocolate bonet. Buon appetito!

When to Go

The best time to visit is September or October—just before or during the harvest.

Where to Taste

Almost all wineries open their doors for tasting and tours, but generally by appointment only. Many firms offer free tastings, while others charge a nominal fee. Fontanafredda, one of the largest and most historic Barolo estates, offers group tours and tastings on the weekends. Individuals can request a weekday appointment. The firm also showcases its wines at two onsite restaurants. Other top Barolo estates that welcome visitors include Paolo Scavino and Cavallotto in Castiglione Falletto, Massolino in Serralunga and Brezza in Barolo. In Barbaresco, be sure to stop by boutique winery Cascina delle Rose or the Produttori del Barbaresco co-op. Visitors can also taste the local vino at the Enoteca Regionale del Barbaresco or head to the Rizzi estate in Treiso. In the Monferrato hills, set up tastings at leading Barbera d’Asti estates Braida and Bava.

Prominent Wines

Piedmont is home to Barolo and Barbaresco, two of Italy’s most celebrated reds. Made with the native grape Nebbiolo, both are structured and age magnificently. Other wines made with Nebbiolo include Nebbiolo d’Alba, Roero, Gattinara, Ghemme and the easy-drinking Langhe Nebbiolo. The Barbera grape produces vibrant wines that are naturally high in acidity, but low in tannins. Barbera d’Alba and Barbera d’Asti are round, fruit-forward and incredibly food friendly. Dolcetto is a light- to medium-bodied red that boasts juicy black cherry, licorice, spice and almond notes, and has firm tannins. The best come from Dogliani. Piedmont also produces several white wines of note: light-bodied Gavi, full-bodied Arneis, enticing and complex Timorasso and refreshing Moscato d’Asti.

Local in the Know 

Gaia Gaja, vintner Angelo Gaja’s dynamic daughter, says, “If you love cycling, there are stunning roads you can pedal on. My favorite itinerary is in Alta Langa. Starting from Manera, take the Ponte Belbo and go toward Cassino down to Cortemilia. At the end, turn left toward Vesime, then up to Montaldo Scarampi-Olmo Gentile. Pedal to Roccaverano, than toward Serole. Before you get to Serole, turn left to Rocchettino and visit the Todocco Sanctuary.”

Other Hot Local Tips

Local Food: Partridge with a foie gras sauce at Ristorante Piazza Duomo.
Local Drink: Bicerin (a chocolate, cream and coffee concoction) from Caffè al Bicerin.
Wine Shop: Damilano

This bucolic region excels at classic Bordeaux varieties, while Syrah is angling to become the area’s flagship wine. Beyond the bottle, however, the landscape, food and people are, as the country’s marketing slogan campaign says, 100% pure New Zealand. In this grape-growing paradise, rumpled hills sprinkled with sheep are intersected by rivers and hug a spectacular curved bay along the Pacific coast of the North Island, while sheltering ranges tuck vineyards in from the west. Warm, dry summers and long autumns—mixed with a maritime climate—keep grapes healthy and happy. Because Kiwis have a strong affinity for the outdoors, athletically inclined wine lovers can pursue both health and happiness, cycling a network of well-organized biking trails between winery visits and farm-to-table repasts.

Where to Dine 

Cuisine Good Food Awards named Elephant Hill near the Te Awanga coast (pronounced tee-a-wana) the “Best Winery Restaurant 2014” for its stylish setting and seasonal food. Black Barn Bistro serves relaxed, produce-driven lunches under a canopy of vines. French bistro meets Kiwi country lodge with a dash of Wuthering Heights at Terrôir at Craggy Range. If the high drama of a Brontë romance unfolded on a plate, it might look like Terrôir’s oysters nestled theatrically in their glittering shells, served atop a rough-hewn canoe festooned with flora of the sea. If you need to put a toe in the sand, head to Pacifica for seafood and game in a charming, beachside bungalow.

Where to Stay 

Wake up to a pastoral landscape of sheep farms and vines in one of Craggy Range’s modern, spacious cottages. Luxury lodge and golf course The Farm at Cape Kidnappers sits perched on a dreamy headland site above the Pacific Ocean. Staff can arrange aerial vineyard tours via Cessna or helicopter. For a taste of Napier’s Art Deco history, book a colorfully adorned studio or apartment at the Masonic Hotel. Located in the seaside village of Ahuriri, The Crown Hotel offers restored heritage suites and contemporary rooms.

Other Activities 

The twice-yearly Food and Wine Classic (F.A.W.C.) celebrates the coming of summer (November) and winter (June) in the Southern Hemisphere. New Zealand’s oldest farmer’s market can be plundered all summer long on Sundays in Hastings. You can taste wine while cycling through vineyards on the 22-mile flat, off-road Wineries Ride, which swings through the Gimblett Gravels and is part of the New Zealand Cycle Trail Network.

Budget Tip 

Sidle up to winemakers and cellar rats refueling on tacos, guacamole and margaritas at festive Mamacita’s near Havelock North, or Mexi Mama in Napier. The Puketapu fries up inexpensive, classic country pub fare like fish and chips.

When to Go

Hawke’s Bay receives sunshine year-round, but the warmest months are January and February. However, New Zealand’s notorious four-seasons-in-a-day weather means layers, even in summer.

Where to Taste

With several buildings dating back to its founding in 1896, Te Mata Estate is one of the region’s oldest wineries. Best known as a producer of Bordeaux-style reds, try the Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated Coleraine. The restored seminary building housing Mission Estate, the first winery in Hawke’s Bay, is another must see. Established by Marists, it has survived a litany of disasters that includes earthquakes and fire. Stop in the modern facility at Trinity Hill to sample wines produced from the Gimblett Gravels. Trinity Hill Winemaker Warren Gibson also bottles a label called Bilancia from a nearby plot. Its La Collina Syrah argues persuasively for the grape’s future in the region. Find acclaimed Chardonnay and a family-friendly vibe not far from the beach at Clearview Estate, Elephant Hill, Black Barn Estate and Craggy Range. They all hit the pleasure trifecta: beautiful properties, excellent restaurants and superb wines.

Prominent Wines

Many of the best vineyards, especially for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah, lie in the Gimblett Gravels (warm, free-draining gravel) or the adjacent Bridge Pa Triangle (slightly cooler, with a mix of clay, sand and silt over red metal), two subregions growing in recognition. While full-bodied reds receive the most attention, Hawke’s Bay actually produces slightly more white wine. Elegant Chardonnay, followed by Sauvignon Blanc ranging from grassy to tropical, predominates. For lovers of Bordeaux, the prices beat classified growths any day, but production is limited, as are exports to the U.S. Bring a large suitcase to collect the stellar 2009, 2013 and 2014 vintages.

Local in the Know 

Michael Henley, CEO of Trinity Hill, says: “Visit downtown Napier to view the historic buildings constructed after the devastating 1931 earthquake. During its annual Art Deco celebration in mid-February, revelers dress in 1930s attire, arrive in classic cars and picnic in the streets to watch performers dance the foxtrot. This year, the festival hosts an Art Deco-themed cricket match to coincide with the World Cup tournament that is happening in NZ.”

Other Hot Local Tips

Local Food: Chili pepper and lime relish from Orcona Chillis ’N Peppers.
Local Drink: Village Cider from Edgebrook Cider.
Fun Fact: The National Aquarium of New Zealand in Napier is the only place in the country where you can swim with sharks (supervised, of course). Tickets are $82 per person.

France’s second-largest wine-growing area is vastly diverse. Breathtakingly beautiful villages and well-tended vineyards line the region’s 13 wine trails, highlighting the different landscapes of the Côtes du Rhône and Côtes du Rhône Villages. Starting at the Camargue, the routes head up through Provence toward Lyon, providing insight into culture and winegrowing along the way. The Rhône Valley covers roughly 150 miles and 5,500 estates, and it’s traditionally demarcated between the narrow north and sprawling south. You’ll need to make some tough choices, depending on the length of your trip.

Where to Dine 

In the north, Michel Chabran (Pont de l’Isère) and Maison Pic (Valence) are the culinary superstars. Le Cercle des Vignerons and Bistrot de Serine (both in Ampuis) feature affordable menus and cozy surroundings. Try Le Mangevins in Tain l’Hermitage for great pairings and value. In the south, prettier and less pricey are L’Oustalet and its shade-dappled terrace in Gigondas, or Le Mesclun (Séguret) and its stunning views. Near Châteauneuf-du-Pape, La Table de Sorgues has an excellent wine list and cheese cart.

Where to Stay 

Splurge for a night in the south at Hotel Crillon le Brave, a cluster of ancient stone houses, two restaurants and wine cellar surrounded by vines and olive groves. The legendary Perrin family has rooms with designer décor and hotel service above their L’Oustalet wine boutique in Gigondas. For classy self-catering with jaw-dropping views, Les Patios des Vignes is the perfect base for exploring the Séguret, officially one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages, as well as Vinsobres, Rasteau, Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Beaumes-de-Venise and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Consider a stay at the chic M. Chapoutier les Gîtes, near Tain l’Hermitage, when visiting the northern appellations.

Other Activities 

Many villages offer culinary workshops, matching wines with mushrooms, macarons, truffles and nougat. Burn off the calories by hiking through the Dentelles de Montmirail or Mont Ventoux, or ride the bike trails that run the length of the Rhône. Northeast of Avignon, the lavender fields around Sault are uplifting (the flowering season is July through mid-August).

Budget Tip 

Hit the co-ops for well-made, accessibly priced wine. At trendy Cave de Vacqueyras, you can even buy in bulk. Stop off at Cave de Tain l’Hermitage to stock up on bargain bottles and enjoy the free walking tour around the steeply sloped vineyards across the street.

When to Go

May’s Festival of Vine and Wine is a grand stage for wineries throughout the region. July’s Festival d’Avignon is a cultural highlight, as is the Ban des Vendanges harvest celebration in October.

Where to Taste

Many villages have a Maison des Vins (wine house) offering free tastings. The Caveau de Gigondas is open daily and offers 120 wines from 75 producers. Larger cooperative wineries have well-appointed tasting rooms, and Beaumes de Venise has a gourmet restaurant (Le Dolium). M. Chapoutier and Paul Jaboulet Aîné have smart town-center facilities in Tain. In Avignon, the groundbreaking Carré du Palais will be the official showcase for Côtes du Rhône and Rhône Valley AOC wines, situated right in front of the Pope’s Palace. Scheduled to open this summer, it will house a wine school, wine bar, gourmet restaurant, luxury suites and boutiques.

Prominent Wines

In the northerly tip near Lyon, wines range from the deep-flavored reds of Hermitage to the more delicate Côte-Rôtie (the latter is usually made from 100% Syrah, although Viognier is allowed). Jean-Louis Chave is Hermitage’s superstar, but the winery is closed to visitors. Guigal, Chapoutier and Paul Jaboulet Aîné are also renowned. Fashionable, full-bodied Condrieu is worth hunting down. To the south, the growers of Châteauneuf-du-Pape work with up to 13 grape varieties to produce complex, characterful wines. The villages of Rasteau, Vacqueyras and Gigondas offer excellent value (look for names like Perrin, Brusset and Montirius). For sweet wine fans, Domaine des Bernardins’ Muscat de Beaumes de Venise is a must.

Local in the Know 

“Châteauneuf-du-Pape is still key for wine lovers,” says American-born sommelier Kelly McAuliffe, who’s based in Provence. “Visiting the ruin of the Pope’s summer home at the top of the hill to take in the history and gorgeous views is a must. I love to take people around the Dentelles de Montmirail, too. The soaring limestone cliffs and terraced vineyards are perfect for sunset walks. Of the many excellent restaurants, one of my top tips is Coteaux et Fourchettes, near Cairanne, for its memorable meals and unbeatably priced wine list.

Other Hot Local Tips

Local Food: Valrhona chocolate confections from La Cité du Chocolat Valrhona.
Local Drink: Le Vice Légat cocktail (with gin, pear nectar, passion fruit and tonic water) at La Mirande.
Fun Fact: Rock climbers can scale the teeth-like (and aptly named) Dentelles de Montmirail, a dramatic outcropping of limestone ridges offering stunning Rhône Valley vineyard views.

Expect the unexpected in Orlando. Shrugging off its just-for-kids image, it sports brag-inducing eats and world-class wine experiences, particularly in new neighborhoods like the Mills 50 District and Winter Park. Ricky Ly, author of The Food Lovers’ Guide to Orlando, points to nominations of several local chefs for James Beard Foundation awards to illustrate the city’s culinary chops. “From hidden speakeasies like The Pharmacy, to the Basque-style restaurant, Txokos Basque Kitchen, serving cola-and-wine-braised kalimotxos pork belly, there is something to be found for every wine and food lover just outside the theme park gates.”

Where to Dine 

Forget Orlando’s chain restaurant reputation: Playful plates at The Ravenous Pig like cocoa-braised boar pappardelle and fried rabbit with carrot ketchup showcase Winter Park’s creativity. Prime meats grilled over white American oak (often reserved for wine barrels) topped with Sherry reduction or Rioja wine sauces are the order at Capa, the Four Seasons’ wine-friendly, Spanish-inspired restaurant. Visitors should mine the Mills 50 District for affordable ethnic food gems like mushroom-and-pork-filled Vietnamese rice crepes at Vietnam Cuisine and curry-dipped roti canai at Hawkers Asian Street Fare. You can also splurge on a 10-course wine dinner with theatrical touches at the opulent Victoria & Albert’s at Walt Disney World. Expert wine selections are pulled from a 4,200-bottle wine cellar and servers sport Victorian attire.

Where to Stay 

Want to spend the night within Walt Disney World’s fairy-tale gates? The Four Seasons Orlando is no Mickey Mouse affair. The luxurious 443-room hotel offers five restaurants, two bars and an 18-room spa, along with waterslides (in case you’re still a kid at heart). For a feel of Florida’s natural splendor, head to the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. Set on 500 lush acres, guests can go kayaking, fly fishing or bird watching on the adjacent Shingle Creek, considered the headwaters of the Everglades.

Other Activities 

With more than 170 golf courses, 20 golf academies and picture-perfect weather, Orlando is a golfer’s dream. Grab your clubs and head to the greens. Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club, the Bay Hill Club & Lodge and Grand Cypress Resort top many golfers’ bucket lists.

Budget Tip 

“A hidden gem in Winter Park is The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art,” says Mark Jaronski, vice president of global communications for Visit Orlando. “For $5, you can explore one of the most comprehensive collections of artworks by Louis Comfort Tiffany.”

When to Go

Visit in September. Besides cooler temperatures, kids will be back in school, meaning you’ll find substantially smaller crowds.

Where to Taste

Built mainly on swampland, Central Florida is not exactly famous for grape growing, but that doesn’t mean visitors can’t find great wines. If you’ve never sipped wine straight from the cask, head to Highball & Harvest (located inside the Ritz-Carlton) for 16 cask-pulled selections, mainly from California and Oregon. At Eola Wine Company, with locations in Orlando and Winter Park, there are 50 boutique and small-producer wines by the glass, along with over 200 bottles to choose from. Wine flights with four pours are popular there, too, especially of the mimosa variety during weekend brunch. Millennials shouldn’t miss Imperial Wine Bar & Beer Garden. The eclectic décor, bohemian vibe and lush outdoor patio invite relaxation, with 35 ever-changing wine selections by the glass. Want to pack as much wine tasting into your trip as possible? Wine lovers can plan a visit during the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival at Walt Disney World. It celebrates its 20th anniversary in fall 2015, featuring nearly 30 food and beverage marketplaces, wine and mixology seminars, winemaker dinners at the resort’s signature restaurants and a gala Party for the Senses.

Local in the Know 

“The East End Market occupies a repurposed church complex and is home to an array of food-centric businesses,” says Scott Joseph, food blogger and founder of Scott Joseph’s Orlando Restaurant Guide. “Among them are a coffee roaster, juice bar, cheese monger, bakery and a sushi bar. The garden grows herbs and produce for the vendors, an incubator kitchen allows entrepreneurs to test their food ideas and a full-service Basque restaurant keeps things going into the night.”

Other Hot Local Tips

Local Food: Oversized stone crabs at Big Fin Seafood.
Local Drink: On the second Sunday of each month, the Alfond Inn hosts High Tea (with Champagne!).
Fun Fact: Orlando’s 82-acre Greenwood Cemetery includes scenic wetlands, ancient marble crypts and stately oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Visitors should take the free, four-mile Moonlight Walking Tour.

Occupying the northwestern corner of Spain, Galicia is a unique part of the country, a region settled by Visigoths and Celts, where the residents still speak a language known as Gallego. Galicia’s four provinces comprise Spain’s emerald oasis, where copious amounts of rainfall during winter and spring swell the region’s rivers and turn the countryside green. A major part of the verdant landscape includes vineyards, with the wine regions of Rías Baixas, Ribeiro, Ribeira Sacra, Valdeorras and Monterrei all offering excellent touring and tasting opportunities. Add Galicia’s world-class seafood, and the region qualifies as a top destination for adventurous wine-and-food lovers.

Where to Dine 

Casa de Xantar Loaira in Pontevedra is Chef Iñaki Bretal’s popular wine and tapas bar, where plates like tuna sashimi, steamed clams and fried hake are paired with artisan Galician wines. In Santiago de Compostela, 16 O Dezaseis is justly famous for its octopus dishes, while in A Guarda, which sits at the mouth of the Miño River separating Spain from Portugal, Bitadorna is tops for grilled lobster. For exciting fixed-menu dinners in the new-wave Spanish style, check out Yayo Daporta in Cambados.

Where to Stay 

Paradores (government-run hotels often housed in landmark edifices) are about as Spanish as lodging in Spain gets. The parador in Santiago de Compostela sits on a main square, kitty-corner to Santiago’s monumental cathedral. It claims to be the world’s oldest hotel. In Pontevedra, Casa del Baron is located in the city’s old town. Further inland, Casal de Armán in the Ribeiro wine region is a charming winery-based hotel, while back in urban Vigo, Gran Hotel Nagari is first rate.

Other Activities 

Explore the aforementioned Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, the terminus of The Way of St. James. Tour the bateas (floating platforms where shellfish are harvested) that dot the estuaries along the Galician coastline. Some of the world’s steepest vineyards are in the Ribeira Sacra wine region. Stop in Doade to take a boat ride through the Sil River Canyon.

Budget Tip 

Stroll along a pristine half-moon-shaped beach. Top choices include A Lanzada, located near Pontevedra, and Rodas Beach on the Cíes Islands, which sit in the Vigo estuary.

When to Go

Late spring into early summer. The landscape is lush and the prior year’s white wines are being released.

Where to Taste

Martín Códax, perched atop a hill in Cambados in the heart of Rías Baixas, is one of the region’s more tourist-friendly wineries. Tour options range from a basic walk-through and tasting to full-day packages that include boating on an estuary and harvesting your own shellfish. Palacio de Fefiñanes (in Rías Baixas) first bottled Albariño in 1928. Housed in a former 17th-century palace near the Cambados waterfront, visit to taste the grape in its most refined and elegant form. Adega Algueira in Ribeira Sacra is owned by Fernando González, a gentleman of the first order. Taste sophisticated red and white wines over lunch at the winery’s O Castelo restaurant. Bodegas Valdesil in Valdeorras is a family-owned operation that specializes in old-vine Godello. Walk through vineyards planted in 1885 that are home to vines with trunks the size of trees, and make sure to sample top wines like Pezas da Portela and Pedrouzos.

Prominent Wines

Albariño is the principal grape of Rías Baixas and one of the trendiest white wines in the world. Expect floral yet minerally wines that go well with seafood. In hilly Ribeiro, Treixadura is the lead grape in blends filled out by other white grapes that include Loureiro and Albariño. The stunning terraced vineyards of Ribeira Sacra yield sophisticated reds made from Merenzao (aka Trousseau) and Mencía, and also some fine Godello (a white variety). Valdeorras, the most easterly wine region in Galicia, is the source for potentially outstanding Godello, the best of which impersonate fine Burgundy.

Local in the Know 

Paula Fandiño, winemaker at Mar de Frades in Rías Baixas, loves Hama Cocteleria in Pontevedra: “The owner, Luis, makes cocktails that are so beautiful you feel as though you can drink them with your eyes. His specialty is the gin and tonic, the most popular drink in Spain among 30-somethings and the older set. Luis carries 65 brands of gin, and he always surprises customers with some new mix or maceration. Regulars love the quality and ambiance at Hama.”

Other Hot Local Tips

Local Food: Massive burgers at O Paris.
Local Drink: Mahou beer at Cerveceria La Real (Calle Ventury Misa, 52, Pontevedra, Baiona).
Fun Fact: Take in sweeping views from the formidable Tower of Hercules, an ancient lighthouse located in the city of La Coruña that was built by Romans.

The license plates read “Beautiful British Columbia.” Ubiquitous ads call it “Super, Natural.” But taglines don’t do justice to the splendor and variety of Canada’s southwestern province. One shining jewel within the region is the Okanagan Valley, located about 240 miles east of Vancouver. Located between the Coastal and Monashee mountain ranges, the valley is anchored by a series of narrow, crystalline lakes. Long a center for agriculture, it’s also a four-season outdoor playground. Water sports, golf, winter sports, hiking, biking—you name it, the Okanagan has it going full blast. But it’s the 131 wineries, more than 8,000 acres of vineyard and broad range of wines that make this one of the greatest wine touring experiences in the world.

Where to Dine 

Rather than bemoan the perceived lack of quality dining in much of the region, several wineries have opened onsite restaurants. Panoramic views, a focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal menus are the main attractions. Four to try are Miradoro at Tinhorn Creek, Old Vines at Quails’ Gate, Terrafina at Hester Creek, and Burrowing Owl’s Sonora Room. In the cities, there are more choices. Tops in Kelowna are RauDZ, La Bussola, Waterfront Wines and Bouchons Bistro. Micro is great for beer and small bites. In Osoyoos, head for Campo Marina.

Where to Stay 

For budget lodging, head for the Samesun Hostel in Kelowna. Families will enjoy the Spirit Ridge Resort & Spa, Watermark Beach Resort, Walnut Beach Resort or The Cove Lakeside Resort. For hermits and romantics, the Bottega Farm Inn is a chic boutique hotel, artists’ retreat and alpaca farm. Bonus: it’s close to wineries, as well as honey, lavender and cheese farms. The Burrowing Owl Guesthouse offers breathtaking views of the vineyards and the Okanagan Valley. Also set in the vines is Villa at Hester Creek. In Kelowna, the Hotel Eldorado, Sparkling Hill Resort and Manteo Resort are all solid choices.

Other Activities 

Each season offers visitors a wealth of recreational options. In winter, Big White and Mount Baldy welcome skiers. In warm weather, rent some wheels at Double O Bikes. Hike the Golden Mile Trail as it winds through three wineries and their vineyards. Find golf, shopping, galleries, casinos, markets and more in Kelowna. Or enjoy mini golf, bumper boats, go-karts and rock climbing at Rattlesnake Canyon. The Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad offers a tour of Europe, in miniature.

Budget Tip 

Kelowna has loads of funky stores to browse in the old downtown. Burger 55 in Penticton is cheap and tasty. The best all-around place to shop is Osoyoos Home Hardware, which carries a huge selection of gift items, seasonal ware—and hardware, too.

When to Go

A true four-season destination, each has its own special wine festivals and celebrations. Visit the Okanagan Wine Festivals Web site for more information.

Where to Taste

Among the top producers around Oliver are Black Hills, Burrowing Owl, Church & State, Inniskillin, Jackson-Triggs, Nk’Mip and Tinhorn Creek. Continuing north to Okanagan Falls and Skaha Lake, you’ll find some of the region’s finest wines at Blasted Church, Meyer Family, Painted Rock and See Ya Later Ranch. On the benchland above the eastern shore, many tasting rooms feature some of the region’s finest white wines. Kettle Valley and La Frenz are must-sees. Kelowna is the big city, and a great base for wine touring. Inspiring views and architecture, as well as world-class wines, can be found at nearby Mission Hill, Quails’ Gate (Pinot Noir and Chardonnay) and Tantalus (for art and marvelous Rieslings). Summerhill is a pyramid-shaped winery specializing in organically grown grapes.

Local in the Know 

Burrowing Owl’s Chris Wyse recommends the Dream Café in Penticton. “A great hangout for many winemakers and winery staff. They have good food, but they also have one of the best venues for live music in the Okanagan.” According to several winemakers, other local favorites include “anywhere there is good beer!” In Kelowna, Micro, RauDZ and Waterfront Wines all feature standup bars. Also popular: the Firehall Brewery in Oliver and the Naramata Pub.

Prominent Wines

If you value balance, varietal purity, complexity and a more European style, the Okanagan is worth exploring. Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Bordeaux-style blends are especially successful. The racy, expressive white wines like Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Riesling and Chasselas can also excel. Icewines are often made as well, and there’s an Icewine Festival each winter. Look for Rieslings from Tantalus, Pinot Blanc from St. Hubertus Estate and Pinot Gris from Tinhorn Creek. Meyer Family does superb vineyard-designated Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. Quite elegant versions of those wines are made at Quails’ Gate. For dark, smoky, toasty Syrahs, look to Nk’Mip Cellars. Black Hills Estate Winery is famous for its Nota Bene Bordeaux-style blend. Also very fine is the Quintessential blend from Church & State, and the Portfolio Red from Laughing Stock.

As if designed for riverside picnics, the Loire River flows by vineyards from the mountains of central France to the Atlantic Ocean. The best and most diverse vines are rooted in the Loire’s heart, in the Anjou and Touraine regions, which are but a 90-minute train ride from Paris. It was here, in the 16th century, that French classic cuisine first found its great expression. This is France’s best wine discovery region for big castles, medieval cities and small family wineries. Tasting Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc here will forever change your perceptions of these grapes. —Roger Voss

Where to Dine 

You can dine seriously well in the Loire. Fish and game are everywhere, while good restaurants boast locavore ingredients. Upscale dining includes 18 Michelin one-star restaurants like Domaine les Hautes Roches in Rochecorbon. After dinner, stay in a room carved out of the cliff face. Find modern, deconstructed dishes along with traditional offerings at Une Île in Angers. Beneath the walls of Chinon castle is Au Chapeau Rouge, offering family dining with an extensive wine list. When you visit Château de Chenonceau (a must), have lunch at L’Orangerie on the castle grounds.

Where to Stay 

Loire accommodations feature abbeys and castles. L’Hôtel, next to the abbey church at -Fontevraud (where medieval English kings are buried), offers four-star comfort. The Château de Marçay, south of Chinon, has luxurious rooms, grounds and a huge pool. Both have fine dining. The Clarion Hotel Château Belmont, in a large house rather than a castle, is across the river from Tours. In the center of Angers, the Hotel d’Anjou is a quirky Art Nouveau hotel with grand public spaces and small, comfortable rooms.

Other Activities 

The Loire Valley is the place for real castles. They range from the grand chateaus built by French monarchs at places like Chambord, to the formidable medieval fortresses at Angers, Saumur and Chinon. Château d’Ussé, close to Chinon, is said to have been the original setting for the Sleeping Beauty story.

Budget Tip 

The Loire is mainly flat or just slightly inclined, so cycling tours are a great way to see any part of this vast UNESCO World Heritage Area at a casual pace. Organized cycle routes and itineraries extend all over the Loire. For more information, visit La Loire à Vélo.

When to Go

From approximately Easter through autumn harvest is best. For cellar tours, call ahead. Many wineries and restaurants close in August, traditional vacation time in Europe.

Where to Taste

Few wineries have public tasting rooms. Winery owners welcome you into a small room in the cellar, the cave or even the kitchen. At Couly–Dutheil, in Chinon, take a guided tour of the 10th-century cellars, taste Cabernet Franc and get a good explanation of the local vineyard. Château Moncontour, a champion of Chenin Blanc close to Vouvray, has a wine museum in its cave-like cellar, along with tours and tastings. In the sparkling wine city of Saumur, the best guided tour is at Bouvet-Ladubay, which has 10 miles of cellars and tutored tastings. For an insightful comparative overview of two Cabernet Franc appellations—Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil and Chinon—taste with Pascal and Alain Lorieux in Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil. High above the Loire in Savennières close to Angers, the Château d’Epiré, in the same family since the 17th century, makes dry and sweet wines from Chenin Blanc. The guided tour by owner Luc Bizard is fascinating.

 Local in the Know 

Charles and Philippa Sydney, brokers of Loire wines, love to have a “drink in the village-owned bar at Crissay-sur-Manse (find local honey and pain d’épices in the little shop in the street behind the bar) before wandering around the pretty village and its fallen-down château.” Then “we visit Yul Brynner’s grave in Saint-Michel-de Bois-Aubry—a onetime base for the Knights Templar before their boss was locked up in Chinon castle.” To sustain the family, “we visit the
goat cheese person at La Roche Clérmault.”

Prominent Wines

There’s every style of wine in Anjou and Touraine. Sparkling wine lovers head to Saumur and its caves that rival Champagne. White wine lovers home in on Vouvray and Montlouis, as well as the biodynamic vineyards of Savennières. Red wine lovers go to Chinon, Bourgeuil and Saumur-Champigny. Rosés, sweet and dry, are from Anjou. To finish the styles, you’ll find botrytized sweet wines to rival Sauternes in the Layon Valley just south of Angers. Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc make the majority of the whites and sweet whites, while Cabernet Franc is for reds, but this being France, there are plenty of grapes that are totally local.

Mendocino County has 107 wineries and more than 17,000 acres of vineyards, but it draws visitors for other pleasures like giant redwoods, Dungeness crab, wild chanterelle mushrooms, an exhilarating rocky coast and, yes, marijuana cultivation. Mendocino is laid-back, to say the least. A two-plus hour drive north of San Francisco through Sonoma County, traffic is practically nonexistent except for logging trucks. Tasting rooms and restaurants are rarely crowded, but lodging options are scarce except on the coast near the New England-esque town of Mendocino. Ukiah, in the warmer, drier inland valley along Highway 101, is the biggest city, with a whopping population of 16,000. Since 95 percent of the land in Mendocino County is rolling or mountainous, it offers plenty of bends in the road to explore. —Jim Gordon

Where to Dine 

The enduring Boonville Hotel, run by the Schmitt family, renamed its restaurant Table 128. It serves upscale family-style, prix-fixe dinners with an Italian bent and a rainbow of local ingredients. A block away, former luxury yacht chef Christina Jones came home to open Aquarelle, a creative seafood café and wine bar. In Ukiah, locals crowd Cynthia Ariosta’s Saucy for classic wood-fired, thin-crust pizza, and they rave about the remarkably authentic sushi and hot soup noodles at Oco Time.

Where to Stay 

Anderson Valley’s most pampering hotel is The Madrones near Philo, which has the feel of an Italian villa and underwent a recent expansion by owner–designer Jim Roberts. For spectacular views of the crashing Pacific surf and logger-chic design, book one of the 10 rooms at the wood-shingled, contemporary Brewery Gulch Inn near the town of Mendocino. Or bring a few friends and lodge among the Carignane vines on the Testa Ranch property in quiet Calpella. Grape grower Maria -Martinson renovated her family’s three-bedroom 1927 guesthouse for country comfort.

Other Activities 

Before your massage and facial, soak in one of the few naturally warm and carbonated mineral baths in North America at the 160-year-old Vichy Springs Resort, on 700 acres outside Ukiah. Shop in Mendocino for local art and New Age jewelry, and marvel at the ocean views. Stay, cook and learn about organic farming at the simply gracious Apple Farm in Philo.

Budget Tip 

Don’t be dissuaded by Libby’s goofy sign: a cartoon jalapeño wearing a sombrero. Located in Philo, it’s the best place for fresh Mexican with a Mendocino twist. It’s homey, clean and affordable.

When to Go

January through March brings Dungeness crab season and rainstorms (if California’s drought breaks), but the wineries, redwoods and coast are open year-round.

Where to Taste

Pinot Noir fans head straight to Anderson Valley for the highest concentration of tasting rooms and the most prestigious wines in Mendocino County. Some charge for tasting, but many of the old guard don’t. Visit the classics, like Roederer Estate for bubbly, and Handley and Husch for Pinot Noir and Alsace varieties. –Navarro is a beautiful stop with a professional staff and wine-cheese pairings using its own Pennyroyal Farm cheeses. Visit Goldeneye for $15 and $25 tasting options, plus a manicured picnic area. Taste boutique Pinots from Drew, Knez, Bink and Signal Ridge at The Madrones. Stop in Hopland for a confluence of tasting rooms. Call ahead to Saracina for a cave tour and dazzling white wines. If you like organic wines, make an appointment at Frey Vineyards in Redwood Valley. You’ll be greeted by one of the 50 family members who live on the 1,000-acre property. Take a walk through the biodynamic gardens, and even meet the livestock.

Local in the Know

Third-generation winemaker Jake Fetzer loves the ruggedness of Mendocino, like the wild mountaintop location of his winery, Masút. “The Broiler in Redwood Valley is a classic steakhouse in the middle of nowhere. Montgomery Woods is a great hike for the active and boasts some of the world’s tallest trees. On the coast, Noyo Harbor is a great place to watch the catch come in at Caito Fisheries. Oh yeah, and the Skunk Train is a real adventure.”

Prominent Wines

Mendocino’s best wines divide into cool-climate types like Pinot Noir and Gewürztraminer in Anderson Valley, and the warm-climate types like Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Rhône varieties inland. Many Anderson Valley Pinot Noirs are outstanding and share a personality that’s vivid and balanced. Top-rated Pinots are made within the valley by Lazy Creek, Navarro, Golden-eye, Angel Camp, the brand-new Domaine Anderson and others, and by outside wineries like Williams Selyem, Donum and Saintsbury, all of which buy Anderson Valley grapes. Inland, ask about Coro Mendocino, a limited-production, Zinfandel-based blend produced by Barra, Brutocao, Clos du Bois, Fetzer, Golden, McFadden, Parducci and Testa. That 28 percent of the county’s grapes are certified organic or biodynamic adds to the wines’ appeal.

The wedge-shaped Adriatic peninsula known as Istria has a rich and dramatic history. It was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, then ruled by Italy, later incorporated into Yugoslavia and is today governed by Croatia. Ninety percent of Istria is in Croatia, with the remainder in neighboring Slovenia and Italy. Remnants of a distant Roman past, Venetian Empire architecture, picturesque hilltop villages, panoramic sea views, year-round festivals, inspired cuisine and fantastic wines are all reasons to put Istria on your bucket list of wine regions to visit. —Mike DeSimone and Jeff Jenssen

Where to Dine 

Said to have the largest wine list in the country, with 550 labels, Chef Tom Gretíc’s Wine Vault Restaurant at the Hotel Monte Mulini in Rovinj serves French-inspired cuisine in an airy dining room with views of the sea. At the delightful outdoor La Cuxina in Pula, Chef/owner Doris Cerin elevates everyday Italian-style Istrian cuisine to the next level. The focus at Restaurant Bodulka at Hotel Velanera in Šišan is on fresh pasta, fresher seafood and expert pairings from the extensive Croatian wine list.

Where to Stay 

Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, Villa Meneghetti in Bale boasts just four rooms, each decorated with rustic charm. The villa also has an award-winning restaurant and extensive wine cellar. The Hotel Meliá Coral, in Umag, is Croatia’s first adults-only hotel. Situated just feet from the beautiful Adriatic Sea, there are 244 rooms and six luxuriously appointed suites. The Hotel San Rocco in Brtonigla is a converted family estate with 14 neo-rustic rooms, a spa and restaurant that features excellent wines from across the region.

Other Activities 

Stroll the ancient streets, stop for a steamy espresso and people watch, just like the locals. Visit the caves in Pazin—they’re said to have inspired several of Jules Verne’s stories—or jump on a Park and Ride Umag bike, a local bicycle-share program, one of the best ways to get around the immediate area.

Budget Tip 

Pack a picnic lunch and visit the fully intact Arena of Pula. It was built in the 1st century, housed gladiator fights and is the sixth-largest ancient amphitheater in the world.

When to Go

The best time to visit is April through October. Festivals held throughout the tourist season draw stylish crowds from across Europe.

Where to Taste

Marino Markežić ages some of his wine in terra cotta amphorae buried under lavender plants in the beautiful garden at Kabola in Momjan. There’s also a small museum and wine shop. Vina Geržinić makes excellent wine and delicious olive oil. At Vina Matošević in Krunčići, Winemaker Ivica Matošević is one of the first to experiment with aging Malvasia in acacia rather than oak. There’s a loft-like space above the tasting room for art openings and live music. Bold graphics cover the walls and even bolder wines fill the bottles at Trapan’s Wine Station. At Kozlović Vina in Momjan, owners Gianfranco and Antonella Kozlović have created a stunning winery that blends right into the surrounding countryside. Roxanich, a small winery in Nova Vas, specializes in “orange” wines, which get their color from long skin contact and deep oxidized flavors from aging in barrel for three years or more.

Local in the Know 

Denis Ivošević, managing director of the Istria Tourist Board, prefers to spend his time on the water. “My favorite way to spend a day with family and friends is a trip in a small boat, sailing around Kamenjak, the southernmost part of Istria. It’s a very long peninsula that offers plenty of beaches,
bays, magnificent nature, views and amazing sunsets. Kamenjak is a protected landscape. There are different types of beaches, some perfect for children, some for adventure sports and some that offer complete privacy.”

Prominent Wines

First-timers in Istria are always astonished by the high quality of the local wine, particularly Malvasia Istriana, a white wine made in a fresh, crisp version and an oak- or acacia-aged style. Chardonnay is also grown across the peninsula and is bottled either oaked or unoaked. Red varieties include the indigenous Teran, which is grown in different soil types. It produces a potent red wine, often with feral characteristics, but skilled Istrian winemakers can tame it. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot are some of the other reds grown and are often blended together, with or without Teran.