While Bordeaux and Tuscany might hog most wine lists, the world is full of
exceptional vintages that hail from less celebrated corners.
From up-and-coming and overlooked wine regions with great wines at better values
to singular experiences sans the crowds that descend upon more famous places,
here’s a rundown.
Ribeira Sacra, Spain
Discover dramatic vineyards carved into steep riverside cliffs where monks first
planted vines 2,000 years ago. Local winemakers still tend these ‘heroic vineyards’
by hand, producing intense reds from the Mencía grape that capture the region’s
mineral-rich soils and ancient traditions.
Finger Lakes, New York
Exult in world-class Rieslings amidst a dramatic landscape carved by the scouring
action of ancient glaciers, whose deep lakes moderate the climate. Family-owned
wineries dot the hillsides ringing Seneca and Keuka Lakes, though innovative
winemakers are increasingly pushing beyond traditional varieties into an exciting
diversity of wines.
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Golan Heights, Israel
Follow volcanic soils and high-altitude vineyards to where ancient winemaking
blends with the modern. The dramatic terroir provides uncompromising Cabernet
Sauvignon and Syrah with snow-capped Mount Hermon rearing above the vineyards
in dramatic fashion.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Sample the like of indigenous variety Plavac Mali on sun-kissed islands where
grapevines seem to sprout directly from rocky soils. The ancient Greeks were the
first to establish vineyards here, and today’s vigneron melds tradition with innovation,
offering tastings along with spectacular Adriatic views.
Swartland, South Africa
Come for the rugged region’s concentrated Chenin Blanc and Syrah from old bush vines. Innovative vintners rehab abandoned vineyards and practice minimal intervention to let wine mirror the wild landscape.
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Etna, Sicily
Find the vineyards planted on the flanks of Europe’s most active volcano, their ancient vines yielding wines of remarkable elegance. Native varieties like Nerello Mascalese prove highly at home in the volcanic soils, crafting wines with a pronounced mineral character from the mountain.
Okanagan Valley, Canada
This stunning valley, with its constantly changing microclimates, houses glaciers,
glacial lakes, and snow-capped peaks that are reflected in these lakes. The wines of
the region, from crisp Rieslings to full-bodied Syrahs, see long summer days and
cool nights, while lakeside wine tastings afford unforgettable views.
Douro Valley, Portugal
Find the home of Port Wine, where steep hillside vineyards create one of the world’s
most spectacular vineyard landscapes. In addition to Port, some much-needed dry
reds are made here from classic varieties.
And for an added special dimension to seeing those breathtakingly steep vineyard slopes, take a boat tour.
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Franschhoek, South Africa
Go to the ‘French Corner’ where Huguenot traditions mingle with South African
ingenuity. Historical wine estates conduct tastings of refined Chenin Blanc and
Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wines, while an original wine tram links the best
cellars of this valley.
Mendoza, Argentina
It’s a chance to live high-altitude winemaking at the foot of the Andes, where Malbec
is taken to new heights of expression. Along with the famous Malbec, small
producers make interesting wines from old-vine Criolla and other varieties from
diverse terroirs.
Roussillon, France
Find yourself in a sun-baked region where ancient vines produce concentrated wines
of remarkable character. Diverse soils and traditional varieties create unique expressions, while historic wine villages receive authentic French experiences sans
crowds found in Bordeaux.
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Pfalz, Germany
Find Germany’s ‘Tuscany,’ home to almond and fig trees as well as noble varietals.
The sheltered climate gives wines with fuller bodies than usually associated with
German regions.
The Deutsche Weinstraße (German Wine Road) also links charming wine villages.
Central Otago, New Zealand
Discover the world’s southernmost wine region, where Pinot Noir develops amidst
dramatically beautiful sceneries. The region’s notably short and intensive growing
season yields wines of remarkable concentration, while mountain backdrops create
stunningly scenic tasting experiences.
Jerez, Spain
Experience the birthplace of Sherry, where ancient cellars called bodegas house
complex aged wines. Besides traditional Sherries, the region is experiencing its
rebirth with new styles and younger winemakers who are bringing fresh energy to
historic practices.
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Valle d’Aosta, Italy
The highest vineyards of Europe huddle in the shadow of Mont Blanc, producing
distinctive mountain wines from native grapes. For small producers here, tradition is
everything; every bottle seems to capture the essence of Alpine viticulture.
Uncover the Secret Treasures of Wine
These wine destinations represent much more than good value. It’s a way of
experiencing other cultures through a glass, with wines that amazingly reflect the
stories of their landscapes.
Whether you’re a serious wine enthusiast or a casual sipper, these destinations
prove that sometimes the best discoveries can be found well beyond the familiar
names on the wine lists.
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