When it comes to wine, Europe is a treasure trove of regions with distinct flavors and centuries-old traditions. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the rugged coasts of Portugal, the continent is home to an endless array of vineyards and wineries, each with its own unique character.
If you’re a wine lover, or even just curious about the world of wine, there’s no better way to explore Europe than by visiting its wine regions. Whether you’re sipping on a crisp Riesling in Germany or a full-bodied Tempranillo in Spain, the experience of enjoying a glass of wine where it was made is unparalleled. And with so many different regions to choose from, there’s something for every palate and interest.
In this blog post, I’ll take you on a journey through some of the best wine regions in Europe. With the help of my fellow wine lovers, I’ve curated a list of the best wine regions of Europe, spanning 14 countries, from the well-known to the hidden gems.
For each region, we have provided a description of the area, the varietals you can expect to taste, and our top picks for places to go wine tasting. But even wine travel isn’t just about the wine. I’ve also highlighted other things to do in each region, from exploring charming villages to soaking up stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned wine traveler or just starting to explore the world of wine, we hope this guide will inspire you to plan your next European adventure.
Best Wine Regions of Europe
I’ve organized this list alphabetically, by country, to make it easier to find a European wine region to visit on a future trip:
Albania
Austria
Croatia
Czechia
France
Georgia
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Italy
The Netherlands
Portugal
Romania
Spain
Switzerland
Durres, Albania
The Durres region in Albania is located along the Adriatic Sea and is home to some of the oldest wine producers in the world. With a rich history spanning over 3,000 years, this Mediterranean country has long been known for its excellent climate and strategic location that make it ideal for growing grapes and creating amazing wines.
Durres is one of the best places to sample Albania’s wine. The local wineries offer visitors guided tours at half the price of neighboring countries, giving visitors an opportunity to explore their vineyards and sample some of their finest vintages. Kallmeti, Shesh, Debin, Vranac, and Vlosh are just some of the indigenous Albanian grape varieties that have made this region famous worldwide.
One of the best wineries to visit near Duress is Kokomani Winery which is renowned for being home to one of the best grapes in all of Albania – Shesh. Kokomani Winery is well-known for its production of fine red and white wines made from the Shesh grape. Their three top-tier labels are Sheshi i Zi, Sheshi i Bardhë and Shën Mhill—all renowned for their unique aroma and flavour profiles.
Durres is a great place to stay in Albania. As well as wine tasting, there are plenty of other things to do such as visiting ancient ruins, relaxing on the beach, or exploring traditional towns and villages. The area also has some of the best seafood restaurants in the country and is renowned for its traditional Albanian cuisine.
Recommended by JJ Jordan of Travel Across the Borderline
South Styria, Austria
One of the most unique wine regions in Europe — and one that certainly rivals those in neighboring Italy and France most often visited by wine lovers — is South Styria, Austria.
Known in German as Südsteiermark, the region is stunningly scenic with lush green rolling hills covered with woodlands and meticulously manicured vineyards earning it the title as the “Green Heart of Austria”.
The region is heaven for lovers of crisp white wine, producing aromatic, fruit forward whites like Gelber Muskateller, Morillon (Chardonnay), and the star of the region, bright, dry Sauvignon Blanc.
Stay in Graz, the capital of Styria, at the Grand Hotel Wiesler and enjoy day trips through the region along the South Styria Wine Road. The 44-mile long wine road starts just west of Graz in the village of Ehrenhausen and ends in the small town of Leutschach. Along the way are excellent wineries like Lackner Tinnacher and Dreisiebner Stammhaus.
A highlight of the Styrian wine road are the lovely, and often lively, Austrian buschenshanks along the way. These wine taverns produce and serve their own wines and offer comfortable overnight hospitality to travelers. Not only can you try their own wines but they also serve their own homemade delicacies such as smoked cheeses and seasonal local vegetables.
If you’re planning a trip to this part of Europe, be sure to add a few days to explore this fabulous wine region of southern Austria.
Recommended by Lori of Travelin Mad
Wachau Valley, Austria
Image courtesy of Roxanne of Faraway Worlds
The Wachau Valley , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in Lower Austria, stretching along the picturesque Danube River between the towns of Melk and Krems. This beautiful region is renowned for its terraced vineyards, which produce some of Austria’s finest wines, including Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, and can be visited on a day trip from Vienna .
There are many beautiful towns in the valley and two favorites are Dürnstein and Spitz. Dürnstein, with its charming cobblestone streets and historic architecture, is a perfect base for exploring the area. Don’t miss the iconic blue and white Dürnstein Abbey, offering spectacular views of the valley. Spitz, another quaint town, has a slightly quieter atmosphere and provides a better opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture.
Wine enthusiasts should visit the acclaimed Weingut Knoll and Weingut Jamek wineries. Weingut Knoll, a family-owned winery since 1858, is known for its exceptional Rieslings and Grüner Veltliners, while Weingut Jamek offers tastings in a tranquil setting overlooking the stunning valley.
Besides wine tasting, the Wachau Valley offers many activities to make your visit unforgettable. Explore the region by bike along the well-maintained Danube Cycle Path, visit the many charming towns, or indulge in traditional Austrian cuisine at one of the many Heurigen (wine taverns). If you like history or architecture, a visit to the impressive Melk Abbey is a must.
The Wachau Valley’s combination of breathtaking scenery, rich history, and world-class wines make it a truly unique destination for travelers seeking an authentic Austrian experience.
Recommended by Roxanne of Faraway Worlds
Istria, Croatia
Image courtesy of Olivia from Inspired by Croatia
For centuries, Istria’s northwest peninsula has been renowned for producing some of Croatia’s finest grapes and wines. Greeks first introduced vines to the region in the 6th century; however, it was Italian and Austrian attentiveness that truly refined its wine-making traditions. The area benefits from a myriad of microclimates thanks to its rolling hills and winding coastlines – enabling the cultivation of a diverse spectrum of wines!
Moreover, as one of Croatia’s premier culinary destinations, Istrian wines pair beautifully with the local truffles, seafood selections, and rich olive oils produced in this gorgeous region of Croatia.
In terms of viticulture, Istria is renowned for its Malvazija grape and superb soils ideal for the cultivation of popular red varieties such as merlot and cabernet sauvignon. In Istria, you can expect more robust red wines similar to those from Bordeaux. Additionally, there are domestic red grapes known as teran and refošk. Istria is particularly famous for its sweet spirit, Teranino, a red wine liqueur made from the teran grape. Exceptional local white wines include yellow muscat as well as sparkling selections.
Today, Istria is home to nearly one hundred wineries on this tiny peninsula! Visitors can explore Croatian win eries by taking part in tastings and tours, meeting renowned winemakers, or attending a local harvest festival. A few wineries worth visiting in Istria’s wine country include Kozlovic, Kabola, Roxanich, and Fakin.
Recommended by Olivia from Inspired by Croatia
Moravia, Czechia
Image courtesy of Samantha Tatro of Undiscovered Path Home
The Moravia region in the Czech Republic is a hidden gem for wine lovers looking for a unique and affordable experience. Nestled in the southern part of the country, Moravia is known for its rolling hills, historic architecture, and excellent wine production.
The region is particularly famous for its white wines, made primarily from the Müller-Thurgau and Grüner Veltliner grape varietals. Other notable varietals include Welschriesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Blanc. Moravia’s red wines are also gaining recognition, with St. Laurent and Blaufränkisch varietals leading the way.
There are several main towns in Moravia that serve as excellent bases for wine lovers, including Brno, Mikulov, Znojmo, and Valtice. These towns, both small and large, offer a variety of accommodations, from charming guesthouses to luxurious hotels, all within easy reach of the region’s top wineries and nearby sights.
One of the most notable wineries in Moravia is Sonberk , which has won numerous awards for its excellent wines. Another standout is Vinarstvi Petr Skoupil , which produces a range of red and white wines, including a highly regarded Pinot Noir.
Aside from wine tasting, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Moravia. The region is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including some of the m ost beautiful castles in the Czech Republic like the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, which boasts stunning gardens and castle grounds. Visitors can also explore the region’s rich history by visiting the medieval town of Mikulov or the Gothic-style St. Procopius Basilica in Třebíč.
What makes Moravia special is its affordability and unique blend of history, culture, and wine production. The region offers a genuine and authentic experience for wine lovers, with plenty of small, family-owned wineries to explore. Visitors can also enjoy the region’s delicious cuisine, which features hearty soups, stews, and meat dishes.
Moravia is a must-visit destination for wine lovers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience. With its affordable prices, rich history, and excellent wine production, it’s no wonder that Moravia is quickly becoming one of Europe’s top wine destinations.
Recommended by Samantha Tatro of Undiscovered Path Home
Best Wine Regions in France
How can you think about France and not think about wine? From the sparkling wines of Champagne to the crisp Rose of Provence, the French may not have invented wine, but some would say they have perfected it. Here are a few of the best wine regions in France worth visiting.
Alsace, France
Image courtesy of Paul D’Souza of Paulmarina
Alsace is a province located in western France bordering the German Rhine wine-growing region. The area has been cultivating wine since Roman times, making Alsace one of the oldest terroirs in France. The fertile rich soil produces excellent white wine varieties.
The most well-known are the Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Muscat. The AOC Alsace Grand Crus, the highest standard of vineyards in the region, can only produce wine from these four varieties (AOC is the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée, which is the controlled designation of origin certification.) Traditionally, Alsatian wines are served in pottery jugs and glasses with a green stem.
The vineyards can be found along the Alsace wine route , which starts at Marlenheim in the north and ends in Thann in the south. Two of the most well-known vineyards that visitors should add to their wine-tasting itinerary are the Domaine Marcel Deiss in Bergheim and Domaine Albert Seltz in Mittelbergheim.
Adorable towns and villages can be found along the route. Some of the most well-known are Colmar, Riquewihr, Ribeauville, Eguisheim, Hunawihr, and Keysersberg-Vignoble. These villages are also known as fairy-tale villages because they may have been an inspiration for the Beauty and the Beast movie. Each village and town is unique and so very colorful.
Recommended by Paul D’Souza of Paulmarina
Bordeaux, France
Image courtesy of Natali of She’s Abroad Again
The Bordeaux wine region, located in the southwest of France, is one of the best known wine regions in Europe. The history of cultivating wine in Bordeaux dates back to Roman times, so visiting the Bordeaux wine region should be on every wine lover’s bucket list.
The Bordeaux wine region is divided by the Garrone River, with Médoc and Graves on the left bank and Saint Emilion and Pomerol on the right bank.
More than 80% of Bordeaux wines are red wines made with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Bordeaux is basically a synonym for red wine. However, not all wines produced in Bordeaux are of the red variety. The white wines you find in Bordeaux include Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.
Most Bordeaux wines are blend of grape varieties, and you can learn all about the art of blending on a wine tasting tour. Going wine tasting in chateaux is one of the best day trips from Bordeaux . You can either join a tour or drive along the wine route through vineyards and look for chateaux with open wine tasting.
With over 6000 vineyards and chateaux, from Château Latour-Martillac listed as the first class producer on the 1855 Classification to small family run businesses, you’ll be spoiled for choice in Bordeaux.
Recommended by Natali of She’s Abroad Again
Burgundy, France
Located in east-central France, known for its world-renowned wines, rich history, and beautiful countryside, Burgundy is famous for its red and white wines, which include Chablis, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay.
Burgundy is one of the best wine regions in France and home to some of the most prestigious vineyards, including the famous Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune. You can book a wine-tasting tour in Domaine d’Ardhuy , one of the popular wineries in Côte de Nuits, and you may also visit the excellent wine cellars of Caves de l’Abbaye, in Beaune.
In addition to wine, there are so many things to do and see in Burgundy. The region is known for its beautiful architecture, historic castles, and charming villages. One of the top tourist attractions in Burgundy is the Hospices de Beaune, a beautiful 15th-century hospital turned museum that is a must-see attraction. Another popular site is the charming Romanesque Abbey de Fontenay, a well-preserved Cistercian monastery located in the town of Marmagne.
If you are looking for the best place to stay in Burgundy, Hostellerie Le Cèdre is the perfect choice, located in the picturesque town of Beaune, in the heart of Burgundy. The hotel offers luxurious accommodations and amenities in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion with elegant rooms and suites.
Recommended by Imee Magbag of Journey to France
Champagne, France
Image courtesy of Melanie of Postcards & Places
The Champagne region in northeast France is a very special place. It is the only area in the world that can produce Champagne and call it by that name—otherwise, it’s called sparkling wine, crémant, or mousseux, among others.
The Champagne region has been known for quality wines since the Middle Ages. The Champagne region’s hillsides, houses, and cellars have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site since 2015. The three main grape varieties used for producing Champagne are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.
Reims is the largest city in the region. Located about 160 kilometers (100 miles) east of Paris, it makes for a brilliant day trip from Paris. The beautiful Cathedral of Notre Dame at Reims, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, is worth visiting when in the area. Reims is also where, on 7 May 1945, the unconditional surrender of the armed forces of the Third Reich was signed and the Second World War in Europe came to an end. Visitors to the Musée de la Reddition can learn more about that significant event.
The town of Épernay, though, is the heart of the region and perhaps the true “capital of Champagne.” The one-kilometre long Avenue de Champagne at Épernay has many of the big-name Champagne houses, including Moët & Chandon, the world’s largest Champagne producer. It’s also special to visit small, independent producers in the area, too.
Recommended by Melanie Ferguson of Postcards & Place s
Charente, France
Image courtesy of Kylie from Life in Rural France
The Charente wine region located in southwestern France is known for its landscapes, including rolling hills, vast vineyards, and winding rivers. It has a long and fascinating history, with many beautiful chateaux, churches and villages to explore.
Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Cognac, visit the medieval town of Angouleme, or discover Château de La Rochefoucauld, a chateau that has been in the same family for over 1000 years. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, kayaking, and fishing. The many nature reserves and parks offer beautiful scenery and a chance to spot rare wildlife.
The neighbouring Charente Maritime, situated on the Atlantic coast, has 450 kilometres of coastline dotted with sandy beaches and rocky coves. Some of the most popular beaches include La Rochelle, Royan, and Saint-Palais-sur-Mer. Known for its seafood, particularly oysters and mussels, you can visit the oyster farms on the islands of Île de Ré, Île d’Oléron, and Île d’Aix.
When it comes to wine, the Charente is famous for its Cognac and Pineau des Charentes, two of the world’s most renowned spirits. A type of fortified wine, it’s made by blending unfermented grape juice with wine alcohol, usually cognac, which stops the fermentation process and leaves the wine with a natural sweetness. It’s then aged in oak barrels for at least 18 months.
There are two varieties: white and rosé. The white variety is made with white grapes, such as Ugni Blanc and Colombard, while the rosé variety uses red grapes, such as Cabernet Franc and Merlot.
Recommended by Kylie Lang of Life in Rural France
Languedoc, France
Fontfroide Abbey near Narbonne
Languedoc is France’s largest wine producing region, located in the south of France and stretching from the edge of Provence down to the border of Spain. In the past it was known for quantity over quality, but the last couple of decades have seen a reversal and now there are many excellent wines produced in the Languedoc.
Originally thought of for its reds, the region is also famous for its sparkling Crémant de Limoux and the Picpoul de Pinet white. You will drive through vineyard after vineyard , winding your way through various villages, as there are over 21,000 wine-growing estates in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, representing a range of wines over 36 controlled-origin appellations, producing the most of the wines of France and five percent of the world’s wine.
Like many wine regions of Europe, wineries in this area require a reservation for tastings and tours, and it is often easiest just to book a Languedoc wine tour . While near the charming city of Narbonne and the seaside area of La Clape, plan to visit Gerard Betrand, Chateau Ricardelle, and Sarrat de Goundy. Be sure to stop for a delicious, fresh seafood lunch at Le Perle Gruissanaise on the coast.
There are many delightful little villages in this region, along with ruins of ancient Cathar castles. Be sure to check the calendar for daily markets to explore in cute towns such as Pézenas, Mirepoix, Limoux, Lagrasse, and Minèrve. You can also stay on a beautiful wine estate such as Chateau Les Carrasses .
Libournais, France
Image courtesy of Sabrian Maasdam of Shades of Summr
The Libournais wine region is located in the Southwest of France and is part of the Bordeaux region. It is internationally known as “the right bank” and is especially famous for its Merlot blends.
The area is also famous for picturesque little villages surrounded by magnificent castles (so-called chateaux) where their famous wine is being made. The most famous wine village in Libournais is Saint Emilion.
Saint Emilion was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The town center itself is quite lovely, with lots of small alleys and romantic buildings. There are plenty of fantastic wine bars in the town center, as well as amazing restaurants. The hotel Au Logis des Remparts is an excellent place to stay in the village.
Not only can you do great wine tastings in the wine bars in Saint Emilion, but also in many of the chateaux in the area. The Chateaux le Grand Verdus is a family-owned wine estate that offers tours and tastings. They even have a line of organic wines to try.
Another great choice for a wine tour is the Vignobles Chatonnet estate. The castle has very special architecture, it reminds me of a Greek or Roman temple. They offer free tours of the winery, the wine cellar, and the tasting rooms. La Sergue is their best-selling variety.
There are also quite a few interesting things to do in the area. The city of Bordeaux itself is lovely and filled with impressive architecture. A tour of the city and a ride on the Ferris wheel is highly recommended for visitors to the area.
Recommended by Sabrina from Shades of Summr
Provence, France
Image courtesy of Lucy and Dan of Thoroughly Travel
Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, Provence is a beautifully diverse region in South East France . Famous for its picturesque and diverse landscapes, Provence is one of the best wine-making regions in Europe. Provence produces more than 1,000 kinds of wine, which are characterized by a clear and dry taste with fruity, citrus and honey flavors.
Scenery in Provence ranges from dusty olive groves to marshy wetlands and rocky Alpine mountains. Lavender fields are popular spots with photographers in summer while the coastline is dotted with sprawling golden beaches. Visiting a local vineyard is a great way to spend the day and many include complimentary tastings before purchase. Domaine de Lunard is a charming winery overlooking the Etang de Berre, while Cellier Saint Augustin cooperative has a great variety of wines from local vineyards.
There is plenty to see and do in the Provence region. History buffs can enjoy a visit to the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, or the Roman amphitheatres of Orange and Arles. While nature lovers should head on a Camargue safari for a chance to spot flamingos and wild horses. Those looking for something a little more luxury should head to the French Riviera towns of Nice, Cannes, Antibes and St Tropez. And wine tasting day tours can be booked by those who’d like to learn more about wine in the Provence region.
Recommended by Lucy and Dan of Thoroughly Travel
Kakheti Region, Georgia
Image courtesy of Emily of Wander-Lush
The country of Georgia in the South Caucasus is widely regarded as the global birthplace of viticulture, with archaeologists dating the earliest evidence of winemaking to the 6th century BC. This makes Georgia’s Kakheti Region, the main wine-producing area, one of the most underrated wine destinations in Europe.
Located east of the capital, Tbilisi, the Alazani Valley is a fertile river basin that lies in the shadow of the Greater Caucasus mountains. Many of Georgia’s 500-plus endemic species of grape once grew here. In the Soviet era, hardy varietals were chosen for mass production – Rkatsiteli, Kakhuri Mtsvani and particularly Saperavi. These are still widespread today, but rare grapes are making a comeback, too.
Kakheti is the perfect place to experience Georgia’s 8000-year tradition of winemaking. Recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, it involves crushing grapes by foot and channelling the juice (plus the skins, seeds and stems) into an egg-shaped clay vessel called a qvevri. The qvevri is buried underground while the wine ferments. This is a natural, low-intervention process.
Kakheti has two main hubs: The walled town of Sighnaghi, and the larger city of Telavi. In between, there are dozens of guesthouses and wine chateaux scattered along the valley and throughout the different microzones. Some of the best wineries in Georgia are located in Kakheti: Giuaani, Shalauri, Winery Khareba and the historic Tsinandali Estate.
Kakheti, like all of Georgia, is incredibly affordable. A Georgian-style wine tasting is a bit different to what you might be used to. Degustations are much more laid-back and usually accompanied by a generous meal.
Recommended by Emily of Wander-Lush
Kaiserstuhl, Baden-Wurttemburg, Germany
Image courtesy of Marianne from Pasta, Pretzels & Passports
If you’re planning a trip to Germany, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the best wine regions in Baden-Wurttemberg – Kaiserstuhl! Nestled in the southwest corner of the state, approximately 185 km southwest of Stuttgart , Kaiserstuhl (meaning emperor’s seat) boasts stunning rolling hills and a sunny climate that is ideal for growing grapes.
With over 1,000 wine growers and producers, the region is renowned for its high-quality wines, almost-Mediterranean climate, and unique mineral character, thanks to its volcanic soil. The primary varietals grown in the region are Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc, which are used to produce a range of delicious wines, including dry and sweet whites, rosé, and red wines. And if you’re a fan of sparkling wine, you’ll be pleased to know that Kaiserstuhl produces some of the best Sekt around!
If you are looking to do a little sightseeing in this gorgeous wine region, there are several charming towns and villages to explore. Places like Endingen, Ihringen, and Vogtsburg will also have everything from a cozy guesthouse to an upscale hotel if you are looking for accommodations.
If you’re a wine lover, you’ll want to make sure you visit Weingut Bercher-Schmidt . This family-run winery has been producing wine for over 300 years and are known for their exceptional Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris wines. Weingut Bercher-Schmidt offers tastings and tours every Saturday.
Of course, when you’re not sipping on wine, there are plenty of other things to do in the Kaiserstuhl region. If you’re an outdoorsy type, you can explore the incredible vineyards by hiking or cycling. History buffs will enjoy visiting the ruins of the Staufen Castle or exploring the Romanesque churches in the area. Not to mention, if you are a foodie, you will find plenty of small, family-owned restaurants serving incredible regional cuisine that can accompany your new-found favourite wines!
Recommended by Marianne from Pasta, Pretzels, & Passports
Santorini, Greece
Santorini is one of the most famous of the Cyclades Greek Island, primarily for its stark white buildings and blue-domed roofs, fabulous sunsets, and stunning volcanic landscape. Not many may think about this beautiful island when thinking of wine regions, yet it has a rich history of wine production that dates back over 3,500 years. The unique terroir, consisting of volcanic soil and a hot, dry climate, has led to the production of some of the most unique and sought-after wines in Greece.
One of the most distinctive features of wine production in Santorini is the way that the vines are grown. Due to the harsh climate and strong winds, the vines are trained to grow in a basket shape, known as kouloura, which helps protect them from the elements. This also allows the grapes to ripen in a way that is different from other regions, resulting in wines with a distinct minerality and acidity.
The most popular grape variety grown in Santorini is Assyrtiko, a white grape that produces wines with high acidity and citrus flavors. Other grape varieties grown on the island include Athiri and Aidani, both of which are also used to produce white wines. The island also produces small amounts of red wine from grape varieties such as Mandilaria and Mavrotragano.
There are many wineries to visit in Santorini, each with its own unique style and approach to winemaking. Some of the top wineries for visitors include Santo Wines, which offers panoramic views of the island and a wide range of wine tastings, and Gaia Wines, which is known for its organic and biodynamic approach to winemaking. Other notable wineries include Domaine Sigalas, which produces some of the most highly rated wines on the island, and Venetsanos Winery, which is situated in a stunning location overlooking the caldera.
Add a wine tour with Santorini Wine Trails to your Greek Islands itinerary to learn more about wines in this region.
Lake Balaton, Hungary
Image courtesy of Anjali of Travel Melodies
About 135 km (83 miles) from Budapest in the Transdanubian region of Hungary, Lake Balaton is a beautiful freshwater lake. Dotted with resort towns, charming villages, nature reserves, rolling hills, volcanoes, and vineyards along its shore, it’s the largest lake in Central Europe.
While the southern shore is well-known for its beautiful resort towns, the mountainous northern coast is a famous wine-growing region.
The lake creates a unique microclimate blessing the region with reflected sunlight, ample humidity, cooler summers, and warmer winters conducive for viticulture. The volcanic rock soil adds to the terroir.
The Lake Balaton region has been producing wines for 2,000 years. Among six wine regions in Balaton, Badacsony; Balatonfüred-Csopak; and Somló are noteworthy. They produce full-bodied white and rosé wines.
Each region has its specialties and styles of wine, with Olaszrizling being the dominant varietal. Other local and hyper-local varieties are Pinot Gris or Szürkebarát and Kéknyelű, Furmint, Hárslevelű, and Juhfark.
Laposa Birtok and Figula Pincészet wineries both offer a beautiful wine-tasting experience and Borbarátok Panzió and Borbély are two authentic, family-owned wineries in Badascony that also provide accommodation.
Apart from wine tasting, there are many unique things to do around Lake Balaton. You can explore the Balaton Uplands National Park, discover the gems of the medieval town of Tinahy, take a dip in Europe’s largest thermal lake of Hévíz, take an adventuring underground boat trip in Tapolca Lake Cave, relax on the beautiful beaches, and cruise on Lake Balaton.
With rich culture, history, natural beauty, and vibrant food, wine, and arts scene – Lake Balaton is the crown jewel of Hungary!
Recommended by Anjali of Travel Melodies
Best Wine Regions in Italy
Italy has so much to offer visitors in terms of wine and food travel, from the volcanic vineyards in Sicily, to the big Barolos of Piemonte.
Chianti, Italy
Image courtesy of Brianna of The Casual Travelist
Planning a Tuscany wine tour is at the top of many travel wishlists and luckily one of Italy’s most storied wine regions is also one of it’s most approachable. Just 20 miles away, Chianti is the closest wine region to Florence and is a great region to explore whether you’re a wine novice or diehard oenophile.
You can easily experience Chianti on a day trip from Florence (one of my favorite tips for visiting Florence is to stay in the Oltrarno neighborhood, I especially like the Hotel Horto Convento ) or you can further immerse yourself by basing yourself in the town of Greve (considered to be the gateway to Chianti) or in one of the charming agritourismos that dot the Tuscan countryside.
Wine in Italy is intensely regional, subtle changes in climate and soil can have a dramatic affect on what ends up in your glass. To be labelled as a Chianti Classico (with Chianti’s iconic black rooster symbol) a wine must contain at least 80% Sangiovese with up to 20% of the wine being other reds including Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Chianti is home to countless small family run biodynamic wineries like Renzo Marinai and Il Palagio. In between winery stops be sure to check out charming hill towns like Montefiorelle or learn WWII history at the Florence American Cemetery and Memorial where over 4,000 American soldiers are laid to rest.
Recommended by Brianna from The Casual Travelist
Emilia Romagna, Italy
Image courtesy of Jenoa of The Travel Fork
Emilia Romagna is a lesser-known region in Italy, but did you know it’s also considered the food capital of Italy? Known for some of the most famous Italian foods, such as parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, prosciutto, ragu, and tortellini, you’re sure to eat well here.
It’s no surprise that Emilia-Romagna also boasts some delicious wines as well. Two of the most popular wine varietals in the region are Lambrusco and Pignoletto. Lambrusco is a red sparkling wine with notes of cherry and raspberry or strawberry. Pignoletto is a white sparkling wine that has hints of citrus fruit.
Both wines have a light body and low alcohol content, which means they pair well with the heavy, pork-centric cuisine in Emilia Romagna .
You’ll find one of the best Lambrusco wineries located just outside of Modena. Opera 02 produces Lambrusco using completely
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