5 Must-See Wine Destinations

Australia’s wine regions are some of the best in the world. Our unique climate and history have set the course for some stunning varietals. Travel further afield, though, and  you have some of the world’s finest wine regions to add to your passport. Some of them offer a traditional palate, some more robust, modern flavours. None of them will disappoint.  Here we have detailed five of our top recommendations.

Bordeaux, Southwest France

Bordeaux is one of the most stunning wine regions in France, famous for its wine as much as its impressive architecture, sweeping scenery and superb dining. That said, a trip to the southwestern region wouldn’t be complete without visiting a winery or two. 

The area is most famous for its red varietal Red Bordeaux, which is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot . It’s a powerful wine that truly makes a statement. Less well known are Bordeaux’s whites: Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle. A popular white varietal in this area is White Bordeaux which is usually blends of Semillon mixed with a small amount of Sauvignon Blanc – it’s a crisp mouthfeel that truly does this region justice. 

Cariñena, Northeast Spain

Located in the Aragon region of Spain, this region is fast making its mark on the international wine stage with the development of Garnacha. Garnacha, also know as Grenache, is now one of the world’s most widely planted grapes. This red varietal boasts a luscious, deep flavour and is highly aromatic. The wine, which also comes in a sweet wine or rose, is easy to match with foods of all varieties, leading it to be the perfect accompaniment for any fine dining. 

Travelling to Aragon, which borders the Pyrenees mountain range in the north, will treat you to a rugged feast for the senses, where historic cultures abound. The landscape is the perfect match for the dramatic wine the region is famous for. 

Baden, Southwest Germany

Although Germany is most famous for its beer, it also has a reputation for outstanding wine, too. The flavours are particularly brilliant in the Black Forest region, stretching up to Heidelberg. The southwest is Germany’s warmest region, making it perfect for the heady flavour of the Pinot varietals that define the region. 

The Baden region is varied regarding its soil types, as well. In the one small area , there is a combination of basalt, granite and loess. This rich diversity of soils carries through to the wine making it especially exciting.

Patagonia, Southern Argentina

Situated in a southern section of the Andes mountain range, Patagonia is one of the most visually dramatic regions on earth. It crosses between towering mountains, glistening lakes and mottled shrub lands. This landscape, its soil quality and ideal climate make for the perfect conditions for growing grapes sustainably. Argentina as a whole is particularly famous for its approach to biodynamic viticulture. 

Patagonia produces a large amount of red varietals, which make up about sixty percent of vineyards space. The wines are expressive, fruity and intense with a very striking colour. They also present the perfect opportunity for investment, as they age very well when stored. 

South Africa

Not a country that springs to mind immediately, South Africa is one of the world’s leaders in white wine varietals including Chenin Blanc. In fact, it’s the world’s premier producer of this light and refreshing variety of white and is an attractive alternative to unoaked Chardonnay. With such a light body, it is the perfect addition to any table. 

The South African landscape is lauded for its unspoilt beaches, vibrant flora and fauna and a wide variety of activities, making it the perfect place to enjoy wine tourism.