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Home | Elegant Traveller | Uncork the World's Finest Wine Experiences

Elegant Traveller

Uncork the World's Finest Wine Experiences

schedule4 Minute Read

19-Dec-2023 Laura Holt

Uncork the World's Finest Wine Experiences

Embark on a grape escape...

Get ready to raise your glass and toast to some of the globe's most celebrated wine destinations. As you explore these exceptional corners of the world, you can also visit vineyards, discover the art of the production process and, of course, indulge in each region's exquisite offerings.

SOUTH AFRICA

Wine Tasting
Welcome to the breathtaking Cape Winelands in South Africa, where stunning landscapes and world-famous winemaking come together for an unforgettable adventure. Just to the east of Cape Town in the Western Cape, this sun-soaked setting boasts rolling valleys dotted with world-class vineyards that have been cultivating grapes since the 1600s.

Affectionately known as the 'food and wine capital of South Africa', Franschhoek may be small in size, but its gastronomic scene packs a mighty punch! The town's name, meaning 'French Corner' in Afrikaans, pays homage to the origins of the region's renowned produce. When French refugees settled here in the 17th century, they brought with them their centuries-old winemaking expertise, thus beginning the town's heritage.

Here, you can journey through an unforgettable wine experience that marries tradition with innovation. For a unique adventure, visitors can even catch a ride on the hop-on-hop-off Wine Tram. It's an exciting way to explore a range of the prestigious wine estates in Franschhoek Valley and sure to be unforgettable.
SUGGESTED STAY: MONT ROCHELLE

Set amidst nearly one hundred acres of serene grounds, the majority of which are dedicated to its own flourishing vineyard, Mont Rochelle is an unmissable stay for wine enthusiasts journeying to Franschhoek. As part of the Virgin Limited Edition collection, the estate is steeped in luxury with beautifully appointed accommodations, surrounded by an enchanting backdrop of South Africa's Western Cape region.
The Wine Cellar

NEW ZEALAND

Vineyards, Blenheim
Whether you're a wine enthusiast or a novice, exploring the diverse and delicious wines of New Zealand promises a delightful journey of the senses. While travellers flock to the country for its awe-inspiring landscapes, its burgeoning wine scene has also garnered global acclaim, and a visit to some of these vineyards should not be missed.

While New Zealand's rise in the global wine scene only started in the latter half of the 20th century, it now proudly ranks among the world's top winemaking nations. Its vast landscapes and spectrum of outdoor adventures are mirrored in the country's range of wine offerings; from the rich, robust reds of Waiheke Island to the fruity allure of Marlborough's iconic Sauvignon Blanc.

Embarking on an adventure around Waiheke Island will have you encounter more than just grapevines, where olive trees invite exquisite olive oil samples alongside your wine tasting. Blenheim's alfresco excursions in the Marlborough region however offer visitors the chance to explore the verdant valleys by bicycle.
SUGGESTED STAY: THE MARLBOROUGH LODGE

This heritage lodge is an idyllic base for embarking on your exploration of the picturesque vineyards and esteemed wineries of Blenheim. Enveloped by gardens, you'll even find Sauvignon Blanc vineyards growing in The Marlborough Lodge grounds. You can enjoy the regional produce at the Harvest Restaurant, join the head gardener for an interactive tour and tasting or opt for a cycling adventure through the vineyards.
The Marlborough Lodge Exterior

USA

Napa Valley Wine Train
Thanks to the array of terrains and climates, as well as the broad range of culinary pairings, in the United States of America, the country is home to a diverse range of wine styles, from New York's crisp Riesling to the Pinot Noirs of Oregon. But there is one state that stands above the rest when discussing the USA's wine production: California.

Whilst Spanish missionaries brought grapes to California in the 16th century, it wasn't until the mid-19th century that the California Gold Rush brought a wave of immigrants to California, many of whom brought vital knowledge from their native countries to establish vineyards and wineries. Today, Napa Valley is home to over 400 wineries, and the region has won numerous awards and accolades, including 90% of the top 100 wines in the world.

The stretching rows of vines across Napa Valley beckon visitors with incredible experiences, from hopping aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train for a classic rail adventure that stops at three fantastic wineries, to a bike ride through the renowned Napa Valley Vine Trail.
SUGGESTED STAY: AUBERGE DU SOLEIL, AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION

Nestled right in the heart of America's most famous wine region, you could not find a better Napa Valley stay than this intimate Provençal-inspired retreat. Guests of Auberge du Soleil, Auberge Resorts Collection, who must be over 16 years old, can enjoy breathtaking views over olive groves and fragrant vineyards. This refined resort also offers unforgettable moments for wine connoisseurs, including learning how to saber a bottle of champagne which comes with a personalised, engraved champagne saber as a memento!
Pool terrace view

PORTUGAL

Vineyards in the Valley of the River Douro
Vineyards in the Valley of the River Douro
Beyond the golden shores and cobblestone streets of Portugal lies expansive landscapes of sun-kissed vineyards filled with tradition. As a land of resplendent beauty and undeniable charm, Portugal's history, culture and innovation come together in every glass.

With a history stretching over two millennia, the Douro Valley stands as one of the world's most ancient and esteemed wine regions. Embracing local grape varieties and a pioneering ethos, it has surged ahead as Portugal's top wine region. However, it's not just the wines that have captured global acclaim; its breathtaking beauty-terraced vineyards, rolling hills and the Douro River-has even earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.

Porto and the Douro Valley have been on the top of the travel list for many wine lovers. Your travels here promise to transcend the ordinary vineyard experience, offering exclusive opportunities such as private tastings in an enchanting wine cellar, or a truly unique experience of an Antioxidant Grape Facial that beautifully blends the region's expertise with rejuvenating luxury.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY:

Wine Library Restaurant Terrace
Wine Library Restaurant Terrace
Vineyard Yoga
Are you looking for more travel inspiration? Filled with first-hand travel tales, expert destination guides and more, our luxury online travel blog can help.
Laura  Holt

Laura Holt

Senior Copywriter

Whether it's a short-haul weekend away or an exciting international adventure, I'm always eager for my next trip. I've been lucky to travel in abundance, and each time I come home, I bring back unforgettable stories that I love to share.