Take a sip: 10 places to enjoy wine outside Europe

Is there anything better than the taste of sun-ripened grapes gliding down your throat as smooth as velvet?

Whether you’re the sort who inhales a rush of air with every sip of wine (you know who you are), or you simply enjoy a glass without the need to identify the grape variety, there’s something truly special about sitting amidst stunning scenery, savouring a glass of locally produced wine.

European wines often steal the spotlight on this side of the world, but we’re setting out to explore 10 wine regions beyond Europe, each with its own unique flavour profile just waiting to be discovered.  

From grape to glass: The journey of wine

Wine is so much more than just wine. Behind every bottle lies an ancient craft, where the grapes are tended with great care, and a passion for the process can be tasted in every single sip.

The winemaking process, which may vary depending on the intended style, typically begins with the harvest and crushing of grapes into juice, which is then left to ferment. The wine is then matured—usually in oak barrels or stainless steel vats—for an extended period, before being filtered and bottled.

Yet, it’s not only the winemaking process itself that shapes the flavour. Other elements—such as the climate and the soil—are equally important. That’s why wines from around the world have their own unique personalities and distinctive characters.

Every sip you take tells its own unique story, offering you a remarkable insight into the region in the most special way.

10 destinations with proud wine traditions

Keen to treat your taste buds to exquisite wines from around the globe? We’ve gathered 10 destinations that promise truly unforgettable tasting experiences.

Kelowna, Canada: Sweet ice wines among rolling vineyards

In the heart of the rolling hills of the Okanagan Valley sits the city of Kelowna, a leading wine region in Canada.

Kelowna is especially renowned for its iconic ice wine, named so because the grapes are harvested in winter and pressed while still frozen. This process gives the wine its distinctive sweetness, resulting in a delicious dessert wine that delights the palate with wonderfully soft, sweet notes.

As well as world-class culinary experiences, Kelowna also treats you to breathtaking views over Lake Okanagan, beautifully framed by forest-covered hills and lush vineyards – the perfect setting for unwinding with a delightful glass of ice wine.

Wine country, South Africa: World-renowned wines amid picturesque scenery

Just a short drive northeast of Cape Town, the South African wine country promises unforgettable wine experiences with stunning vistas. Here, rolling hills are draped in vibrant vineyards, while charming white-coloured wineries are dotted across the scenic landscape.

This region is renowned for its perfect grape-growing conditions, producing world-famous wines that are increasingly popular across the globe. Take, for example, the flavourful Pinotage – a cherished cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut/Hermitage grapes, grown exclusively in South Africa. Wine lovers are sure to savour tasting it in celebrated areas such as Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl.

Mendoza, Argentina: Flavourful grapes from South America’s wine paradise

Mendoza, one of Argentina’s oldest cities, is the beating heart of the country’s wine industry.

Nestled at the foot of the Andes in western Argentina, Mendoza is home to more than 70% of the country’s vineyards, making it Argentina’s leading wine-producing province. It’s no wonder, then, that Mendoza is rightfully known as the nation’s wine capital, drawing wine lovers from across the globe.

Around 21% of the vineyards are dedicated to the Malbec grape variety. While Malbec can produce sharp, disappointing wines elsewhere, the conditions in Mendoza are simply perfect, resulting in delicious red wines that are often considered among the best in the world.

Napa Valley, USA: World-class wine in sun-drenched surroundings

In the sunny state of California, you’ll find the spectacular Napa Valley, where world-class wine-tasting adventures await.

Although Napa Valley is relatively small—stretching just 50 km long and 5 km wide—the region boasts a remarkable diversity of soil types and microclimates, allowing for the production of an impressive range of wines. This is why Napa Valley is often regarded as one of the world’s leading wine destinations.

At some of the region’s more than 500 wineries, you can look forward to sampling outstanding grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Merlot, and Zinfandel. However, a visit to Napa Valley simply isn’t complete until you’ve tasted the crowning jewel: Cabernet Sauvignon, for which the area is especially renowned.

Barossa Valley, Australia: A sensory journey to delight the palate

Nestled close to the vibrant city of Adelaide in South Australia, Barossa Valley is one of the world’s largest wine regions, spanning an impressive 11,000 hectares.

The picturesque vineyards sweep across open landscapes and are among the oldest in Australia, producing some of the country’s most sought-after wines. The region’s Shiraz grape, in particular, is famed for creating rich, full-bodied reds.

But Barossa Valley’s winemakers offer far more than just red wines. The valley’s sunny, Mediterranean-style climate provides the perfect conditions for elegant whites such as Chardonnay, which captivates with its lively, aromatic flavours.

Waiheke Island, New Zealand: A scenic haven for wine lovers

Waiheke Island is a scenic gem off the coast of New Zealand’s North Island, world-renowned for its exceptional wine production.

Despite its modest size, Waiheke Island’s vineyards offer outstanding tasting experiences that captivate the senses and delight the palate. At the island’s more than 30 wineries, you can savour everything from rich reds such as Bordeaux blends and Merlot to crisp whites like Pinot Gris and Chardonnay.

Beyond its reputation as a wine producer, Waiheke Island enchants visitors with its stunning beaches, warm hospitality, and vibrant cultural scene, making every visit truly unforgettable.

Yarra Valley, Australia: Time-honoured wines and breathtaking views over the vineyards

Just east of Australia’s lively metropolis Melbourne, you’ll find the idyllic Yarra Valley, where rolling vineyards and beautiful scenery provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable wine experience.

Wine production in Yarra Valley dates back to the early 19th century, when the first vineyards were established in the region. Since then, the industry has flourished, and today more than 80 wineries produce an impressive array of wines here.

Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are often considered the highlights of Yarra Valley’s vineyards, but grape varieties like Shiraz and Nebbiolo also thrive in this region.

Santa Ynez Valley, USA: Where delicate flavours meet Danish ‘hygge’

Travelling towards Santa Barbara along California’s legendary Highway 1, you’ll pass through the enchanting Santa Ynez Valley, beautifully situated amid lush vineyards and rolling hills.

Santa Ynez Valley is home to a host of wineries producing some of California’s finest wines, including the outstanding Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Syrah.

If you’re dreaming of a truly unique wine experience, make sure to visit the small ‘Danish village’ of Solvang in Santa Ynez. With its quaint thatched cottages, traditional windmills, and warm, inviting atmosphere, it offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable wine tasting with a charming cultural twist.

Yamanashi, Japan: An underrated world of wine at the foot of Mount Fuji

Japan may not be the first country that springs to mind when you think of wine, yet it actually boasts a surprising selection of quality wines and unique tasting experiences.

You’ll find the very best wines in Japan’s leading wine region, Yamanashi, just an hour and a half drive from Tokyo. This renowned region is especially famous for wines made from the koshu grape, a variety unique to Japan, which won a gold medal at the world’s largest wine competition, the Decanter World Wine Awards, in 2014.

Yamanashi sits beautifully nestled between the majestic Mount Fuji and the rolling hills of the Koshu Valley, so a visit here also offers you breathtaking natural scenery.

Central Otago, New Zealand: Luscious grapes from some of the world’s southernmost vineyards

Set on New Zealand’s breathtaking South Island, Central Otago is one of the world’s southernmost wine regions.

Amidst spectacular scenery, the vineyards stretch gracefully across the landscape, forming the backdrop for some of New Zealand’s finest wines.

You can look forward to tasting some of the world’s best Pinot Noir – the signature grape of Central Otago – as well as an array of characterful white wines that impress with their finesse and distinctively nuanced flavours.

Keen to quench your (travel) thirst?

Beyond the borders of Europe, you’ll discover wine experiences that will delight both your taste buds and your sense of adventure. And if you’re passionate about great food, why not explore the world’s best cities for foodies, where cuisine and drinks come together in perfect harmony?

Get in touch with our travel specialists today and find the perfect tour to satisfy your culinary dreams!

Cheers!

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller