Grape Getaways

Weekend in Niagara

Easy Drinking Down Under

From hot to cool climate regions, distinct grape varieties and an increasing focus on sustainable, organic viticulture, Australia, New Zealand and the talented winemakers there have a knack for creating wines that appeal to many different tastes.
      

South Australia’s wine and food hub is famous for its Shiraz, made from the same grape as Syrah. Penfolds conducts a blend-your-own wine activity, while the cooking classes at Jacob’s Creek deliver a true farm-to-table experience.
     

New Zealand: Hawke's Bay

The temperate maritime climate of Hawke’s Bay and its diverse terrains, from gravelly riverbeds to clay loams, make for bright acidity and layered flavours. Expect whites with fresh minerality and great aging potential, or perhaps a grapefruit-fresh rosé made from Malbec and Merlot grapes.
 

WINES TO TRY

     
Many visitors cycle their way to more than 100 cellar doors via the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail in the Hawke’s Bay wine region on the east coast of the North Island. Standout estates include the gorgeous oceanfront Elephant Hill winery and Black Barn Vineyards, which offers luxurious overnight stays.
      

South American Terroir

Visitors to the Southern Hemisphere on our side of the globe find everything from crisp whites to bold reds, along with broad avenues, charming plazas and sophisticated tastes in cities from Santiago to Mendoza.
    

Carménère is the flagship grape of the Colchagua Valley. Visitors can engage with the region’s wine heritage on a histori­cal steam train trip through the valley, tasting room tours and overnight winery experiences. Visit the Vik Chile Hotel and Nature Reserve for its 360 degree views and dramatic titanium rooftop, or the stunning Relais & Châteaux–designated Clos Apalta Residence.
     

Argentina: Mendoza

Malbec is the grape of choice in Mendoza, which is the name of a province, city and wine region at the foot of the Andes Mountains. The enjoyment of wine is embedded into the culture here. The high altitude vineyards deliver intense flavours and luxe experiences. Lodges set within the wine estates include the tranquil Casa de Huéspedes Bodega Gimenez Riili and The Vines Resort & Spa, where you can help harvest grapes or make your own custom wine.

WINES TO TRY

Mendoza’s dry and sunny days and cool nights deliver fresh, intense and concentrated flavours, plus an integrated acidity. The Malbecs are especially noted for their rich fruit character and plush texture.

European Tastes

Becoming acquainted with millennia-old European wine culture and its many modern, sustainable sensibilities brings variety to your wine knowledge.
     

Italy has a history of viticulture that dates back to 8th century BC, making travel here a history lesson as well as a relaxing retreat. Nowhere is this more evident than in Piedmont, which has more DOCG wines than any other region. Stops can include the historic Marchesi di Barolo and Fontanafredda wineries, both noted for their Barolo and Barbaresco.
     

Cruise to European Vineyards

Taking an ocean or river cruise that docks near wine-producing regions can be a fun and unexpected way to experience wine travel. Multiple cruise lines also have specific wine-related elements on their itineraries, either through an in-depth culinary focus or vineyard shore excursions. Two big benefits here: You only unpack once and you don’t have to do any of the driving.