Best wine regions in Europe

Attention all wine lovers! If you’re dreaming of a relaxing vacation with a nice glass of wine and a breathtaking view somewhere far far away, this is where you should start your planning. From captivating mountains and breathtaking coastlines to extravagant chateaux and impressive UNESCO sites, the variety of these endless vineyards offers something for everyone’s taste and tastebuds. 

Here is our list of top 10 wine regions in Europe that is so enticing it will add a whole new layer to the expression “thirst trap”.

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is a charming region in central Italy teeming with captivating landscapes. Besides its natural beauty, It is also known for its rich history and incredible artistic legacy. Without a doubt, it is one of the most popular vacation destinations. In addition, Tuscany includes numerous famous wine regions and is most notable for its production of Sangiovese-based dry red wines. Some of the most distinguished ones are Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Namely, Tuscany’s viticulture dates back to the 8th century BC. What’s more, around the 3rd century BC Tuscan wine was mentioned by several Greek writers in their literary works due to its high quality. Thus, a region with such a notable winemaking history as well as breathtaking scenery is definitely worth paying a visit. Especially if what you’re looking for are a good glass of wine in your hand and a stunning view.

Champagne, France

Everyone knows Champagne is a heavenly sparkling wine and an absolute necessity for all celebrations and special occasions. However, not everyone knows that the name Champagne is legally protected and should be used exclusively for sparkling wines that are produced in the eponymous region. Interestingly, the Champagne wine doesn’t actually originate from the Champagne region. According to legend, the method was invented in Languedoc and bought by monks who realised that the climate and chalky soil in the Champagne region favoured the quality of the wine. What’s more, UNESCO recognised the region’s importance as well. In 2015, it added the Champagne hillsides, houses and cellars site to its World Heritage List.

In addition, this picturesque region is only about an hour’s drive from Paris. That makes it the perfect choice for a day trip to enjoy some fresh air and gorgeous views.

Piedmont, Italy

Piedmont is located in northwestern Italy and its name translates to “at the foot of the mountains”. And it really is situated at the foot of the mountains. Namely, it is surrounded by the Alps in the north and west, and the Apennines in the south. Furthermore, it is famous for its rural areas and exquisite cuisine and wines. Hence, the best way to experience the region is not just by looking at it, but by tasting it as well. Moreover, its winemaking tradition dates back to the Middle Ages and it is the birthplace of vermouth.

In addition to amazing wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco, Piedmont is known for delicacies. The most famous (and arguably the most delicious) is white truffles. However, there are also other products such as condiments, honey, salami and prosciutto. 

Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux is a wine region in southwestern France. It is centered on the port city of Bordeaux and divided by the Gironde Estuary. Its history of wine production dates back to ancient times when Romans planted the first vines and started making wine. Furthermore, the Left Bank is known for its numerous extravagant chateaux. When it comes to wine, it is mainly Cabernet Sauvignon-based. Moreover, its sub-region Médoc produces some of the boldest and most tannic wines in the region. On the other hand, the Right Bank is Merlot-based and produces wines with softer, more refined tannins.

In addition, the area is known for its exceptional natural beauty. Besides the beautiful landscapes, the Right Bank owes some of its popularity to the famous medieval city of St Emilion. Together with the surrounding vineyards, it is listed as a UNESCO site. 

Douro Valley, Portugal

The Douro Valley was declared a wine region in 1756. That makes it the oldest demarcated wine-growing region in the world. It is situated only a short distance from Porto and it encompasses the enchanting Douro River. One of the most popular activities in the area is cruising along the river. What’s more, in 2001 the vineyards of Alto Douro became one of the UNESCO sites in Portugal. Namely, its wine-making production is approximately 2000 years old and its best-known wine, the Port wine, has been world-famous since the 18th century.

Furthermore, Douro produces a wide range of wine styles, from light Bordeaux-style reds to rich Burgundian-style wines aged in new oak barrels. In addition, Portuguese cuisine is amazing and it will make you enjoy your glass of local wine even more.

Loire Valley, France

Loire Valley is like Disneyland for wine lovers. There are more than 300 magnificent castles, numerous vineyards and, of course, lots and lots of delicious wine. Namely, its history of winemaking dates back to the 1st century. It mainly produces white wines and their most distinctive characteristic is fruitiness with a crisp, fresh flavour.

However, the region is divided into three sections based on different grapes used for wine production. The Upper Loire is dominated by the Sauvignon blanc grapes, the Middle Loire is dominated by Chenin blanc and Cabernet franc. Finally, the Lower Loire is dominated by wines from the Melon de Bourgogne grape. Furthermore, the area is brimming with historic towns, impressive architecture and beautiful landscapes. Therefore, it is not surprising that in 2000 the central area of the Loire River valley was added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. In addition, being located only an hour and a half by train from the capital makes the Loire Valley a great choice for a day trip from Paris.

La Rioja, Spain

La Rioja is located in North Central Spain, about an hour away from Bilbao. Furthermore, the region encompasses over 500 wineries. Also, it offers various activities for its visitors, from wine tasting to horseback riding and hot-air ballooning. When it comes to wine, most of the production is red wines and the dominant grape is Tempranillo. Nonetheless, Rioja also produces white wine, rosé, sweet wine, as well as sparkling wine.

In addition to numerous infinite vineyards, its captivating landscapes include Mediterranean forests and beautiful mountains. However, its beauty does not only come from nature. La Rioja is a region brimming with unique architecture, and what’s particularly interesting is the places where architecture meets wine – wineries. Namely, the region is home to some of the most unusual and spectacular wineries such as the Marqués de Riscal City of Wine, López de Heredia Vina Tondonia and Ysios winery. 

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a wine region situated on the Greek archipelago of Santorini in the southern Aegean Sea. Its winemaking tradition dates back to ancient times but it became world-famous during the Middle Ages. Namely, it was particularly valued due to its ability to withstand the month-long sea voyages all thanks to its sweetness and high alcohol levels. Furthermore, Santorini’s wine production was influenced by Italy. Its most notable wine is called Vinsanto (similar to Tuscan sweet wine called Vin Santo). It is predominately made from the Assyrtiko grape blended with Athiri and Aidani grapes as well as small amounts of other locally grown white varieties.

In addition, due to the Mediterranean climate, vines need to be trained low in order to protect them from strong wind and heat. However, this climate also makes Santorini a perfect vacation destination for everyone who wants to enjoy the sun and sip on some good wine.

Istria, Croatia

Istria is a charming heart-shaped peninsula situated on the coast of the Adriatic sea. The history of winemaking in Istria dates back to the 6th century BC. That makes it one of the oldest wine regions in Europe. Furthermore, Istria has a Mediterranean climate and is divided into three parts, based on different soil types. Red Istria is named after the terracotta colour of the soil and the wines produced in this area are mainly red, full-bodied and well structured. On the other hand, the soils of Grey Istria are better suited for white grape varieties and produce wine with good acidity levels, pronounced aromatics, and a medium body. Although White Istria is similar to Grey Istria, its soils contain even higher limestone content so they produce wines high in acidity, more aromatic and elegant.

Furthermore, the most popular grape varieties are Malvazja Istarska, the most dominant grape, Teran and Muskat Momjanski. In addition, the stunning natural beauty of Istria’s landscapes will perfectly accompany your glass of local wine.

Catalonia, Spain

Catalonia is a beautiful Spanish region located in the northeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula. Its history of viticulture dates back to the 6th century BC and the diversity of its terrain made it possible to grow a variety of different grapes. What’s more, the grapes in the region include Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarel-lo used for white wines, and Garnacha, Monastrell, and Tempranillo for red wines.

Nowadays, Catalonian wine producers are known as some of the most avant-garde in the country. Furthermore, it is the birthplace of the famous Cava sparkling wine. There are only 6 regions where Cava can be produced, although the majority of it is produced in the Penedès region, Catalonia. Also, it has to be made using the traditional méthode champenoise. In addition, wines produced in Catalonia are full-bodied and high in alcohol so remember to drink responsibly because then you can drink as much as you like.