10 Top Destinations for Wine Lovers

What could be better than combining your hunger for exploring new destinations with your thirst for discovering fine wines? From boutique wineries steeped in tradition, to modern estates yielding millions of bottles, let’s traverse the globe to explore the very best destinations to enjoy utterly glorious wines.

1. Germany: historic charm and undiscovered treasures

With historic castles, quaint villages and meandering rivers, Germany is not only beautiful, it also provides optimal grape-growing conditions. There are 13 wine regions, mostly concentrated in the sunny south, and its pedigree for grape growing dates back 2,000 years. Germany gets less recognition on the wine circuit than its counterparts like France and Italy, but this can play to your advantage, with a slightly less busy feel, allowing you to venture off the beaten track and discover vineyards by hiking, cycling or even river kayaking.

RHEINHESSEN

This is the largest wine region, accounting for almost a quarter of Germany’s vineyards. It produces a sizeable amount of the famous Riesling, along with wines from the ancient grape variety Silvaner and it’s the birthplace of the mellow white Liebfraumilch. An influx of young winemakers has generated innovation, so a trip here may be fruitful in terms of new discoveries. 

RHEINGAU

Located alongside the winding River Rhine, this region has a reputation for distinguished wines, particularly fruity Rieslings and velvety Pinot Noirs, known locally as Spätburgunder. August is the optimum time for a trip so you can bask in the annual wine festival.

Combine your viticulture voyage with a stay in one of four Kempinski hotels in Germany.

BADEN

With its sunny weather, this is one of the few places where Riesling doesn’t dominate. Look out for Spätburgunder, Müller-Thurgau and Pinot Grigio from Grauburgunder.

MOSEL

Mosel is the oldest and possibly most famous wine region with a perfect microclimate serving the steep hillsides sheathed in vines. Riesling and Elbling are both cultivated here.

PFALZ 

Sharing a similar climate to neighbouring Alsace in France, Pfalz is one of the driest and sunniest of Germany’s wine regions. While here, try Pinot Blanc from Weissburgunder and deep-coloured reds from the Dornfelder grape.

SACHSEN

A small region with wines produced mainly for local consumption, this is well worth a visit. Travel to Berlin (home to Hotel Adlon Kempinski) then take the train to Dresden for a stay at Hotel Taschenbergpalais Kempinski to explore the Saxon Wine Route. Here you’ll find the picturesque town of Radebeul. As you amble around some of the 11 vineyards, sip on Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio. There’s also the Herbst and Weinfest festival every September for delectable wines accompanied by the obligatory bratwurst.

Connoisseur tip?

If you stay at Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin, book a table at Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer and seek out Chef Sommelier Hans-Martin Konrad for the best recommendations. The restaurant’s Gault&Millau-awarded wine list is continuously expanded with rarities and new discoveries. 

Over in Munich, Lena Schenk, Sommelier at Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski, recommends getting an authentic taste of the city by ordering a veal escalope and pairing it with Max Müller's Silvaner Ratsherr GG.

2. Spain: vibrant culture and tempting flavours 

Spain has an impressive claim to fame: it beats France and Italy to take the trophy for the most vineyards in the world. A country crisscrossed with wine routes, pick any area and you’ll find vineyards galore, each bursting with bottles and barrels of exceptional wine. Stay at Kempinski Hotel Bahía and explore at the end of the summer, when the grape harvest begins, and you may also find yourself in the thick of some of Spain’s lively wine festivals.

LA RIOJA

This is one of the foremost wine regions and many people’s favourite because of its namesake fresh and aromatic wines. The charming towns and cities of Briones, Haro and Sajazarra are unmissable, as is Logroño for delicious cuisine.

CASTILLA Y LEON

This northern area is known for its reds and is garnering increasing international attention. If you’re a fan of Tempranillo, you’ll want to incorporate the sub-region of Ribera del Duero into your tour. Here feast on fruity and full-bodied varieties. Spend an afternoon at the winery Vega Sicilia and take a moment to wander around Valladolid and the Old Quarter.

ANDALUCÍA

This area is known for dry wines like Manzanilla and Amontillado, as well as Sherry from Jerez. Take tours at Puerto de Santa María and Sanlúcar de Barrameda and learn about food pairings, plus make sure there’s time in your itinerary to visit Seville, Cordoba and Cádiz.

Combine your viticulture voyage with a stay at Kempinski Hotel Bahía

CATALONIA

We couldn’t mention Spain without talking about its flagship fizz, Cava. Although it’s made in many provinces, it began life in Catalonia near Barcelona and most of the production remains in this area. Thanks to Cava, Spain scoops the accolade of the world’s second largest producer of sparkling wines, runner up only to France.

Connoisseur tip?

The sherry offering in Spain is not to be overlooked and Viña ab Amontillado from Gonzalez Byass comes highly recommended with its notes of salted candy and bitter almond. Pascual Benavides, Sommelier at Kempinski Hotel Bahía, recommends D.O. Sierras de Málaga wines for their strong Mediterranean character. Try a Moscatel or Pedros Ximenez for a sweet dessert wine that is steeped in local history.

3. Greece: ancient marvels and relaxing indulgence
 

For testament to Greece’s love and dedication to viticulture, you only have to look to Dionysus, their very own god of wine. The country’s short winters and hot summers with sea breezes all create favourable conditions for vines. Europe’s leading grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc all flourish, but local grape varieties imbue Greek wines with unique flavour. There are plentiful wine routes, which also afford you a glimpse at the mountains, lakes, villages and history that make this an incredible part of the world. 

THE PELOPONNESE

With towering mountains and long coastlines, grapes have been cultivated here as far back as 4,000 years ago. Many are used for the raisin trade, but impressive wines including Agiorgitiko from Nemea hail from this region. Acheon Winery is a great spot to immerse yourself in wine-making.

MACEDONIA

The most notable wines are from the Xinomavro grape, which yields rich, fruity, aromatic reds. Domaine Florian is a family-run boutique winery and Ktima Kir-Yianni offers tours on bikes and e-bikes.

ATTICA

Begin your viticulture journey in the wine bars of Athens before heading out to local vineyards, many of which are close to impressive archaeological sites. Discover varieties made from Savatiano grapes, which produce everything from dry white to fresh and fruity, along with dessert wines. One of the most famous hailing from Attica is Retsina.

GREEK ISLANDS

The islands of Crete, Samos, Paros and Santorini yield heavenly wines – from family-owned plots supplying local tavernas to high-tech wineries producing barrel upon barrel. This area is known for sweet dessert wines, including the eponymous Samos. Assyrtiko from Santorini is another aromatic, crisp white you’ll come across and, for a rich red, look out for Agiorgitiko or Kotsifali.

Connoisseur tip?

Sample Moschofilero wines from the family-owned Semeli Estate in the Peloponnese. Crisp, zesty and with floral and citrus notes, these are delightfully refreshing.

4. Croatia: stunning landscapes and decadent discoveries 
 

Croatia has a proud history of grape cultivation and its unique wines are gaining recognition around the world. The small quantities mean it’s not often exported, so you’ll simply have to come to Croatia to enjoy them whilst marvelling at the glorious countryside and coastline and enjoying a stay at Kempinski Hotel Adriatic. The bulk of wines are white, with smaller proportions of red from coastal regions and just a scattering of rosé. Make sure you add reds including Babić and Dingač to your tasting hitlist, as well as whites like Malvazija. 

DALMATIA

The elevation, coupled with the climate, is the perfect recipe for velvety, spicy reds. Look out for Plavac Mali, grown on the undulating slopes of the Peljesac Peninsula. It’s similar to the Californian Zinfandel, with a distinct flavour of ripe cherries and pepper. Stina Winery and Bire Winery are unmissable.

SLAVONIA AND DANUBE 

In the largest viticulture region in Croatia, the number one white variety is Graševina. There’s an array of wineries to choose from here, including Podrumi Krešić. 

Combine your viticulture voyage with a stay at Kempinski Hotel Adriatic.

ISTRIA AND KVARNER 

Istria, a peninsula in the Adriatic Sea where Croatia, Slovenia and Italy meet, is largely undiscovered on the international winemaking stage and it combines with Kvarner to form a wine region that definitely warrants a visit. The whites are dry and fruity, from indigenous grapes including Malvazija and Žlahtina. And bold and earthy Teran is one of the most popular reds. Here you’ll also find orange wines made from white grapes with the juice left to macerate on the skins affording it a unique flavour. Some of the top spots to visit are the Kozlović and Tomaz wineries.

Connoisseur tip?

Within a 30-minute drive of Kempinski Hotel Adriatic, you can find a variety of renowned wineries such as Monterosso, Kozlović and Kabola, and many of their wines are featured on the hotel’s wine list.

5. Slovenia: spellbinding scenery and wondrous wines 
 

When you think of Slovenia, sleepy villages, alpine mountains and glacial lakes spring to mind. As well as undeniable natural beauty, the fertile land also yields marvellous wines, courtesy of around 28,000 wineries. Slovenia (home to Kempinski Palace Portorož) is a relative newcomer on the global stage as private production was banned during the years of Yugoslavian socialism, which ended in 1991. But there’s now an aura of growth and many of the family-owned wineries are keen to experiment with sparkling, organic and biodynamic production. The best time to visit is from late spring so you can enjoy rambling in the warm air, through to grape harvesting in early autumn.

PRIMORSKA 

This is Slovenia’s answer to Tuscany with its Mediterranean climate and Italian influences permeating everything from architecture to food – and, of course, the wine. This region is famed for Rebula, a crisp white with refreshing citrus undertones, and its sparkling Penina. Visiting award-winning Klet Brda, which yields more than five million bottles a year, is a must. 

Combine your viticulture voyage with a stay at Kempinski Palace Portorož.

PODRAVSKA 

Podravska is the largest of the three main wine regions and specialises in sparkling and dessert wines, with its Riesling deserving special praise. It’s also home to Slovenia’s oldest winery at Ptujska Klet, which was founded by Franciscan monks in 1239 and has cellars stretching along hundreds of metres under the town. You may also want to catch a glimpse of the world’s oldest grapevine, at around 450 years old, in the town of Maribor. This region is also known for orange wines with an inviting amber colour.

POSAVSKA 

This may be the smallest region, but the wines pack a punch, and it’s known for its reds, including the fresh, light, slightly sour Cviček. 

Connoisseur tip: 

The wineries at Santomas and Vinakoper are highly recommended and they’re just a short trip from Kempinski Palace Portorož. Once back at the hotel, you can continue to savour these fine wines in the indulgent restaurants and bars.

6. China: fascinating heritage and exquisite luxuries 

Now for a perhaps surprising entry into our wine roll of honour – China. According to archaeological evidence, Chinese people first attempted winemaking 9,000 years ago. But wine was viewed as a Western commodity until more recently when, like other European goods, it started to experience a boom. Fast forward and China is now the world’s seventh largest wine-producing country and is also home to a collection of captivating Kempinski hotels. 

Combine your viticulture voyage with a stay in one of a collection of Kempinski hotels in China.

SHANDONG

China has the third-largest vineyard area worldwide and Shandong accounts for a huge amount of that. While in China’s primary wine region, stay at Kempinski Hotel Jinan, the province’s capital, and delve into Yantai, which has more than 140 wineries. China’s oldest and largest winery, Changyu Pioneer Wine, is a rite of passage, along with Chateau Tinlot and Chateau Weilong.

NINGXIA

The arid semi-desert region of Ningxia, home to Kempinski Hotel Yinchuan, boasts some of the most coveted international behemoths, from LVMH and Pernod Ricard to Moët and Chandon, which built a multi-million-pound sparkling wine facility here. It’s known for premium wines similar to those from Bordeaux and Burgundy, so look out for Cabernet Gernischt, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Take a tour at the region’s oldest producer Xixia King. There’s a predilection for reds, including Marselan and Syrah, but the whites are also high-quality, from Chardonnay and Welschriesling to Petit Manseng and Vidal.

Connoisseur tip:

Kanaan Winery, at the eastern foot of Helan Mountain in Ningxia, is known for its excellent wines, including a collaboration to produce the house wine of Kempinski Hotel Yinchuan. The Xige Estate is also worth visiting for its Cabernet Gernischt, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as its advanced technologies and impressive design. 

7. Malta: natural beauty and hidden gems

Malta, home to Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz Gozo, may be the smallest independent wine-producing country in the world, but what it creates is mighty. With only a modest area given over to vineyards, the wines are rarely exported, which means you’re being admitted into a world that’s exclusive and artisanal. Major international grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah or Chardonnay took over here for a while, but there’s been investment and interest in native varieties and you’ll find an enormous selection. 

NORTH AND SOUTH MALTA

Generally speaking, the clay-limestone soils in the north yield white, while the south is the heartland for red wines. Marsovin, Malta's largest winery, producing nearly two million bottles a year, is a must, as well as Delicata, boasting 50 varieties. While on this idyllic island, sample the native Gellewza grape, which produces light reds with hints of prune and cherry. 

Combine your viticulture voyage with a stay at Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz.

GOZO

Malta’s sister island, Gozo, has diverse soil that lends itself to all types of production, so there’s something for every palate. Here you’ll find Chardonnay, Girgentina, Gellewża, Merlot and Syrah. Pay a visit to Tal-Massar and marvel at traditional wine-making processes. Marsovin and Delicata also have estates here, so while away an afternoon tasting and relaxing.

Connoisseur tip:

Simon Mesmer, Sommelier at Kempinski Hotel San Lawrenz, recommends the wines from Meridiana Wine Estate. “Their Vermentino, grown near cliffs, is exceptional with floral and citrus characteristics and it stands out for its balance and freshness. Another favourite is their Melqart Superior, a medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.”

8. France: breathtaking backdrops and delightful vintages

So entwined are France and wine that it’s almost impossible to think of one without the other. Around eight billion bottles are produced each year, of almost every style. Wine tourism is well developed, which means you’re in for a treat, whichever region you choose to explore. In fact, there are wine tours on bikes, boats, scooters, horseback and even hot air balloons.

BORDEAUX

One of the largest wine-producing regions, most of the wine here is aromatic red and it carries a prestige around the world. Sip on Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet France, Muscadelle and Sémillon. And, after visiting the châteaux, or wineries, check out the La Cité du Vin museum for a fascinating insight into the region’s 120,000 hectares of vineyard and long-established wine-making culture.

PROVENCE

This is very much the land of rosé, with 90% of the region’s vineyards producing wines known for their lovely pale pink colour. Enjoy a refreshing glass while looking out over the picturesque lavender fields and you’ll literally feel your tensions trickle away.

ALSACE

Known for its Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris and Crémant d’Alsace sparkling wine, this is another of the main wine areas in France, with a wealth of stunning wineries offering tours and tastings.

CHAMPAGNE

A wine tour of France simply wouldn’t be complete without a foray into the world of Champagne. Located around Reims, Épernay, Sézanne and Troyes, this world-famous region will not disappoint and you’ll find Champagne houses aplenty.

France has wine regions too numerous to list, but you may also want to venture into Languedoc-Roussillon, Burgundy, Rhône Valley and Loire Valley.

Connoisseur tip:

Take a trip to the Joseph Drouhin Oenothèque winery, which produces some of Burgundy’s best wines. Stroll through the underground cellars and savour light, refreshing Pouilly-Fuissé and smooth, fragrant Clos du Mouches.

9. Mexico: captivating culture and wine wonders

For another unexpected contender in our list of wine hotpots, enter Mexico, with wineries dating back to 1597 and thousands of hectares of vineyards. Featuring a tapestry of French, Spanish and Italian grapes, it’s rich pickings for Nebbiolo, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and Tempranillo, and is home to Kempinski Hotel Cancún.

BAJA PENINSULA 

This is a key area, with more than 150 wineries and around 85% of Mexican production taking place here. A good spot to start is the Ruta del Vino, a wine route connecting more than 50 wineries. Thanks to growth in wine tourism, you’ll encounter luxury hotels and lavish dining to accompany your wines. On your travels, you might stumble across intriguing blends like Cabernet Sauvignon with Grenache and Barbera.

Combine your viticulture voyage with a stay at Kempinski Hotel Cancún.

NORTH AND CENTRAL MEXICO

There are interesting, if not smaller, vineyards in the North Central states of Durango and Chihuahua and in the Central Mexico states of Zacatecas, Aguascalientes and Querétaro. The wines are distinctly European in style, with Cabernet and Merlot similar to Bordeaux and Aglianico that’s akin to Taurasi. 

Connoisseur tip? 

José Alamilla, Master of Wine Pairing at Kempinski Hotel Cancún recommends trying Megacero. "It’s an exceptional Mexican red wine from the Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California. Made from a blend of Merlot, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, it offers a rich and well-rounded flavour profile. It pairs beautifully with several of our signature dishes from The Club Grill, including our grilled ribeye and roasted duck”.

10. Italy: wonderful sights and world-class wines 

With rolling hills peppered with rustic farmhouses and olive groves, Italy is a dream destination for everyone, not just wine lovers. North to south, the country is brimming with wineries, from large household names to small family-owned wineries dedicated to their craft. This means that anywhere you go, you’re guaranteed a lovely glass of vino, and also that you’ll have to keep returning to do each region justice. Given there are over 300 wine regions in Italy, it’s a challenge to pick just a handful.

TUSCANY

If you have a penchant for full-bodied reds, Tuscany is the destination for you. Birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, it’s also home to some of Italy’s best vineyards. Here savour Brunello, Chianti and Rosso di Montalcino and visit the idyllic hilltop town of Montalcino for tastings. Spring is perfect as it’s not too crowded so you can explore in relative tranquility.

VENETO

Veneto, home to iconic Venice and San Clemente Palace Kempinski, has some of the continent’s oldest vineyards. Add Valpolicella, a town renowned for its dry red Amarone, to your route, along with the spectacular Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. These have received UNESCO Heritage recognition and produce some of the finest sparkling wine in Italy. 

DOLOMITES

At the foothills of the Dolomites, indulge in world-class wines including Soave and Bardolino. It’s somewhat less busy than other regions, affording it the feel of unchartered territory. Ski here in the winter and reward yourself with a welcome glass of wine after your exertions, or experience the wine harvest between August and October.

Combine your viticulture voyage with a stay at San Clemente Palace Kempinski.

PUGLIA 

As one of the largest wine-producing regions in the country, some of the finest wineries are concentrated around Gioia del Colle. Time your visit to coincide with Cantine Aperte events, where cellars all over Italy open their doors for tastings and tours. These are held in May and at harvest in September and October.

SICILY

While it has an array of dry whites and reds to tantalise visitors, Sicily is most famous for its dessert wines and its Marsala comes highly recommended.

CAMPANIA

In addition to the fascinating ancient city of Pompeii, Campania boasts blissful wines with berry flavours, including Taurasi and Aglianico del Taburno.

Connoisseur tip?

Sample the extensive wine list at San Clemente Palace Kempinski, including its exclusive signature series of San Clemente wines and Prosecco. Just a short trip away from the hotel, don't miss the unique Venissa winery on another island in the Venice Lagoon where you can hear the estate’s fascinating story and savour its Dorona di Venezia variety.

Whether you embark upon a tour or take in the sunset at a local bar, viticulture is a great way to get closer to the tastes and stories of your destination. Cheers!  

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