Five Warmer Weather Holiday Wine Destinations

With fall now upon us (and winter fast approaching), it’s officially time to start reminiscing about summer and planning your holiday getaway. While you’re at it, why not make your holiday wine-related, and warm? Here are five wine destinations, perfect for this holiday season:

Mendoza

Mendoza, Argentina

Right: A perfect outing. (Courtesy of Mendoza Wine Tourism and Travel)

Perhaps the most important wine region in South America, the Mendoza Province of Argentina (pictured right) features outstanding Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, and Chardonnay (as well as local varietals Criolla Grande and Cereza) and a burgeoning lodging, dining, and art scene. With the average vineyard located over a half-mile above sea level, Mendoza offers breathtaking views as well as the ideal springtime climate for a winter getaway.

barossaBarossa Valley, Australia

Left: Something else. (Australian Traveller)

Featuring legendary Shiraz as well as Grenache, Mourvedre, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Sémillon, the Barossa Valley region of Australia (pictured left) is located only an hour outside the chic city of Adelaide on the Gulf St Vincent. Beautiful landscapes, world-famous cellars, and a warm climate make the Barossa Valley the perfect choice for a quaint holiday getaway.

Stellenbosch, South Africa


stellenbosch

Above: An unbelievable expanse.

Part of the largest wine-producing region in Africa (Cape Winelands), the Stellenbosch region of South Africa (pictured above) is famous for Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, and Chenin Blanc (as well as signature varietal Pinotage). Located less than a hour away from the historic city of Cape Town, the Stellenbosch region also features a hot, dry climate and access to a plethora of beaches during the holiday season.

Maipo Valley, Chile

chile

Above: Quite the contrast. (Courtesy of De Martino Winery)

Undoubtedly the most important wine region in Chile, the Maipo Valley (pictured above) produces historic Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Syrah, Carménère, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and Malbec. Situated just outside Chile’s capital city of Santiago (which offers an abundance of art, history, coffee, and stunning Andean views), the Maipo Valley features a Mediterranean climate perfect for a winter getaway.

bajaBaja California, Mexico

Right: Close to home.

More than just tequila and cerveza, the Baja California region of Mexico (pictured right) produces over a dozen different grape varietals (including Cabernet Franc, Nebbiolo, Tempranillo, Carignan, and Viognier) and is home to El Museo de la Vid y el Vino (the Museum of Viticulture and Wine). With warm weather year-round, Baja California makes the perfect wine lovers’ escape regardless of the season.