There is no better way to experience a wine region than – you guessed it – by traveling there. With 2025 still getting underway there is time to plan your next wine vacation.
Selecting a wine country destination marks the start of your journey – a gateway to immersing yourself in local culture, breathtaking landscapes, memorable activities, and of course, exceptional wines. But where to start? That’s where I can help. I’ve shared my top wine destinations for 2025. And, I have free itineraries, recommendations and tips for each of these destinations!
International Wine Destinations
Sicily, Italy
While Italy’s wine scene is incredible from top to bottom, Sicily’s been stealing my heart lately. Picture this: an ancient Mediterranean island where they’ve been making wine since before anyone can remember. Thanks to its sun-soaked climate and volcanic soils from Mount Etna, Sicily’s wines are totally unique. Red wine fans should look out for the bold Nero d’Avola, the elegant Nerello Mascalese, and the light, refreshing Frappato. If you’re into whites, you can’t miss the crisp Grillo or Carricante – especially in those stunning Etna Bianco wines that come right from the volcano’s slopes. I’ve teamed up with Authentic Explorations to create a DREAM wine vacation to Sicily. Want to come with me!?! Details here.
La Rioja, Spain
Did you know Spain is the world’s third largest wine producer, only behind France and Italy? Its Rioja wine region is world-renowned for its winemaking and home to 600+wineries that produce iconic Tempranillo-based reds and a growing selection of white wines. One way to get a taste of Rioja is to visit the historic Haro Railway Station District, also known as Haro’s Barrio de la Estación. With seven wineries right in town, you can easily sip and sample for two days. If you plan to stay in Haro, Hotel Ciudad de Haro or Palacio Condes De Cirac are good options.
Want to get out among the vines, a luxury stay at Marqués de Riscal is epic. The historic winery and hotel, designed by Frank O. Gehry, one of the world’s top architects provides the perfect homebase for sipping in Rioja.
Bordeaux, France
Bordeaux is often considered one of the world’s wine destinations. This reputation is well-earned: the region created the wine classification system that became the foundation for modern wine standards, and consistently produces ultra-premium wines that command top dollar. Two rivers, the Garonne and Dordogne, split Bordeaux into what wine lovers call the Left and Right Banks – and each side has its own vibe. Down south on the Left Bank, cabernet sauvignon rules, while across the river on the Right Bank, merlot is the star.
Start your visit in Bordeaux city itself – it’s packed with ancient Roman buildings and so much history. Intercontinental Bordeaux Le Grand Hoteland Hôtel de Sèze are excellent options in Bordeaux. You can explore each of the banks on day trips from the city, or head out to the vines for a longer stay.
Wine Regions in the United States
Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley is America’s wine capital, with each of its little towns offering a unique vibe. One of my favorites – St. Helena – gives you the perfect base to explore the 500+ wineries in the valley, while keeping you close to fantastic restaurants and shops. For a dreamy stay in St. Helena that keeps you mostly walkable, check into the Wyndown Hotel, Southbridge or the Harvest Inn.
Must-visit wineries in St. Helena include Ehlers Estate, Charles Krug, AXR, Revana and Hunnicutt. If you want to walkable options, Beringer Winery and Orin Swift’s tasting room in the downtown area are great. And if you want an epic splurge, book the Underground Cellar experience at the historic Louise M. Martini, which includes a multi-course tasting menu featuring revered small-lot releases and library wines paired with inspired culinary creations from Chef Aaron Meneghelli. It’s amazing! The wine and food paired with the history of the winery will give you a new appreciation for both Napa Valley and the Martini family.
during the Underground Cellar Experience.
Walla Walla, Washington
Walla Walla is a wine lover’s paradise – and an outdoor enthusiast’s dream – nestled between the Cascades and Blue Mountains, sitting at the same latitude as Bordeaux and Burgundy, and it shows in the wines. While wine might be the draw, there is so much more to do than just wine tasting.
What I love about this region – everything! The wine, the people, the restaurants, the town and all the outdoor activities are hands down fabulous. With 130+ wineries and 30 downtown tasting rooms, you’re spoiled for choice. A few of my current favorites, DAMA, Doubleback Winery, Valdemar Estates, Garrison Creek, Amavi Cellars, Brook & Bull Cellars, Tranche, Slight of Hand Cellars and Kontos Cellars. Stay at the Fat Duck Inn or Marcus Whitman Hotel if you want to be walkable to the downtown scene, or splurge on the Eritage Resort and stay among the vines.
Willamette Valley, Oregon
The Willamette Valley is massive – stretching 150 miles from Eugene to Portland with over 700 wineries scattered throughout. Don’t try to see it all! Pick a corner and settle in. While pinot noir put this place on the map (along with chardonnay and pinot gris), they’re branching out these days. Take pinot blanc – it’s becoming the valley’s perfect summer sip.
For a dreamy stay, book The Allison Inn and Spa, Black Walnut Inn, or Bella Collina B&B. Depending on where you’re staying in the valley, a few favorite wineries to visit include Bergstrom, Granville Wine, Eveningland, Cristom, Domaine Serene, Van Duzer and Abbott Claim.
Elaine Schoch is an award-winning travel writer, wine judge, American Wine Specialist and certified by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET II). At Carpe Travel she shares wine travel destination guides for ALL WINE LOVERS – from novices to experienced pros – to help them plan their wine adventures, arming them with insider tips, must-visit spots, and things to see and do beyond the vines.