Exploring The Best Winery Locations From All Over The World

Winemaking is considered by many to be a form of art, with different techniques and methods used across the world that result in the creation of distinct and flavor-rich wines. 

We are all familiar with some of the more popular vineyard locations, such as the wine countries in California, Spain, or Italy. But, what about the wine countries from other locations in the world? In this article, we’re going to be exploring 5 of the best winery locations from across the globe, such as the vineyard that is in Missouri, mentioned in this article. 

Mendoza, Argentina

Nestled in the Mendoza region of Argentina, just south of the main city of Mendoza, is a truly exceptional winery and destination to visit for wine tasters alike. Founded in 1902 by Italian immigrant Nicola Catena, Catena Zapata has become a staple of Argentinian wine making and has led the country to be a world leader among wine producers.

The winery is inspired by Mayan temples, with pyramid-shaped structures all over the property – Catena Zapata is a destination for wine lovers and fans of history alike. 

As for the city of Mendoza itself, there are tons of things to explore and enjoy while you spend your time there. From dozens of other wineries to check out to horseback tours that guide you through the beautiful mountains of Mendoza, there is something for everyone.

Rioja, Spain

In the Rioja region of Spain is arguably the world’s most unique winery, with twisted aluminum ribbons used in the structure, it is a building unlike any other – and it is a sight to behold.

Bodegas de los Herederos del Marqués de Riscal is where the first ever bottle of Rioja wine was bottled, in 1862. They started the trend of covering bottles of Rioja in a golden mesh, and have been a staple of Spanish wine ever since.

If you choose to visit this winery, you may be lucky enough to stay in the extraordinary hotel mentioned earlier with the aluminum ribbon structuring along with so many other intriguing and fascinating styles of architecture. It was designed by Frank Gehry, and was opened in 2006. 

At the center of the winery is the Plaza del Reloj, where the original wine cellar still stands today and holds bottles from the first ever vintage. 

Cachapoal Valley, Chile

Bordering the Mendoza Province of Argentina is the Cachapoal Province in which one of the world’s most unique and visually stunning wineries is located. Situated on a 4,300 hectare plot of land in the Millahue Valley, VIK is both a winery and resort –  there are 22 hilltop suites and top quality dining experiences as well as a variety of activities for guests. 

The winery is relatively new, having opened in 2004. Alex and Carrie Vik spent two years searching for the perfect spot to make wine, and eventually found Millahue, which is also known as the ‘golden place’ by the native Mapuche people. 

Walker Bay, South Africa

Across the Atlantic in South Africa is our pick for the fourth best winery from all over the globe. Creation, also referred to as Hemel-en-Aarde, is a stunning 50 hectares winery located just a couple of hours down the coast from Cape Town. The winery was founded by Swiss winemaker JC Martin along with his wife Carolyn who is from South Africa. They built their estate from scratch in 2002 and opened their winery in 2006 with the first harvest from their vineyard. 

In addition to Creation, Walker Bay has many other world-renowned wineries such as the Newton Johnson Family Vineyards, the Benguela Cove Wine Estate, and Gabrielskloof. To find out more information about these locations, check out Wine Tourism’s article on wineries in Walker Bay. 

Sonoma County, California

Sonoma County is among many well known wine making regions in California, others being Napa Valley or Mendocino County. Our choice as the fifth best winery from around the world is from Sonoma, and it’s the Jordan Vineyard and Winery, which was established in 1974. It covers a huge swath of land, 485 hectares to be precise, 50 of which is planted. The estate is fully carbon neutral as the site runs completely on solar energy.

If you’re interested in touring the Jordan Vineyard and Winery, then you will need to make reservations to get a tour on their website. 

Wrapping It Up

Thanks for checking out this article on the 5 best wineries from across the globe. Keep in mind that this was all our personal opinion, and everyone will have a different list on the top 5 wineries.