As the days grow long and golden in the summertime, vineyards bloom into full glory. Wine enthusiasts know the appeal of vineyards — they offer the unique opportunity to taste extraordinary wines right from the source, surrounded by scenic beauty. Rolling hills and sprawling estates set the scene for an unforgettable vacation. Whether you want to stay stateside or go international, you have a range of world-class vineyards to explore. Start a search today to find affordable vineyard vacations.
Shutterstock: FloridaStockSummer Vineyard Bucket List
The world is full of remarkable vineyards, each boasting its own unique charm and distinguished wines. With this in mind, here are a few vineyards you may want to add to your bucket list:
Antinori nel Chianti Classico
Located in the heart of Italy’s wine country, this Tuscan gem is one of the oldest family-run wineries in the world. The vineyard’s state-of-the-art winery is a spectacle in itself, blending beautifully with the surrounding landscape. Their celebrated Chianti Classico wines are a treat for the palate.
Robert Mondavi Winery
In the famed Napa Valley of California, the Robert Mondavi Winery is another must-visit. Known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, this vineyard offers splendid wine tours and tastings that include walk-throughs of their vineyards and cellars and samplings of their exceptional wines.
Champagne Billecart-Salmon
Situated in the Champagne region of France, Billecart-Salmon is a family-run winery with a history dating back to 1818. Here, you can savor exquisite champagnes, learn about the champagne making process, and stroll through the beautiful gardens and cellars.
Jordan Vineyard & Winery
Nestled in California’s Sonoma County, Jordan Vineyard & Winery offers an experience reminiscent of a French château. Notable for its balanced and elegant wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, this vineyard also offers a captivating landscape of rolling hills and lush gardens.
Château Smith Haut Lafitte
This Bordeaux winery in France is celebrated for its red and white wines. Visitors to Château Smith Haut Lafitte can explore its historic cellars, enjoy wine tastings, and even participate in wine workshops, making it a delightful educational experience in addition to a sensory delight.1
The Full Vineyard Experience
To get the most out of a vineyard trip, engage all of your senses. Savor the wine’s aroma and taste, feel the texture of the grapevines, admire the rolling hills, and listen to the rustle of the vines swaying gently in the breeze.
Many vineyards offer guided tours and wine tastings to give visitors the full vineyard experience. Guided tours and tastings are fun ways to develop a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking and elevate the experience.2
Vineyards Offer More Than Wine
While wine is typically the main draw, vineyards often offer much more. Yoga classes amidst the vine rows, concerts in the cellars, wine-themed spa treatments, and horseback riding through the vineyards are just some of the unique experiences you might find.
Plus, vineyards often have accommodations on site or nearby, ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts, making them ideal bases for a summer vacation. Many are located close to local attractions like vibrant towns and historic sites.
Finding the Best Vineyard Vacation Deals
To get the most out of your vineyard vacation without breaking the bank, it’s worth spending some time searching online for deals. Here are some strategies that may help you save money:
- Bundle Packages: Look for packages that bundle vineyard tours, tastings, and accommodations. Bundles can save you more money than booking separately.
- Book Directly: Some vineyards offer discounts for booking directly through their website or over the phone. You may even get access to exclusive packages and perks.3
- Join Wine Clubs: Vineyard wine clubs often offer perks like free or discounted tastings, tours, events, and wine purchases. So, wine clubs can be a way to score savings.
- Keep an Eye on Local Events: Many regions host annual wine festivals. This can be a cost-effective way to try a variety of wines and experience multiple vineyards.
- Last-Minute Deals: Sometimes vineyards offer discounted rates for last-minute bookings to fill remaining spots for tours, tastings, and accommodations.4
Savor the Summer at World-Class Vineyards
Taking a vineyard vacation isn’t merely a trip, it’s an experience — one that caters to all of your senses and leaves you with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for the art of winemaking. With a little planning, you can enjoy a vineyard vacation without putting a strain on your wallet. Take some time to explore your options online and plan an affordable trip. It’s time to savor the world of vineyards and make the most of summer.
