Feeling Like A Post-COVID Food & Wine Tour?

As things are finally returning to normal, many of us are being bit by the “travel bug.” It makes perfect sense; we all feel as though we missed out on experiences in 2020 – so why not make this year a summer of splurging? If this sounds like something that you might find enjoyable, here are six luxury food and wine locations to help you make up for lost time.

Location #1: Bordeaux, France

Believe it or not, Bordeaux, France is considered the wine capital of the world. After spending some time here, you'll most likely understand why. It is the largest wine-producing region in all of France, with over 6,000 wineries and almost 300,000 acres under vine. In 2019, 7.7 million people visited the area to sample wine and enjoy the scenic view.¹

There are plenty of tours to take while visiting Bordeaux, ranging from lively group tours to quiet private tours. Many of the wineries are known as “châteaux,” which means they are private family homes. You will most likely need to make a reservation before you arrive.

When visiting the region, you’ll find plenty of private accommodations and private dining experiences, such as a decadent luncheon in a historic château or something more casual, such as a picnic lunch outside in the wineries.

Location #2: Tuscany, Italy

When discussing delicious food and wine, Tuscany is a location that frequently comes up in conversation. Tuscany is home to some very unique cooking classes, where you can learn the fine art of homemade pasta while sipping on delightful wines.

Tuscany has some of the most famous wineries in Italy including:

Brunello di Montalcino
Chianti Classico
Val d’Orcia DOC
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano

The people of Tuscany adore the land and are very proud of their region. The best example of this is the enthusiasm they show when they have the opportunity to share it with others. Renting a car and booking reservations in advance is the recommended way to enjoy the area. Don’t forget to enjoy a winery meal with your tastings.

Location #3: Mendoza, Argentina

Mendoza, Argentina has some incredible wines, but the culinary scene is equally notable. If you are a wine connoisseur who loves delicious food and adventure, then Mendoza is definitely the place for you.

Lots of the wineries in the region are proud to serve multi-course wine lunches at their restaurants. While enjoying the wineries, you’ll also get a beautiful view of the Andes mountains.

Location #4: Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley is home to over 400 wineries. It accounts for 4% of the wines produced in California and 0.04% of the world’s wines, meaning it has a limited production.² While the region is small, it is known worldwide for its award-winning wines.

Though Napa Valley is primarily associated with good wine, the food scene shouldn’t be ignored. There are multiple Michelin star restaurants in the area with locally sourced ingredients. This creates a true farm-to-table experience that will pair well with your wine tasting journey.

Location #5: Stellenbosch, South Africa

Roughly an hour outside of Capetown, visitors can find an incredibly relaxed wine tasting experience in the Stellenbosch wine region. You can take a guided tour with a group or plan your own individual experience with a private driver. Regardless of which winery you choose, you can relax at a table or lounge on a comfortable sofa while delicious wine samples are brought to you to try. The area includes scenic rolling hills and a climate ideal for growing grapes. There are many micro-climates, so a variety of grapes are able to thrive. This makes for a very diverse wine experience.³

In addition to the enjoyable wine, the restaurant experience cannot be forgotten. The chefs in the area are excellent at paring food that complements the local wines. Located nearby, Franschhoek is also known for appetizing food and wine.

Location #6: Paris, France

Of course, we can’t neglect to mention Paris. Whether you’re into art and sightseeing or food and wine (even better, a combination of both!) Paris has something to please everyone. The food in Paris is known around the world, so you’re sure to find a mouthwatering meal whether you’re dining at a Michelin star restaurant or just picking up something at a small patisserie.

Don’t make the mistake of only staying in the big city, though. If you have time, you ought to consider traveling outside the city to nearby wineries. The vineyards in the Champagne region are the closest to Paris. The scenery alone might make the trip worth it. The surroundings are beautiful with forests and rocky ridges encompassing the rolling hills of the vineyards.

If you are looking to make up for lost travel plans and enjoy good food and wine, the destinations above could be great places for you to visit.