The world’s best undiscovered wine regions
The world of wine is vast and full of wonders, extending far beyond the well-trodden paths of Bordeaux, Tuscany, and Napa Valley. For those with a thirst for adventure and a palate eager for discovery, there are countless undiscovered wine regions that offer exceptional vintages, stunning landscapes, and the warm welcome of local winemakers. Here, we pull back the curtain on some of the globe’s most underrated wine destinations, promising an unforgettable journey for every traveler.
Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico
Tucked away in Baja California, Valle de Guadalupe is Mexico’s wine secret waiting to be discovered. This sun-drenched valley is producing some of the most exciting New World wines, with a focus on blends that defy traditional categorization. The region’s wineries, from rustic to ultra-modern, are as diverse as the wines they produce. Paired with the local cuisine that blends Mexican flavors with Mediterranean techniques, a visit here is a gastronomic delight.
Kakheti, Georgia
Georgia, often cited as the birthplace of wine, offers an intoxicating blend of ancient traditions and innovative spirit. The Kakheti region, nestled at the foot of the Caucasus Mountains, is the heartland of Georgian wine. Here, winemakers still practice the 8,000-year-old method of fermenting wine in qvevri, large clay jars buried underground. The result is a unique and profound wine experience, deeply tied to the land and history.
Swartland, South Africa
Once overshadowed by more famous South African wine regions, Swartland is now a hotbed of innovation and creativity. The region’s old bush vines, resilient to the dry climate, produce intensely flavored grapes that have attracted a new generation of winemakers. These vintners are crafting small-batch, natural wines that are gaining international acclaim. Swartland’s rugged beauty and its community’s warm hospitality make it a must-visit for wine lovers seeking the road less traveled.
Tasmania, Australia
The island of Tasmania is making waves with its cool-climate wines, particularly its sparkling wines, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. The maritime climate and varied terroir across the island result in wines of extraordinary elegance and complexity. Tasmania’s wineries, often small and family-owned, offer intimate tasting experiences that are both personal and profound. This remote gem is a peaceful escape into a world of delicate flavors and pristine nature.
Serra Gaúcha, Brazil
Brazil may not be the first country that comes to mind for wine, but the Serra Gaúcha region is quietly producing sparkling wines that can stand with the best. Influenced by a wave of Italian immigration, the region combines Old World traditions with New World innovation. The result is a range of sparkling wines that are vibrant, refreshing, and perfect for celebrating the everyday. Beyond the bubbles, the area’s natural beauty and warm Brazilian spirit make every visit memorable.
Goriška Brda, Slovenia
Nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, Goriška Brda is Slovenia’s enchanting answer to Italy’s Tuscany. This picturesque region, with its rolling hills and medieval villages, is rapidly emerging as a producer of high-quality wines, especially white varieties like Rebula, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as remarkable reds. The winemakers here, many of whom follow organic and biodynamic practices, are passionate about expressing the unique terroir of their land. A visit to Goriška Brda is not just a journey through vineyards, but also a step into a culture where wine is intertwined with every aspect of life.
For the intrepid traveler and wine enthusiast, seeking out these hidden gems is not just about tasting the unknown but about experiencing the world with an open heart and mind. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and raise your glass to the undiscovered wine regions of the world – your next favorite wine awaits.
Kristin Winkaffe
Kristin Winkaffe is the Founder of Winkaffe Global Travel. Winkaffe Global Travel designs extraordinary journeys for travelers seeking transformative, culturally immersive, and conscientiously luxurious travel adventures.
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It has to be said that there’s still a lot of snobbery and prejudice about wine and wine regions.
You don’t have to look too far beyond the established big names to find some up and coming regions to challenge the big boys.
Long, long ago, I was given a local house wine whilst in Morocco. A liquid that probably even the thirstiest of camels would have rejected. Not surprised to see that Morocco hasn’t made it into this listing!
When you think about it there’s no reason at all why Baja California shouldn’t be producing great wines like its namesake across the Mexico / USA border.
Wherever I travel I like to get a feel for the local wines and spirits. It’s all part of a region’s story.
A little disappointed that an English wine region didn’t sneak into this selection.
Helped by the changing climate, English sparkling wines have got much, much better over the last decade.
Also, the Sussex vineyards are in a very scenic landscape, well worth visiting.
But the way global warming is going, you have to wonder whether we’re going to see a big shake-up in the wine industry.
There’s so many things that have to be right for a great vintage. No late frosts. No violent storms. No draught. No searing summer temperatures.
Spain is already worrying about water shortages for the summer of 2024. Will we see vineyards heading north in Europe?
These are all new to me and I had no idea that you got Tasmanian wine. When I’m planning my travels I’ll have to see if I can drop by some of these regions.
And I expect you could probably follow up with a post of at least another half a dozen under-rated wine regions.
You have to wonder whether these regions are not as well known because they’re off the beaten track, luck or small marketing budgets.
It’s often the case that it’s marketing rather than the quality of the wine that raises a region’s profile.
Reading about these great wineries makes me want to book a trip around these places soon!