Wine Edu(cations)

BY DIANA ISAC

As travelers seek more privacy and space, wine vacations (or staycations depending on where you live) can offer the ultimate solution. Vineyards around the world, set in vast acres of land, are increasingly offering visitors the opportunity to not only sample and buy wine, but to stay the night and dine in a unique setting. Wine tourism is a fantastic way to learn about wine, experience the land, meet passionate vineyard owners and holiday surrounded by vines. Here are some of my favorite wine destinations for the wine lover.

England

England is my adopted home and occupies a very special place in my heart. It’s been a popular tourist destination for centuries. Visitors love the energy of the city of London, picturesque villages and gorgeous countryside, so I’m never surprised by the number of Brits who choose to holiday at home each year! However, there is now a whole new exciting world for visitors to discover in the form of England’s rapidly developing wine making industry. Beautiful southern counties such as Hampshire and Sussex are now producing truly world-beating sparkling wines, and I love taking a trip into the countryside to explore England’s ever-expanding vineyards – some of my favorites include Hambledon Vineyard, Hush Heath and Rathfinny. It helps, of course, that as the industry is developing, a huge number of fabulous new wine hotels and experiences are also popping up, giving everyone ample opportunity to enjoy English wine in truly English luxury!

New Zealand

It’s hard to describe the pure wonder of a visit to New Zealand. It’s remote, of course, but the 24-hour flight time from the UK is a very worthwhile journey! The country’s wine scene has exploded in recent years, accompanied by a plethora of new vineyards, restaurants and tourism experiences which are attracting visitors to the country in their millions. I can’t get enough of the incredible scenery – many of New Zealand’s vineyards are set against the backdrops of some of the earth’s most incredible landscapes, making this a brilliant destination for keen photographers and Instagrammers! New Zealand combines warm, relaxed hospitality and a fantastic food scene with the most incredible environment for thrill seekers and lovers of the great outdoors. Getting outside is a part of everyday life here and whether you want to bungee jump, ski, or cycle a bit more sedately through a beautiful vineyard, I think New Zealand has it all!