If you’re like us, you’re already planning for your next trip away. What if we were to tell you, your dream of exploring the beautiful vineyards across the world doesn’t have to be restricted to the summer months?
Ditch the cold, damp commutes into the office and travel all year round to hotspots like Tuscany and Champagne, sampling what these world-famous wine regions have to offer. After all, the best time to visit vineyards depends on what you’re looking for – so let’s explore some of our recommendations for seasonally-specific treats.
Spring in Tuscany
Looking for a spring getaway to brush off those winter cobwebs? Tuscany, with its golden warm days and cooler nights, is the perfect place to gently ease into the sunny seasons.
As well as being famous for its outstanding landscapes, this beautiful UNESCO-recognised region is often referred to as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, meaning the streets are bursting with culture all year round.
Now for the wines, which is why we’re here of course. Tuscan vineyards like Castello Banfi are renowned for producing red wines known for their savoury flavours and earthy tones using the Sangiovese grape. Our exclusive tours will also allow you to explore carefully selected wines such as Montepulciano, a polished red known for its deep, ruby appearance and black and red fruit flavours.
Alternatively, a premium selection of local white wines bring the flavour of the region to your lips through crisp, refreshing, citrus tones – the perfect way to conclude a day of sightseeing under the gentle warmth of the Tuscan spring sun.
Tuscan landscape glistening in the Italian sunshine
“We just got back from a fantastic tour of Tuscany organised by Natalie. All of the vineyards and hotels were amazing, the tour guides enthusiastic and passionate about their jobs, and our drivers on time and exactly where they said they would be. We were very impressed by the ability to customise our trip, and so would highly recommend Grape Escapes to anyone”- Bill L
Summer in Champagne
Summer is a time for celebrating the end of the colder months and the beginning of longer, brighter days. Why not celebrate the summer solstice in Champagne this summer?
At this time of year, vineyards in Champagne are blooming with luscious foliage, protecting the ripening grapes used to blend the finest of celebration tipples. Between wine tasting sessions, you’ll have time to explore the region’s breathtaking sights under the sunshine. Popular hotspots include the Reims Cathedral or the beautiful village of Hautvillers, for an overlooking panoramic view of the vineyards.
If you’re needing a break from the sun, many Champagne houses are open throughout the summer. There is simply no better way to cool off than by tasting the most exclusive Champagnes the region has to offer from under the cool shaded areas of the very châteaux in which they were created.
Our tours of this region vary from making your own champagne, to site-seeing excursions of the breathtaking rolling hills and spa days at spectacular hotels. Explore our Champagne tours here.
Impressive Gothic architecture standing proudly amongst the Champagne landscape
Autumn in Istria
Sitting proudly within the Croatian peninsula, Istria is full of quaint streets and breathtaking landscapes to explore.
The region has a rich culture and heritage and is a great destination for both red and white wine drinkers, with Istria having two signature wines to its name: Malvazija and Teran. Malvazija, sweet and floral, is often enjoyed alongside iconic Croatian seafood and chicken dishes. Meanwhile, Teran is paired with fattier red meats like the country’s hearty beef and pork dishes.
By joining us on our Exclusive Istria tour, you’ll even have the chance to experience the likes of truffle hunting and oyster tasting. We recommend exploring Istria across four days to ensure you have the opportunity to soak up all of what Istria has to offer.
Istria is home to some of the world’s richest Roman history.
Winter in Porto
When contemplating the best time of the year to visit vineyards, not many consider winter as an opportune season. However, if you are wishing to escape from the bitter weather this winter, Porto makes the perfect getaway to a place in the sun. With mild temperatures throughout the winter months, you can explore the vibrant cobbled streets and riversides, without the summer crowds or intense heat that can be present in the summer months.
Bursting with culture in every street, Porto is the place to be, from the Gothic style Sao Francisco church, standing proudly in the centre of the city, to the remarkable Livraria Lello bookstore, so grand you’ll find yourself fully immersed in its beauty.
Above all, Porto is famous for its sweet, fortified wines, bursting with flavours of raspberry, caramel and chocolate. While visiting vineyards around Porto, you’ll taste test a selection of ports, all while being looked after by an expert, English-speaking guide. A glass of port also makes for the perfect way to warm up during the cooler winter evenings on Europe’s Atlantic coastline.
If you are interested in which other vineyards are worth a visit during the quieter months, make sure to read our blog on Europe’s best winter wineries.
Winter in Porto is the perfect way to escape those January blues.
Book your next getaway with us today
Have we got your travel tastebuds tingling? We’ve been designing year-round getaways for over twenty years, and every journey is privately tailored to your preferences. We’ll take care of every detail, so you can focus on your destination, the stunning views and gorgeous wines, whichever time of year you choose to travel.
