Best Lesser-Known Wine Countries

Everyone knows Italy, France and Spain specialize in wine tourism, but few are aware just-as-impressive wine destinations can be found in less-visited locations that see fewer tourists. Here are the world’s not-as-known spots for delectable wine tastings.

Douro Valley, Portugal

Located about an hour inland from the Atlantic coastal city of Porto, the lush Douro Valley has been the sole producer of port wine for more than 2,000 years. Rent a car for a scenic drive along the winding roads that pass vineyard after vineyard, and stop in for a tasting of ruby and tawny port wines.

Germany

Although more well-known for its pure and easy-to-drink beer, Germany’s countryside also produce award-winning wines, particularly in the Moselle Valley where some of the world’s best Rieslings are made.

New Zealand

New Zealand has more to offer than fantastical, adrenaline-filled adventures. Retreat from all the action by visiting some Kiwi wineries that feature some of the world’s best Sauvignon Blanc.

Okanagan, Canada

Five hours northeast of Vancouver lies the Okanagan wine region where a 6-mile trail can be hiked or biked through a former Gold Rush location.

South Africa

Not far from the coasts of South Africa lies Franschhoek, a village founded by the French Huguenots in 1688. Set amid these mountains are a handful of vineyards including Chamonix, La Motte and Solms-Delta that specialize in a range of wines, from Pinot Noir to Chardonnay.