Exploring Wine Country as a Couple

Tuscany, Italy – Exploring Wine Country in Italy as a Couple is a Must!

When you decide to begin exploring wine country as a couple, you have so many different destinations to choose from. At the top of the list is Tuscany, Italy. This shouldn’t be surprising since this Italian destination produces numerous world-famous wines. Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are a couple of the most famous.

I recommend choosing to stay at historic estates in Tuscany during your wine tasting vacation for couples. These accommodations offer scenic countryside views from every room.

Of course, staying at these estates allows you to enjoy a wine tour within steps of your room. But you should also venture out to other vineyards for wine tours, so you can experience the best of Tuscany’s wine region.

Participating in a cooking class or two to learn authentic recipes from local chefs will enhance your wine tasting experience. You’ll get bonus points if you allow me to choose one of the cooking classes that are offered in charming farmhouses.

And you won’t want to skip wandering around medieval towns like Florence, Siena, and Montepulciano. You’ll spend quite a bit of time admiring the art and architecture of these areas. Although, it will be the food paired with wine you eat in the picturesque piazzas that you will enjoy the most.

Napa Valley, California – Stay Local While Exploring Wine Country as a Couple

Okay, so you really won’t need to venture out of the U.S. to experience the best wine regions for couples. Napa Valley is an incredible destination for exploring wine country as a couple. Especially since it is full of scenic vineyards, luxurious accommodations, and fine wines.

I recommend allowing me to book an exclusive wine tasting for your couple’s vacation. Many of these exclusive tastings include intimate cellar tours and personalized service.

You should also dine in the Michelin-star restaurants to enjoy meals paired with local wines.

Of course, both you and your partner will want to relax and indulge in a few spa treatments while on vacation in Napa Valley. There are plenty of luxurious spas to choose from. And some of them include wellness retreat options.

The most unique thing to do in Napa Valley is a hot air balloon over the vineyards at sunrise. Watch the sun rise in the sky, as you catch the magical views of the landscape below. Follow this activity with a champagne breakfast for an even more amazing experience.

How to experience the wine train in Napa Valley as empty nesters. 

Bordeaux, France

It can be fun to explore wine country as a couple in France. Especially if you choose Bordeaux as your destination for your couple’s vacation.

While this area of France is known for its distinguished wines, there is so much more available. As you spend your time in Bordeaux, you and your partner can explore the historic beauty, refined charm, and learn more about the prestigious wine legacy.

Visiting legendary estates should be at the top of your list of things to do in Bordeaux. Château Latour, Château Haut-Brion, and Château Lynch-Bages are three of the estates that offer tours filled with history.

If learning how to blend wines is at the top of your list of things to learn in Bordeaux, consider allowing me to book a wine blending workshop for you. Creating your own custom blend of Bordeaux wines will be a memorable activity you will never forget.

I recommend sailing on a river cruise to savor wine in a different way. As you glide along the Garonne River, you will see grand châteaux and lush vineyards, as you sip on delicious wines.

Check out the amazing reasons why empty nesters should travel together. 

Douro Valley, Portugal

Douro Valley is an amazing destination for exploring wine country as a couple. The terraced vineyards and scenic river landscapes create a romantic backdrop for couples looking to create memories while having a few adventures.

As the birthplace of Port wine, you know you will have ample opportunities to taste Port at historic estates like Quinta do Bomfim. I recommend sampling aged Ports directly from the cellars. This will give you a deeper appreciation of this signature wine.

There are quite a few different types of accommodations in Douro Valley. However, I recommend staying in an intimate vineyard hotel. These boutique hotels offer so much more to guests like yourselves.

Imagine looking out your room’s window as soon as you wake up and being greeted by gorgeous vineyards. These hotels offer the ultimate in luxury and wellness too. So, you won’t find yourself lacking in any way during your Portugal vacation.

While you can visit Douro Valley at any time of the year, harvest season is considered the best time. During harvest season, you can join in on the traditional grape stomping events or any of the other events being held. Every activity you choose to do will be fun and memorable.

One other activity you should consider in this best wine region for couples is a river cruise along the Douro River. Many of the romantic river cruises along the Douro River stop at historic Port estates for wine tastings. You will also be rewarded with stunning views as the ship glides along the river.

Check out these travel tips for empty nesters. 

Hunter Valley, Australia – Check Off a Bucket List Vacation While Exploring Wine Country as a Couple

Exploring wine country as a couple during a vacation may include going big with a bucket list destination like Australia! Imagine spending a week or two exploring this beautiful country and stopping in Hunter Valley for a few wine tastings.

Hunter Valley is the oldest wine region in Australia. There are quite a few vineyard experiences that are perfect for couples in Hunter Valley. Add in the remarkable Semillon and Shiraz wines and you have the perfect wine tasting vacation for couples.

Allow me to plan visits to acclaimed wineries, so you can enjoy private tastings and vineyard walks. And when you have finished sipping on wine, venture to the spa at some of these estates for a couples’ massage.

Hunter Valley is another wine destination that offers hot air balloon rides at sunrise. Stunning aerial views will wake you up, as you float over vineyards. And afterwards, a sparkling wine breakfast will get you ready for the rest of your day.

The one thing you won’t want to forget to do while on a couple’s vacation in Australia is visiting a wildlife reserve. These wildlife reserves are excellent places to see the local wildlife in a safe environment.

Roja, Spain

Vibrant cultural experiences are everywhere in Roja. But so are historic wineries and flavorful Tempranillo wines. Your days exploring this wine country as a couple will be spent at famous wineries, checking out traditional barrel cellars during guided tastings.

At mealtimes, indulge in tapas crawls. Or take a few hours to enjoy a romantic meal featuring regional cuisine at a local eatery.

I highly recommend taking a traditional cooking class while on a couple’s vacation in Roja. And attend a local festival if one is taking place during your visit.

Exploring wine country as a couple offers endless opportunities for romance, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Especially as empty nesters rediscovering the joy of travel together. Each wine region invites you to slow down, reconnect, and celebrate your shared journey. The best wine regions for couples aren’t just about exceptional wines. They’re about the moments you create, the laughter you share, and the deeper connections you build along the way. Your next wine tasting vacation for couples awaits.

So, are you ready to explore wine country as a couple?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized planning session with me. Clicking the link will take you directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready to explore wine country as a couple? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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Best Wineries to Visit in Willamette Valley 

Grochau Cellars 

Grochau Cellars is one of the newer wineries in Willamette Valley. This doesn’t mean you are sacrificing quality when you stop in for a wine tasting though. They are known for their pinot, which is Commuter Cuvée. However, I also recommend that you try Gamay Noir and Melon de Bourgogne.  

Trisaetum 

Trisaetum offers some of the best chardonnays, Rieslings, and pinot noirs in the Willamette Valley. As you sit in the tasting room, you must look out towards the vineyards. You will instantly relax as you are determining which wine is your new favorite.  

Domaine Drouhin 

This Willamette Valley winery can be found in the Dundee Hills. The owners have also worked on wine production in Burgundy, France. Therefore, you know you are getting the real deal when it comes to French wine during your wine tasting. While all their Burgundy wines are excellent, I recommend tasting their pinots.  

Shea Wine Cellars 

An appointment is a must at Shea Wine Cellars, so plan accordingly during your Willamette Valley vacation. The owners of this winery also own the Shea Vineyard. That vineyard is the one that produces much of the fruit used at the other local Willamette Valley wineries. They currently make a few pinots and chardonnays, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they branch out with other wine varieties in the future.  

Adelsheim Vineyards 

This Willamette Valley winery is open seven days a week. That makes it easy to drop in to try some of their delectable wine. This was one of the first wineries in the Chehalem Mountains approximately fifty years ago. Therefore, you know they must have found a few secrets along the way to be so successful. Their vineyards are considered certifiably sustainable, so you can drink your wine knowing no harm is being done to the land. A few favorites include pinot noir, pinot blanc, pinot gris, and chardonnay. Add each one to your wine-tasting list, and let me know which one is your all-time favorite!  

These are the best wineries to visit in Willamette Valley. You can visit each one during your vacation in Oregon on your own, or I can arrange for a winery tour as I plan your vacation.  You may even want to consider adding a side trip to Napa Valley to experience the Wine Train. 

So, are you ready to plan a vacation to visit the best wineries in Willamette Valley?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

And if you are not sure if a vacation to visit the best wineries is Willamette Valley is best for your family, you can sign up for my newsletter. It is packed full of travel information that will help you determine where your family’s next adventure should be.  

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When you take a family vacation, or a vacation with your spouse or friends, you probably feel the same way. You get this uninterrupted time with the people you care about. You get to make memories to cherish forever. And sometimes, you get to go home with a new favorite wine!

Best Wineries in the World to Visit for Great Wine and Cheese on National Wine and Cheese Day

Weingut Oberhofer in Edesheim, Germany

I know, I know… Germany is known for its beer and Oktoberfest. But there are some incredible wineries there too! One of those wineries is Weingut Oberhofer in Edesheim. Tasting a few new wines at this winery will have you looking out over the oldest vineyard in the world.

Pay close attention to the very old gewürztraminer vines. There are approximately three hundred of them. They produce a small amount of grapes each year. Those grapes are then used to produce a limited wine with an oak base. If you are lucky, you may get to purchase a bottle of this wine to take home with you.

Castello Banfi in Montalcino, Italy

Sipping wine in Italy would be a dream come true for many people. If you happen to take a vacation in Italy, I recommend planning a visit to Castello Banfi. This winery is also an agritourism resort and museum. So, you get a little of everything in between sips of wine.

I recommend taking a private tour to see the vineyards, cellar, and the Balsameria. That is where the balsamic vinegar is produced on site.

There are two restaurants at this winery and resort. For the best views of Italy, you should try to get a table on the terrace at La Sala dei Grappoli. You can look out over the countryside, as you sip on a glass of Brunello di Montalcino.

Domaine Sigalas in Santorini, Greece

Many travelers like yourself arrive in Santorini in search of the whitewashed buildings and blue domed roofs. However, I have always said that travelers should also visit this island for the wine. Over at Domaine Sigalas, you can try Assyrtiko. It is a full-bodied white wine that includes increased acidity.

I recommend beginning your visit with a stroll through the vineyards. This will allow you to see how canes are used to create a wreath-like basket to protect the grape vines. Afterwards, you can choose from a few different wine tastings. Just make sure you are facing the Aegean Sea while sipping on your wine. It does make all the difference in the world!

Bodega Catena Zapata in Mendoza, Argentina

A visit to Bodega Catena Zapata is so much more than tasting the wine and exploring the vineyards. The views of the Andes, topped with snow, are what usually brings travelers to this family-owned winery in Argentina.

The high-altitude would provide a challenge to any other wine producer. However, this winery embraces the challenge, as well as the extreme temperatures and intense sunlight. The result has been fine wine with complex notes and just enough acidity.

You can choose from multiple wine tastings at this winery. The family sessions are quite popular. But so are the musical sensory experiences and master blending sessions.

La Petite Ferme in Franschhoek, South Africa

Africa has long been known by travelers for the safaris in the region. However, the Western Cape is also an excellent winemaking region. La Petite Ferme can be found on the slopes of Oliphants Pass, which is in the Middagkrans Mountains.

There are quite a few wines to try at this winery in South Africa. I recommend grabbing a bench seat or a spot on the ledge. You can enjoy the views, as you enjoy a few new fine wines.

Villa Corniole in Giovo, Italy

Yes, another Italian winery has made my list for the best wineries to visit for National Wine and Cheese Day. The winter months bring snow to the vineyards, as well as the Dolomites in the distance. The summer months bring sunshine and the same gorgeous views of the mountains.

No matter what time of year you visit, you will be welcomed by numerous types of wines. Their chardonnay-based wine, Salisa Zero, is quite popular, as well as bubbly.

Domaine Carneros in Napa, California

There’s no doubt that Napa Valley has enough wineries to keep you intrigued on National Wine and Cheese Day. As a travel advisor, I can easily plan a vacation in Napa Valley for you to sample wines at numerous wineries. You can even add in a trip on the Napa Valley Wine Train.

One of the best wineries in Napa is Domaine Carneros. During a nice day, you can sit out on the patio to look over the gardens and hillside. There are a few different wine tasting options at this winery in Napa. You can begin with chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier. From there you can try the blanc de blancs, brut rose, and blanc de noirs.

All the wines pair well with the charcuterie boards that are available for all guests.

Château L’Hospitalet in Narbonne, France

This winery in France has only been open since 2002. But it is one of many vineyards and wineries operated by Gerard Bertrand. To really appreciate this winery, you must book a property tour. That tour will allow you to see the nearby beach club, pool, restaurant, and wine bar.

If that doesn’t interest you, you can always wander around the vineyards, take a masterclass, or simply enjoy a wine tasting.

Abadia Retuerta in Valladolid, Spain

The Abadia Retuerta winery is located on the Duero River. It was once a 12th century abbey. In addition to the winery, this property has accommodations, a restaurant, and a spa.

Staying at Abadia Retuerta is a dream for many travelers like yourself. However, you can simply visit the winery for a day and still have an amazing time. Start with a guided Land Rover tour of the pine groves, herb gardens, and lavender fields. A picnic with five-pour tasting is a must for everyone before heading out to the next stop on your itinerary.

Quinta das Carvalhas in Pinhão, Portugal

Quinta das Carvalhas is not the easiest winery in the world to reach. However, those who make the journey are rewarded with gorgeous views of terraced vineyards. The panoramic vistas from this winery are Instagram worthy. Just make sure you put your phone down long enough to taste the different ports this winery is known for.

These are the best wineries in the world to visit for great wine and cheese on National Wine and Cheese Day. I don’t know which one is at the top of your list, but I would love to visit them all! Especially if I get to make memories with friends and family at the same time.

So, are you ready to book a vacation at one of these best wineries in the world?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. This will take you to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you are not ready to plan a vacation at one of these best wineries in the world, you can sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you receive even more exciting travel news that I send out.

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Exploring the Villány Wine Region During My Vacation in Hungary

The Villány Wine Region happens to be the number one area to go wine tasting in Hungary. However, it is also where multiple traditional and cultural treasures are located. Therefore, do not think I spent my entire day in wine cellars simply drinking wine. While that was part of my adventure, my day was filled with so many other things to do.

The beginning of the day had us stopping at Máriagyűd. This pilgrimage location dates back to the 12th century. The very first church was constructed on this property in 1147. But the 18th century is when this site became the center of the cult of the Virgin Mary revival. However, Joseph II closed the pilgrimage for a short time and had numerous objects confiscated in the late 1700s. Thankfully, Pope Piu VII acknowledged this area as a pilgrimage once again in 1805.

Over the years, Franciscan monks offered mental care at the church for anyone who needed it. I was able to see inside the church, as well as the statue of Mary, which was placed there in 1712. Not too far from the church is the Holy Well. Pilgrims arriving at this site used to take the water home with them.

Our next stop of the day was at the Siklós Fortress. This castle was first mentioned in 1294 and it has been well preserved over the years. While Siklós Castle has had multiple owners, it is now considered a national monument and is owned by the Baranya County Council. The goal is to continue to maintain and restore this castle, so future generations can appreciate its beauty.

Wine Tasting in Hungary

After seeing two extraordinary attractions within the Villány Wine Region, it was time to do a little wine tasting at a wine cellar. There are fifty-one cellars to choose from in this wine region, so honestly, we could have been here for days if we wanted to try them all.

It is important I mention that while this area was known for both white and red wines in the past, only reds are produced in Villány now. Therefore, be prepared to taste bold wines that include Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon if you take the time to visit.

I didn’t think my day could get any better after my wine tasting lunch, but I was wrong. Our last stop of the day was at the Harkány Spa. This thermal spa has been around for almost two hundred years now. The temperature of the thermal water is 62 degrees Celsius, which is approximately 142 degrees Fahrenheit.

As soon as I arrived, I could smell the sulfur from the water. It is quite potent, which isn’t surprising since that sulfur water also contains sodium, hydrogen carbonate, and calcium. Soaking in the water was definitely an excellent way to end my day exploring the Villány Wine Region!

I was just bummed that my visit to the spa didn’t coincide with any of their special events held during the year. A few of those events include:

• Egg Painting Days
• Whitsun Music of Whitsun
• The Bathing Festival
• The Harkány Vintage Festival

Maybe next time I am taking a vacation in Hungary, I can time it to include one of those events. Especially since returning to the spa is on my must-do list!

As you can see, a day in the Villány Wine Region can be quite busy. But it is worth it to experience the authentic traditions and cultures of the area.

So, are you ready to book a vacation in the Villány Wine Region?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be directed to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you are not ready to plan a vacation in Hungary or the Villány Wine Region just yet, you can sign up for my newsletter by clicking here. This will ensure you continue to receive the travel information I share.

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I thought I would share three vineyards to visit for wine tastings. Each one is in a fabulous area, so your vacation won’t just be all about the wine.

3 Vineyards to Visit for Wine Tastings on National Wine Day

Historic Del Dotto Winery and Caves

The Historic Del Dotto Winery and Caves is located in Napa Valley. However, it is not their only location. Please keep this in mind if you are interested in seeing their other vineyards during your family vacation in California.

The owner’s family has been in the winemaking business since the 1400s. So, you can say he had some knowledge about the industry when he purchased the Rutherford property. On that property sat a Frank Lloyd Wright craftsman house from 1912.

The tasting room on the property was opened in 1999. There is also a hand dug cave on the property. That cave was dug back in 1885.

A more recent addition to another piece of their property is the Del Dotto Venetian Estate. It is at that estate where a culinary program is now held. If you are interested in visiting there, your family must travel to St. Helena, California.

A visit to this vineyard will have you exploring the cave and drinking some fine wines during your wine tastings experience. The Del Dotto Winery currently produces cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, pinot noir, chardonnay, and sauvignon blanc.

One of the best ways to visit this vineyard in the Napa Valley is to take a guided tour via a private jet. These tours allow you to accomplish more during a family vacation in a few days than you could in a couple weeks.

During this tour via private jet, you will see so much more than the Napa Valley. The rest of your time will be spent in San Francisco, Zion National Park, Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Las Vegas.

If you are ready to make memories with your family in a short amount of time, book a planning session with me today.

Boundary Breaks

Boundary Breaks is a fabulous vineyard located in the Finger Lakes in New York State. This winery is part of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. So, this may be a wine tastings family vacation that focuses on wine more than anything else.

However, there are other exciting activities to keep you all busy. I recommend checking out the Rue Claire Lavender Farm. Picking your own blueberries will be fun at Wolftree. And you can’t go wrong with a little time spent at Finger Lakes National Forest or on the shores of Seneca Lake.

But back to the winery. This vineyard is quite close to Seneca Lake. This location is excellent for growing grapes used in wine because the lake moderates the temperature at the vineyard. The warmer air during the winter ensures the grapes get quite ripe during what is normally a short growing season.

Boundary Breaks began with Riesling wines. They sell Rieslings that are sparkling, dry, and sweet. And don’t worry if you prefer red wines. They have an excellent cabernet franc that will check off all the boxes.

Avignonesi

The best vineyards to visit for wine tastings on National Wine Day are over in Italy. Avignonesi is located in the Tuscany region. If you are ready to travel out of the country with your family for your next vacation, I recommend checking out this vineyard.

This may not be one of the oldest vineyards, or wineries, in Italy. However, it has become quite popular thanks to the owner’s respect for the ecosystem and sustainability. This is one of the best wineries in the world for organic wines.

The vineyards grow grapes for white, rose, and red wines. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to do a wine tasting, explore the vineyards, and participate in a cooking class. Although, the hot air balloon rides maybe your favorite option.

Avignonesi is closed during the months of January and February each year. So, you must keep that in mind when you are deciding on when to take your next family vacation.

These are three of the vineyards you may want to consider visiting for a wine tasting on National Wine Day. However, we both know there are many others that deserve your attention as well. So, make a reservation at your favorite winery and have a glass or two, as you think about where you want to take an amazing family vacation.

Then, let me know you are ready to book a family vacation that includes visiting at least one vineyard. I highly recommend the private airplane option!

When you are ready, I would like to invite you schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you are not quite ready to plan a wine tasting at a vineyard while traveling just yet, you can easily sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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Have you ever been?

If you answered yes, then you already know why it is such an incredible destination!

If you answered no, well, you need to see what the best things to do in the town are and then start planning the trip of a lifetime!

Healdsburg Town can be found in Sonoma County. This is prime wine country in the state of California. Three of the top wineries in the entire country can be found in this charming town. But people arrive there daily for the tranquility, as well as the culture.

5 Best Things to Do in Healdsburg Town AKA the Best Small Town in America

Visit the Galleries

There are at least twenty-four galleries in this small town. You can wander between them all when you are feeling like adding a little culture to your days and nights. Each gallery is filled with fine art and many times they offer complimentary samples of food and wine.

Relax in Healdsburg Plaza

In the middle of Healdsburg Plaza, you will find a gazebo with a copper roof. You can easily sit inside the gazebo, or on the grass around it, to enjoy a picnic or a snack. There are concerts in this historic area throughout the summer months, as well as many local events. So, you will want to plan your trip carefully. You can also wander around the many local shops near the plaza. But be prepared to lose track of time if you do.

Do a Little Taste Testing at a Local Winery or Brewery

There are many wineries in this small town. You will also find a large number of micro-breweries. You can easily spend a little time at them all, as you discover new wines, beers, and ciders to have shipped back home.

Visit the Healdsburg Museum

The Healdsburg Museum is inside what was once a Carnegie Library. It is now on the National Register of Historic Places. As you wander through this museum, you will see many different exhibits that share the history of the town and those who have lived there.

Hike the Healdsburg Ridge Preserve

There are many different hiking trails through this preserve, so feel free to walk along as many of them as you have time for. I recommend taking the time to go to the Fox Pond Overlook, Russian River Overlook, and Serpentine Overlook. The views are extraordinary and you will feel as if you have finally reached paradise!

These are the five best things to do in Healdsburg Town, which is also known as the best small town in America. You will love every minute you spend in this small town and you will quickly understand why it is loved by so many people around the world.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation for your trip to Healdsburg Town or another destination?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready for a personalized family vacation planning session yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

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