Top 9 Trips For Wine Lovers

Why: This region has the third-largest concentration of wineries in the country and is known for its cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah. The 200 wineries are found on two main highways, 46 East and 46 West. ***

Why: One of the largest wine regions in the world and home to cabernets, merlots and sauvignons. Until recently, local chateaux weren't open to visitors; it's now possible to tour Chateau Pavie and Chateau Belair in the prehistoric village of St. Emilion. ***

Why: This hilly region is home to the Nebbiolo grape, producer of red wines Barolo and Barbaresco, known for their overtones of truffles, cherries and plums. The wineries are perched in the Langhe hills. ***

Why: Fruity sauvignon blancs are the mainstay of this region. Scenic wineries spread along Wairau River are surrounded by green hills and look onto Mount Tapuaenuku. Notable vineyards include Cloudy Bay and Wairau River Wines. ***

Why: The wines here are made mainly with Tempranillo, a red grape, and have hints of coconut and vanilla. The vineyards are scattered along the Ebro River. Gran reserva, aged five years, is the highest quality. Try the 904 Alta from La Rioja Alta. ***

Why: Three regions are within an hour's drive of Cape Town. The Stellenbosch area, situated near the Eertse River, has rich red blends, such as the cabernet sauvignon produced by the 17th-century Annandale Wine Estate. ***

Why: Sicily has been making wine for thousands of years, and much of the production is from native grapes, like Primitivo and Aglianico for reds and Fiano for citrusy whites. ***

Why: The Blue Ridge Mountains frame the 21 wineries in this area, which produces reds and whites and is the oldest wine-growing region in the U.S. ***

Why: This scenic area that runs along the Danube River has steep wine gardens and blooming apricot trees. Visitors can explore here by bike or by boat. Wachau is famous for its rieslings--try the sweet vintage at Jamek Winery. ***