When picturing idyllic European vineyards, mega-famous regions like Bordeaux, Tuscany, and Rioja quickly come to mind. But veer off the beaten wine path, and you’ll discover charming, underrated wine destinations producing equally exceptional vintages far from the crowds.
As a self-proclaimed euro-wine lover, I’ve made it my mission to uncover emerging regions and indigenous grapes that should be on every wine traveler’s radar. From an up-and-coming Greek island to a Spanish coastal haven, here are my top overlooked European wine regions that deserve a spot on your itinerary:
Kakheti, Georgia
The cradle of wine rests in the Caucasus Mountains of Georgia, where archaeological evidence traces winemaking back 8,000 years. The country’s premier wine region, Kakheti, specializes in unique amber-hued wines borne from indigenous grapes like Rkatsiteli and Saperavi grown in amphora clay vessels. Sip these skin-contact qvevri wines straight from monks in millennium-old monasteries carved into hillsides.
Languedoc-Roussillon, France
Languedoc-Roussillon produces a third of France’s wine, yet it gets a fraction of the acclaim bestowed upon Burgundy or Bordeaux. The diverse Mediterranean climate nurtures grape varietals from Grenache to Chenin Blanc that get blended into charming, fruit-forward wines. Base yourself in lively Montpellier or seaside Sete and sample refreshing Picpoul de Pinet while vineyard hopping via the Canal du Midi.
Douro Valley, Portugal
Port wine from Douro Valley is revered, but the region’s dry reds and whites are equally exceptional. Made from native grapes like Touriga Nacional, they exhibit notes of ripe fruit and fresh minerality. The terraced Douro Valley vineyards carved steeply into the hillsides above the snaking Douro River are stunningly scenic whether explored by car, boat or rail.
Republic of Georgia
Georgia claims the title of the oldest wine region, with winemaking traditions dating back 8000 years. Nearly 525 indigenous grape varietals are cultivated on the fertile valleys and hills, including Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, Qisi, and Kisi. Stop at family-run qvevri wineries to sample natural amber wines before feasting on local supra supras (feasts).
Peloponnese, Greece
Greece’s Peloponnese peninsula cradles the origins of European wine. Today it continues the legacy by producing world-class aglianico, assyrtiko and moschofilero wines. Base yourself in Nafplio or Patras to tour quaint vineyards framed by olive groves, Byzantine ruins, and the azure Aegean Sea. Don’t miss the sweet muscats of Monemvasia.
Galicia, Spain
Lush green Galicia in Spain’s cool Northwest corner excels at aromatic whites from Albariño and Treixadura grapes. Pair a bottle with fresh Atlantic seafood like scallops or oysters harvested right from the rías estuaries. The stunning Atlantic coast, peppered with hillside vineyards and fishing villages, begs to be explored.
Wachau, Austria
Austria’s Wachau Valley charms along the Danube River with terraced vineyards, apricot orchards, and monastery-topped hills. Grüner Veltliner and Riesling wines shine here, noted for their crisp acidity and mineral tones. Stay in medieval towns like Dürnstein or ride the rails along the Danube for scenic vineyard vistas.
Slovenia
Possessing a vineyard culture dating to Roman times, today Slovenia produces excellent cool climate wines worthy of the world stage. Standouts like zippy white Ribolla Gialla and food-friendly Modra Frankinja (Blaufrankisch) complement the country’s natural assets of Alpine scenery, forested hillslopes, and quaint hilltop villages.
Alto Adige, Italy
Tucked into Italy’s Dolomite Mountains, Alto Adige’s wine fame lies in its aromatic whites like Pinot Grigio and Gewürztraminer. Alpine air, glacial soils, and temperature shifts create ideal conditions for grapes in this formerly Austrian region. Base yourself in medieval Bolzano to tour hillside vineyards with the craggy Dolomites as a backdrop.
Tokaj, Hungary
Dating to the 1600s, the TOKAJI name is protected for the revered honey-hued aszú wines created in this Hungarian region. Intensely sweet and layered, they are crafted from grapes affected by noble rot. Beyond the flagship aszús, vibrant Furmint, Hárslevelű, and other whites thrive in this volcanic, hilly area that’s part of a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Whether you prefer dry whites, robust reds, or sweet nectars, Europe’s up-and-coming wine regions offer the chance to sip beyond the Old World standards. sample indigenous varietals and take in dramatic landscapes far from the crowds. With so many destinations yet to be uncorked, a thirst for wine travel adventure awaits!
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