Top 5 of the world's most beautiful vineyards

Discover the World’s Top 5 Most Beautiful Vineyards

1) Douro Valley (Portugal)

You’ve likely enjoyed a glass of Port wine before. But did you know that this famous Portuguese wine is produced in one of Europe’s oldest vineyards? Established in the mid-17th century, the vineyards of the Douro Valley stretch over 40,000 hectares in northeastern Portugal. Here, the renowned Port wine is made under the AOC Porto designation, as well as wine under the AOC Douro. If you’re vacationing in Porto or the region, a visit to this vineyard is a must!

2) Napa Valley (California)

It’s no secret that Americans also produce wine. In the United States, 90% of wine production comes from California. One of its most famous vineyards is Napa Valley (located a few miles from San Francisco), which translates to “land of abundance.” Renowned worldwide, Napa Valley wines are crafted from French grape varieties such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Chardonnay. This Californian vineyard spans over 17,000 hectares of vines.

3) Stellenbosch Wine Region (South Africa)

Located in the northeast of South Africa, Stellenbosch boasts numerous tourist attractions: its Dutch architecture, its university, and, most notably, its wine industry. Covering 16,229 hectares, the Stellenbosch vineyard accounts for 16% of South Africa’s wine production. It is particularly known for its red wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Grenache.

4) Cafayate Vineyard (Argentina)

Set at the foot of the Andes Mountains at over 1,600 meters above sea level, the Cafayate vineyard sprawls in the northwest of Argentina, in the Salta province. It is one of the country’s oldest vineyards, with the first vines planted in the 17th century. Today, Cafayate mainly produces red wines, but also some white wines (although these are less abundant). A visit to this region is exceptional: olive trees, snow-capped peaks, vineyards, and cacti offer a guaranteed change of scenery!

5) Marlborough Vineyard (New Zealand)

How about traveling to the other side of the world to visit Marlborough vineyard? Located in the north of New Zealand, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful vineyards in Oceania. Mainly known for its Sauvignon Blanc wines, it remains one of the country’s top vineyards with over 37,000 hectares of vines.

FAQ - Vineyards around the world

Which vineyards in this top 5 are among the oldest?

The Douro Valley in Portugal dates back to the mid-17th century, making it one of Europe's oldest vineyards. In Argentina, the Cafayate vineyard also saw its first vines planted during the 17th century.

Which vineyard in this selection sits at the highest altitude?

The Cafayate vineyard holds that distinction. Set at the foot of the Andes in the Salta province, in northwestern Argentina, it spreads at over 1,600 metres above sea level and mainly produces red wines.

Which grape variety made Marlborough vineyard famous?

Marlborough, in the north of New Zealand, owes its reputation to Sauvignon Blanc. With more than 37,000 hectares of vines, it is one of the country's leading vineyards and one of the most beautiful in Oceania.

Why is Napa Valley a must-see vineyard in the United States?

California accounts for 90% of American wine production, and Napa Valley is its jewel. A few miles from San Francisco, this vineyard of over 17,000 hectares grows French grape varieties such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Chardonnay.

Which grape varieties are grown in the Stellenbosch wine region?

The Stellenbosch vineyard in South Africa is best known for its red wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Grenache. It covers 16,229 hectares and represents 16% of South Africa's wine production.