Pick the best wine region for your next European holiday.

Europe is home to some of the best wines in the world. So how exactly does one choose the best region to explore when there are so many options? We have compiled a helpful list of wine regions in Europe to help you to narrow down your options.

When is the best time to go?

Spring If you want to be an early bird and get a head start on wine touring, head to Bordeaux in April or May. It’s the largest wine producing region in France with a whopping 10,000 producers who are ready to welcome you in the early season. Wine tasting in charming town St-Émilion near Bordeaux Summer In the summer months of June to August many of the wineries in France are in the middle of their busy season, so for a little less crowded wine tasting we recommend the Rioja region in Spain. Despite the excellent wines and striking scenery this region has stayed as a bit of a hidden gem. Vineyards in the Rioja region Autumn September and October are a special time at vineyards as it’s time for the harvest. Burgundy region with its medieval villages is one of the most picturesque regions in France and it’s also considered the Chardonnay capital. Harvest time varies each year but if you head here after mid-September you’ll get to see the harvest celebrations and festivals in full swing. Chateau du clos de Vougeot in Burgundy

Best for food and wine

There is no denying that wine is best enjoyed with a little something to nibble on and what better place to enjoy a refreshing glass of Riesling than in the gourmet capital of Alsace? This region of colourful half-timbered houses has the most Michelin star restaurants in France so this is the place for those who appreciate fine dining. Exploring vineyards and small villages of Alsace Wine & cheese form the perfect marriage and if you would like to combine some Pinot Noir with a cheese platter you should hop on your bike and head to Burgundy straight away. Not all good things come from France, the neighbouring Italy would like to remind us. Tuscany will happily welcome you to enjoy a few glasses of Chianti with extraordinary antipasto plates. If Tuscany is famous for something, it’s for impressing visitors with food and we can guarantee nobody will let you go hungry. Delicious Tuscan produce for a picnic in Italy

So much more than just wine

An exceptional glass of Sauvignon Blanc sure is a reason enough to travel but it doesn’t have to be all about wine. Cycling between wineries in Loire Valley you cannot miss the stupendous chateaux the region is so famous for. In South Eastern France you can taste some delicious Rosé wines and admire the fragrant lavender fields. And lastly, history buffs will appreciate the medieval towns and castles, which are especially predominant in Alsace and Burgundy. Château de Montsoreau in the Loire Valley