If you’re planning a wine-focused getaway, the shortlist for the Wine Travel Awards 2025–2026 provides an excellent starting point. These awards not only assess wines but also the complete travel experience, including sustainability, culture, and innovation.

How the Rankings Work

The Wine Travel Awards utilize a two-step evaluation process. First, wine lovers and travelers worldwide vote for their top destinations. Then, industry experts review the leading contenders, considering factors like wine quality, tourism infrastructure, and eco-friendly practices. This combination offers a valuable resource for choosing your next travel destination.

The Top 5 Wine Regions to Explore

Here are five regions that wine enthusiasts should consider:

Burgenland, Austria

Known for its blend of tradition and modernity, Burgenland boasts a unique microclimate near Lake Neusiedl, producing notable sweet wines and elegant reds such as Blaufränkisch. The region prioritizes sustainability, featuring eco-friendly vineyards and numerous wine tourism opportunities.

• What to try: Blaufränkisch or a noble rot sweet wine.

California, USA

California Wine Country, including Napa Valley and Sonoma County, stands out as a major wine destination. Its diversity is complemented by a strong farm-to-table culinary scene and scenic drives, making it a popular choice for wine travelers.

• What to try: Napa Cabernet Sauvignon or Sonoma Pinot Noir.

South Africa

With stunning landscapes and rich history, South African wine regions like Stellenbosch and Hermanus offer breathtaking views and a commitment to sustainability, blending tradition with innovation.

• What to try: Pinotage or Chenin Blanc.

Romania

Emerging as a wine travel hotspot, Romania introduces visitors to indigenous grape varieties and modern winemaking. The “Wines of Romania” initiative promotes cultural storytelling, offering unique wine routes.

• What to try: Fetească Neagră or Fetească Albă.

Valpolicella, Italy

Near Verona, Valpolicella is famous for celebrated wines like Amarone and Ripasso. With its rolling hills and historical villages, it offers a perfect blend of wine, culture, and tourism experiences.

• What to try: Amarone della Valpolicella or Ripasso.

A New Way to Experience Wine Travel

These regions excel in providing more than just wine tasting; they focus on creating connections with the land, people, and culture behind each bottle. This evolving perspective on wine travel emphasizes sustainability and immersive experiences, whether cycling through Austrian vineyards or enjoying the views along the South African coast.

The Wine Travel Awards recognize this shift, making it clear that exceptional wine regions today encapsulate far more than just wine.