In 2018, there were approximately 3.85 million visitors who travelled to Napa Valley, making it one of the top wine destinations in the world. Not only that, but it played a significant role in helping California recover its tourism levels in 2022 to pre-pandemic levels. Clearly, Napa Valley is a popular spot for wine enthusiasts in the U.S. However, despite its reputation, it’s not the oldest wine region around. That title goes to Paris, where winemaking dates all the way back to 276.

To get a better understanding of people’s wine preferences in 2023, we decided to poll our Facebook followers and asked them whether they would rather enjoy wine at a vineyard in Napa or Paris. The results may come as a surprise. Out of the respondents, 64% voted for Napa, while 27% chose Paris. Interestingly, the remaining 9% preferred other vineyards outside of these two options. Some mentioned Italy as their favorite, while others pointed to the Yakima Valley in Washington state.

Examining the responses, it’s clear that location bias played a role in the results, considering the majority of our respondents are likely based in the United States. Napa holds a special place in the hearts of those who have lived or currently live in California, as it carries a sense of proximity and nostalgia. One reader stated, “Definitely Napa. It’s close to where I used to live in California. I miss it!” On the other hand, one person living 35 miles from Napa Valley favored Paris due to its unfamiliarity. They saw it as an opportunity for exploration and the chance to experience different vineyards.

Those who voted for Paris had compelling reasons for doing so. One person mentioned the joy of sightseeing and being able to visit multiple vineyards in the city. Another cited the potential affordability of visiting vineyards in Paris compared to Napa, noting the high fees for tastings and the lack of fee waivers when purchasing bottles in Napa. They humorously remarked, “It’s almost cheaper to go to Paris!” However, some commenters were unaware of wineries within the city limits of Paris, assuming that the “good” vineyards were only found in the countryside.

While it’s true that France offers incredible wineries throughout the country, it’s worth noting that there are approximately 150 vineyards in or near Paris, with some hidden gems in stunning landscapes. Whether Paris is truly a cheaper place to indulge in wine than Napa is a matter of ongoing debate.

Ultimately, the choice between Napa and Paris for wine enthusiasts boils down to personal preferences and experiences. Each destination offers its own unique charm and flavors to explore. So, whether you find yourself sipping wine in the vineyards of Napa or strolling through the vineyards of Paris, you’re sure to have an unforgettable wine-tasting experience.

Note: This blog post was inspired by an original article published on Tasting Table.