While American wine is up there with some of the best in the world, Europe is renowned for its sprawling vineyards and storied varieties.
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Countries like Spain, Italy, and France regularly compete for the top wineries, tasting rooms, and varietals and blends. They also have a hold on the bubbly category with cava, champagne, and prosecco. (That’s Spain, Italy, and France.)
But where should you go if you want a top-notch experience—not just great wine and a solid tasting room? When it comes to popular wineries in Europe, which locations stand out for wines and ambiance?
UK travel experts from Iglu Cruise know a thing or two about putting together winning itineraries. While cruises probably don’t sound like a place to sample wines, some of the company’s river cruises include trips to picturesque wineries that produce some of Europe’s best blends.
Here’s where to go to find them on your next visit across the pond.
Most popular wineries in Europe from UK travel experts at Iglu Cruise
This study ranks wineries in Europe based on the number of five-star reviews on TripAdvisor. That’s an important metric here, as the study doesn’t rate the oldest wineries, those with a special legacy, or those that operate at a certain scale.
It’s all about how travelers felt when they left the tasting room. Did they learn about certain varieties and blends that interest them? Did they feel comfortable throughout? Did they sample some of the best wine they’ve ever tasted?
While I recommend taking any public reviews with a grain of salt, high ratings for wineries with thousands of ratings are a reliable sign of a great experience. Here’s where to find them:
- Castello Banfi in Tuscany, Italy
- Holdvölgy Winery in Tokaj, Hungary
- Pago de Darraovejas in Ribera del Duero, Spain
- Gusbourne in Kent, UK
- Marques de Murrieta in Rioja, Spain
- Champagne Billecart-Salmon in Champagne, France
- Chateau Pichon Baron in Bordeaux, France
- Quinta do Crasto in Douro Valley, Portugal
- Tenuta Cavalier Pepe in Irpinia, Italy
- Quinta do Pôpa in Douro Valley, Portugal
You can learn more about these wineries by checking out the full study from Iglu Cruise. Experts give a deep dive to uncover what makes each winery stand out.
