The World's Unmissable Wine Route - World Wine Tourism

France certainly boasts some magnificent vineyards: Bordeaux, Champagne, and Burgundy, which attract millions of tourists every year (according to Atout France). However, there are even more enticing options… While visiting cellars and tasting French wines is currently fashionable, it seems the activity is becoming increasingly popular. Here's an exclusive look at the top 5 vineyards that have made the World Wine Route no longer pass through France!

The vineyards of the Stellenbosch region, South Africa

South Africa, with its breathtaking landscapes and wallabies… it's a dream come true! Forget safaris, this country at the southernmost tip of the African continent will dazzle you with vineyards you'll remember for a long time. Just a 30-minute drive from Cape Town, you'll discover the Stellenbosch wine region. Located in the Jonkershoek Valley, these South African vineyards are nestled between mountains and rivers in a magnificent setting. Among them are the Vergelegen estate and the Delaire Graaf Estate… which means the World Wine Route no longer passes through France!

Napa Valley and Uncle Sam's wines

When the explanation isn't South African, it's American. Indeed, Napa Valley attracts millions of tourists from all over the world each year, drawn to the region's beauty. From small family farms to large, modern wineries, wine tourists will discover the diversity of renowned American wines. Grand Cru wineries like Corison Winery and Château Montelena will open their doors and their vineyards, planted with Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes… for your enjoyment!

Tuscany and its famous Chianti

The SR 222, known as the Chiantigiana to Italians, will guide you from Siena to Florence, offering breathtaking scenery. You'll likely stop in Greve, Panzano, or Castellina, typical villages of the region. Gastronomy also attracts millions of visitors each year, eager to taste the traditional focaccia with raisins, accompanied by a glass of Chianti Classico DOCG. From village to village, wine tourists can meet passionate winemakers, some of whom still use traditional methods to cultivate their land. One thing is certain: Italian wine tourism guarantees a memorable trip!

Marlborough, the New Zealand Sauvignon producer

It's no wonder the World Wine Route no longer passes through France, given the beauty of the New Zealand landscapes… Only slightly smaller than Burgundy, Marlborough covers 22,500 hectares and produces two-thirds of the country's wine. What will undoubtedly strike you first is the almost surgical precision of the vineyard plots. This geometric layout enhances the vineyards within a naturally idyllic setting: the mountains. It is in this picture-postcard setting that backpackers from all over the world visit the Marlborough vineyards each year, the heartland of Sauvignon Blanc.

The vast Canadian expanses

Canada, its caribou, and its poutine… what a beautiful country! While not quite reaching the 22,500 hectares of vineyards in New Zealand's Stellenbosch region, Canadians have nothing to be ashamed of, boasting nearly 12,000 hectares of vineyards. Every year, millions of visitors travel across the country to admire the unique beauty of Canadian vineyards. Many discover them on the Niagara Peninsula, which accounts for almost 85% of the country's vineyards. To the delight of wine lovers, one can find varieties like Marsanne, Roussanne, and Syrah.

International vineyards are in vogue on the global wine scene, and that is why the World Wine Route no longer passes through France.

Lucas Chartier