Tag: Wine Tourism

Sicilia En Primeur Returns for Its 21st Year: Showcasing the Best of Sicilian Wine

Once again, Sicilia en Primeur returns this year, an esteemed event organized by Assovini Sicilia that annually draws journalists from around the globe to the island. From May 6 to 10, a delegation of 100 journalists representing Italy, various European countries (including France, Poland, Sweden, Germany, and Norway), as well as non-EU nations (such as Canada, the United States, Japan, China, South Korea, Israel, Brazil, and the United Kingdom), will journey through Sicily to explore and document the island’s rich food, wine, and cultural heritage.

It is no coincidence that the claim of the event, now in its 21st edition, is “The Culture of Wine in Sicily: A Thousand-year Story that Looks to the Future”, a slogan that sums up the message that Assovini wants to launch this year.

“Wine, explains Mariangela Cambria, President of Assovini Sicilia, besides being an agricultural or commercial product, is an essential element of universal culture that spans centuries and civilizations. The culture of wine today also translates into a culture of travel. It is a journey that begins in and sets off from the vineyard, from working the land; it goes through an annual cycle and arrives in the glass, in the bottle, and on tables all over the world. Sicilia En Primeur will tell journalists about part of this journey”.

“I’d like to thank the municipal administration of Modica for their hospitality and for having seized this opportunity,” Cambria emphasizes. “Sicilia en Primeur will, in fact, be a showcase for this splendid baroque town that journalists will have the opportunity to get to know, visit and talk about in their articles.”

The event kicks off on May 9th at 9 am with a technical tasting at the Castello dei Conti di Modica along with four talks on current topics, including the tools by which wine can be communicated to new generations, an in-depth look at the new State labels to protect Made in Italy, neuromarketing and consumer psychology, as well as a talk on the numbers of Assovini Sicilia.

At 5:30 p.m., there will also be a conference at the Teatro Garibaldi in Modica about the culture of wine understood as informed and conscious drinking, as promotion of the territory through wine tourism, as protection of the environment through increasingly sustainable good practices. Among the speakers, the Master of Wine, Andrea Lonardi, will talk about the “S Factor: The Uniqueness of the Sicilian Wine Continent”, followed by speeches by Dario Stefàno, president of the Wine and Oil Tourism Centre (Lumsa University), and by Antonello Maruotti, professor of Statistics (Lumsa University) on “The South innovating through events, e-commerce and new hospitality models for wine tourism”. Dr Sara Farnetti, Ph.D in Pathophysiology of Metabolism and Nutrition, will shift the spotlight to “Wine Culture: For Informed and Conscious Consumption.” Finally, Alessio Planeta, President of the SOStain Sicilia Foundation, will speak about “The Sustainable Future of Sicilian Wine.” Luciano Ferraro, vice-director of Corriere della Sera, will chair the conference.

This day will end with the gala dinner organized in collaboration with La Sicilia di Ulisse. This association brings together Sicilian excellence in the hospitality, gastronomy and viticulture sectors. The menu will be in charge of chefs Accursio Craparo of Radici, Vincenzo Candiano of Locanda Don Serafino (1 Michelin star), Giuseppe Causarano and Antonio Colombo of Votavota (1 Michelin star) and Giuseppe Torrisi of Cortile Santo Spirito (1 Michelin star).

“This year, Sicily has been named the 2025 European Gastronomic Region,” says Cambria. “To underline the successful partnership between food and wine at Sicilia en Primeur, the chefs of Sicilia di Ulisse will share their culinary art at the final gala dinner devoted to the producers.”

The event will conclude on Saturday, 10 May, again at the Castello dei Conti, with wine tasting from the 57 producers who are members of Assovini Sicilia and who will present their labels to journalists.

“I would like to thank the Istituto Commercio Estero and our sponsors, without whom this great event would not be possible; an event which has been shining a spotlight on Sicily for 26 years, attracting the attention of the national and international food-and-wine press,” concludes Mariangela Cambria. “Sicilia en Primeur is an eagerly awaited event that in recent years has contributed significantly to consolidating the image of a Sicilian wine-growing continent dedicated to excellence.”

VinePair Reveals Top 10 Wine Tourism Destinations for 2025

Despite ongoing challenges in global wine sales, the pursuit of wine tourism continues to thrive. While traditional strongholds like Tuscany and Napa Valley remain vital to the wine narrative, today’s oenotourists are increasingly drawn to emerging, dynamic regions offering distinctive terroirs and cultural depth.

According to VinePair’s newly released list of the Top 10 Wine Destinations for 2025, wine-focused travel is undergoing a transformation. Enotourism is expanding beyond the conventional routes to include locales such as the geothermal valleys of Hokkaido, Japan, and the striking landscapes of Patagonia, Argentina—regions where innovation, sustainability, and identity are reshaping wine tourism.

Even established regions such as Champagne (France) and the Willamette Valley (Oregon, USA) are evolving through progressive viticultural practices and expanded visitor experiences, making them more compelling than ever for return visits. From the coastal elegance of Galicia, Spain, and Santa Barbara, California, to the alpine beauty of Austria’s Wachau Valley and Germany’s Mosel, these destinations represent both tradition and transformation in the global wine landscape.

This list serves not only as a travel guide but also as a barometer for shifting consumer preferences, highlighting the regions that are successfully aligning tourism, terroir, and trade.

  1. Hokkaido, Japan

Japan might come across as an unexpected inclusion on a wine destinations list — it’s far better known for its luxury whiskies and artisanal sake — but as more wineries pop up across the country, it’s an exciting area to keep an eye on. Today, more bottles of Japanese wine are making their way stateside than ever before, but they are still relatively hard to come by. So why not fly halfway across the globe to taste some of the best wine the island nation has to offer in person?

Wineries are located across many of Japan’s distinct landscapes, but recently the northern island of Hokkaido has emerged as one of the country’s top wine regions. In addition to being globally renowned for its hot springs, skiing, dairy products, and uni, the area is home to Domaine Takahiko, an esteemed winery regarded as the country’s top estate. Although tourists might not be able to book a visit to Domaine Takahiko itself, there are other wineries in the region well worth checking out (and lucky visitors might find a bottle of one of its coveted Pinot Noirs at a local bar or restaurant). Some estates that provide tours and tastings include the Niseko Winery, a certified organic property that specializes in traditional method sparkling wine, and Camel Farm Winery. The Nikki Hills Winery also offers winery tours, including an electric mountain bike excursion of the entire estate, and has a hotel on site, so guests can soak in the scenic vineyards from the comfort of their rooms.

  1. Santorini, Greece

White wine is having a moment this year, so why not head to a region known for its crisp, complex whites? (One that also happens to be a stunning beachside destination.) The relatively small island off the coast of Greece is primarily known for its production of the salty, textured Assyrtiko grape. Part of an archipelago of volcanic islands in the Aegean Sea, Santorini’s winegrowing areas experience a dry, hot climate, intense winds, and benefit from layered volcanic soils. Due to the wind, winemakers train vines into spiral structures close to the ground to protect them. For those who have been to their fair share of sweeping Italian or French vineyards, visiting vineyards with basket-trained vines on lava soil offers a completely novel experience.

For winery visits, travellers can either book one of the island’s many tours or hop around tasting rooms on their own time. Some estates to add to the hit list include Domaine Sigalas, where guests can book a tasting or a food and wine pairing experience, and Estate Argyros, where visitors can walk on the volcanic soil and explore some of the oldest vineyards in the world. Vassaltis Vineyards is a newer winery on the scene; founded in 2016, it’s a great spot for a four-course lunch and winery tour.

  1. Clare Valley, Australia

While Australia is primarily known for its bold, jammy reds, Clare Valley bucks that reputation with its zippy, dry Rieslings and more restrained, savory expressions of Shiraz. The area’s high elevations and intense diurnal shifts allow grapes to develop complex character while still retaining intense acidity.

The region’s most iconic estate is Jim Barry Wines, which helped put Clare Valley on the map as a world-class Riesling producer. The winery offers several immersive tasting experiences, as well as boutique accommodations at The Mill Apartments for those interested in staying on the property. Not only is this region a must-visit for Riesling lovers, but it’s also a top culinary destination with an abundance of destination-worthy winery restaurants. Slate at Pikes Winery, the Bush DeVine Winery Restaurant at Paulett’s, and the restaurant at Skillogalee Estate are all incredible options for sipping wine over a long vineyard lunch. For wine and cycling fanatics, there’s a 20-mile Riesling trail where bikers can stop at several different vineyards as well as snack at spots like the Little Red Grape Bakery or even stop by the Clare Valley Art Gallery.

  1. Styria, Austria

Vienna is probably one of the few major cities in Europe that doubles as a highly productive wine region. So it’s easy, and tempting, for vacationers to plan trips that entirely revolve around the metropolitan area. But it would be a mistake to overlook the rolling green hills of Styria, a region in southern Austria with scenic landscapes and distinct wines. Dubbed the “green heart of Austria,” Styria caters to those who like to intersperse their wine tastings with outdoor activities, with several mountains, forests, lakes, and glaciers to explore. Travellers can even combine these two interests on a bike tour of Eastern Styra’s wine roads.

Several of the area’s wineries also double as inns, including Tauss, a leading natural wine producer that has a pool, sauna, and spa for those who stay on the estate. Travelers can try more local wines and explore the area’s cuisine at bars and restaurants with great wine lists including Michelin-starred tasting menu destination Geschwister Rauch, Thaller wine bar, and Die Weinbank, a tavern with seasonal fare and a serious wine program — diners can even rent a locker to store their fine wine purchases, hence its name.

  1. Patagonia, Argentina

Let’s be real, wine probably isn’t the primary reason why travellers book a trip to Patagonia, but for oenophiles headed down to scale some of the world’s most gorgeous landscapes, it can’t hurt to add a day or two of wine tasting to the agenda. While bigger wine destinations like Mendoza are known for their lush Malbecs, the cooler climate Patagonia area specializes in stunning expressions of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

The Neuquén province, about an hour north of the city of Neuquén, houses many wineries open to guests, and are all relatively close to one another so it’s easy to pop into a few. Be sure to book a tasting at Familia Schroeder as well as a lunch at the winery’s restaurant, which offers views over the vineyards. While it might be in the complete opposite direction, southeast of the city in the Río Negro province, Bodega Chacra merits a dedicated detour. Created in 2004 by Piero Incisa della Rocchetta — the grandson of the founder of Italy’s famed Sassicaia winery — Bodega Chacra harnesses biodynamic farming to craft impressive Pinot Noirs that rival top producers from around the globe. Those interested in visiting the estate can reach out to the winery directly via email to book a tour and tasting.

  1. Basque Country, Spain

Bridging both Spanish and French culture, Basque cuisine acts as inspiration to many restaurants stateside, including NYC’s buzzy new spots like Eel Bar and Chez Fifi, and favorites like Ernesto’s and Txikito. While we enjoy nibbling on pintxos and slurping Txakoli on our home turf, it’s even better to enjoy them at the source and by the sea. Now it’s easier than ever to do just that, as United Airlines debuted a new direct flight from New York to Bilbao this year.

This region’s signature wine is Txakoli, a spritzy, light-bodied wine best enjoyed when consumed from a porrón, a traditional pitcher that servers can pour from long distances that helps aerate the wine and make it extra light and fizzy. Produced from native grapes Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Beltza, Txakoli typically falls between 9.5 and 11.5 percent ABV, making it the perfect low-ABV sipper to enjoy by the beaches of San Sebastián.

Travellers should focus on enjoying as many of the tapas bars and local cuisine as possible, given that San Sebastián boasts the most Michelin stars per capita in the world. But those interested in digging deeper into the local wine scene can also venture out to nearby wineries like Bodega Txakoli Rezabal and the iconic Ameztoi estate, which doubles as a hotel.

  1. San Luis Obispo Coast, California

Officially established in 2022, the San Luis Obispo Coast (SLO Coast) is a relatively new California AVA, but the area’s cool-climate wines have garnered considerable attention in the past couple of years. Located between Santa Barbara wine country and Paso Robles, this area may have previously been skipped over on wine-focused road trips up the coast, but a couple of incredible new producers have made it a must-stop destination, just like the regions that border it. The wines from this area show impressive balance thanks to the vineyards’ proximity to the Pacific Ocean.

Downtown San Luis Obispo offers convenient tasting room locations for a few exciting wineries, including Dunites as well as Scar of the Sea and Lady of the Sunshine, which are separate projects from partners Mikey and Gina Giugni located in the same tasting room. The couple recently purchased the famed Bassi Vineyard — the most revered site on the SLO Coast — and make stunning expressions of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Syrah alongside some more out-of-the-box offerings like an old-vine Palomino, a quaffable Alicante Bouschet, and a solera-aged white wine steeped with dried botanicals from their garden. Outward Wines (VinePair’s Next Wave Winery of the Year for 2024) also recently opened a by-appointment tasting room in the Grover Beach area, showcasing its site-specific wines from across California’s Central Coast.

True to the region’s name, it’s right on the coast, so people can surf, hike, or chill out at local beaches between tastings. Ripe for exploration is the region’s vibrant bar and restaurant scene, from local wine and vinyl bar Jan’s Place to popular pizza haunt My Friend Mike’s. Need a break from wine? Check out the There Does Not Exist brewery, Sidecar for cocktails, or eat some blue corn waffles by the beach at Hidden Kitchen.

  1. Ahr Valley, Germany

In July 2021, the Ahr Valley was devastated by flash floods that destroyed wineries, vineyards, and even the local rail system. While the region still isn’t completely back on its feet, it’s ready to welcome back visitors and even debuted a new slogan: “We AHR open.” So now’s the time to support Germany’s underrated and unique red-wine-focused region.

The Ahr Valley is a short stretch of land — about 15 miles — along the Ahr River, making it one of Germany’s smallest wine regions. It’s also one of the northernmost regions in Germany, known for its ample sunshine, stony soils, and rugged, hilly slopes. While Germany’s primary focus is white wine, this is one of the few areas that honed in on the reds, particularly Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir), Portugieser, and Dornfelder. For those looking to visit Germany but travelling with a red wine lover, this destination brings the best of both worlds.

To fully experience the region, walk the 22-mile-long red wine trail to take in the scenic views and stop for a few wine tastings. The meandering path will bring hikers through seven small towns throughout the valley from Ahrweiler to Altenahr, with plenty of views and restaurants along the way. Since it’s a long journey, guests can opt to stay at a hotel on the trail to stretch it out over a few days. The Hohenzollern Hotel is perched on the hills overlooking the region’s vineyards, putting guests in the center of the action. For those less inclined to hike, the region projects that the rail line that provides a route between the area’s quaint villages will eventually reopen this year.

  1. Champagne, France

As one of the world’s most renowned wine regions, a relatively short drive or train ride from Paris, visiting Champagne isn’t exactly a groundbreaking concept. But as the threat of tariffs looms over the wine industry, 2025 feels like an opportune moment to venture across the Atlantic and sip sparkling wine straight from the source.

Champagne has also gone through a reckoning of sorts over the past few years, as demonstrated by the many booms and busts in the category’s sales stateside. Though it’s faced several challenges (climate change, waning consumer demand), these hardships have pushed the region to evolve, making it potentially one of the best times to visit Champagne in recent history.

Most winery visits are by appointment only, so plan accordingly. Kick off the trip at a few of the Grand Marquis that offer tastings and tours, like Billecart Salmon, Gosset, Telmont, and Tattinger, as well as slightly smaller estates like Eric Rodez and Famille Mousse. While it’s rare for grower-producers to accommodate visitors, some winemakers, like Champagne Pierre Paillard in the aptly named Bouzy, are starting to accept bookings. Ruinart also recently debuted a stunning public garden and new Nicolas Ruinart Pavilion — complete with a Champagne bar, of course — where guests can roam a tree-lined walking path and get a glimpse of the winery’s ancient Roman chalk caves, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

While many of the smaller Champagne producers don’t have estates or tasting rooms to visit, there are plenty of opportunities to try local wines at the bars and restaurants in Reims, a historic city in the center of the region. Wine bars like Le Pressoir and Le Coq Rouge offer great selections; for a classic experience, check out the Glue Pot; and for stacked burgers and killer bubbles in a casual setting, head to Sacré Burger.

  1. Willamette Valley, Oregon

The Willamette Valley earned its reputation as a top U.S. wine destination thanks to its high-quality Pinot Noirs. But over the past few years, it has evolved. Visitors will still readily find an abundance of earthy, juicy Pinot here, but the region is booming with diverse projects that celebrate a wide range of grapes, from Chardonnay and Gamay to Syrah and Chenin Blanc. This year, pay the Willamette Valley a visit (or revisit), and rethink what Oregon’s premier wine region has to offer.

Located just a one-hour drive south of Portland, the Willamette Valley stretches about 120 miles along the path of the Willamette River, bordered by the Cascade Mountain range and the Oregon Coast Range. The region generally experiences a cool, maritime climate, but the growing conditions differ across each of the valley’s 11 sub-AVAs, giving each a distinct identity.

As a cool climate region that grows Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the Willamette Valley naturally also produces compelling sparkling wine. This year, the region launched Method Oregon, an association of producers including Lytle-Barnett, Argyle, and Soter, dedicated to making high-quality sparkling wine. To celebrate the pioneering winemakers behind this movement, Method Oregon organized a tasting event that’s sure to be a top destination for all U.S. bubbly enthusiasts this summer.

Source:  VinePair

The Twelve Pievi: How Tuscany’s Historic Wine Region Is Redefining Excellence After Three Decades

In the heart of Tuscany, where time moves at its own leisurely pace, the historic town of Montepulciano celebrates a remarkable milestone in 2025. While thirty-one years may seem minor against the backdrop of a town preserved since the 16th century, the evolution of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano during this period tells a story of extraordinary growth and transformation. Since establishing the Anteprima event in 1994 to showcase market-ready vintages, the Consortium has seen production volumes and membership nearly double. The 31st edition of the Preview returns to honor its rich heritage while embracing the future, continuing the legacy of an appellation with winemaking traditions dating back to Etruscan times.

The Renaissance of Traditional Terroir
The custodians of Montepulciano’s viticultural heritage have achieved a masterful balance between innovation and tradition, preserving the essence of their craft while adapting to modern challenges. Their meticulous stewardship extends beyond the vineyards to the entire ecosystem—landscapes, architecture, and cultural practices are carefully maintained as living tributes to ancestral accomplishments.

The 2025 market debut of the prestigious Pieve classification marks the culmination of years of dedicated research and development. Following the Consortium’s approval in 2023 and the Italian National Wine Committee’s final endorsement on October 10, 2024, these exceptional wines have reached shelves with the publication of regulations in the February 5, 2025 Official Journal. The 2021 vintage—the first to carry the distinguished Pieve designation—exemplifies the region’s commitment to geographical authenticity and production excellence.

These twelve Additional Geographic Units (UGAs) honor ancient parish divisions that date back to the Roman and Lombard eras, creating a direct connection between contemporary winemaking and historical territorial organization. Only wines produced with at least 85% Sangiovese grapes grown and bottled by the same estate within a specific Pieve boundary may bear this prestigious label. Quality control remains paramount, with the Consortium establishing an internal commission of technical experts to ensure compliance with rigorous specifications before certification.

Industry professionals surveyed by Nomisma project retail prices for these premium offerings to range between 40-70 euros, with exceptional bottles commanding 70-100+ euros. The market acknowledges the unique value proposition, with respondents emphasizing Montepulciano’s “strong identity and tradition,” “superior quality,” and the “prestige of the brand” as key differentiators. Wine enthusiasts now can explore these distinctive terroirs through comparison tastings, enhanced by the Consortium’s innovative ’12 Pievi’ web series documenting the unique characteristics of each historical parish zone.

Montepulciano’s forward-looking approach extends beyond geographical classification to embrace sustainability initiatives. As the first Italian denomination to receive Equalitas certification in May 2022, the region upholds strict environmental standards by measuring carbon and water footprints while promoting socio-economic equity. A sophisticated network of 50 meteorological stations provides critical data for ongoing climate adaptation strategies.

Where History and Viticulture Converge
Nestled on limestone hills that divide the Val di Chiana from Val d’Orcia, Montepulciano stands as a living testament to centuries of artistic, architectural, and agricultural achievement. Visitors wandering its cobblestone streets encounter Etruscan relics, Renaissance palazzos, ornate religious sanctuaries, and thriving artisanal traditions. The magnificent Piazza Grande, with its 17th-century Duomo, serves as the gravitational center, while the San Biagio sanctuary forms a stunning gateway to the iconic cypress-lined valleys that define the quintessential Tuscan landscape.

The Consortium has enhanced the visitor experience through the introduction of the “Pilgrimage to Montepulciano’s Pievi,” an immersive journey combining walking tours of historic parish territories with evening tastings of their distinctive wines. This multisensory experience invites travelers to engage deeply with the region’s terroir—physically traversing the landscape while savoring its enological expressions.

The economic significance of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is profound, with the industry valued at approximately one billion euros in combined assets, revenue, and production capacity. Average annual production value reaches 65 million euros, forming the cornerstone of a local economy in which 70% of activity is directly related to viticulture. Of the 16,500 hectares of municipal territory, vineyards occupy 2,000 hectares—including 1,200 hectares dedicated to Vino Nobile DOCG and 390 hectares to Rosso di Montepulciano DOC. The industry supports roughly 1,000 permanent jobs alongside seasonal positions spread across 90 bottling operations and 250 grape producers.

The 2024 market performance highlights continued growth, with 6.7 million bottles of Vino Nobile and 2.3 million bottles of Rosso reaching consumers. Export markets account for 65.5% of production, with Germany (37%) and the United States (28%) leading international demand. Particularly noteworthy is the increasing preference for organic certification, representing 44.7% of domestic sales and exceeding 50% of international transactions.

For wine lovers seeking authentic experiences, Montepulciano offers an unrivaled destination where history, culture, and exceptional winemaking converge. Whether exploring medieval alleys, participating in guided tastings, hiking through vine-covered hills, or embarking on parish pilgrimages, visitors are immersed in traditions that honor the past and embrace the future. The Pieve classification represents more than a marketing distinction; it is a profound reconnection with historical identity—a perfect expression of a region that continues to evolve while remaining true to its timeless character.

A Timeless Sanctuary for Wine Lovers
Situated gracefully on gently undulating limestone slopes that form a natural boundary between Val di Chiana and Val d’Orcia, Montepulciano is a living testament to Tuscany’s rich oenological heritage. This captivating medieval settlement occupies a privileged position among Italy’s most celebrated wine regions, embodying the essence of cultural identity. From ancient Etruscan cultivation methods to modern winemaking innovations, Montepulciano’s terroir has seen the evolution of viticulture over millennia, solidifying its status among Tuscany’s revered wine sanctuaries.

More than just a production zone, Montepulciano serves as an immersive open-air museum chronicling the region’s enduring connection to viticulture. The town attracts discerning enophiles and cultural travelers from around the globe, each seeking the harmonious blend of historical significance and vinous excellence that defines this remarkable destination.
The charming historic center reveals layers of architectural and artistic achievement, including prehistoric Etruscan artifacts, magnificent Renaissance palazzos, consecrated sanctuaries adorned by master painters, classical performance venues, and thriving workshops that preserve traditional craftsmanship. Every cobblestone and archway contribute to Montepulciano’s unique charm, inviting visitors to lose themselves in its timeless allure. Here, amidst this splendid tapestry of historical and aesthetic treasures, wine serves as the ultimate ambassador—a masterful interpreter of Tuscany’s magnificent landscape. Through each glass of this noble elixir, visitors embark on a sensory journey that bridges past and present, terroir and tradition, celebrating Montepulciano’s enduring legacy as a sanctuary for those who value the profound relationship between place, culture, and exceptional winemaking.

Filippo Magnani

Viña Vik: An Award-Winning Chilean Winery Redefining Winemaking and Sustainability

Viña Vik has firmly established itself as a leader in the global winemaking community, achieving an unprecedented milestone as the second-ranked winery in the World’s Best Vineyards listing for 2024—a first in Chilean wine history. The winery is celebrated for its unparalleled commitment to winemaking excellence, sustainability, and the seamless integration of its unique experience into the natural environment.

Geographical Significance

Situated in Chile’s Millahue Valley, a locale revered by the indigenous Mapuche people as “Lugar de Oro” or “Golden Place,” Viña Vik capitalizes on the region’s rich heritage and diverse terroirs. Its vineyards are carefully positioned within the valley’s interior, benefiting from a mosaic of microclimates and coastal breezes. This geographical diversity allows Viña Vik to cultivate an impressive array of varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Syrah.

Sustainability and Harmony

Viña Vik prioritizes sustainability, with winery facilities meticulously designed to harmonize with the surrounding Millahue Valley landscape. From its energy-efficient architecture to its environmentally-conscious wine production practices, the winery exemplifies a holistic approach to sustainability. Visitors are invited to experience the intersection of art, design, and world-class viticulture within the tranquil setting of the Millahue Valley.

Commitment to Winemaking Excellence

The winery is renowned for its dedication to quality throughout the vinification process. Under the expert guidance of Chief Winemaker Cristian Vallejo, grapes are carefully hand-harvested and subjected to natural fermentation without the addition of artificial yeasts. Viña Vik’s wines are aged in a combination of new and used French oak barrels, ensuring both character and complexity in every bottle.

Architectural Innovation

Designed by acclaimed Chilean architect Smiljan Radic in collaboration with Alex and Carrie Vik, the winery and its associated facilities—such as the iconic Vik Hotel—embody a visionary architectural philosophy. The design incorporates cutting-edge sustainability principles, making minimal impact on the landscape while offering a visually stunning, technologically innovative experience. Completed in 2014, the facilities seamlessly blend art, nature, and exceptional hospitality.

Awards and Recognition

Viña Vik continues to garner international acclaim. The celebrated VIK 2021 vintage earned a remarkable 98-point score and was recognized in three major categories by the Descorchados guide, including “Top Red Wines of the Year” and “Best Red Blend.” Similarly, the STONEVIK 2023 wine achieved a stellar 97-point rating and received the coveted Revelation Award. Other notable wines include La Piu Belle 2021 and Milla Cala 2021, both praised for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

The winery produces four acclaimed red wines alongside a rosé—La Piu Belle, Milla Cala, VIK, and “A”—all of which have consistently received accolades, including scores well into the 90s from James Suckling, prestigious Master medals from The Drinks Business, and Platinum and Gold awards from Decanter.

Wine Reviews

VIK 2021

VIK 2021 vintage represents a masterful interpretation of Millahue Valley’s terroir, exemplifying the heights of Chilean winemaking. Aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, and an additional six months in Barroir – this Bordeaux-style blend of 77% Cabernet Franc and 23% Cabernet Sauvignon is the epitome of finesse and complexity.

On the nose, this wine delivers a captivating bouquet of ripe red fruit like cherries and raspberries, interwoven with subtle notes of graphite, cedar, with a hint of spice. The palate is a harmonious dance of vibrant acidity, firm structure, and velvet tannins. The Cabernet Franc’s mineral elegance shines through, lending a distinctive freshness and tension to the wine’s profile, at the same time the Cabernet Sauvignon contributes depth and opulent fruit.

Despite its youthful intensity, VIK 2021 promises tremendous aging potential in which the flavours will evolve and deepen. This wine bursts with power and energy, leaving a lingering finish marked by refined red fruit with hints of forest floor.

This vintage is definitely a triumph—a wine for connoisseurs who value both power and elegance in their glass. An unforgettable Chilean masterpiece that continues to redefine expectations of New World wines!

98 Points
Liz Palmer

VIK ‘Milla Cala’ 2021

‘Milla Cala’ 2021 is an expertly crafted blend, comprising a meticulous combination of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Carmenere, 7% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot,  with a splash of syrah. Its aging in French oak for 18 months imparts a delicate kiss of wood spice and a rounded texture.

On the nose, this wine is an intricate aromatic tapestry. Notes of spices, blackberries, with a hint of bell pepper.  The palate is structured yet supple, delivering a seamless integration of flavours of dark berries and ripe plum, accented by hints of tobacco, cedar, with a slight floral undertone. As it opens, whispers of baking spices and a touch of graphite add complexity. This wine is both captivating now and promising for future cellaring.

92 Points
Liz Palmer

VIK ‘La Piu Belle’ 2021

Vik’s flagship Carménère blend, La Piu Belle, has become one of the most recognizable and celebrated labels in Chilean winemaking. The 2021 vintage is a standout in their renowned “Artist Label Series” featuring a striking design by Chilean artist Gonzalo Cienfuegos.

La Piu Belle is composed of 76% Carménère, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Cabernet Franc, and was aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, with 15% of the oak uniquely toasted using branches from the estate’s own trees—a testament to the winery’s innovative spirit.

The nose is restrained, offering subtle herbal and savory aromas, the palate explodes with vibrant, ripe red and black fruits with earth, and spice weaving harmoniously into the wine’s texture, balanced beautifully by a refreshing acidity. The tannins are polished and silky, lending a seamless and approachable structure.

This 2021 vintage promises to develop further depth and complexity with time.

95 Points
Liz Palmer

Website:  https://www.vikwine.com/

UK Wine Tourism Soars 55% – A Must-Visit Wine Destination

The UK wine tourism industry continues flourishing, demonstrating its critical role in supporting vineyards and rural economies. According to WineGB’s Tourism Report 2024, vineyard visits rose by 55% in 2023 compared to the previous year, reaching an impressive 1.5 million. This influx of tourism now accounts for a substantial 25% of vineyard revenue.

Wine tourism’s allure is far-reaching, with VisitBritain’s MIDAS Report indicating that 42% of inbound international tourists expressed strong interest in visiting a UK winery during their stay—equating to a potential 16 million visitors. The ongoing expansion of wine tourism showcases its importance as both an economic driver and a cultural attraction.

The UK’s 300 vineyards and wineries open to visitors have embraced this momentum, offering diverse experiences ranging from vineyard picnics and tours to fine dining and luxurious on-site accommodations. Estates are actively enhancing their appeal to attract both domestic and international guests.

WineGB has also launched the “Visit a Vineyard Guide” which highlights these offerings and provides detailed information for wine enthusiasts. In addition, WineGB urges policymakers to implement measures that will help sustain the sector’s growth. Among the proposed actions, 60% of producers forecast visitor numbers to rise by over 20% in the next five years, underscoring the need for strategic investment.

Collaborative efforts, such as training programs with VisitEngland and partnerships with Knight Frank, have further elevated the visitor experience, cementing wine tourism as an essential facet of the UK’s rural economy. Looking ahead, WineGB plans to unveil “The WineGB Guide to UK Wine Tourism” before the August Bank Holiday, featuring exceptional vineyard experiences, from tastings to cultural events.

As the industry flourishes, the growing popularity of English sparkling wine further highlights the UK’s burgeoning reputation in the global wine scene.

WineGB’s “Visit a Vineyard Guide” https://lnkd.in/em8UzvwY