Tag: Wine Tourism

The Napa Valley Wine Train Secures Global Accolades

The Napa Valley Wine Train, renowned for its immersive journey that captures the essence of luxurious rail travel, announces its achievement as the 2025 Global Winner for Wine Tourism Services in the San Francisco/Napa Valley region. This honor, awarded by the Great Wine Capitals’ prestigious Best of Wine Tourism Awards, recognizes the Wine Train’s unparalleled contribution to wine tourism.

As one of the few remaining historic passenger railroads in the United States, the Napa Valley Wine Train provides an authentic and unforgettable experience that mirrors the golden age of train travel. With exquisite dining, curated multi-course meals, and breathtaking views of Napa Valley, guests are transported back in time aboard meticulously restored Pullman rail cars, featuring Honduran mahogany, brass accents, etched glass, and plush seating. The train offers convenient, car-free travel options from San Francisco, enhancing access to Napa Valley for both locals and tourists.

The Great Wine Capitals, an alliance of twelve esteemed wine-producing cities spanning the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, spotlights excellence in wine tourism. The Best of Wine Tourism Awards recognize organizations that exemplify quality and innovation in wine tourism, while promoting rich wine experiences and celebrating cultural heritage, landscapes, and local assets.

“We are deeply honored by this global recognition,” shared Nathan Davis, General Manager of Napa Valley Wine Train. “This award reflects the dedication and passion of our team, who work tirelessly to preserve the history and distinctive experiences we offer. We remain devoted to representing Napa Wine Country and nurturing its legacy for future generations.”

Napa Valley’s delegation includes the County of Napa, Napa Valley Vintners, and Visit Napa Valley, all of whom play pivotal roles in enhancing the region’s wine tourism footprint. The Best of Wine Tourism Awards commend excellence across seven categories, including Architecture & Landscapes, Art & Culture, and Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices.

Napa Valley Wine Train: www.winetrain.com
Great Wine Capitals and Best of Wine Tourism Awards: www.greatwinecapitals.com

“Dinner of the Thousand” – Bolgheri’s 30-Year Legacy at the Iconic Viale dei Cipressi

On September 4, 2024, Bolgheri, the small yet iconic wine region on the Tuscan coast, celebrated a significant milestone: 30 years of the Bolgheri and Bolgheri Sassicaia Denomination of Origin Control (DOC). This memorable evening took place at the breathtaking Viale dei Cipressi, symbolizing Bolgheri’s dedication to wine excellence and its reputation as a global icon of Italian viticulture.

The event, titled the “Dinner of the Thousand,” continued the success of the first edition in 2021, organized by the Consortium of Bolgheri and Bolgheri Sassicaia DOC Wines. The dinner underscored the unity and teamwork among producers who have elevated Bolgheri wines to international prominence. Albiera Antinori, President of the Consortium, warmly welcomed guests, expressing pride in the region’s achievements. Over the last three decades, Bolgheri has earned a place among the world’s most celebrated wine regions. The Viale dei Cipressi—planted by Guidalberto della Gherardesca in 1832 and immortalized by poet Giosuè Carducci—enhanced the grandeur of the evening. Guests enjoyed an exceptional dinner at a one-kilometer-long table, surrounded by the iconic cypress trees.

En Primeur: A First Taste of Bolgheri’s Finest
The finest DOC wines, including en primeur selections from 74 producers, flowed freely throughout the evening, reaffirming Bolgheri’s standing as a destination of exceptional wine quality. My day began with a tasting at the Consorzio headquarters, attended by select Italian and international wine writers. The afternoon featured a preview of the Bolgheri Superiore DOC 2022 vintage—an exclusive opportunity, as the tasting occurred nearly four months before the vintage’s market release. The wines from 2022 showcased vibrant fruit and aromatic intensity. Natural acidity ensured freshness, while most wines displayed a graceful balance from start to finish, although some exhibited softer tannins typical of youthful wines.

The Unique Terroir That Defines Bolgheri’s Wines
The celebration of Bolgheri’s 30 years as a DOC highlights the region’s natural advantages. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding hills, Bolgheri’s amphitheater-like setting provides ideal conditions for grape growing, with diverse soils and a temperate coastal climate. The intricate mix of sandy, clay-sandy, and gravelly soils forms a unique foundation for some of Italy’s most prestigious wines. The Consortium’s dedication to preserving this terroir, supported by rigorous research, has secured Bolgheri’s place as one of the world’s most sought-after wine regions, with vineyards now covering 1,350 hectares.

A Small Jewel Along the Mediterranean Coast
The DOC Bolgheri area, located within the municipality of Castagneto Carducci, spans 1,359 hectares of vineyards across 13 kilometers north to south and about 7 kilometers from west to east, ranging from 10 to 380 meters above sea level. Surrounded by the “Macchia Mediterranea,” a dense green coastal forest, Bolgheri benefits from continuous sunlight and cooling sea breezes, which foster wines with freshness and elegance. Diverse soil compositions—sandy soils near the sea, clay-sandy alluvial soils, clay-silty soils in foothill vineyards, and gravelly soils in the hills—contribute to the distinct character of Bolgheri wines. The Consorzio’s decade-long zoning study deepens the understanding of this terroir, analyzing each soil type’s potential.

Innovative Tradition: Bolgheri’s Evolving Legacy
Bolgheri’s success stems from its producers’ shared vision of quality and innovation. The region continues to evolve, adapting wine regulations to meet contemporary tastes while maintaining high standards. As a young yet esteemed district among historic Tuscan wine regions, Bolgheri began red wine production around the 1940s, when the visionary Marquis Mario Incisa della Rocchetta planted French varietals, especially Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, on his Tenuta San Guido estate. The first significant success came with the 1968 vintage of Sassicaia, a blend later hailed as one of the world’s finest wines.

Initially known for local white and rosé wines, Bolgheri’s journey shifted following the pioneering success of Tenuta San Guido. By the mid-1980s, Bolgheri had emerged as a powerhouse for red wine, producing “Super Tuscans” that garnered global acclaim. This success led to the first DOC Bolgheri red wine regulation in 1994, with a subzone for Sassicaia. In 2013, DOC Bolgheri Sassicaia received official recognition, becoming Italy’s only appellation dedicated to a single estate and wine.

Bolgheri remains innovative, with recent updates in wine regulations expanding the varietals for DOC Bolgheri white wines to include Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, and Vermentino. Currently, Bolgheri produces three DOC red wine types: DOC Bolgheri Rosso, DOC Bolgheri Rosso Superiore, DOC Bolgheri Sassicaia, as well as DOC Rosato (rosé) and two DOC Bianco (white) designations.

Bolgheri: A Destination for Wine Enthusiasts
Bolgheri’s prominence has also made it a magnet for wine tourism. Over the past two decades, wine estates have embraced hospitality, offering visitors the chance to experience the region’s beauty and wines. Whether exploring the vineyards or tasting wines, Bolgheri combines tradition, innovation, and natural beauty, drawing wine lovers worldwide.

As the evening drew to a close, the significance of Bolgheri’s journey over the past 30 years was clear. From modest beginnings to becoming a wine powerhouse, Bolgheri’s commitment to quality and connection to the land remain as inspiring as ever.

An Iconic Wine Destination with Unique Charm
Over the past 20 years, Bolgheri’s wine tourism has flourished, becoming a must-visit destination for international travelers. While only a few estates welcomed visitors in the early 1990s, today nearly all wineries open their doors to wine enthusiasts and professionals. A variety of hospitality options is available, from family-owned properties to renowned wineries.

The DOC philosophy encourages each winery to express its unique relationship with the environment, creating a sense of “diversity” that reflects Bolgheri’s natural elements. The landscape enchants the senses, with aromas, flavors, and picturesque villages harmonizing with the surroundings. From gently rolling hills to a stunning coastal reserve, Bolgheri enhances the experience of its exceptional wines.

The Diversity of Bolgheri: A Land of Flavor and Tradition
Bolgheri boasts a rich culinary scene, from family-style, traditional cooking to gourmet dining. The region offers diverse dining options, whether savoring countryside dishes of meat and vegetables or fresh seafood by the coast. Beyond Bolgheri’s town walls, ancient hilltop villages add to the experience, featuring artisan boutiques, open-air markets, and cozy accommodations that capture the authentic, serene Tuscan lifestyle.

Filippo Magnani

Insights from the 8th UNWTO Global Wine Tourism Conference – Wine Travel Awards

Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Armenia, the 8th UNWTO Global Conference on Wine Tourism recently convened, gathering luminaries from the Wine Travel Awards (WTA) community, including Prof. Gergely Szolnoki, Liz Palmer, Paul Wagner, and Alder Yarrow, among others. This year’s theme, “Heritage in Every Bottle,” brilliantly highlighted how ancient winemaking traditions are being revitalized through cutting-edge wine tourism innovations.

Participants delved into pressing issues like sustainable wine tourism and the role of digital technology in crafting compelling wine stories. The conference showcased Armenia’s distinguished wineries – Zorah Wines, Old Bridge Winery, Trinity Canyon Vineyards, Momik Wines, Karas Wines, and “Armenia Wine” Winery and Vineyards – as prime examples of how culture and innovation can merge to forge a dynamic future for the wine industry.

For a comprehensive overview filled with insights from keynote speakers on the transformative discussions that are redefining wine tourism, click to read the full article: https://lnkd.in/dvgpPvDC

Source: Wine Travel Awards

Exploring Switzerland’s Most Unique Vineyard Stays

As the harvest season approaches, Switzerland’s Grape Escapes program uncorks a selection of over sixty exceptional and unique accommodations. These range from boutique châteaux to rustic vigneron cottages, and from avant-garde “birdboxes” to transparent “bubble” retreats – all offering an all-inclusive oenophile’s paradise. The common thread? Each stay is deeply rooted in viticulture and terroir.

This initiative, a collaborative effort between Swiss Wine Promotion and Switzerland Tourism, invites connoisseurs to immerse themselves in Swiss wine culture through curated experiences set against a backdrop of stunning viticultural landscapes. Each accommodation is strategically positioned either amidst the vines or offering panoramic views of the vineyards.

From historic vineyard domaines like La Capite in the Lavaux AOC of Vaud, to innovative lodgings such as the oak barrel suite at Chalet Diognysos or the transparent Bubble Hotel in the emerging Thurgau wine region, to a modernist Birdbox nestled in the steep slopes of Ticino, each destination promises not just repose, but a deep dive into the world of Swiss wines.

Here are six one-of-a-kind places to sleep among Swiss vineyards:

La Capite – Cully, Vaud: The small vineyard cottage La Capite in Cully used to serve winegrowers as a place to relax after hard work. Nowadays, during the late summer months, this charming cottage amidst the Lavaux vineyards in the Vaud region can be rented for overnight stays. There is no running water, electricity or heating – as these amenities are available in the nearby family home, which is just a few steps away. Inside La Capite, guests will find antique furniture, creaky wooden floors, and unbeatable views of Lake Geneva.

Chalet Diognysos – Crans-Montana – Valais: Spending the night in a wooden barrel might not be for everyone, but those who can handle being surrounded by thick oak planks should try an overnight stay in “Le Coup de Foudre” barrel at Chalet Diognysos – a wine barrel – at Chalet Diognysos. In winter, the barrel serves as a fondue and raclette room, while in summer it is transformed into a cozy room with a double bed and romantic lighting. It is located in the vineyards of Diogne, below Crans Montana, and offers a magnificent view of the Valais Alps, which is best enjoyed over a homemade breakfast on the panoramic terrace.

Birdbox Curzútt – Monte Carasso, Ticino: The Birdbox Curzútt is not a small birdhouse but a stylish, fully equipped accommodation that invites visitors to snooze in seclusion. The Birdbox is located above Bellinzona and is best reached by cable car. It has large windows with views of St. Barnard’s Church, the surrounding vineyards, and nature. A furnished terrace invites guests to enjoy a romantic aperitif, and a delicious dinner can be savored at the Ristorante Ostello Curzútt, just a few steps away.

Bubble Hotel – Kartause Ittingen, Thurgau: Visitors who book a night at the “Bubble Hotel” in Thurgau should hope for clear skies, as it allows for stargazing directly from the bed. Even during the day, this exclusive accommodation is a real eye-catcher. The transparent bubble tent is nestled in nature and offers views of the vineyards and the Thur River. The stay includes breakfast and an e-bike per person, inviting exploration of the picturesque wine regions and hikes through the beautiful surroundings.

Boutique Boatel Attila – Jura & Three-Lakes Region: A trip on Switzerland’s only floating hotel is the perfect way to discover the vineyards around the Three-Lakes Region. Guests can relax in one of the nine double cabins or in the Captain’s Lounge of the boutique boatel (boat-hotel) Attila as they travel along the longest navigable waterway in Switzerland, passing through Lake Biel, Lake Murten, and Lake Neuchâtel. Along the way, the former cargo ship stops for wine tastings with local wine merchant, excursions into the wine region, and dinners at select restaurants… and if you are in the mood for a refreshing swim, it’s just a step away from your bed.

Domaine Château du Crest – Jussy, Geneva: The Domaine Château du Crest, owned by the Micheli family since 1637, is located on the edge of the Geneva countryside in Jussy, surrounded by vineyards and just 15 minutes from the city centre of Geneva. The estate offers six rooms in a rural-chic style, just a few steps from the legendary Château Du Crest. Visitors are invited to explore the vineyard, participate in seasonal grape harvesting, and take walks around Lake Geneva.

For further details: https://www.swisswine.ch/en/news/grape-escapes-spectacular-sleep

Source: www.swisswine.ch/

New Study Shows Growing Visitor Diversity and Spending in Napa Valley

Visit Napa Valley just announced the release of its 2023 Visitor Profile and Economic Impact Study. The research report finds that visitor spending and related tax revenue have surpassed pre-pandemic levels, highlighting the Napa Valley’s positive trajectory in tourism recovery following the devastating global COVID-19 pandemic and California wildfires.
Among the key findings in the 2023 Visitor Profile and Economic Impact Report are:

• 3.7 million people visited in 2023
• The number of domestic travelers increased by 180,000 since 2018
• Average visitor age decreased from 46 in 2018 to 40 in 2023
• The share of black visitors has tripled, increasing from 4% in 2018 to 11% in 2023
• The share of Latino/Hispanic visitors has almost doubled, increasing from 10% in 2018 to 17% in 2023
• The share of LGBTQ visitors has doubled, increasing from 4% in 2018 to 8% in 2023
• Visitors brought more than $2.5 billion dollars into the local economy in 2023, a 13% increase from 2018
• Tourism generated more than $107.5 million in tax revenue—a 26% increase over 2018
• The tourism industry employs 20% of Napa Valley with an estimated 16,000 jobs, and
• 95% of all visitors indicated they are likely to return

“One of the many positive benefits of these strong economic results is how they directly impact Napa Valley residents’ quality of life,” explains Emma Swain, chair of the board of directors for Visit Napa Valley and CEO of Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery. “For example, visitors to the Napa Valley pay a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on every overnight hotel stay. These dollars go directly to our local governments’ general funds to help pay for public safety, libraries, parks and recreation, road repair and more to support a high quality of life for locals.”

Visit Napa Valley is also currently developing a Sustainable Tourism Strategic Plan that sets a roadmap for sustainability and destination stewardship to support the long-term viability of its visitor economy. The plan will address topics such as the preservation of resident quality of life, the impacts of increased visitor volume and the protection of natural resources. Visit Napa Valley will soon launch a Green Lodging certification program in partnership with Napa County, local city governments and utility partners. The program will drive collaboration and efficiencies in climate action by providing meaningful, localized sustainability programming that is tailored to the hospitality industry and will later expand into additional hospitality verticals, including restaurants, transportation and attractions.

For further information: www.visitnapavalley.com/about-us/research

Source: Visit Napa Valley