7 Affordable Wine Destinations You Need To Visit Now

Are you planning to head to a beautiful destination that is famous for wines? Is the cost of the whole vacation deterring you from going on a holiday? Well, you are not alone. Wine enthusiasts dream about touring the French valleys to enjoy the authentic wines that come from the region, and it can turn out to be an expensive trip.

It hinders many connoisseurs from being able to sit on the best wineries and sip on the finest wines.

You can rejoice, for there are plenty of wine destinations that you can visit without burning a hole in your pocket. Read on to find out everything about wine travel and which are the best destinations for it.

What is wine travel?

While you may get your hands on the best wines of the world in your hometown, it doesn't justify the experience of travelling to the vineyards to taste their produce. In the last decade, wine lovers have opened up to the idea of travelling to destinations that are famous for exquisite wines. They are planning holidays exclusively to areas that produce wine and spend quality time there. It is also commonly known as wine travel.

Today, wine is becoming increasingly popular, and consumption is growing globally. With the increasing demand and the ease to travel, wine travel is becoming the latest trend in the industry. To match up to it, wineries are also enhancing their experience. They are offering private tours, tasting sessions, luxurious accommodation in the vineyard, fine dining, and much more.

People are combining both wine and travel for an enthralling experience. You can also set out for an adventurous experience, make sure you pack your bags well and get a roof rack tent, in case you want to camp in the vineyard.

What are the best affordable destinations that wine lovers can visit?

You can find a wide array of wine destinations worldwide, but not all of them will fit inside your budget. Here are some of the best yet economical destinations for all the wine lovers:

1. Santorini, Greece

One of the many Greek Islands, Santorini, occupies a top spot in every traveller's bucket list. But that's not the only list it should belong on as Santorini has so much more to offer visitors. Along with pristine beaches and surreal views, Santorini is also famous for its wine and wineries, which makes it a must-visit for wine lovers. The age-old technique, along with resilient grapes lead to distinctive wines. The island is dotted with wineries, and you can explore around for 'wine tasting' and enjoy the experience.

• Must-try wine: Athiri, Aidani, Nychetri, Assyrtiko
• Best time to visit: April to November

2. Niagara, Canada

Thousands of people visit Niagara Falls from the Canadian side. While it is due to the breathtaking views, the reason is often the wineries located in the area. The Niagara peninsula is acclaimed globally for excellent winemaking. After having witnessed the falls, you can set out to explore the region. You can find plenty of wineries in the Niagara on the Lake region. A bottle of Pinot Noir may come for only $15. Many wineries offer delicious food along with it and also accommodation for you to crash. You can plan a visit in autumn, for the annual Niagara Wine Festival.

• Must-try wine: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc
• Best time to visit: May to October

3. Cachapoal Valley, Chile:

Chile is among the top destinations for wine that can also be quite affordable. It is a part of the northern part of the Rapel Valley region and nestled between the Andes and Coastal Range. The valley has a Mediterranean climate, making it ideal for the cultivation of top-quality Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon and is home to many wineries like Vina San Pedro, Vina Chateau, Vina Anakena, and Chateau Los Boldos. You can take a tour through these wineries and enjoy tastings at $10 and get bottles for only $20.

• Must-try wine: Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere Wine, Syrah
• Best time to visit: October to April

4. Porto, Portugal

Porto is the most famous city in Portugal, and it is for all the right reasons. The city contains some of the best wineries and wines produced in Portugal. You can head to Douro Valley to try the exquisite Port wine. Each visit to a different winery can offer you a surreal experience. If quaint tasting rooms, food pairings with chocolate and cheese, and sipping on wine overlooking the valley tempts you, then you must head to Porto. The wine tourists can be spoiled for choice with fresh white, some reds, and even rose wine.

• Must-try wine: Ruby Port, Tawny Port Wine, Vintage Port, Rose Wine
• Best time to visit: May to September

5. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is renowned for its architecture, music, and coffee culture. But one thing that is bringing hordes of tourists to this capital city is wine. It is a significant producer of wine with over 1,700 acres of land covered with vineyards. The wineries are owned and managed by local families and have a legacy that goes back hundreds of years. Dotted with cosy wine taverns, you can visit them to try the local produce.

• Must-try wine: Riesling, Gruner Veltliner, and Sauvignon Blanc
• Best time to visit: April to October

6. Stellenbosch, South Africa

When it comes to South Africa, Stellenbosch is a famous wine-producing region. Nestled in the Coastal Region, the area can offer not only stellar views but also encompasses historical wineries and vineyards. While the wines in South Africa are undoubtedly getting better with every passing year, the prices aren't inclining. You can get to try high-grade wine, in a mesmerizing winery at an affordable price of $7.

• Must-try wine: Bartinney Chardonnay, Brampton Sauvignon Blanc, Pintonage, Syrah
• Best time to visit: May to September

7. Cupertino, California

If you are in or around California, you can find Cupertino to be a tremendous wine-tasting destination. You can head to Ridge Vineyards, perched on Santa Cruz mountains, and enjoy wine while gazing at the valley and Apple headquarters. The wine tasting can be done within $10, and you can get your hands on the bottle at only $25. Other famous wineries are Picchetti Brothers Winery, Fellom Ranch Vineyards, and R&W Vineyards.

• Must-try wine: Monte Bello, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc
• Best time to visit: June to September

Final thoughts

While you might be looking for a visit to an exotic wine destination, sometimes the underrated places can surprise you. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or not, you can travel far and wide to experience the best wine destinations worldwide. You can start with the ones mentioned above for an affordable vacation.

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