With oenotourism (wine tourism) on the rise, tracking to become an over $334 million industry by 2034, travelers are seeking more immersive culinary and beverage experiences. As fall is the ideal time of year for a vino vacation to celebrate the harvest, below is a curated selection of top wine experiences around the world for those looking to explore the season’s most memorable destinations.
Bordeaux, France
Widely celebrated as the wine capital of the world, Bordeaux is a bucket-list destination for lovers of the bold red wines that have made the region famous. Cabot Bordeaux offers a quintessential wine country getaway where days begin with a round of golf and end with Michelin-starred meals. The property recently debuted three new wine-focused experiences for guests. At nearby Château Pape Clément, guests can learn how to craft their own wine blend and design a custom label to take home as the perfect souvenir. Next, discover the region’s Châteaux route via a self-guided electric bike tour, with stops at three historic wine estates and a curated picnic in tow. Finally, enjoy a wine tasting and spa day starting with a ride through the Médoc in a vintage car, exclusive tours and tastings at Château Siran and Château Kirwan, and ending with Cabot Bordeaux’s signature Le Birdie massage—using hot oil and golf balls to soothe sore muscles.
Mallorca, Spain
Autumn is one of the most rewarding times to visit Mallorca as the island embraces a slower rhythm and celebrates its rich harvest season. In September, local grape harvest festivals offer a glimpse into local culture and centuries-old agricultural practices. Special harvest events include the Festa des Vermar, an annual celebration showcasing the region’s wine heritage through parades, grape-throwing battles, wine tastings, traditional dances and local food. Set against the island’s vibrant seasonal backdrop, Zafiro Palace Andratx, the crown-jewel of the Mallorcan family-owned Zafiro Hotels, offers a luxurious and timeless escape to experience Mallorca. The all-suite, five-star retreat features sweeping views of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains and Camp de Mar with a trio of infinity pools, five restaurants spotlighting local ingredients and wines, and a rejuvenating spa and wellness center.
Santa Barbara, California
From dozens of tasting rooms along the Urban Wine Trail to rolling hills dotted with vineyards in nearby Santa Ynez and Santa Maria, Santa Barbara’s wine country blends coastal charm with world-class wines. San Ysidro Ranch, part of Ty Warner Hotels & Resorts, offers a luxurious getaway tucked in the Montecito foothills, complete with several unique wine experiences for guests. The new Ty Warner Wine Collective provides bespoke consultations, curated private tastings highlighting rare and exceptional vintages, and exclusive access to top vineyards. Beneath the Michelin-recognized Stonehouse Restaurant lies a 15,500-bottle Wine Spectator Grand Award-winning wine cellar, including one of the world’s most coveted wine acquisitions: a 138-vintage collection of Château d’Yquem, including the legendary 1811 “asteroid” vintage, the most expensive white wine ever sold. The Ranch also boasts the largest restaurant offering of Château Pétrus in the U.S., with a rare 70-year vertical dating back to the iconic 1945 vintage.
Te Arai, New Zealand
For those looking for an end of year harvest, December marks the start of harvest season in New Zealand. Located just a scenic 75-minute drive from Auckland or 25 minutes by helicopter, the oceanfront resort of Te Arai Links along the stunning Te Arai coastline will immerse travelers in another world – surrounded by coastal views over one of the country’s most beautiful, white-sand beaches. With the lively market towns of Mangawhai and Matakana close by, the destination is also home to numerous wineries and olive groves, many of which have cellar doors and excellent vineyard restaurants/breweries. Enjoy locally sourced wines at one of Te Arai Links’ onsite restaurants, including elevated dining with Asian touches at the NEW Ocean Restaurant (opened in November 2024). For a nearby oenophile excursion, visit the lauded and family-owned Milton Vineyards & Winery, renowned as New Zealand’s first organic and biodynamic winegrower. Or, book a helicopter tour through Te Arai Links to The Landing, a boutique winery and vineyard in the Bay of Islands, and enjoy a guided tour and a premium tasting with the winemaker.
