5 Best Foreign Destinations for the Wine-loving Dad

A popular perception around the country says that fathers can be easily persuaded to give new things a try when it comes to alcohol. Well, even if he’s too reluctant to accept an  offer of wine outright, try presenting him the idea of holidaying at the best vineyards of the world with finest of the wines serving to delight. So for all the dads who need persuading and to the ones who don’t, here are the world’s best destinations to explore your inner connoisseur. This Father’s Day, be a surprising son or daughter and #Travelwithdad on a wine-tasting adventure. 

Tuscany, Italy

The heart of Italy, Tuscany, is probably the most stunning region of the bel paese (beautiful country). It’s best explored by driving around the undulating countryside, decked in various shades of green, as vineyards whiz by. Tuscany is known for its full-bodied reds and the region produces the famous Chianti wine. While there are several varieties and grades available, the Chianti Classico is the finest and has a robust flavour and aroma. Remember to check for the ‘black rooster’ label that certifies authenticity of your bottle of Chianti. But Tuscany is not just about red wine; the Orvetio Classico is an excellent white wine from the region. Most wineries offer tours of vineyards, with free sampling thrown in, which makes it a perfect destination for you and your father to sit back with a glass and enjoy the view. With the peaceful setting and wine as a company, Tuscany offers nothing but bliss.

Adelaide, Australia

The land Down Under is known to produce a wide variety of wines, but the Adelaide Hills Wine Region is perhaps the most famous. The fairytale atmosphere of the region provides a perfect backdrop for you and your father to have long drives, interspersed with wine tastings and sampling of the bountiful local produce at one of the top-end restaurants. There are also several wine events around the region that you can take your Dad to, including picnics at the vineyards. The region also conducts the prestigious annual Adelaide Hills Wine Show, which is hotly contested and regional winners are declared. The Shaw & Smith Sauvignon Blanc is the best offering from this region. The Barossa Valley, one of Australia’s best wine making regions, is also nearby.

Burgundy & Beaune, France

The oldest wine region in France, Burgundy, has always been known as one of the best places for wine lovers and Beaune is at the centre of its wine industry. Along with Bordeaux and Champagne, Burgundy forms the premiere wine-growing region in the world. Burgundy has several small estates producing both red and white wines of varying terroir – a unique combination of soil, sun and altitude that imparts a characteristic taste to each wine. Make your way around the rolling hills and the string of pretty towns dotting the region as you and your dad sample various Pinot Noirs, the best-known wines of Burgundy. Inside the medieval walls of Beaune, lies the Taste Burgundy Wine School where your dad can immerse himself in one of its courses to become a true wine connoisseur. So romance is apparently not the only thing the country is famous for. Try taking a tour to the country with your dad this time and let him savour the flavours of Burgundy.

Porto, Portugal

Porto, a World Heritage Site, is the gateway to Portugal’s celebrated wine country. The medieval town is full of elaborate churches, soaring bell towers, exquisite buildings and narrow streets. The Ribeira district is Porto’s historic centre and is the birthplace of port wine. Try the famous Porto Cruz wine at one of the many restaurants in the area. Pay a visit to Douro where port wine is cultivated and which has been a demarcated wine region since 1756. Across the Douro River, lies Vila Nova de Gaia whose riverside is lined with several wine cellars where the wine is aged in old wooden barrels. Here you and your dad can get a guided tour ending with tastings. If you’d like you can also stay at a hotel where the bed is set in a carved oak barrel! Also, if your father is a football man, there is nothing better than Portugal—where your dad can explore both the wine and the soccer of the region.

San Francisco, USA

Northern California is the premium wine-growing region in the United States of America. The valleys around San Francisco are home to more than 400 wineries and the region is informally known as Wine Country. Staying in San Francisco, you and your dad can easily access some of the best wine regions – including Napa Valley, Sonoma and Muir Woods. There are several wine tours available, some of which also include wine and cheese pairings. A semi-private boutique tour will include a sumptuous wine breakfast, vineyard tours, tastings of wines, cheese, olive oil and chocolate as well as a gourmet lunch. And as a memoir of the trip, you can create your own personal blend of wine that will be bottled for you to take home. Now, wouldn’t that make a great gift for Dad?

At the end of the trip, you’ll find your father thanking you enough for the lovely experience. This father’s day, it’s all about doing your best. So, go ahead, plan your wine holiday with one of MakeMyTrip’s special packages, and show your father how special he is to you!!