The Ultimate Travel Guide for Food and Wine Lovers

Are you a wine and food snob that wants to learn even more about their obsession? Or are you just a noob that wants to learn a little something about wines and cuisines of the world? Well, no matter who you are, you’ll love each and every one of these destinations that will blow your mind with their offer of food and wine.

South Africa

If you don’t know where to start your South African wine exploration trip, that’s totally understandable. But, experts and foodies of the world have a perfect solution for your dilemma: start in Stellenbosch. This town is set against huge mountains and blessed with oak-lined streets. Take the Stellenbosch Wine Route and you’ll get to visit dozens of high-end wineries that produce signature Chenin blanc and pinotage and all of the spots are perfect for day excursions. If you want to see something truly special, pay a visit to the country’s only biodynamic winery, Reyneke Wines.

Piedmont, Italy

If unique Barolos and Barberescos aren’t reason enough to visit Piedmont, maybe you’ll reconsider it when you see how many Michelin-starred restaurants grace this area. Piedmont is also speckled with lux hotels, spas and Alpine resorts with scenic vistas. Make sure to time your visit well. Visit in the wall when white truffles appear all over local markets and restaurants—this is the best time to experience all the riches of Piedmont.

Burgundy, France

There’s no need to explain why Burgundy has a place on this list. This is the land where wine defines the cuisine, lifestyle, culture, and art and where foods range from chewy escargots to delicious crepes and soft quiches. Traditional cuisine here is farm-centric with a lot of wine-laced dishes. And it’s completely redundant to say that all cheese lovers will find themselves in heaven in Burgundy (and France in general).

Australia

Australia’s climate is perfect for growing all sorts of grapes, so it’s not a surprise that Aussies produce millions of liters of wine each year. The best thing about Australia and its foodie and wine scene is all the little independent spots that serve not only top-notch food but pair it with the best wine from their cellars. South coast is the best place to spend your food/wine tour of Australia—there’s no way you can explore the entire country in one vacation. So, see whether you can find a pretty South Coast winery and enjoy the best things the continent has to offer. Many spots have wine tastings, winery tours, and both formal and casual dining, so you can take your pick and have one of the best culinary experience in your life.

Mexico

If you’re serious about your food, you’ll love Mexico. Everyone hear about Mexican cuisine and food tourism is a huge thing in this country. While Mexico has amazing nature, bountiful architecture and rich culture, one of the best things you can do when you arrive are just try all the local delicacies and explore markets and food trucks. Don’t waste money and time on classy restaurants—hit markets, carts, and local eateries. Got a little thirsty from all the food? Mexico’s wine region is unfairly underrated. If you want to wet your beak with some top-notch wine, don’t hesitate to grab a few bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Berbera or if you’re into whites, check out Mexico’s Chardonnay and Colombard.

Israel

Not many people think of Israel when talking about wine and food, but this country is as packed with food as it’s packed with history and art. The lifestyle of locals is very Mediterranean and anyone from Europe will feel very at ease there. When it comes to food and drinks, make sure to hit Mahane Yehuda market in Jerusalem as soon as you arrive or check out Ha Carmel in Tel Aviv. These two spots will tell you all you need to know about many flavors of the country. Israel has the perfect climate to grow grapes and olive trees, so expect every meal to be drizzled with olive oil and paired with some of the most delicious crossed wines like Marselan (first created in France) and Argaman, a grape with local origins.

Pick one or two of these destinations to put on your bucket list and expect to have your taste buds blown with all the different flavors of food and seductive wine aromas.