#WineWednesday: Attractions for Wine Lovers
Calling all wine lovers! Whether you thoughtfully observe the nuances of your Bordeaux or—like me—can mainly tell if you’re drinking red or white, there’s always more to learn about wine. Here are some of the top places for sipping and studying up on wine.
Hoberman Collection / Contributor
Theme Parks and Museums
Did you know there’s a wine theme park in Bordeaux, France? Sign us up!
MEHDI FEDOUACH
La Cite du Vin, meaning “City of Wine,” opened in summer 2016 and features 20 themed areas and exhibits, simulator boat rides and, of course, expert-led wine tastings. Book a multi-sensory tasting workshop that will awaken all of your senses with 360-degree images, lights, sounds and smells.
Before there was La Cite du Vin, there was Hameau Doboeuf – a wine museum that offers 3-D movies, train rides and visits to the wine cellars where you can learn about the process of winemaking while surrounded by 150 stainless-steel vats. Kids ages five and up take a virtual flight over the hill and valleys of the Beaujolais and Maconnais districts through cinematic simulation. This attraction is perfect for families.
Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum
France isn’t the only European destination with wine museums. In Santorini, Greece, the Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum is located underground inside a natural cave. Life-size figures tell the story of winemaking in Santorini through the eyes of a winemaking family that spans four generations. Visitors learn about the history of wine through the ages before tasting four leading wines produced by the Koutsoyannopoulos Winery. Those who really want to get a hands-on (maybe, feet-on) experience can sign up for the Grape Stomping Experience to crush grapes in an outdoor vat.
Wine Trains
Photo courtesy of San Diego Beer; Wine & Spirits Tours
What could be more relaxing than sipping a sauvignon blanc while cruising through the beautiful scenery of wine country? Check out these 10 places you can hop on board a winery train.
So whether you’re an aspiring sommelier or a wine newbie, head to one of these destinations ASAP - the wine is waiting.
