TOP 4 Places to Unearth the Best Art & Wine Around the Globe

Exploring the world through the combination of art and wine doesn’t just bring a unique and thrilling experience, but it also broadens our horizons and changes the way we view the world. For the sophisticated traveler seeking to immerse themselves in culture and beauty, these 4 places around the globe offer the perfect opportunity to discover the best art and wine.

1. Bordeaux, France: A World-Renowned Center for Art & Wine

The tiny city of Bordeaux, France (only 30 square miles) is an enchanting place that has captivated visitors for decades with its world-renowned art, culture, and of course, wine. Just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Paris, Bordeaux is a delightful place to while away a few days exploring some of the city’s most captivating features.

Throughout history, Bordeaux has been a source of artistic inspiration, attracting the likes of painters and sculptors who have made their mark on the city’s art scene (such as Manet and Gauguin). Many of these pieces can be seen in the city’s various galleries, museums, and public spaces. No visit to Bordeaux is complete without taking in the breathtaking architecture that adorns the city. From its quaint 17th century homes to its stunning churches, monuments, and gardens, there is a plethora of sites to explore in this one-of-a-kind destination.

Of course, no trip to Bordeaux would be complete without sampling the city’s renowned wine. Traveling its beautiful lands, there are 6 appellations and more than 7,000 winemakers  that offer an array of tastings and tours. With its unique blends of primarily Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, Bordeaux produces age-worthy wines for the experienced collector or wines to be sampled immediately by any of its visitors.
 

Bordeaux has truly earned its place among the greatest wine and art destinations in the world. From its stunning architecture to its world-class wines, it is no wonder that this little French city has captivated the hearts of tourists for centuries.

We recommend:

Figure Libre Cab Franc 2019

With its diverse terrain of mountains, valleys and coastline, Marlborough, New Zealand is truly one of the most unique places on the planet. Offering beautiful vistas, an amazing variety of art, and some of the most renowned Sauvignon Blanc wine, it's no wonder that people all over the world are flocking to this tiny corner of the South Pacific.

The art in Marlborough is largely concentrated in the town of Blenheim, where you will find a variety of galleries that display incredible works from talented local artists such as Elizabeth Lissaman, as well as significant artifacts that share the nation’s history.  From landscapes to sculptures and paintings, there's something to delight any art enthusiast.

Then there's the wine. Marlborough is renowned for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc, which benefits from the region’s cool climate and unique soil.  Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir grapes grown here make for some truly remarkable wines that can't be found anywhere else. Marlborough is one of the few wine regions so closely associated with a single grape variety as Sauvignon Blanc, accounting for 85% of its wine production.  (The other possible exception is Malbec in Mendoza, but more on that later.)

With its stunning scenery, vibrant art galleries, and delicious wines, it's no wonder people are making the pilgrimage to Marlborough, New Zealand. 

We recommend:

Sea Pearl Sauvignon Blanc 2021

3. Piedmont, Italy: The Birthplace of Barolo & Barbaresco

Piedmont, Italy has long been the epicenter of art and wine. From the rolling hills of Alto and Canavese to the vibrant, bustling cities of Turin and Cuneo, it is a region that is brimming with culture, passion and creativity. And at the very heart of it all, a region which is renowned for its artistic and viniculture excellence: Piedmont.

The love affair between Piedmont and art & wine goes back centuries. In the 16th century, the Enoteca Regionale del Barolo opened in Bra, Piedmont, and is still the oldest wine library in the world. And while the locals have been producing masterpieces of art and winemaking for centuries, the region is now also renowned for its modern-day art galleries and world-class wineries.

Take for instance the Castello di Rivioli, a modern art gallery inside an eleventh century castle or Musei Reali, a former palace displaying exquisite furnishing and art with an incredible history.  The UNESCO world sites of Piedmont’s Langa of Barolo or the Hills of Barbaresco are home to some of the world’s finest Barolo and Barbaresco wines made from the indigenous Nebbiolo grape… many wineries there offering tastings and guided tours for the ultimate wine experience.

With its rolling hills, pristine vineyards, stunning landscapes and beautiful architecture, Piedmont is definitely a place worth visiting.  Add its culture, food and wine and it is a MUST for anyone to enjoy.

We recommend:

Capanna Rosso de Cerro 2020

4. Mendoza, Argentina: Where the Andes Offer Endless Inspiration

Mendoza, Argentina has long been known as one of the world's premier destinations for connoisseurs of art and fine wine. Located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, Mendoza offers a stunning array of landscapes, from sprawling vineyards to the brightly colored colonial buildings found in the city's Plaza Independencia. It's no surprise then that Mendoza has become a favorite destination among art and wine enthusiasts alike.

Mendoza's art scene is a vibrant and eclectic mix of modern, contemporary, and classic works. The city has a number of galleries and museums that showcase paintings, photographs, sculptures, and other forms of art from around the world. Some of the most popular galleries include the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, the contemporary art gallery MALBA, and the modern and contemporary art museum MAMBA.

For wine lovers, Mendoza is paradise. Malbec is almost synonymous with Mendoza and is the area’s most produced grape and celebrated wine.  The city is home to more than 1,500 wineries, and the surrounding countryside is dotted with vineyards. From luxe wineries, such as owned by the Zuccardi Family, to more casual tasting experiences, Mendoza offers unforgettable experiences for any wine enthusiast. Buy their wine HERE. 

We recommend:

Zuccardi Concreto Malbec Altamira 2020

Argentine Malbec is often perfectly paired with traditional local dishes such as empanadas, locro, asado, and Parrillada. This food and wine culinary experience is truly special…and could be considered an art form on its own!

Come explore all the sights, sips and spice this beautiful city of Mendoza offers with us!  Immerse yourself in the culture through one of our hospitality packages, enjoying a luxurious trip that also serves a philanthropic purpose. Contact us HERE to learn more about how your travel can change your world and impact the lives of others in this world. Don’t miss this opportunity!

Please let us know in the comments below if you’ve had the chance to explore any of the four places mentioned here, and share your favorite art and wine experience from your travels. There are so many unique places that offer a combination of art and wine, but few like these.