A recent study has highlighted the wineries most popular with British wine tourists.
The study was undertaken by Kayak.co.uk, a travel metasearch engine that compares airline, hotel, car rental, cruise, and other vacation deals from other travel sites, including other fare aggregators. The company based its findings on an analysis of searches on its website, and the survey results have been released at a time of burgeoning interest in wine tourism, and as World Wine Week draws to a close (last day Tuesday May 14).
Europe monopolises the vineyard popularity poll for British wine enthusiasts, not surprising considering its proximity to the UK and the quality of the wines produced on the continent. It accounted for eight of the top ten vineyards, with California in the US claiming the other two top spots.
The top winery was Cims de Porrera – Catalonia, Spain. Kayak said each vineyard in this region sits on steep, rocky summits around 500 metres above the village of Porrera. The black slate soils, varying microclimates and old vines ensure the production of exceptional quality wine. The suggested local wine was Solanes Barrica (2006).
Second on the list was Tedo River Vineyards – Douro Valley, Portugal. The Duoro Valley lies in northwestern Portugal and is combed with golden vine-filled terraces and the tranquil River Douro that winds its way from the Atlantic. The wild vineyards in this region have been awarded Unesco World Heritage status and offer a selection of tours and tasting courses. The suggested local wine is a bottle of 20-year-old Tawny Port.
The top Californian vineyard, which entered the list at number five, was Kunde Estate Vineyards in Sonoma County. Kayak said that this family run, 1,850 acre estate in the heart of the Sonoma Valley produces a selection of sustainably farmed wines from elegant, balanced reds to delicate, vibrant whites. With a variety of vineyard tours and a dedicated tasting room, this winery is the perfect destination for all wine enthusiasts. The Suggested local wine is Kunde Sauvignon Blanc (2011).
The full list was:-
Porrera Vineyards – Catalonia, Spain
Tedo River Vineyards – Douro Valley, Portugal
Taylor’s – Oporto/Gaia, Portugal
Weingut Juliuspital – Wurzburg, Germany
Kunde Estate Vineyards – Sonoma County, California, US
Robert Mondavi – Napa, California, US
Villa Vignamaggio, Greve in Chianti – Tuscany, Italy
Castello Banfi – Tuscany Italy
Baden Wurttemburg Vineyards – Wurttemberg, Germany
Lavaux Vineyards – Lavaux Switzerland
