Wine tourism has evolved into a distinct form of leisure over the years, offering a glimpse into everything from geology to high fashion. The rising demand has led to certain anomalies, making it increasingly difficult to find the right focus and craft the perfect itinerary.
Here, Locals Insider presents a selection of wineries from various corners of the world. What unites these winemakers is their dedication to local values and their belief in the ability of wine to convey them. Booking ahead is considered a mark of good etiquette at these establishments.
Apollonis Champagne, Champagne, France
Website: champagneapollonis.com
The winemaking tradition of the Loriot family in Festigny (20 km from Épernay, 40 km from Reims) dates back to the 17th century. The family boasts several historical achievements, such as early successes in combating phylloxera and the installation of the village’s first wine press in the 1900s, which enabled a shift from grape growing to wine production.
This press, which you can see during a visit, was installed by Léopold Loriot, the great-grandfather of Michel Loriot, the current owner. Léopold was also a saxophonist in the village orchestra, a tradition shared by his father and grandfather until the orchestra disbanded in the 1950s. Michel pays homage to this family legacy: since 2010, all bottles have been aged on lees in the cellar to the sounds of classical music, and since 2012, music has been played in the vineyards as well.
Michel is a récoltant-manipulant, producing all his champagne exclusively from grapes grown on his 7-acre estate. He is also a pioneer in the Vignerons Indépendants association, which unites small winemakers across the country—a commendable mission in a region often dominated by luxury branding. Apollonis wines are lush, vibrant, and bold, appealing to those who appreciate vivid expressions and rich flavors, with a significant percentage of Pinot Meunier in the blends.
Pieropan, Veneto, Italy
Website: pieropan.it
Soave, a popular white wine from Veneto, varies significantly depending on its exact origin. The Soave DOC zone typically produces light, simple wines with herbal and floral notes. However, Soave Classico DOC and particularly Soave Superiore DOCG are entirely different stories.
As usual, the secret lies in the soil. The limestone soils of the historical vineyards in the Soave and Monteforte d’Alpone communes impart power and structure to the wine. The Pieropan family was among the first to believe in the great potential of the local Garganega grape, with their wines like La Rocca earning comparisons to Burgundy Chardonnay. Their pride in their small homeland extends beyond wine.
According to the Verona Chamber of Commerce, Pieropan’s boutique hotel Villa Cipolla in Tregnago—a restored Venetian villa from the 16th century—is the region’s top wine tourism destination (Best of Wine Tourism 2025).
Schloss Gobelsburg, Kamptal, Austria
Website: gobelsburg.at
One of the most cinematic castles in Lower Austria, this winery is located near Langenlois and boasts vineyards that date back to the 12th century. However, don’t expect medieval architecture—the current baroque structure with its chapel and sundials was reconstructed in the early 18th century.
The vineyards, originally planted by Cistercian monks from Zwettl Abbey in 1171, have been part of Schloss Gobelsburg since 1786. Since 1996, the winery has been managed by Michael and Eva Moosbrugger, who maintain its cult status among wine enthusiasts worldwide.
The main varieties here are Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, offered not only as classic dry wines but also as late harvest sweet wines and sparkling Sekts. Visitors can sample them in the authentic tasting room as part of a tour of the castle and its cellars.
Artemis Karamolegos, Santorini, Greece
Website: artemiskaramolegos-winery.com
At first glance, Santorini might seem too touristy for serious wine, but this winery proves otherwise. Located just a few kilometers from the airport near the village of Episkopi Gonias, Artemis Karamolegos is a hidden gem.
Founded in 2003, the winery released its first wine in 2015, with a complete lineup introduced in 2017. Its promising features include volcanic soils, own-rooted vines over 80 years old, and a focus on indigenous Greek varieties.
The star here is the white Assyrtiko grape, which seems to inspire everything at the winery. There are also rarities like the red Mandilaria grape, a variety many have never heard of. The diversity of Greek indigenous grapes is mind-boggling, and wineries like this are the best way to dive into that delightful chaos.
Reyneke, Stellenbosch, South Africa
Website: reynekewines.co.za
This boutique winery (producing around 60,000 bottles annually) is situated in the Stellenbosch region on the slopes of Polkadraai Hills, with vineyards (35 hectares) overlooking False Bay.
What makes Reyneke worth a visit is that it is one of South Africa’s first certified organic and later biodynamic wineries, and certainly the first to earn Demeter certification. The story behind this biodynamic accolade is even more fascinating.
The wines themselves are classic, elegant, and European in spirit, showcasing varieties such as Chenin Blanc, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sauvignon Blanc (with no Pinotage in sight). A tasting session here will not only delight your palate but also leave you well-versed in the principles of biodynamic viticulture.
These wineries embody local traditions and innovation, making them must-visit destinations for any wine enthusiast.
