When I originally started my bucket list, the only wineries I considered visiting as must-visit wineries were in Napa. My wine journey has changed how I view wines. However, it has taken me years and lots of experiences to fully appreciate everything it takes to make the delicious beverage. Visiting a vineyard on a nice day and just enjoying a glass (or a bottle) with friends or solo, is now one of my favorite experiences. My bucket list is now sprinkled with wine experiences in various regions that I hope to check off before I kick it. 

When you drink a nice glass of bold, red wine, how does it make you feel? Excited, relaxed, cultured, or are you the “I cannot tell the difference” kind of person? Perhaps you prefer a crisp or buttery white wine on a warm day. No matter the reason or type of wine you are drinking, it provokes a response.  It took a long time before I started to enjoy wine. And, even longer before I visited my first winery.  

It all first started in undergrad. Most of my friends were in grad school or getting their Ph.d. They were all way more sophisticated than I was. Whenever we hung out, everyone brought a bottle of wine. At that time, and possibly contrary to the college stereotype, I was not much of a drinker. I would bring the fruitiest white wine I could find. They, on the other hand, were all red wine drinkers. If I wanted more than one glass of wine, I had to drink red. The more time I spent with that group, the more I fell in love with wine. I moved from the super sweet moscato wine to pinot grigios. Over time, I fell bold reds like merlot, and cabernet sauvignon became my go-to drink. 

Even though wine is at the top of my list of favorite beverages, I never expected there would be so many wine experiences on my bucket list. But, after my first wine tour in Italy over a decade ago, I started to appreciate wines in a different way. During COVID-19, going to a winery or vineyard was a way of escape. Not necessarily for the drinking, as you may be thinking. The only activities I felt truly safe doing were things outdoors. Wineries fit the bill. Sitting outside on a beautiful view with a book and a glass of wine was just perfect.

Now, I’m on a search for the best wineries and vineyards in my own backyard and around the world. Please join me on my journey. Read about my experiences at some of the best (and worst) wineries around the globe.