When you think of fall what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Changing leaves? Apple picking?
For us, the autumn colors and cool air make this season the perfect time to indulge in the complex notes of wine and crisp, refreshing cider. Let’s uncork the top wineries and cideries for you to visit this fall.
Tuscany, Italy
Wineries
We’re starting off strong with a destination known as one of the premiere wine regions. From late August to October, Tuscan vineyards come alive with the grape harvest known as “vendemmia.”
If you find yourself in Tuscany in September, make sure to visit one of the many wine festivals happening across the region. The Expo del Chianti Classico in Greve in Chianti is one of the most popular ones and takes place every year in mid-September. Here, you can learn about the history of Chianti, taste wine and cheese and take part in artistic and cultural events.
Looking for somewhere to stay? Check out the Barone Ricasoli Winery located in Gaiole in Chianti. Known as the oldest wine estate in Italy, dating back 900 years, this vineyard invented Chianti in 1872. Today, they offer tours, wine tastings and private estates to rent for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the Tuscan wine culture.
Herefordshire, England
Cideries
It may not be London, but Herefordshire should be on your must-visit list due to its cider production. Located in the West Midlands region of England, Herefordshire has a long-standing history of apple orchards and apple farming. This part of England has a favorable climate and fertile soil, making it well-suited for apple growing.
Because there are so many cideries located in this small village, locals have created “cider routes,” giving you the opportunity to visit many different locations in one trip. Many of the farms and producers give tours, but if you are looking to just taste cider and relax, you can do that too.
Did you even go to Herefordshire if you didn’t visit the Museum of Cider? This museum takes you through the history of the beverage and is set in the former Bulmers cider factory, one of the world’s biggest cider makers. Don’t leave without visiting the Cider Shop located within the museum. Here, you can taste samples of dry, sweet and medium ciders and choose from over 150 craft cans to purchase.
Douro Valley, Portugal
Wineries
Known as the “Enchanted Valley,” Douro Valley is filled with expansive vineyards and breathtaking quintas (country estates). During the height of port winemaking, in 1756, this area was declared the oldest wine region. However, Douro Valley only became a wine tourism hotspot two decades ago. More than 80 varieties of grapes are grown here with the most popular being used to produce red wines like Tinta Roriz, Touriga Francesca and Tinta Barroca.
The most unique characteristic of the Douro Valley wine region is the quintas. These are large country estates located on the grounds of vineyards. They offer wine tastings, restaurants and sometimes even guest rooms for visitors to stay in, like Quinta Nova Nossa Senhora de Carmo, Portugal’s first wine hotel. The estate is a renovated historic mansion that offers 11 guest bedrooms, a wine bar, a wine shop, a cellar, a renowned restaurant and so much more. Book a room or take a tour of the grounds to appreciate the beauty of the enchanted Douro Valley.
Quebec, Canada
Cideries
While Quebec is known for its history and French heritage, it’s also one of the world’s leading producers of cider. After the prohibition era, wine and beer became legal again, but cider was forgotten. It didn’t return to the market until 1970, but the community lost interest in it when producers weren’t able to keep up with the demand. So Quebec cider didn’t become what it is today until the 1990s, allowing creativity to spark and the thirst-quenching drink to become popular again.
There are many cider regions within Quebec, with the most popular being Montérégie, the Laurentians and National Capital. If you want to explore as many cideries as possible during your visit, check out La Route des cidres de la Montérégie, a route that takes visitors into the heart of the region and allows you to meet cider makers while tasting the different varieties that are produced.
Don’t leave Quebec before visiting Cidrerie Michel Jodoin, a family-owned cidery that has been around since 1901. Reserve a tasting where you will be offered an array of choices, from ice cider to rosé cider, or take a look around the store to purchase some exclusive products.
Marlborough, New Zealand
Wineries
The Marlborough wine region is the most prolific wine-producing area in New Zealand. It accounts for over 60% of the country’s grape production and 90% of the country’s sauvignon blanc plantings. Marlborough’s sauvignon blanc is known for its distinctive flavors of tropical fruits, citrus and herbs.
Marlborough is a part of the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail – over 230 miles of cycle trails that go through 5 wine regions and more than 100 cellar doors. This 5-day tour will take you from Hawke’s Bay in the North Island to Marlborough with stops in Wairarapa and Wellington, all while exploring New Zealand’s wineries.
If a 5-day tour isn’t your style, check out the relaxed, tailored wine tasting at Cloudy Bay Winery. Here, you will have a private wine tasting where the wines vary based on your preferences and interests. The tasting begins with a tour of the Estate Vineyard, followed by a private tasting and ends in the Pinot Noir Barrel Room, where you will learn everything it takes to make some of the best wine in the world.
Asturias, Spain
Cideries
Asturias is a region located in Northern Spain that makes 80% of all the cider produced in the country. When visiting Asturias, you don’t want to miss them pouring the cider, as they use a unique technique called “escanciar” where the drink is poured from a height to aerate and enhance its flavor.
The little town of Villaviciosa is said to be the birthplace of cider, making it a must-see stop on your tour of Asturias. Take a visit to Sidra Cortina, one of the most well-known cideries in the region. Go on a tour and experience the history and science behind cider making. Don’t forget to grab a bite to eat at Casa Cortina and taste typical Asturian dishes while sipping on homemade cider.
A toast to the fall
From flavorful sips of vino to the sweet taste of crisp cider, enjoy it all, all while staying protected with Faye.
These activities, accommodations and websites are suggestions and Faye is in no way associated with them. This post is meant to give you ideas and inspiration on how to make the most of your winery and cidery experience.
