Wine Tours of The World - Full Brochure
Wine Tours of The World - Full Brochure
Wine Tours of The World - Full Brochure
FRANCE
NEW ZEALAND
A US TR A L I A
I TA LY
C HI L E
ARG ENTIN A
PORTUGA L
S PA I N
GERMANY
A US TR I A
HUN GA RY
S OUTH A F R I C A
California
C
California is the jewel box of wine country in the United States. The state and
wine country regions have a long, colorful and rich history. Over 200 years ago,
winemaking made its debut in California. Although many people think it began
in the vineyards of Napa Valley, winemaking actually started in San Juan
Capistrano.
The Napa Valley was once home to thousands of Wappo Indians, even
though there is almost no trace of an Indian population in the valley today. The
word Napa comes from the Wappo dialect and means plenty. Visitors to the wine
country of Napa Valley would agree that “Wappo” holds true today with “plenty”
of wine for all discerning wine drinkers. In 1964 there were some 230 wineries in
California and in 1998 there were about 840 in the state. Currently there are over
2000 wineries in the state of California.
The evolution of wine in California was considered by some, to be a wine
revolution during the 1960s and 1970s. This revolution was largely initiated by
professional men and women, such as investment bankers, professors, pilots,
lawyers and doctors, all of whom had a passion for wine. California’s winemakers
are among the most innovative and open to experimentation in the world.
Today, California produces over 17 million gallons of wine each year. The
state offers something for every wine drinker. Mendocino County has the largest
percentage of organic vineyards of any county in California. Over 20-percent of
wine production here is organic.
[ C A L I F O R N I A F A C T ] Fresno, California is the raisin capital of the world.
CALIFORNIA
TERROIR
N
Napa Valley blistering hot, and the evenings are always very cool yet com-
Sixty miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge lies the beauti- fortable. The appellations in Napa Valley include: Stags
ful and famous Napa Valley. It is California’s best known and Leap District, Rutherford, Oakville, Spring Mountain
most renowned wine region. Napa Valley is about 30 miles District, Mount Veeder, Howell Mountain, and Atlas Peak
long and one to five miles wide, and sits perfectly between with Carneros divided by both Napa and Sonoma counties.
two mountain ranges. The valley floor begins near the most
northern tip of the San Francisco Bay and extends north to
the volcanic mountain known as Mount St. Helena, located
in California. Napa Valley is a geological wonderland and
includes three dozen different soil types. Soil classifications
for the region include topographic structures such as terraces,
benches and canyons. The valley’s climate varies greatly as a
result of its geological diversity. These climate variances con-
tribute to a wide variety of grapevines in the region. The
average daily temperatures
are warm and very pleas-
ant. Daily attire could
include a light jacket
while visiting vineyards in
the southern part of the
valley, and shorts and a
tank top when in the
north end of the valley.
The weather is seldom
CALIFORNIA
Sonoma Valley
Sonoma County is twice the size of its sister, Napa Valley,
and is bordered by the rugged northern California coastline.
Herein lies the beautiful wine lands of Sonoma County. The
topographic landscape includes valleys, mountains, riverbeds,
plains and benchlands. The appellations of Sonoma County
include: Russian River, Dry Creek, Alexander Valley, Green
Valley, Chalk Hill, Sonoma Mountain, Sonoma Valley,
Rockpile and of course Carneros, which it shares with the
Napa Valley. Each appellation is different within itself in
terms of climate, soil, air and water. While visiting Sonoma,
one identifies with similar appellations like Provence,
Bordeaux, and the Rhone Valley. The countryside is animat-
ed with apple orchards, vegetable farms, redwood forests,
dairies, sheep ranches, nurseries, aquaculture fisheries, quaint
and modern towns, and of course, vineyards. Most mornings
begin with a soft, cool, moist coastal cloud cover that dissi-
pates by noon. The afternoons are very warm, cooling down
as evening approaches. Because of its extreme climate, such
as the warm/hot days and the cool/cold nights, the grapes
develop thick skins
that make beautifully
concentrated wines
including Cabernet
Sauvignon and love-
ly sparkling wines.
Sonoma County is
home to dozens of
varietals of grapes The more I see of other
and wine. countries the more I love my own.
[ M A D A M E D E S TA E L ]
Mendocino
and Lake
County
Just north of
Sonoma and Napa
counties, are the
wine regions of Mendocino County and Lake County.
Different in almost every aspect, these regions are responsible
for producing some of the most cutting edge wines in all of
the state. The countryside is mostly rugged wilderness with
rolling mountains, golden grasses, wild oats, redwood forests,
and miles of intense coastline. The wines of these northern
regions include Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay,
Sauvignon Blanc, Petite Sirah, Rhone blends and the praised
Zinfandel. The climate can be very gray, cloudy and some-
times cold. But most of the growing season is extremely
[ C A L I F O R N I A F A C T ] S a n F r a n c i s c o B a y i s c o n s i d e r e d t o b e t h e w o r l d ’s l a r g e s t l a n d l o c k e d h a r b o r.
Temecula
Located in southwestern Riverside County, Temecula is
California's only prominent American Viticulture Area
south of Los Angeles. For the adventurous wine lover, it's an
ideal destination for a short day trip from Los Angeles,
Orange County, Palm Springs or San Diego. Situated
between 1,400 and 1,600 feet above sea level, Temecula
Valley's 3,000 acres
of vineyards provide
ideal conditions for
growing premium
wine grapes. A dry,
Travel makes one modest- you see moderately warm
daytime climate, and
what a tiny place you occupy in the world. evenings cooled by
[ G U S TAV E F L AU B E R T ] breezes from the
Pacific Ocean, locat-
ed 22 miles to the
west, and well-
drained decomposed
granite soils, all com-
bine to create wines
with fresh, distinc-
tive flavors and
superb structure. Fourteen award-winning wineries flourish
in Temecula Valley. In addition to producing excellent
Chardonnay, Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc, Temecula winer-
ies are known for Mediterranean varietals such as Viognier,
Syrah and Pinot Gris.
Y O U R W I N E TA S T I N G T R I P P L A N N E R CALIFORNIA
While creating your upcoming trip to California, it is important for us to know what inspires you. What are your travel
dreams, trip goals, and experience expectations for your perfect vacation? Sometimes it helps to put your thoughts down on
paper. We have created this guide to help plan the ultimate custom vacation, hand crafted specifically for you and your
companions. What are your trip dreams and desires?
S E L E C T A D E S T I N AT I O N ( S )
W H AT A R E Y O U R T R AV E L I N T E R E S T S ?
O Boutique Lodging O Villas or Homes / Country O City Property / Central O Chateau Style
O Resort / Golf O Vineyard Property O River / Ocean View
Did we miss something? Let us know and we’ll make sure to include:
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Email ________________________________ Fax ______________________ No. of Travelers ____ No. of children ____
Traveling with any other couple, group etc.? ________ If so, may we contact them? _______________________________
O U R F R I E N D LY R E S E R V A T I O N S TA F F W I L L A N S W E R A L L O F Y O U R Q U E S T I O N S
A N D P L A N Y O U R D R E A M VA C AT I O N .
See San Francisco on board a luxury 51’ sailing yacht. You can
help hoist and trim the sails and take your turn at the helm.
Experience a sailing lesson or enjoy the sights while your profes-
sional crew does the work. Sail under the Golden Gate, as you
sip world-class California wine. Day cruises, sunset cruises, and
offshore cruising are available. Upon returning to the Marina,
your personal sommelier has prepared five delicious gourmet
plates paired perfectly with California wine. Your sailing excur-
sions include roundtrip transportation via a stretch limousine
from your wine country hotel.
Your individual travel vision is our focus while planning your trip.
The beautiful and elegant balloons soar through the sky, floating
almost silently above some of the most picturesque scenery in the
entire world. See the rugged northern California coastline, trees,
fields, orchards and of course, the amazing site of acres upon acres
of vineyards. Upon completion of your ride, you will be treated
to a champagne brunch in a beautiful wine country setting. A
perfect addition for your trip.
Guided trail rides and private rides are available throughout wine
country. One ride to consider is in Jack London State Historic
Park, near the village of Glen Ellen. It has been a favorite desti-
nation for history buffs and horse lovers since Jack London first
came to the Valley of the Moon 100 years ago. See London's
woodland lake, babbling brooks and towering redwood trees.
Another popular ride within at the Napa Valley State Park,
located between St. Helena and Calistoga. Or consider the
Ritchey Creek trails or a coastal riding adventure at Bodega Bay.
HIGHLIGHTS
S
of Sonoma and Napa Valley’s
finest hotels, inns, and bed &
breakfasts. 8 N I G H T S / 9 D AY S
•
Enjoy aerial views of both famous
wine regions, either by a hot air
Some believe that Napa Valley is the only wine country in
balloon ride or a vintage aircraft.
• the United States. Vintners, grape growers, and local resi-
Bike your way through the pictur-
esque appellations and districts, dents of Sonoma County believe that they have the exclu-
or simply enjoy a peaceful walk.
• sive and unique climate to produce California’s best wines.
Indulge in the wine country’s
most awesome cuisine, while you This itinerary combines both regions, allowing guests to
enhance your wine knowledge.
Learn how food has its place
within this wonderful industry.
decide for themselves. You will find that there is no right
•
Enjoy a “Chardonnay sugar body answer when you take this combined vacation. Discover
scrub” at one of the many beau-
tiful wine country spas. Or relax all the charming elements that will capture one’s heart.
aside a pool set among the beau-
tiful vineyards. Find the beauty in the people
•
Enhance your cooking skills at that work within these plentiful
one of many famous cooking
schools in either Napa or and fruitful areas. Enjoy the bold
Sonoma.
•
Experience the ultimate in shop-
Bordeau’s and the elegant
ping and antiquing, from many
specialty stores and boutiques. Burgundian wines while you
•
Enjoy artwork as you sip on big relax and learn. This is as good
hardy red wines or well-balanced
rich burgundian wines. as it gets. CHEERS!
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY CALIFORNIA
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to the Famous Napa Valley. Your
personalized box lunch will be ready for you when it’s time to
begin vineyard visits and wine tasting. Your vineyard selections
are organized into a perfect day of tasting. We will have special
tours and tastings set up at each location. Enjoy dinner at the
world-famous “French Laundry.” Your personal dinner reserva-
tions will ensure the finest of all dining experiences.
HIGHLIGHTS
•
Choose your accommodations
Sonoma Splendor
from a complete and carefully
The Best of Sonoma County
T
selected list of Sonoma County’s
most exclusive hotels, inns, and
bed & breakfasts.
• 7 N I G H T S / 8 D AY S
See Sonoma County’s spectacular
beauty including the rugged The long history of wine making in beautiful Sonoma
coast from inside a hot air bal-
loon and enjoy a gourmet break- County extends back to the mid-1800s. Sonoma County is
fast among the vineyards.
• the home of lush beautiful rolling hills covered in a velvety
Sail around the S. Francisco Bay &
enjoy a lovely wine-paired lunch,
while you enhance your culinary
green blanket of vineyards. This is considered by many
and wine knowledge with a local
sommelier. wine drinkers to be the hidden jewel of California. The
•
Enjoy a horse-drawn wine tasting western most edge of the county is formed by the jagged,
excursion in the Alexander Valley
and dinner at a local winery. but serene northern California coastline. This majestic
•
Relax at a beautiful pool while wine region is the ultimate way to experience a true culi-
you enjoy luxurious spa treat-
ments. nary wine vacation, with luxuries
•
View local art galleries, shop at
boutiques and specialty stores, or
beyond your mind’s wildest imag-
collect antiques while you visit
the charming towns of Sonoma, inations. Enjoy the fabulous fare
Healdsburg, and Santa Rosa.
• and the simple, but complex
See some of Sonoma County’s
historical sites that helped create pleasures of the Sonoma County
Northern California’s culture,
business, and industry, which are lifestyle, while you take in the
still a part of the region today.
“Sonoma Splendor.”
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY CALIFORNIA
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : The Russian River Wine Road will begin
your wine tasting adventure. Enjoy a fabulous lunch at a presti-
gious family-owned wine estate that specializes in Pinot Noir and
Chardonnay. Sip at your own pace because you will visit four dif-
ferent wineries today. Enjoy an elegant and scrumptious dinner
at “John Ash and Company” this evening. Dinner reservations
are made for you.
HIGHLIGHTS
•
Select your accommodations The Heart of Napa Valley
from a unique and exclusive list
I
of Napa Valley’s finest hotels,
6 N I G H T S / 7 D AY S
inns, and bed & breakfasts.
•
Enjoy an eagle eye’s aerial view of Imagine waking up to thousands of shades of green that
the picturesque Napa Valley and
surrounding areas from a hot air flow from rugged hilltops onto the valley floor for which
balloon.
• Napa is famous. Or begin your day with a beautiful view of
Enhance your wine knowledge
with one of many educational a fog belt, nestled against the majestic hills and valleys that
tours and intense tastings.
• make up this wonderful wine land. Either way, you will
Enjoy a spa treatment or cus-
tomize your own with one of
Napa’s acclaimed therapists. Or
enjoy all the elements that this Mediterranean style topog-
simply relax at a beautiful pool in
the midst of a vineyard. raphy has to offer. Enjoy your culinary and wine experi-
•
Take a cooking class at one of ence in style, comfort and shear elegance, while you taste
Napa’s famous cooking institu-
tions. your way through the finest wineries. Choose from our
•
Shop, antique, or collect art from carefully selected list of activities
a fabulous boutique, art gallery,
or specialty store.
•
to fill your days and nights. Your
Enjoy world-class cuisine each
night at one of the Top 10 dreams and desires come to life
restaurants in Napa Valley.
• as you experience Napa at it’s
Have dinner aboard the “Wine
Train” taking in the views of the best!
valley.
•
Experience 10 reserved wine
tours and tastings.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY CALIFORNIA
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to Napa Valley. Today is the first
full day of wine tasting in this famous valley. We have carefully
selected a list of what we believe are Napa’s “best” wineries for
your day. Each location will have special tours and tastings
reserved just for you. Today you will be chauffeured to four
wineries and you will enjoy a wine lunch at a selected location.
This evening we have made dinner reservations at the renowned
“French Laundry.”
D AY F O U R : How about a morning of shopping, D A Y S E V E N : You decide on the day! Enjoy the sur-
where the sky is your limit. Collect art or antiques at one of the roundings of your resort, or take the day for more wine tasting or
many fine Napa Valley galleries. Find a variety of specialty shops, shopping. Your every wish is our command. We have planned a
and over-the-edge boutiques. Lunch will be a treat that you will very special going away dinner bash for you this evening. The
not forget. Dive into a burger that has been voted #2 in all of the rest is a complete surprise, but guaranteed to be an evening you
San Francisco greater Bay Area. Don’t forget to sample the olive will never forget!
oils and chocolates you will find along the way. Wine tasting is
still on the list of activities. Shopping does make one hungry, so D A Y S E V E N : After breakfast, take a leisurely ride to
tonight you will board the famous “Wine Train” for a sunset din- one of the Bay Area airports. Enjoy lunch by the sea at a famous
ner through the Napa Valley. San Francisco or Sausalito restaurant.
E
Except for the extreme northern part of the country, France can be described as
four river basins and a plateau. The country that shares its western border with the
cool water of the Atlantic Ocean, and a small south eastern corner of land with the
warm and inviting Mediterranean Sea. Slightly smaller in size than the state of
Texas, France is a country of culture with architectural structures decorating its his-
toric cities and countryside.
The French proudly boast of their achievement in art, entertainment, edu-
cation and the high-tech and fashion industries. France is an icon in the culinary
world and is the leader in producing world-class wine. With its strong cultural and
gastronomic inheritance, the local dishes and wines are tailored to suit one anoth-
er. The capital city of Paris is considered to be one of the most beautiful and
romantic cities in the world, with its grand hotels and magnificent sites.
The mild Mediterranean climate makes hosting world-class sporting
events, such as the Tour de France and the World Cup soccer finals, a “breeze.” It
is also a playground for the rich and famous, and is the official site of the Cannes
Film Festival as well as other music and film extravaganzas.
Because of France’s diverse terrain, it is a favorite location for bikers, hik-
ers, fishing and outdoor adventurers of all kinds. The state-of-art airports and train
stations make coastal and inland vacations easy and accessible for all. Historical
pride and traditions continue to keep France firmly in the world limelight.
[ W I N E F A C T ] Bordeaux wines are always blends of two or more grapes.
THE TERROIR
OF FRANCE
F
France has more than 2 million acres of planted grapevines, The northern regions of Champagne and Burgundy tend to
and produces more fine wines than any other country. With be on the cooler side, growing grapes with higher acidity lev-
impressive global influence, France has been producing wine els such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These are also the
since 600 BC., when the Greeks first introduced it to the main grapes grown that create champagne. Southern France
people of this fertile land. France has set winemaking stan- on the other hand, has a warmer Mediterranean climate that
dards that have been adopted by all who grow grapes and produces nice, ripe wines that are bold and luscious. Finally,
produce wine. The word “terroir” originated in France in the Atlantic coast, which includes Bordeaux and the Loire
1919, and is described as the natural elements that exist Valley, experience the maritime weather, which boasts the
among a specific vineyard such as soil, water, air, and any perfect conditions for producing some of the most expensive
other elements that can affect how grapes mature on the and well-known wines in the world.
vine. More than any other country, the French love to rate
the quality of their vineyards and the wines that they pro-
duce. Some vineyard owners and winemakers are so sure
that they produce the best wine, they go through life without
even tasting wines that are produced in other regions or
appellations, tast-
ing and consum-
ing only their own
wines.
Officially, the
French wine coun-
try can be divided
into three regions
based upon cli-
mate and location.
FRANCE
Bordeaux
Bordeaux lies halfway between the North Pole and the
Equator. There is no other wine region that is as powerful
and respectfully sought in the world of wine. The region pro-
duces some of the biggest and full-bodied wines ever made.
Eighty percent of the wine in the Bordeaux region consists of
rich red wines and wine blends. Enjoy sampling the wine
from the vines of the “Noble Bordeaux” varieties which
include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite
Verdot, and Malbec. The range of wines found here are
quite amazing! Among the white varieties, Sauvignon Blanc
and Semillons are at their best in this wonderful wine land.
In 1855, Napoleon III asked the vintners in Bordeaux to
rate their wines from best to worst for the Paris Exhibition
Fair. This ultimately laid the groundwork for what some
believe is the most difficult and complicated wine rating sys-
tem ever created in the world of wine. Only 61 chateaus
were rated within a 5-category system for wine that was based
on price. This system is still in place today, even though
many of the
Chateaus have
changed hands. It
is a very sophisticat-
ed system that is
closely monitored
to insure the best
quality for the finest
of all the Bordeaux
wines.
Many Chateau’s Voyage, travel, and
and vintners were change of pace impart vigor.
left behind in this [ SENECA ]
unique rating sys-
tem, which does
not mean they lack
quality. There are
hundreds of wines
that have proven to
show great quality
and craftsmanship that are also affordable. Bordeaux has
many sub-regions that produce many delicious wines with
excellent value. While wine seems to be the livelihood
among the locals, there are many other activities you can
experience while traveling through the French vineyards.
Enjoy biking or ballooning over this beautiful countryside, or
simply enjoy a peaceful vineyard picnic that includes the best
of the local cheeses and a French baguette.
[ W I N E F A C T ] B u r g u n d y m a k e s s o m e o f t h e m o s t s o u g h t - a f t e r, e x q u i s i t e a n d e x p e n s i v e w i n e s .
Burgundy
Two wines come to mind when thinking about this rela-
tively small wine region in central eastern France; Pinot Noir
and Chardonnay. With complicated land-ownerships,
Burgundy produces some of the most stunning and most
sought after wines in the entire world. The climate in
Burgundy is the coolest in all of France because of its
northerly position. Here, like Bordeaux, you will find anoth-
er challenging and complicated wine rating system. In
Bordeaux, the term
that describes some
of the best wines pro-
duced is Chateaux.
And in Burgundy,
If the aunt of the vicar has never touched liquor,
the term Domaine,
watch out when she finds the Champagne. while not quite an
[ R U D YA R D K I P L I N G ] equal, also means the
wines have excellent
quality.
In this region,
the wines are not
blended, unlike the
wines of Bordeaux.
Chardonnay, the
white burgundy, and
Pinot Noir, the red burgundy, are almost never blended in
this amazing wine region. These wines make up more than
50 percent of the total wine produced in Burgundy. Village
wine is a term that will often come up while traveling within
this small and beautiful wine region. This means that the
wine is from grapes that are grown in and around a particular
village or community, usually supporting a higher price due
to the exclusivity of the vineyards. To further complicate
matters, you may run into the terms “Premier Cru ” and
“Grand Cru.” These are wines made from very small vine-
yards, hence producing very small amounts of wine from
these vineyards. These are known to be the boldest, richest,
and most expensive wines in all of France.
While traveling in Burgundy, it is important to pay atten-
tion to the local cuisine, especially the world renown Boeuf
(Beef) Bourguignon. This is a delicate and rich, slow cooked
stew braised in a beef and burgundy wine sauce with pearl
onions, fried bacon bits, and mushrooms; a treat for any taste
buds. Regional cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables, and other
meats including hams, paté, and sausages are other favorite
foods of the local people. Get ready to raise your glass, and
toast to the good life!
FRANCE
Champagne
Where better to begin a wine vacation than in the
famous wine region of Champagne, as you sip a delicious
chilled glass of bubbles. This is the only place in the world
where you can sample or buy a “True” Champagne. With its
rocky and chalk-like soil, which is rich with important nutri-
ents and the perfect terroir, it is no wonder that the end
result in this region is world-class champagne. This inviting
yet tiny little area is located 90 miles north of Paris, and is a
must for any level of wine connoisseur.
The wine region of Champagne, next to Burgundy, is
another one of the coolest wine-producing areas in the
world. The three major grapes that are found in Champagne
are Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.
Champagne has always been considered sexy and sophis-
ticated, and is most commonly brought out for special events
and formal dinner parties. But champagne is wonderful wine
and goes with a large variety of food. Champagne and caviar
combined have always been a culinary delight. But many
other foods such as egg dishes, artisan cheeses, and the native
brown trout that live in the rivers surrounding many of
Champagne’s vineyards, are wonderful combinations that
pair nicely with the bubbles of Champagne. Although Dom
Perignon was not the
first producer of this
worldly wine, he con-
stantly worked at devel-
oping better methods
for the production of
champagne. Visit Remember gentlemen, it’s not just France
the city of Reims, a we are fighting for, it’s Champagne!
major city in this wine
[ WINSTON CHURCHILL ]
region, where you can
explore churches,
abbeys, magnificent
palaces, and cozy little
cafés. The quaint town
of Epernay is not to be
missed. The
Benedictine Abbey of Hautvillers is found on the outskirts of
this town, and was the home of Dom Perignon, currently
owned by Moet & Chandon.
Words like quality, jet-setting, luxury, silk, and celebra-
tions have been used when describing champagne. Don Ho
sang about it, and the Legendary Marilyn Monroe, who lived
and breathed this incredible beverage, once was known to
have taken a bath in over 350 bottles of this bubbly and aro-
matic wine.
[ W I N E F A C T ] A t r u e c h a r a c t e r i s t i c o f a l l L o i r e w i n e i s t h e i r i n t e n s e a c i d i t y.
Alsace
Although Alsace Three be the things I shall never attain:
is in France, it has at
envy, content and sufficient Champagne.
various times in its
[ D O R O T H Y PA R K E R ]
past belonged to
Germany. It is a
unique wine region
that produces almost
all white wine.
Visiting this charm-
ing wine region is like jumping straight into a fairytale set-
ting. The villages are very old and tidy, and the houses are
adorned with flower boxes. The most sought after grapes in
this region are Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris (former-
ly Tokay), Muscat and Pinot Noir. The wines are known to
sport fresh fruity characteristics.
The majority of the Alsatian wines are dry; however, the
exceptions are “Vendange Tardive” wine, which is made from
late harvest grapes that are usually very concentrated and
sweet.
[ W I N E F A C T ] I n n u m b e r o f a c r e s p l a n t e d a m o n g t h e w o r l d ’s f r u i t c r o p s , g r a p e s r a n k # 1
Barry Oehler
Denver, CO
Rob Reilly
Denver, CO
[ W I N E F A C T ] About 75 grapes are equal to one glass of wine.
THE SPLENDOR
OF PA R I S
W
While French wine is the envy of most wine producers, visit- den-promenade within the major shopping region, “Champs-
ing France is the envy of most tourists. Our French wine itin- Elysees;” also known as the most beautiful avenue in the
eraries all begin in the romantic, beautiful, and captivating world.
city of Paris. With over 11 million people in the metro area, Like the wines of France, Parisian cuisine will be very
Paris is the largest and most populous city in the European memorable as you look back upon your vacation. Parisian's
Union. Located on a north-bending arc of the river “Seine,” consider food to be sexy, including selections lsuch as escar-
the city has two inhabited islands. The larger of the two got, cheeses, pastries, cream and fruit based sauces, and
islands is IIe de la Cité, and is the heart and the origin of this desserts that include chocolate. We guarantee your visit to
spectacular city. France will be an unforgettable gastronomic event.
There are countless hours of pleasure and activities that
you can experience as a guest in Paris. Choose from muse-
ums, galleries, sports, parks and waterways, shopping and
nightlife. We also recommend that you experience this fasci-
nating culture by moonlight. It would take weeks just to visit
all of Paris’s famous
landmarks and sites,
but seeing the Eiffel
Tower, Cathedral of
Notre Dame de Paris,
and the Louvre are a
great way to begin
your wine vacation.
If shopping is in your
blood, try strolling
the streets of the gar-
Y O U R W I N E TA S T I N G T R I P P L A N N E R FRANCE
While creating your upcoming trip to France, it is important for us to know what inspires you. What are your travel dreams,
trip goals, and experience expectations for your perfect vacation? Sometimes it helps to put your thoughts down on paper.
We have created this guide to help plan the ultimate custom vacation, hand crafted specifically for you and your compan-
ions. What are your trip dreams and desires?
S E L E C T A D E S T I N AT I O N ( S )
W H AT A R E Y O U R T R AV E L I N T E R E S T S ?
Email ________________________________ Fax ______________________ No. of Travelers ____ No. of children ____
Traveling with any other couple, group etc.? ________ If so, may we contact them? _______________________________
This two and a half hour trip through the canals of Paris glides
through neighborhoods many tourists never see, long avenues of
poetic scenery, and finally onto the River Seine where you will
disembark at the Musee d’Orsey. This is a shared tour on a
bateaux, holding up to 20 passengers. Arrangements can also be
made for a private barge tour of the canal for as little as four peo-
ple if you desire.
Your travel passion and our reservation guidance turn a dream into reality.
How about a half day Chocolate Tour? The Paris Chocolate Tour
takes you on a journey where you learn about the history of
chocolate and how Paris is the capital of dark chocolate. You will
visit superb chocolatiers, one of which makes some of the finest
macaroons in Paris. The tour is customized to your personal inter-
ests, while introducing you to some secret Paris addresses.
You will meet your guide at the Eiffel Tower for a VIP tour
“Under the Tower.” Tour includes an inspection of the mechani-
cal workings of the lifts designed by Mr. Eiffel. The private tour
includes the backstage guided historical visit of the Eiffel Tower
for one and a half hours, and includes an access ticket up to the
observation deck.
Enjoy a half day Cooking School. You will be picked up by your driver
at your hotel in Paris and transferred to the beautiful home of the
Chef, in Puteaux, a very exclusive Parisian area, for your private cook-
ing class. Before the class with your Chef, you will all participate in
open market visits, select the products for the meal, and then with
apron and utensils ready, you will start the three hour class! Lunch is
included along with wine/drinks. Enjoy the great atmosphere of a
beautiful French home, while sitting by a crackling fireplace in the
winter, or stroll the private garden during summer months.
This private tour takes you to the charming village of Auvers sur Oise,
where Vincent Van Gogh spent the last 100 days of his life painting
some 70 works of art. You will experience a private guided visit of the
house of Dr. Gachet, Van Gogh's friend, the "Auberge Ravoux" - Van
Gogh's last residence, the Church of Auvers immortalized by Van
Gogh’s painting, and a visit to Theo and Vincent Van Gogh's tombs.
For lunch, we suggest the Moulin de Fourges, a 150 year old watermill
or a private picnic in the gardens. After lunch, you’re off to Giverney.
Here you will visit Monet's house, the formal enclosed Norman
Garden, the water garden with the pond, the japanese bridge and the
workshop. You will then be treated to a private guided tour of the
Museum of American Art. After leaving Giverney, your guide will
drive back to Paris along the charming "Route des Crêtes," where you
will witness the exceptional panorama overlooking the Seine Valley.
You will also see a watchtower of the 10th century, and the village and
12th century château of La Roche Guyon.
Your individual travel vision is our focus while planning your trip.
FRANCE
Cognac is a city most famous for its high quality brandy. It is situated
on the banks of the Charente River between the Loire Valley and
Bordeaux. This historic and enchanting town is exciting to visit any
time of year. While visiting, you will take a wine train through the
vineyards of Remy Martin, and a boat trip to the company museum
and wine caves at Hennesy. You will learn everything there is to
know about how fine Cognac is made. Enjoy a nice tasting at the end
of each tour. Next, you will find yourself inside the castle walls of
Chateau de Cognac, producers of cognac, located near the Charente
River. The castle is now the property of Otard Company. While here,
you can uncover the mystery of the middle ages as you sip on cognac
from the famous tear shaped bottles. In the afternoon you will have
some free time to enjoy lunch at a cozy café, and to stroll the sweet
smelling streets as you shop for specialty items. You will also have
time to visit some of the smaller cognac producers that are situated on
every corner. Before beginning your journey back to your hotel, you
will visit the Musee de Cognac. See collections and exhibits on popu-
lar arts and traditions, including a fine art collection with paintings,
sculptures, decorative arts and furniture.
HIGHLIGHTS
E
right country! The wonders of
Paris and Versailles will over-
whelm the senses. A tour by 8 N I G H T S / 9 D AY S
night on the Seine is the perfect
venue for a romantic Parisian
evening.
Exploring Paris as a first time visitor or for your 10th trip is
•
The Loire Valley wine region is always brings opportunity for new discoveries. You will
not to be missed. Because of the
region’s size, your three days here have ample time to craft a personalized day while visiting
will be quite enjoyable.
• one of the greatest cities on the planet. If wine tasting is
Chateaus and palaces abound in
the Loire Valley. These magnifi- the reason for your trip, you will certainly have memorable
cent stately properties follow the
river for fabulous picture momen-
tos.
tastings at each stop. The wine regions of the Loire Valley
•
Villages and hamlets, such as St. and Bordeaux are known by travelers and wine connois-
Emilion in Bordeaux, pull at the
heart. The charm of medieval seurs from around the world. Many of these wines will be
walled villages like this are the
focus of French Country. great choices for your cellar at home.
Comfortable shoes for your walk-
ing tours will come in handy. Don’t forget the wonderful culi-
•
There are so many wine regions nary experiences awaiting you
in France to choose from. The
Medoc region of Bordeaux has
appeal for the novice wine
each and every day. France is
drinker and the advanced palette.
This region alone may call you to known world-wide for its sauces,
return for another visit.
breads, cheeses, chocolates and
international cuisine. Enjoy!
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY FRANCE
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Upon arrival in Paris, you will be transferred
to your upscale hotel property. Your France discovery will begin
with a “Get Acquainted with the City” tour, and an overview of
the city’s layout, orientation and history. The France “Dream”
begins as you decide on what to explore. Choices include Champs
Elysees, Arc de Triumphe, Eiffel Tower, Musee D’orsey, Saint
Germaine des pres, Bastille and Notre Dame.
HIGHLIGHTS
•
Paris City Tour with orientation of The Paris, Champagne,
all the spectacular sites that this
Burgundy Sipping Splendor
P
city has to offer.
•
Day excursion to the Sun King’s
(Louis XIV) luxurious Castle 8 N I G H T S / 9 D AY S
Versailles and Giverny, home of
Monet. Paris is considered by many to be one of the most prestigious
•
Riverboat evening with a gour-
met dinner while cruising the
and beautiful cities on the planet. The city architects designed
Seine through the heart of Paris.
• the city in a circle, giving it world renowned visual appeal. It is
Free time to explore the splen-
dors of Paris that include world also considered by many, to be the cultural, art and culinary
renowned museums, shops,
brasserie’s, and art galore. mecca. Continue on and enjoy the best bubbles on the planet
•
The Louvre is home to 400,000 as your sip and tour your way through the heart of Champagne.
works of art including the Mona
Lisa.
•
You will complete this perfect trilogy with the splendid wine
A dining experience that includes
a performance at le Moulin region of Burgundy in the heart of “French Country”. The
Rouge will dazzle all.
• wine of this region is divine with
Champagne, Champagne,
Champagne in the “Sacred the beautiful French cheeses and
Triangle of Champagne.” Two
lovely days of sipping the splen- baguet breads as a pairing. Your
dor of the best bubbles on earth.
• opportunity to sample French
Burgundy is considered one of
the top wine regions in the
world. A favorite stop for all that
chocolates throughout the itiner-
visit France. Beaune is a magical
city in the heart of Burgundy and ary will be a bonus enjoyed by all!
the wine from the vines here are
scrumptious.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY FRANCE
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Upon arrival in Paris, you will be transfered Consider “Chateau Boyer Les Crayeres,” an elegant turn of the
to your five-star hotel. Your “Get Acquainted with the City” tour century residence set in an English-style parkland for dinner.
will begin at 2:00 pm. This city orientation tour will give you a Relax in luxury as you enjoy gourmet cuisine at this wonderful
great overview of the splendors of Paris. You will see sites that Chateau that is located minutes from the heart of Reims.
may include Tuileries Gardens, The Louvre, Champs Elysees, Arc
de Triumphe, and the Eiffel Tower. Dinner this evening will be D A Y S I X : This day starts with a walking tour of histori-
back at the hotel where you will find your personal reservation. cal Reims, which is situated on the river Vesle. Visit the Basilica
St. Remy, The Palais de Tau, and taste champagne in many won-
D A Y T W O : Today you will venture to Versailles and derful champagne cellars. See the Cathedral of Notre Dame,
Giverny. Your day will start early, leaving plenty of time to undoubtedly one of the finest cathedrals in all Christendom. You
explore the Versailles Castle and the sumptuous luxury of the Sun will have lunch at your leisure in the Brasserie Flo, visiting two
King, Louis XIV. You may choose to indulge in a wonderful more incredible champagne cellars after your lunch, which
lunch at a French brasserie. The afternoon will include Giverny include Veuve Clicquot and Pommery.
for a visit of the Monet homes and gardens, where you can see
several of the rooms that are now devoted to Japanese prints and D A Y S E V E N : Off to Burgundian wine country to the
other master works of art. Your evening will include a riverboat quaint village of Vezelay. Enjoy this breathtaking medieval vil-
excursion on the Seine with a lavish gourmet dinner menu as you lage in the heart of this magical wine region. After you check
take in the sites of Paris by night. into your five-star property, you will have dinner at the Bernard
Loiseau Restaurant. Bernard Loiseau’s restaurant is one of
D A Y T H R E E : Today you will visit the famous “Mona France’s greatest restaurants, acclaimed by all gastronomic guides.
Lisa” at the largest museum in Western Europe, The Louvre.
This magnificent palace is said to contain more than 400,000 D A Y E I G H T : Today includes a full day tour of Beaune,
works of art. Your afternoon is free to do as you wish. Enjoy a the capital of South Burgundy, also referred to as the capital of
nice lunch or shop at one of the many boutiques. This evening wine. Visit the famous Hospice de Beaune, and visit the vineyard
be sure to dress in your finest attire for an evening performance at of Clos de Vougeot. Your guide will make winery recommenda-
the Moulin Rouge. tions to round out the day. This great region is known to produce
some of the best wines in the world.
D AY F O U R : The day belongs to you. Paris is the
limit! Your guide is available to assist you in any way, whether D A Y N I N E : It’s off to Dijon to catch your rail transfer
you would like suggestions and recommendations or just trans- back to Paris for your return flight home. En route you can peruse
portation. Explore other areas of Paris this evening, stopping to the Wine Tours of the World brochure to start planning your next
dine in a fantastic Parisian restaurant. wine tasting excursion.
D A Y F I V E : It’s an early start for your wine adventure in
Epernay, where you will tour the “Sacred Triangle of
Champagne.” Your day will start at the “Chateau de Pierry,” an
Other Excursions & Extensions
Take a Cheese Tasting Tour, Architecture and French Culture go
18th century castle. You will taste many different types of the Hand in Hand for an afternoon tour, Chocolate & Champagne
wonderful bubbly while touring several cellars of this unbeliev- are Devine while on a Shopping Tour, Paris is a Shutterbugs
able Chateau. After lunch you will visit another famous cham- Dream with a little guidance from a Parisian Professional.
pagne house, “Moet & Chandon Cellars.” Here you will uncover
an underground network of chalk cellars deep below the
town of Epernay. Sip carefully because you will continue on to
Accommodations Meals
Property, location, style, size Restaurants and meals listed
Reims, where you will visit the famous house of Ruinart, the old-
and amenities chosen based above are recommendations
est champagne house in France, which produces many high quali-
on client specifications. only. Wine Tours of the World
ty wines.
handles reservations at top
Pricing restaurants, small intimate
This suggested itinerary is based bistros and gourmet dinners at
on two people traveling togeth- vineyards. Exact meal inclusions
er. A single supplement fee will and dining reservations will be
apply. Cost of itinerary is priced specified at time of booking
based on dates of travel. based on final trip itinerary.
HIGHLIGHTS
•
Paris City Tour with orientation of Paris & the Best of Bordeaux
all the spectacular sites that the
F
city has to offer.
6 N I G H T S / 7 D AY S
•
Day excursion to the Sun King’s
(Louis XIV) luxurious Castle of France is renowned for museums, history, château’s, café’s,
Versailles and Giverny, home of
Monet. fashion, shopping, culinary delights, restaurants, vineyards,
•
Riverboat evening with a gour- city scapes and pristine old world country estates.
met dinner while cruising the
Seine through the heart of Paris. Paris’s Champs Elysses, Arc de Triumphe and Eiffel Tower
•
Free time to explore the splen- hold a spot in all hearts that visit the city. Choices are numer-
dors of Paris such as world
renowned museums, shops,
brasserie’s, and arts galore.
able and your tour guide will assist with crafting a day that fits
•
The Louvre is home to 400,000 your individual wishes. Bordeaux is home to some of France’s
works of art, including the Mona
Lisa. finest Grand Cru wines dating back to the 12th century. Your
•
A dining experience that includes tasting opportunities are only limited by the length of your
a performance at the Moulin
Rouge will dazzle all. trip. You may even decide to transport some of your favorites
•
The heart of Bordeaux also
includes the villages of Saint
back to the States. This region is
Emilion, Pauillac, Moulis, Listrac,
Margaux, Cadillac and the forti- known for quaint towns,
fied city of Saint Macaire.
• medieval fortified villages and
A Chateau dinner will be an
unforgettable enchanting culinary château’s. and the country
experience.
scenery is world-renowned.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY FRANCE
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Arrive in Paris and transfer to your upscale
Parisian hotel. Settle in, rest and get ready for the beginning of
your day. Your afternoon excursion starts with a “Get Acquainted
with the City” tour and an overview of the city’s layout, orienta-
tion and history. There is so much to see with sites to consider
such as Champs Elysees, Arc de Triumphe, the Eiffel Tower,
Invalides, and the Latin Quarter.
HIGHLIGHTS
I
noon adventure of restaurants,
cafes, pastry shops and a stop for
tea. 6 N I G H T S / 7 D AY S
•
Din Din at the Top of the Eiffel.
It’s all about views and romance.
It has been said by some, that the best red vintages of
Photo momentos will be cher-
ished forever. Bordeaux can live longer than the vintner who created them.
•
Your French Sommelier will The Bordeaux Region Chateaus are considered the pearl of
instruct you on wine knowledge
while enjoying a wine tasting. French wine country, as some of the Chateaus date back to
•
“Art de Vivre” lunch experience the 12th century. Bordeaux has long been considered a
to treat the pallet with French
wines, cheeses, and a plate of
charcuterie (meat), gourmet
“Secret” destination in wine tourism for those with a quest
breads and fruits.
• and passion for wines of beauty. Those who visit the Bordeaux
Grand Tasting Extraordinaire
including 7 wines exploring region leave with a new appreciation of the depth wine has to
French appellations and Terriors-
Your perfect opportunity to offer. The wines of this region pair beautifully with meats
become a wine connoisseur.
• including lamb, duck and beef.
Cathedrals, the Royal Square and
the Grand Theatre, home of the This is the perfect destination in
Bordeaux Opera are not to be
missed.
•
France to concentrate on the
An enchanting evening in wine
country at a magnificent marriage of wine and food. All
Bordeaux Chateau. All great
evenings conclude with an unfor- guests vow to return!
gettable culinary dessert.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY FRANCE
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Arrive in Paris, meet your guide and freshen
up at the hotel before beginning your first day in the city. Your
first stop will include a Gourmet Food Tour for lunch. Your tour
will be guided by a culinary specialist who will take you through
the neighborhood of St. Germain des Pres. You will visit two
restaurants, two cafés, a teashop and three pastry shops. Learn
general descriptions of French food as you sample mouth-watering
cuisine. Your evening will include a Seine River cruise before
Enjoy a terrace lunch with a vineyard view at “Le Saprien,” while
you dine atop the Eiffel Tower.
sipping a fine Grand Cru wine. Two more wine regions and pres-
tigious wineries, such as Lafite Rothschild, will be stops this after-
D A Y T W O : Today you will join a French Sommelier for noon.
an introductory French wine knowledge course and tasting. For
lunch you will be treated to “Art de Vivre;” a new concept for a
D A Y S I X : A comprehensive viticulture day will help
tasting lunch, which includes Champagne, four French wines,
explain why certain grapevines are planted. Learn how vintners
French cheese and a plate of charcuterie (meat), French bread
analyze certain types of soil, and why this is so important for pro-
and a gourmet fruit basket. After lunch a grand tasting will be set
ducing world-class wine. After your class, you will be transferred
up for you and will include seven more French wines. This tast-
to the small fortress-like medieval town of St. Emilion for lunch
ing is an advanced look into the French appellations and Terriors.
and wine shopping. The town was carved out of limestone and is
Become an expert as you sip some of France’s most prestigious
by far one of the most stunning towns to visit in all of Bordeaux.
wines. Amuse-bouches (little bites of delight) will accompany
Visit Eglise Monolithe, one of Europe’s only underground church-
your tasting.
es, carved by the hands of the Benedictine monks. Only red
wines are made in St. Emilion, and this community is very fond
D AY T H R E E : Your first-class rail transfer is perfect for
of them. Visit one of ninety-eight wine shops within the village.
site seeing en route to Bordeaux. Upon arrival, your guide will
escort you to a wonderful wine lunch at “Le Café du Musee”.
D A Y S E V E N : Today it is time to leave Bordeaux en
After lunch, you will tour the city of Bordeaux, which dates back
route to Paris and your return flight to the U.S. We hope you will
to the 12th century. Saint Emilion will be your next stop for an
take time to enjoy one more glass of wine before boarding your
exquisite Bordeaux wine tasting. We have set up a wine educa-
plane home.
tion class at one of St. Emilion’s most noted wineries. Conclude
the day in wine country with dinner at one of Bordeaux’s magnif-
icent chateaus.
Other Excursions & Extensions
Cognac is a perfect day excursion and certainly memorable, Vaux
D A Y F O U R : Today’s wine tasting begins at the Medoc le Vicome is a spectacular Chateaux Tour and easily reached from
Vineyard, located between Bordeaux and Pauillac. You will taste
Paris, How about an Underground Eiffel Tour for an understand-
wines from the amazing villages of Moulis, Listrac, Margaux, and
ing of mechanical workings of this monument, Paris by water on
Pauillac. While visiting the famous Chateaux of Saint Julien,
a Canal Tour is perfect for a lazy afternoon.
you will be treated to a scrumptious winery lunch set among the
winery’s beautiful vineyards. Enjoy more world-class wine tasting
in the afternoon. Accommodations Meals
Property, location, style, size Restaurants and meals listed
D A Y F I V E : Start your day off at 9 am as you travel to and amenities chosen based above are recommendations
the wine region of the Garon River. You will tour the tiny city of on client specifications. only. Wine Tours of the World
Cadillac, where you will visit the 16th century castle of “Duc d’ handles reservations at top
Epernon.” Additionally, you will tour the medieval fortified town Pricing restaurants, small intimate
of Saint Macaire and the small village of Sauternes. This suggested itinerary is based bistros and gourmet dinners at
on two people traveling togeth- vineyards. Exact meal inclusions
er. A single supplement fee will and dining reservations will be
apply. Cost of itinerary is priced specified at time of booking
based on dates of travel. based on final trip itinerary.
W
When visiting New Zealand, one will find a variety of climates, landscapes, white
sandy beaches, waterways, and mountains. It is a country of hidden treasures, vast-
unspoiled beauty, friendly people, world-class wines and succulent lamb. It is the
only place in the world where one can see active volcanoes, rain forests, fjords, and
glaciers all in the course of one day.
The beautiful, yet sophisticated harbor cities of Auckland and Wellington,
are located on the North Island. Located nearby, are popular sites such as the bub-
bling geothermal lakes of Rotorua and the peaceful little retreat of Waiheke Island.
On the South Island, the picturesque and tranquil communities of Nelson,
Blenheim, and Christchurch can be found. Other important sites of the South
Island include Wainui Falls, Abel Tasman National Park, and the famous ski resort,
Wanaka.
New Zealand is home to some of the most exciting food in the Pacific.
Boldly seasoned dishes, infused with complex flavors of Southeast Asia, Polynesia,
and the South Pacific, are on most menus. Lamb and an abundance of fresh exot-
ic fruits and vegetables are also among the favorite dishes.
New Zealand offers a wide range of activities including: bungee jumping;
skiing; river rafting; jet skiing; cave-rafting; mountain biking; fishing; kayaking;
and golfing. This exciting region also possesses natural wildlife habitats to explore,
world-class spas to enjoy, and of course wine tasting to take pleasure in.
[ N E W Z E A L A N D F A C T ] The only native mammals in New Zealand are two species of bats.
NEW ZEALAND
TERROIR
W
When traveling inland from the coastlines of New Zealand, The two most prominent wine districts in the North con-
one will find the lush valleys that are blanketed with velvety, sist of Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay, with Auckland as a close
green grapevines. New Zealand, a land that lies isolated in third. Gisborne has a warm and sunny climate with gray-
the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is a producer of some of the brown river silty soil, making it ideal for creating well-round-
world’s most amazing Sauvignon blancs and other crisp, white ed and approachable wines. This region has a strong national
wines. reputation for its whites, Chardonnay and Gewurztraminer in
Up until the 1980’s, few wine drinkers other than New particular.
Zealanders themselves, had ever tried a wine from this coun- Before Marlborough arrived on the winemaking scene in
try. It now ranks thirty-third in wine production and twenty- the mid-1970’s, Hawke’s Bay was New Zealand’s key wine-
eighth in wine consumption. Between 1994 and 1998, New growing region, and home to the oldest New Zealand winery,
Zealand vintners increased from 31 to 293, and today have “Te Mata.” This generally warmer area produces some of the
more than quadrupled in number. The country consists of richest and ripest fruit in the region, and is outstanding for its
two islands that are referred to simply as the “North Island,” Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Mixing its brown hilly soil,
and the “South Island.” with river silt, it is New Zealand’s second-biggest wine grow-
Because of each of the Islands’ long and narrow shapes, ing region with over 50 producers.
the grape vines are located no more than 80 miles from the
sea. The chilliness of this steady and cool maritime climate
allows the grapes to ripen evenly over the course of a long
growing season. This unique climate intensifies the exotic fla-
vors of the wines, which are carefully handcrafted in this
diverse country. The coolness creates wines that are high in
acid and have rich fruit flavors that are crisp and refreshing.
Over 75 percent of the wine that is produced in New
Zealand is white, although balanced Pinot Noirs, Cabernet
Sauvignons, and Merlots can also be found.
NEW ZEALAND
WELCOME TO
AU C K L A N D
H
Haere mai, as the locals say “Welcome” to the beautiful South Pacific and Asian cultures, with a strong indigenous
coastal city of Auckland, New Zealand's biggest city. Maori heritage. This diversity brings with it an abundance of
Wherever you are in Auckland, you are never far from unique dining and shopping. Auckland’s temperate climate
breathtaking scenery, beautiful beaches, invigorating walks, and easy coastal access, make it the perfect setting for any
outstanding food and wine, great shopping and exciting outdoor adventure. Discover for yourself, why Auckland is
nightlife. Auckland, nicknamed The City of Sails, has long one of New Zealand’s best destinations!
inspired tourist within its beautiful waterside location. It
sprawls over a narrow isthmus between the sparkling waters
of the Waitemata and the Manukau Harbors. A cloak of
rainforest covers the surrounding hills, and dozens of dormant
volcanic cones dot the land as far as the eye can see. Two of
Auckland’s favorite getaways are traveling by boat to the
relaxing Washakie Island,
where beach activities,
shopping and wine tasting
can be found; and the
neighboring Great Barrier
Island, which is a wildlife
sanctuary featuring hot
pools, beautiful beaches
and amazing sunsets.
Auckland’s heart beats
to a Polynesian rhythm,
with a melting pot of peo-
ple originating from the
Y O U R W I N E TA S T I N G T R I P P L A N N E R NEW ZEALAND
While creating your upcoming trip to kiwi land, it is important for us to know what inspires you. What are your travel
dreams, trip goals, and experience expectations for your perfect vacation? Sometimes it helps to put your thoughts down
on paper. We have created this guide to help plan the ultimate custom vacation, hand crafted specifically for you and your
companions. What are your trip dreams and desires?
S E L E C T A D E S T I N AT I O N ( S )
W H AT A R E Y O U R T R AV E L I N T E R E S T S ?
Email ________________________________ Fax ______________________ No. of Travelers ____ No. of children ____
Traveling with any other couple, group etc.? ________ If so, may we contact them? _______________________________
Encounter nature, like never before. Board a small, luxurious boat for
unobstructed viewing of Milford Sound the entire time you are on
board. Get closer to the sites of the sound as you interact with your
guide, who will teach you fascinating facts about history, geology,
wildlife and natural flora. Take the option to descend 10.4 meters
below the surface to marvel at spectacular marine life in Harrison
Cove. You can see anemones, sponges, fish and rare red and black
coral in their natural habitat.
New Zealand is known for producing some of the finest wool prod-
ucts in the world. Take some time to visit one of the many New
Zealand sheep farms. As you know, sheep are interesting to look at
for a few seconds at a time, but put one in front of a sheep farmer
with a microphone and clippers, and you get blockbuster entertain-
ment! Then, enjoy a gourmet lunch with wine, before embarking
on a wool shopping expedition. Shop for luxurious clothing, acces-
sories, blankets and the finest wool rugs money can buy.
New Zealand is the only place in the world where you can stand in a rainforest
with a mantle of giant ferns and hanging moss above your head, as you look
directly down onto at a 200-foot thick, five-mile long river of ice. Imagine
Hawaii and Switzerland meeting, to create this phenomenon. The eight
national parks on New Zealand’s South Island bring an encompassed world of
unbelievable glaciers, rugged snow-capped mountains, gorgeous fjords, semi-
tropical rainforest beaches, mirror-smooth lakes, tumbling whitewater rivers,
and unlimited plant and wildlife. This is the perfect way to truly experience
the outdoors, meet the locals, sleep well and eat even better. This experience
is a perfect extension to your wine country vacation. Stay in cozy accommoda-
tions and enjoy gourmet meals, and sip on the wonderful wines of New
Zealand. Here you can see the Franz Josef Glacier, which descends 250 meters
above sea level amidst the greenery and lushness of the rainforest. The combi-
nation of ice the and temperate rainforest, an ecosystem found nowhere else in
the world. Walk, hike or mountain climb the most dynamic ice covered val-
leys, crevasses, pinnacles, caves and canyons. Set your pace, relax and breathe
the freshest air in the world.
The 15 idyllic islands in the South Pacific Ocean, known as the “Cook Islands,”
have been an unspoiled Polynesian tropical gem for hundreds of years. Time
means little, in this peaceful island paradise, making it the perfect place to relax
after your fun-filled New Zealand wine vacation. Most people who visit, begin
their adventure on the capital island of Rarotonga, greeted by welcoming natives
with friendly souls. Enclosed by a reef lagoon of turquoise, blue water and white
sandy beaches, this area is dominated by a high mountain peak filled with tropical
rain forests and wildlife living in their natural habitat. The bustling town of
Avarua hosts an extravagant yacht harbor, and is filled with good island eats, local
handicrafts and international boutiques. It is also the gateway to the outer
islands. The Cook Islanders have their own language and government, and enjoy
a vigorous and diverse culture, with significant differences between each island.
Even if you go no further than Rarotonga, you will be ensured of a “dream come
true experience” of pristine beaches, snorkeling the reef and exploring via bus,
motor scooter, bicycle or jeep. The islands are full of quaint but luxurious bunga-
lows and resort options, with world-class spas and golf courses, with tennis courts
and beach activities close by. Learn how to husk a coconut, or make breadfruit
stew and pickled fish salad. Whatever you wish, we can guarantee this extension
will be another highlight of your New Zealand wine vacation.
New Zealand is a popular destination for ski and exhilirating heli-ski vaca-
tions in the Southern Hemisphere. The majority of the skiing takes place
in the ski resorts outside of Queenstown and Wanaque on the South
Island, although Mount Ruapehu-Turoa and Whakapapa are also popular
North Island resorts. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, skiing
New Zealand will bring new heights, memories and incredible snow condi-
tions to your wine vacation. Enjoy living in the lap of luxury with deluxe
ski resorts, warm fire-lit lodges, fine international and local cuisine, and a
long list of night activities. Rent top-of-the-line ski equipment and take a
ski lesson with an instructor, who will show you snow moves you never
knew existed. Or join your personal guide, for a thrilling day of helicopter
skiing in the back country. At night, enjoy wine appreciation, sensory and
tasting classes as you wind down from your exhilarating day on the slopes.
Cooking classes and local art and craft classes are also availableduring your
stay. Imagine jumping into a heated pool at night that is surrounded by a
soft, white blanket of snow, or relaxing your muscles in an outdoor hot
tub, set in a beautiful garden as light snow flakes fall from the evening ski.
This extension is one that includes it all; beaches, snow, wine country and
New Zealand culture!
HIGHLIGHTS
•
Private wine tasting tours includ- New Zealand’s North
ing wineries in the Napier,
Island Wine Adventure
W
Auckland, Martinborough and
Hawke’s Bay wine districts, with
winery lunches and a winemaker
dinner. 8 N I G H T S / 9 D AY S
•
See the breathtaking views and With its many harbors, beaches, islands, cosmopolitan city cen-
landmarks of Auckland via “The
Pride of Auckland,” and your per-
sonal guide.
ter, and a long list of activities to do and sites to see, the North
•
Experience the Kiwi Encounter, Island of New Zealand is a favorite tourist stop. The capital city
Rainbow Springs and Mount
Bruce Wildlife Centre. of Auckland is a must visit as well as the surrounding wine
•
Fall in love with the native people regions and natural parks, including Mount Bruce Wildlife
as a special guest at a Maori
Concert and Hangi dinner. Centre, Rainbow Springs and the Wai-O-Tapu Thermals.
•
Visit the famous Champagne
Pool, bubbling mud, steaming
Imagine sitting in the front row at an authentic Maori Concert,
earth and natural geysers at Wai-
O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. complete with a Hangi dinner, or
•
Uncover years of diverse culture taking delightful walking tours
with walking and private tours in
Napier, Wellington and through historical, modern art
Greytown.
•
Sip morning tea at an elk farm
deco, and Victorian towns, as you
on your way to Rotorua.
• uncover the secrets of the land.
Savor fresh cheese on your pri-
vate tour of a New Zealand Tourists who visit New Zealand
Cheese Factory.
count it as a favorite destination
and promise to return.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY NEW ZEALAND
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to New Zealand! Your first excur-
sion is aboard “The Pride of Auckland,” a sailing ship for the sites
of Auckland by water. Keep your camera handy for pictures of
Mount Eden, Auckland Harbor Bridge, Tamaki Drive, Parnell
Road and the Auckland Museum. Lunch on board is perfect after
a long flight! After checking in to the hotel, look forward to a
hearty welcome dinner featuring your first taste of New Zealand
cuisine.
HIGHLIGHTS
A
wine districts of Nelson,
Marlborough and the surround-
ing areas. According to a Maori legend, the South Island is consid-
•
Learn the secrets of New Zealand ered the main island because it was the first the exist. This
cuisine with your private cooking
and wine pairing class at Herzog island has extreme weather diversity, with beautiful beach
Estate Winery.
• resorts, lovely ski lodges and plush wine country properties.
Sip a wonderful glass of crisp
white wine and freshly steamed
mussels on your personal tour of
This island is about incredible scenery, land and water
Pelorus Sound.
• sports, shopping, sightseeing and excursions to Mount
Relax among vineyards as you
enjoy gourmet winery lunches Cook National Park. The city of Christchurch is the gate-
and a winemaker dinners.
• way into the South Island, and the Marlborough wine dis-
See the breathtaking views in
Mount Cook National Park and trict is on the north end of
the silent fjords at Milford Sound.
•
Select your style of accommoda-
the South Island. If you love
tions and personal dinner reserva-
tions from an exclusive and care- fresh seafood, mussels and
fully selected Wine Tours of the
World list. clams, enjoy an excursion to
•
Enjoy your private tour of Pelorus Sound.
Christchurch that includes arts,
crafts and all the major sites.
•
Have dinner and enjoy leisure
time in Queenstown.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY NEW ZEALAND
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Freshen up and start your New Zealand
adventure at the Herzog Wine Estate. Here, Chef Louis
Schindler will unlock the secrets of gourmet cuisine. This hands-
on workshop is a unique opportunity for “foodies” of all levels.
You will learn how to prepare and present a fresh market, three
course gourmet meal, which you will enjoy for lunch. The class is
conducted in Herzog’s state-of-the-art European style kitchen.
The afternoon includes breath-taking Pelorus Sound views with a
stop to sample freshly steamed Green Lip mussels served with a D A Y S I X : Experience a casual scenic drive as you take
crisp, chilled New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. photos of breathtaking passes, lakes, cliffs and hillsides before
entering the Mt. Aspiring National Park. Dinner at “The Bath
D A Y T W O : The magnificent Marlborough wine region is House,” a delightful restaurant situated on the shores of Lake
known to produce world-class Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Wakatipu will conclude a perfect day.
Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and more. Vineyards for wine tasting
today may include Foxes Island, Huia, Cloudy Bay, and Fromm. D A Y S E V E N : It is off to wine country today! Imagine
A gourmet winery lunch will be included. A delicious New grapevines planted among beautiful alpine mountains and gorges.
Zealand Style BBQ dinner is scheduled for this evening. Numerous choices today include Amisfield, Peregrine, Felton
Road, Two Paddocks and Mount Difficulty for Pinot Noir with
D A Y T H R E E : En route to Christchurch, experience the lunch. Consider dining at Saffron Restaurant located in nearby
wine region of Waipara. Waipara soil is rich in chalk and historic Arrowtown.
enriched limestone, giving the wines rich, intense full-bodied fla-
vors. Vineyards may include Daniel Schuster, Mount Cass and D A Y E I G H T : Cruise through majestic Milford Sound
Pegasus Bay. fjords. The Maori legend believes that the god, Whanoa, created
this amazing area by uttering incantations. Spend the remainder
D AY F O U R : Tour the English garden city of of the day in this ecological area before returning to Queenstown.
Christchurch with stops at Cathedral Square, Victoria Square, Dinner is at your leisure this evening.
the Avon River, Town Hall, and Floral Clock. After lunch enjoy
high tea at the Sign of the Takahe, a historic building that pro- D A Y N I N E : After breakfast, you will have some free
vides spectacular views that overlook the city, Canterbury Plains time before you are transferred to the Queenstown airport for
and the Southern Alps. Try the George Hotel for dinner at the your journey home.
world-renowned, “Pescatore Restaurant”. Bon Appetit!
D A Y F I V E : The vast Canterbury plains await you today. Other Excursions & Extensions
This is the largest area of flatland in all of New Zealand. You will Cooking Classes for Famous New Zealand Seafood and Beef,
stop at Geraldine, a country village decorated with pretty flower Helicopter Tour & Picnic on a Scenic Mountain, Trek some of
gardens and local craftsmen. Visit the local cheese maker, choco- the most Scenic Trails in the World, Photograph the Fjords,
latier or the internationally recognized Barkers fruit products. Compliment your stay with a SKI Extension.
Stop for lunch along the way, before you continue crossing the
Southern Alps including views of Burkes Pass, MacKenzie Basin,
and the azure colored Lake Tekapo. Mount Cook National park Accommodations Meals
is home to the world-renowned Hermitage Hotel where you will Property, location, style, size Restaurants and meals listed
be staying. and amenities chosen based above are recommendations
on client specifications. only. Wine Tours of the World
handles reservations at top
Pricing restaurants, small intimate
This suggested itinerary is based bistros and gourmet dinners at
on two people traveling togeth- vineyards. Exact meal inclusions
er. A single supplement fee will and dining reservations will be
apply. Cost of itinerary is priced specified at time of booking
based on dates of travel. based on final trip itinerary.
A traveler. I love his title. A traveler is to be reverenced as such. His profession is the best
symbol of our life. Going from-toward; it is the history of every one of us.
[ H E R N R Y D AV I D T H O R E AU ]
[ A U S T R A L I A F A C T ] A u s t r a l i a i s t h e w o r l d ’s l a r g e s t i n h i b i t e d i s l a n d a n d t h e s m a l l e s t c o n t i n e n t .
AU S T R A L I A
TERROIR
A
Australia is a land of unique discoveries and incredible won-
ders. From the Great Barrier Reef, Kangaroo Island, pristine Sydney & New South Wales
beaches, metropolitan cities and the single red rock forma- The spectacular and thrilling city of Sydney is the capital
tion known as Ayers Rock, Australia is a vacation you will of New South Wales. Located on Australia’s southeast coast,
cherish forever. But let us not forget that Australia is home it is Australia’s financial center and has a population of over
to over 1,100 wineries. 4.2 million people. This metropolitan city is well endowed
Australian vintners are exceptionally proud of their with open spaces, and has many natural areas even within
wines. The wineries and wines that are produced are looked the city center. Noted for its beautiful beaches, Sydney hous-
upon as being on the cutting edge, with their dynamic vine- es the third busiest opera company in the world. This iconic
yards and winery practices and techniques. structure has five theatres capable of hosting a range of per-
Australia is the number one exporter of wine to the formance styles. Sydney has an excellent selection of hotels,
United States. Over 60 percent of the wine produced in restaurants, and entertainment options for those who visit,
Australia is white, with the remaining being red and sweet including sporting events, festivals, museums, incredible sites,
wine known as “Stickies.” The leading white premium grape art galleries and shopping.
is Chardonnay, with the novel Semillon a distant second.
Shiraz (also know as the Syrah) and Cabernet are the most
produced and desired red wines. Fifty-eight percent of the
total wines produced in Australia are produced as “bag-in-
the-box” wines. This makes drinking wine easy and accessi-
ble, which is an important part of the everyday lifestyle.
Australians boast that they are number one in per capita
wine consumption, and work intensely at maintaining this
status. Wine blends are also very popular in Australia, with
the largest percentage or leading grape variety listed first on
the label.
AU S T R A L I A
South Australia
South Australia is the largest wine producing state and
has many different and well-known wine districts, producing
the most famous and most expensive wines in all of
Australia. With Adelaide as the center, this wine country
includes the Barossa Valley, Coonawarra, Eden Valley, Clare
Valley, Padthaway and
McLaren Vale. More
than half of all the
wine produced in
Australia comes from
the wine districts of
South Australia, with
Barossa Valley and
Coonawarra being the
most popular districts to
visit. Bold Cabernets
and jammy Shiraz Wine makes daily living easier, less hurried,
wines, such as Penfolds with fewer tensions and more tolerance.
“Grange,” can be tasted
[ BENJAMIN FRANKLIN ]
while visiting this
incredible wine state.
A fair amount of wine-
in-the-box is also pro-
duced in the districts of
South Australia.
The small but elegant city of Adelaide is the capital of South
Australia, and is often referred to as the city of food and
wine. It is a fabulous place to experience culture from the
beautiful white sandy beaches, to its beautiful gardens, build-
ings and parks. Adelaide is the perfect base for your South
Australia wine vacation!
WELCOME TO
SYDNEY
T
The beautiful waterfront city of Sydney is one of the many mals from both the sea and bush communities. Beautiful
great places to begin a wine country vacation. It has a beaches and aquariums are some of the favorite places to
tremendous range of places to visit, things to do and sights to spend time for both the local people and tourists. Enjoy a
see. Embark on a world-class shopping experience and see tour of the great Sydney Opera House, with a performance to
how old meets new, where local meets international, and follow, or climb the spectacular Sydney harbor bridge for a
pick up your favorite designer products, local arts and crafts bird’s eye view of the entire city. Zoos, trips into the wine
and a large variety of specialty items. Enjoy glorious food! country, entertainment centers and any imaginable activity
Sydney caters to those with tastes from around the globe. can be embarked upon when visiting this wonderful city.
From world cuisine and fine dining restaurants, to contempo-
rary eateries, pub fare and cheap eats, you won’t go home
feeling hungry. The city of Sydney invites you to step back
in time and explore the
fascinating history
through images, text,
memories and voices,
museums and historical
exhibitions and more.
Sydney is biologically
diverse with all forms of
life including plant and
animal species, as well as
their genes and ecosys-
tems. Many conservations
and parks are available to
visit, which include ani-
Y O U R W I N E TA S T I N G T R I P P L A N N E R AU S T R A L I A
While creating your upcoming trip “Down Under”, it is important for us to know what inspires you. What are your travel
dreams, trip goals, and experience expectations for your perfect vacation? Sometimes it helps to put your thoughts down on
paper. We have created this guide to help plan the ultimate custom vacation, hand crafted specifically for you and your com-
panions. What are your trip dreams and desires?
S E L E C T A D E S T I N AT I O N ( S )
W H AT A R E Y O U R T R AV E L I N T E R E S T S ?
Email ________________________________ Fax ______________________ No. of Travelers ____ No. of children ____
Traveling with any other couple, group etc.? ________ If so, may we contact them? _______________________________
Bungee Jumping
Challenge the limits of your mind and test the edge of fear by leaping
off a 50 meter rainforest bungee. As you leap over the edge, the
ground hurtles toward you and the air rushes wildly around your body.
And then as if in slow motion, you are headed back up like you are
flying. Once you are safely back on the ground, a wonderful lunch
and Australian wine will help you get “grounded” again. This adven-
ture is adrenaline at its best!
Your individual travel vision is our focus while planning your trip.
Light your candle and ignite your senses on a journey set deep in an
enchanted and magical rainforest. Explore mysteries of time, the rare
indigenous culture and customs, and relax with a bountiful feast of
exotic produce, fine wines and succulent meats and reef fish. Your
evening will include tales and stories of the rainforest, dancing, chant-
ing and Aboriginal music. An evening deep in the heart of the rain-
forest will be soul nurturing, and an experience you will respect and
cherish forever.
Australia by Air
Take your wine vacation to the highest level, touring the many
famous landmarks, rainforests, the Australian outback and bush,
the Great Barrier Reef and more. Enjoy a romantic picnic and
wine tasting as your pilot lands your helicopter in one of
Australia’s vineyards. Or take off to a deserted island, complete
with a five-course meal and an assortment of elegant Australian
wines and sparkling wine. A luxury fleet of aircraft including
helicopters, seaplanes, biplanes and other types of airplanes are
available for you to enjoy a classy and thrilling air adventure.
Australia is the only place in the world where you can cuddle
with a Koala, bounce in a field with kangaroos or feed a baby
Wallaby a bottle of warm milk. The natural bush brings out the
beast in all who visit the many wildlife and conservation parks.
It is the perfect setting for Dingos, reptiles, aviaries and the
beloved Tasmanian Devil. This is a wonderful way to spend part
of a day or even longer. Enjoy the rare and exotic Australian
wild at your own pace.
Victoria is Australia’s southernmost wine region, with each of its wine districts
different in terms of climate, soil and terrain. The Yarra Valley, Geelong and
Mornington Peninsula are among the most renowned districts, producing won-
derful wines such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz.
It is also home to Seppelt Great Western, the biggest sparkling wine operation
in the southern hemisphere. An extended wine vacation to Victoria will not
only enhance your wine knowledge, but will open the door to a whole new
Australian adventure. The fascinating city of Melbourne will be base camp for
you, as you explore its inner city laneways, arcades and find the heart of the
Labyrinth. Discover opulence bars, electric boutiques and fashionable restau-
rants in alleys and behind non-descript doors. After a satisfying day in the
vineyards, visit the Crown Casino, the largest gaming establishment in the
southern hemisphere, or stroll along the historical streets of Swanston, Spring
and Collins. There are endless museums, monuments, beach communities and
shopping plazas. See a parade of penguins as they return to their sand dune
homes at dusk or see over 800 species of butterflies living peacefully among one
another. Come equipped with a real sense of adventure with this authentic
Down Under experience.
Your travel passion and our reservation guidance turn a dream into reality.
Rising off of Northeasten Australia and one of the seven natural won-
ders of the world, lays the Great Barrier Reef. The reef is made up of
over 2,800 individual coral reefs living in harmony among one anoth-
er in the clear, shallow, warm waters of Australia’s tropical seas.
Experience this underwater Eden as you discover hundreds of exotic
species of fish, and an amazing array of sea wildlife living in this great
coral community. It is a sight that cannot be found anywhere else in
the world. Whether you like to snorkel, dive, swim or enjoy the beau-
ty from on top of the water in a glass-bottom boat, kayak or private
yacht, visiting the reef is a vacation within itself. Select a hotel or
beach resort in the nearby towns of Cairns or Port Douglas, both offer-
ing of variety of activities from scrumptious dining options and upbeat
nightlife, to rainforest and natural park excursions. Queensland’s
exotic islands are also at your fingertips. Enjoy a long walk on one of
Green Island’s white sandy beaches, take a catamaran cruise to Lizard
and Dunk Islands, or explore one of the deserted islands for a day with
a lovely bottle of Australian wine and a gourmet picnic, complete
with an umbrella, snorkeling equipment and beach towels. Whatever
it is, we will find the perfect combination that will further add pleas-
ure to your Australian wine adventure.
Fijian Holiday
Bula! Welcom to Fiji…. And the South Pacific. Fijians have warm wel-
coming smiles when you arrive to their island paradise. Nandi will be your first
stop before heading to the Coral Coast.
Fiji romances the mind with peaceful seclusion, crystal clear waters, lush
tropical rainforests, white sandy beaches and intimate places to stay. Consider a
private island stay or a Bure (thatched hut) over the water. Fiji is the perfect
place for a honeymoon, anniversary or a relaxing stopover on your way home from
“Down Under”. The food of Fiji consists of a crafted blend of fresh fish, local
meats, exotic fruits, and vegetables with either an Indian or Asian flare.
With over 350 islands fringed by virgin coral reefs, be sure to keep your
snorkeling equipment nearby. Fiji is an underwater paradise with over 80 species of
soft coral, and is considered a top 10 worldwide diving destination. As a guest in
Fiji, you will be frequently invited to participate in one of the most common cere-
monial and social customs, the Kava drinking ceremony. Kava is the “National
Drink,” and in the past was only drank by island chefs. Let your Wine Tours of the
World representative show you the proper procedure and help you plan your
enchanting South Pacific excursion.
HIGHLIGHTS
•
Begin your vacation with a wel- Perth, the Wines of the Swan
come wine tasting and a fabulous
Valley & Margaret River
V
dinner to follow.
•
Choose from a selected list of
Perth and Margaret River accom- 7 N I G H T S / 8 D AY S
modations, including beach
resorts and rainforest retreats. Visiting Western Australia promises a land of unspoiled beach-
•
Taste exquisite wines aboard a
boat while traveling down the
es, amazing scenery including the dense and alive rainforest,
Swan River. It’s a special excur-
sion that includes a gourmet blue skies and beautiful vineyards and wineries. With Perth as
lunch and live entertainment
• its capital city, your vacation can include visits to art galleries
See the major attractions in Perth
and Fremantle, including and museums that focus on timeless history and culture.
Millionaire Row, major historical
sites and a visit to a local brew- Because of the numerous rivers, many adventures take place via
ery.
•
Enjoy your private tours, tastings
boat. The small town of Margaret River has a mighty reputa-
and winery activities in the Perth
Hills, Swan Valley and Margaret tion for its world-class wines,
River Area.
• extravagant resorts and beach
Experience a winemaker’s lunch
and dinner extravaganza with communities. The superb
regional dishes and reserve wines.
• restaurants and specialty shops,
Take a specialty food tour, with
visits to a local cheese factory, and also the various activities,
olive oil and gourmet food shop,
and chocolate and candy facto-
ries.
make this a perfect Australian
wine experience.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY AU S T R A L I A
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to Perth Australia! Stretch… relax
and get ready for your adventure Down Under. A welcome wine
tasting sets the tone of the trip.
D A Y F I V E : Margaret River is home to over 350 lime- Other Excursions & Extensions
stone caves, some open to the public. You will have a privately Botanical Gardens Tour, Performing Arts Event, Golf/Spa Day,
guided tour through both Jewel and Mammoth caves before your Sailing, Biking, Great Barrier Reef & Queensland.
gourmet box lunch in the beautiful Karri Rainforest. Afternoon
options include yachting, snorkeling or fishing.
Accommodations Meals
Property, location, style, size Restaurants and meals listed
and amenities chosen based above are recommendations
on client specifications. only. Wine Tours of the World
handles reservations at top
Pricing restaurants, small intimate
This suggested itinerary is based bistros and gourmet dinners at
on two people traveling togeth- vineyards. Exact meal inclusions
er. A single supplement fee will and dining reservations will be
apply. Cost of itinerary is priced specified at time of booking
based on dates of travel. based on final trip itinerary.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Koalas, Kangaroos
Find a welcome wine tasting
waiting for you upon arrival in
& Wine from the Vine
T
Sydney.
•
See the famous sites of Sydney 9 N I G H T S / 1 0 D AY S
by private yacht including the
Opera House and Sydney Harbor
where you can take a bridge
This is the land of Koalas, Kookaburras and Kangaroos. Your
climb for a bird’s eye view of the
area. Australian vacation will include hours of viewing both beautiful
•
Learn the history of Adelaide cities and the country, while sipping award winning wines in
with your private guide.
• Sydney, Adelaide and Cairns. Embark on luxury yachts as you
Sip your way through wine coun-
try with private tours in the see the Sydney Harbor and Great Barrier Reef. Your personal
Hunter and Barossa Valleys,
Adelaide Hills and Mclaren Vale.
•
private chef and gracious staff will be at your service and will
Relax among the vines with gour-
met lunches and specialty food satisfy your every need. Enjoy beautiful Adelaide in the heart of
tastings.
• Southern wine country. If it’s a bush baby you long to hold, we
Spot rare, glossy black cockatoos
and sleeping Koalas as you enjoy know right where to take
a bountiful lunch on Kangaroo
Island. Step over sea lions at Seal you. South Australia and
Bay Conservation Park.
•
Take in the panoramic views from New South Wales are rich in
the top of Mount Lofty.
• Aboriginal culture, endless
Cross the Daintree River on your
way to Cape Tribulation in the
Daintree National Park.
art galleries, and beaches.
•
Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef via
your private 62-foot catamaran
equipped with all your favorite
foods and beverages.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY AU S T R A L I A
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Down Under Ready or Not! Check in and
stretch your legs before an optional two hour “get acquainted”
tour of Sydney, Australia’s largest city. Kick back this evening
and enjoy your first wine tasting before dinner. A waterfront din-
ner reservation with breathtaking views of the Sydney Harbor
await you.
D A Y S E V E N : Today’s wineries are located in the
D A Y T W O : Friendly Australian staff will greet you as Barossa Valley. Your first stop will be at the Peter Lehmann
you board the Sydney Harbor luxury cruise tour. See spectacular Estate, where you will have a private vineyard tour and tasting.
harbor view with lunch included. Consider an afternoon adven- We’ll include other winemakers such as Rolf Binder and Dave
ture of the Bridge Climb Tour, for a bird’s eye view over the har- Powell. Lunch will be served at Saltrams, with a private tasting.
bor. This evening you will have a guided tour of the Sydney In the afternoon, you will visit Wolf Blass for a private tasting
Opera House and dinner at “Aria” Restaurant. *Tickets to the and “Make Your Own Blend Tour.” Evening dinner and accom-
opera can be requested depending on availability. modations include the Pepper the Louise Resort.
D A Y T H R E E : Venture into the Hunter Valley wine D A Y E I G H T : Switch gears today to the gorgeous
region today. The region has many sipping splendor options. Adelaide hill country which includes Shaw & Smith and the
Stops include Cypress Lakes Resort, McWilliams Winery, and Handorf Hill winery. Enjoy a private tasting, followed with lunch
Ivanhoe Estates for tasting and lunch. Wine country accommoda- at the famous Bridge Water Mill. The city views are stunning
tions will await you. from the Mount Lofty lookout. The tour continues through
Handorf with a stop at “Udder Delights,” for an educational
D AY F O U R : We hope you slept well. Today is a full cheese tasting. The Cladich Pavilions awaits your check in this
day of wine tasting in the Hunter Valley. Your private tour/tast- evening.
ings include options such as Tullock, Pepper Tree and Bimbadgen
with lunch at the famous Wyndham Estate. Your afternoon will D A Y N I N E : This trip would be incomplete without the
include a cheese and wine pairing or a chocolate tasting. Dinner McLaren Vale region, home to some of Australia’s best wines and
reservations are always in place. wineries. Wineries include Geoff Hardy’s, Wirra Wirra,
D’arenberg and Samuel Gorge for private tastings, lunch and
D A Y F I V E : Off to Adelaide, with a transfer to Sydney olive oil tasting. Back to Adelaide for a quite evening.
and a flight to the Victorian city. A “get acquainted” city tour
and wine tasting at the National Wine Centre are a perfect open- D A Y T E N : After breakfast this morning, meet your guide
er upon arrival. Stop for lunch en route to your hotel. A private in the hotel lobby for your transfer back to Sydney, where you
winery tour and fairy tail dinner at “Penfold’s Magill Estate,” will begin your journey home.
home to Australian Shiraz, will conclude your day.
D A Y S I X : Start off your day with a short air flight to Other Excursions & Extensions
Kangaroo Island, a wonderful ecological adventure. Our enthusi- Australia by Air Tour, Picnic in the Vines, Australia Food Tour,
astic guides have passion for this nature reserve. You can explore Shopping Tour, Visit the Red Center, Fiji Island Stay.
a red gum forest in the Cygnet River Valley while you seek out
koalas sleeping in the forks of trees. Take a walk through the
habitat of Kangaroo Island’s own kangaroos, tammar wallabies Accommodations Meals
and the endangered glossy black cockatoos. Lunch menu items Property, location, style, size Restaurants and meals listed
include local seafood, fresh salads and fine South Australian and amenities chosen based above are recommendations
wines at a private bush location. on client specifications. only. Wine Tours of the World
handles reservations at top
Pricing restaurants, small intimate
This suggested itinerary is based bistros and gourmet dinners at
on two people traveling togeth- vineyards. Exact meal inclusions
er. A single supplement fee will and dining reservations will be
apply. Cost of itinerary is priced specified at time of booking
based on dates of travel. based on final trip itinerary.
O Sparkling and bright in liquid light….does the wine our goblets gleam in;
with hugh as red as the rosy bed…which a bee would choose to dream in.
[ CHARLES FENNO HOFFMAN ]
[ I T A L Y F A C T ] The average life expectancy at birth for an Italian is 79.54 years.
S
Slightly larger in size than Arizona, the long boot shaped peninsula of Italy is
bound by the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic seas, France, Switzerland, Austria, and
Slovenia. Art and poetry, monuments and museums, cathedrals and churches,
basilicas and medieval castles, are all hard to ignore while visiting this beautiful
and mysterious country. Miles of grapevines decorate the rolling hills and coun-
trysides, while picturesque streets and piazzas are found in the cities, villages and
old town squares. Italy is famous for its fashion industry, luxury sports cars, motor-
cycles, beautiful coastlines, lakes, mountains, local pageants, festivals, Italian cui-
sine and VINO!
Italians are very proud of their regional and local cuisine and dishes. They
are also leaders in wine production, exportation and consumption, making it a
must destination for wine lovers. Like breathing, food and wine are a natural
intake within the Italian household. Cooking classes and schools are minutes away
from any Italian destination.
The eternal city of Rome is the country’s capital. Rome was not built in a
day and cannot be seen in a day. There are thousands of sites, walking tours, bus
tours, boutiques, shops, magical sidewalk café’s, exciting nightclubs and fine dining
establishments to uncover. From the arrogant opulence of the Vatican and time-
lessness of the Forum, you will feel the thrill of the turbulent history when visiting
this historical, yet modern city. Buon Viaggio!
[ I T A L Y F A C T ] Italy accounts for the largest number of native vines in the world.
TERROIR
OF I TA LY
S
Salute di Vino Italiano Tuscany, Italian Wine Central
Cheers to Italian wine! With over 400 officially identified No doubt about it, Tuscany is a very important wine
grape varieties that lushly carpet the rolling hillsides of Italy’s region in Italy. It is home of the “Brunello di Montalcino,”
21 wine regions, this boot shaped peninsula is one of the also known as Sangiovese and the super-Tuscan cult wine,
most romantic, diverse, and mysterious wine destinations in “Sassicaia.” Tuscany is considered to be wine central in com-
all of the world. parison to the other Italian wine regions. With the warm
Italian wine is more exciting and sophisticated than ever, coastal Mediterranean climate, and the cool and gentle
with new focus on updating “Old World” wine making ocean breeze, Tuscany is very proud of its eleven wine zones,
philosophies to concentrating on newer advanced technolo- most notably Bolgheri, Carmignano, and Chianti.
gies and viticulture practices. Italy is number one in wine
export and number one in consumption per capita, making
this destination a must for any wine lover. Wine making in
Italy is so natural it almost seems instinctive. Vineyards are
everywhere, and most Italians own their own row or two of
grapevines either for their own personal use, or to be part of a
larger group of elite growers that sell the fruit to local vint-
ners. But what good is Italian wine without Italian food?
Italian cuisine is still considered the number one ethnic food
in America. So whether it’s the beautiful countryside, fasci-
nating history, or food and wine, our Italian wine vacations
will offer something new to discover with each memorable
step along your personalized journey.
I T A LY
Piedmont,
The Land and
The Wine The world is a book, and those who do
While it is fair to not travel read only a page
say that Tuscany can be
[ S T. AU G U S T I N E ]
considered the
Bordeaux of Italy, it is
even more correct to
say that Piedmont is
the Burgundy of Italian
wine. Piedmont is
known as the premier
wine region of Italy
which was created by the Alps. The Nebbiolo grape lives
and thrives in this large mountainous region, and is recog-
nized as the king of the Italian red grapes. Piedmont’s lead-
ing wines are Barolo and Barbaresco. They are made from
this delicate, difficult to grow and produce grape. The wines
from this region are phenomenal and meticulously cared for.
Barbera is the most widely planted grape, creating vibrant but
rustic wines.
[ I T A L Y F A C T ] Tw e n t y p e r c e n t o f I t a l y ’s p o p u l a t i o n i s o v e r 6 5 y e a r s o f a g e .
Friuli-
Venezia
Giulia
Located on
the borders of Slovenia and the Carnic Alps of Austria, you
will find the wine region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. This
northern wine region reflects the history of intertwined alle-
giances and shifting borders. Friuli, named after the ancient
Friulani who first inhabited this area and Venezia Giulia, is
home to some of Italy’s most prestigious white wines, espe-
cially the Tocai Friulano.
The area of Friuli is known to be a very ambitious and
very successful wine region, because of the mixed cultures
and history that lie within the background of the people who
live there. But wine is not the only shining star for those
who live and visit this breathtaking region. Prosciutto from
this area is considered to be the best in all of Italy. The air is
the key and main ingredient for this delectable Italian ham,
which includes the perfect combination of the warm, salty
ocean air that mixes with the cool Alpine air. While travel-
ing through the beautiful countryside, you will find the
Lambrea pig, a massive pig raised for the highest quality of
prosciutto, “Prosciutto di San Daniele.” This area is also a
leader in producing a variety of scrumptious artisan cheeses.
I T A LY
Trentino-Alto Adige
Italy’s northern most wine region is Trentino-Alto Adige.
Beautiful and pristine vineyards lie between the Alpine
region’s narrow valleys. With extreme elevation changes,
some vineyards are located as high as 3,600 feet. The setting
is inspiring with the sheer rock faces of the Alps, and its deep
green valleys. Here you will discover some of the world’s
most breathtaking vineyards. Although hyphenated,
Trentino and Alto Adige are two distinctively different
places. Italian is the primary language spoken in Trentino,
located in the south, while German is the main language of
Alto Adige, located right below Austria. However, even
with the differences in the cultures, there is a strong bond
with one another when it comes to making and producing
fine wines. Chardonnay, Muller-Thurgau, Pinot Grigio,
Pinot Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Trentino-
Alto Adige’s most famous grape, “Teroldego,” are found in
this beautiful alpine region. If you like sparkling wine, this is
the right destination
for you. With the
cooler climate, this is
an ideal place to
grow and produce
world-class sparkling
wine.
During the
month of June on No one realizes how beautiful it is to travel until he
one of the last comes home and rests his head on his, old familiar pillow.
Sundays, you can
[ L I N Y U TA N G ]
experience the
“Festa di Sacro
Cuore” (Day of the
Sacred Heart). Huge
fires are set usually in
the shapes of hearts
or crosses, casting
unforgettable shad-
ows of yellow and
orange over the faces
of the steep vine-
yards. This is a long summertime ritual that began first as a
pagan offering to the sun gods, and later was looked at as a
Christian tribute to Saint John, whose saint’s day coincided
with the summer solstice. Other legends and stories are often
told about this incredible day.
[ I T A L Y F A C T ] T h e i c e c r e a m c o n e w a s i n v e n t e d i n I t a l y.
Emilia-Romagna
Emilia-Romagna is Italy’s most ultimate and important
food region. With Bologna (meaning the fat one), as its cap-
ital, the world’s best Balsamic vinegars and Parmigiano-
Reggiano cheese can be found in this gastronomic wine
region. You must come hungry when you visit this culinary
rich state. The
region’s restaurants
and specialty foods
will definitely be one
of the highlights of
your wine vacation.
One has not lived
until they’ve sam-
pled a piece of per-
fectly aged
Parmigiano- To get away from one’s working environment
Reggiano cheese
is, in a sense, to get away from one’s self”
that has been deli-
[ C H A R L E S H O RT O N C O O L E Y ]
cately dipped in
some of the world’s
most famous Aceto
Balsamico
Tradizionale (bal-
samic vinegar). It is
an explosion of fla-
vor that will not eas-
ily be forgotten. But don’t forget you are also here for the
wine. Taste the Lambrusco, which wine that is very food
friendly and easy to drink. In fact, this is the number one
Italian wine in the United States. While it is not made like
Champagne, it does have a slight fizzy affect on the palate.
However, if it’s fizz that you want, you can also find another
popular wine of the land, the Spumanti wines.
[ I T A L Y F A C T ] Anytime you drink the wine of a particular region, eat the food of the same region.
Umbria
Umbria is the producer of one of Italy’s most well-known
and consumed white wines, Orvieto, a crisp and refreshing
wine made from Trebbiano, Verdello, Grechetto, Drupeggio,
and sometimes Malvasia. Orvieto is not only a superb wine,
but also a beautiful gothic-like medieval town. Umbria’s
serene land is home to Saint Francis of Assisi and Italy’s most
complete wine artifact museums, the “Museo del Vino.” From
cooking classes to world-class chocolate tastings in the quaint
town of Perugia, you will
feel like you left your
heart there and need to
return.
Travel provides you with experiences that will remain
Nancy Nauman
West Palm Beach, FL
Thanks again,
Melody Sattizahn
Denver, CO
Travelers never think that they
Gail Madsen
Denver, CO
[ W I N E F A C T ] T h e a v e r a g e I t a l i a n c o n s u m e s o v e r 2 6 g a l l o n s o f w i n e p e r y e a r.
FLORENCE’S
FINEST
F
Florence, the city of flowers, is also the capital of the Tuscan Versace, Armani and Gucci can be easily found. Antiques,
region. Originally settled by Julius Caesar, Florence is often leather goods, shoes and handbags are sold in stylish bou-
referred to as the “Italian Athens.” It is also home to the Art tiques and open-air markets.
Renaissance movement that inspired many. Art Renaissance The city is also the gateway to Tuscan wine country, and
was a period when the free development of thought, derived day trips can be easily arranged into the Chianti wine region.
by a vision of life, and reality independent from metaphysical Pisa, Siena and the wine towns of Lucca, Montepulciano,
and religious concepts, were expressed in a new manner. Montalcino and San Gimignano, are all within the region.
The Arno River winds through Florence and is the sec- Come once, come often… Florence is the perfect start to a
ond most important river in Italy, next to the Tiber River. ‘once in a lifetime’ Wine Tours of the World custom vacation.
The Ponte Vecchio, noted for its shops and fine jewelers, and
the Santa Trinita bridges, are just two of many historical sites
to see. When visiting Florence, Michelangelo’s David, the
Duomo of Florence, Santa Maria del Fiore and the Uffizi
Gallery, and Palazzo Degli Uffizi are all must see sites.
Florence today has both fine and casual dinning. Wine bars,
known as “enoteche’s,” are
a popular afternoon stop.
Hundreds of Italian wines
can be sampled and are
accompanied by plates of
antipasto and other
regional and local cuisine.
Florence rivals other major
cities of the world for
shopping. Products from
Y O U R W I N E TA S T I N G T R I P P L A N N E R I T A LY
While creating your upcoming trip to Italy, it is important for us to know what inspires you. What are your travel dreams,
trip goals, and experience expectations for your perfect vacation? Sometimes it helps to put your thoughts down on paper.
We have created this guide to help plan the ultimate custom vacation, handcrafted specifically for you and your compan-
ions. What are your trip dreams and desires?
S E L E C T A D E S T I N AT I O N ( S )
W H AT A R E Y O U R T R AV E L I N T E R E S T S ?
Email ________________________________ Fax ______________________ No. of Travelers ____ No. of children ____
Traveling with any other couple, group etc.? ________ If so, may we contact them? _______________________________
This excursion allows you to step into the Italian kitchen. You
and your professional chef will make a wonderful 5-course Italian
meal. You choose the menu! From pastries and breads, pizzas and
pastas or traditional dishes from the Italian garden, you will learn
about the ingredients and the methods used to prepare your
grand feast. You will also be advised on your wine selections for
each course. Then relax and enjoy your feast. Salute!
Wine Tours of the World would like to invite you to enjoy a won-
derful experience in the culture of the Italian land. Get directly
in touch with the ancestral tradition of Parmigiano Reggiano
cheese, the King of Cheese, and other local Italian cheese.
Watch how the cheese is made, how imprints are formed and see
how cheese is salted and placed on their aging shelves. Then
relax and enjoy an elegant glass of wine as you sample the mag-
nificent creations! This excursion is a perfect part of any wine
country day!
Your individual travel vision is our focus while planning your trip.
I T A LY
Drive a Ferrari
Italy is known for more than just great cheese and wine. Italians
are also proud of their Parma hams, aged balsamic vinegar, rustic
breads, homemade pastas, olives, olive oil and fine chocolate.
Take a day to discover the secret ingredients that are hidden in
the pantries of all Italian kitchens. Taste the secrets as you see
how these local regional favorites are processed and stored.
Behind every sample lies a lovely glass of wine!
A fine golf course, like fine wine, must have distinct character, a
good body, and a great finish. Imagine teeing off in the beautiful
rolling hills of the Italian countryside among the beautiful rows
of grapevines. Tuscany, Piedmont, and Sicily are just some of the
areas to pull out a club and set up a golf ball. Golfing in the
microclimates of any wine country is a treat for those who have a
passion for the game.
Your local guide will take you on a pleasant stroll through the
historical center of Rome, where you can admire sites such as the
Trevi Fountain, La Colonna di Marco Aurelio, Palazzo di
Montecitorio, designed by Bernini, the Pantheon (visit inside),
Palazzo Madama - seat of the senate, and Piazza Navona. Passing
alongside Castel S. Angelo, your coach will take you to the
Basilica of St. Peter (visit inside, except when there are religious
celebrations), where you can admire one of Michelangelo's mag-
nificent works of art - La Pieta.
Envision your vacation, let us make it a reality, call today!
Whether your trip to Rome is your first or your fifth, this magnif-
icent city always has history and stories to delight the discerning
traveler. Wine Tours of the World hand picks a guide with tour cre-
dentials to match your personal interests for your half-day or full-
day private tour. Your day may include the vineyards just outside
the city proper or specific hard to find historical sites. They may
include local neighborhoods few tourists see, the Tiber River, cat-
acombs under the city, or hidden castles. You select the topic,
we’ll handle the rest!
Your day begins with a short drive past Piazza della Repubblica
with the Fountain of the Nayads, and the beautiful Piazza
Barberini with Bernini's Baroque Tritone Fountain. Upon arrival
at St. Peter's Square, you will pass the impressive Castel S.
Angelo, the ancient tomb of Emperor Hadrian. Next, you will
attend a Papal Audience in Rome to see Pope Benedict XVI.
Wine Tours of the World handles the tickets and secures your
reservation. The audience takes place in St. Peter's Square, St.
Peter's Basilica or the Audience Hall.
Discover some of the famous monuments of the Eternal City in the romantic
atmosphere of past times. Some of the sites you pass will include The Fountain of
the Nayads, the Exhibition Palace, Piazza Venezia with its Tomb to the Unknown
Soldier, and the Capitoline Hill. Take a glimpse of the Imperial Roman Age as
you drive by, and admire the Roman Forum, the Colosseum and Arch of
Constantine, and the Circus Maximus. Leap into the Papal Era when driving
along the banks of the Tiber, here you will see the Jewish Quarter, complete with
the synagogue and the imposing Castel Sant'Angelo, which heralds your approach
to St. Peter's. Set in the ancient Aurelian Walls that frame part of the Villa
Borghese Park you will see some of the most beautiful gateways in Rome; Porta
Flaminia, through which you can admire the Piazza del Popolo, and Porta
Pinciana through which you reach the famous Via Veneto, the symbol of "la dolce
vita" (the sweet life) in Rome. There will be two stops on your tour, the first, at
Piazza Navona, to discover Bernini's beautiful Fountain of the Four Rivers, and
the second at the Trevi Fountain, where you can maintain the tradition of throw-
ing coins into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome in the future. You can
choose to include dinner with the tour to round out the evening experience.
Head south from Rome to the Naples & Pompeii region to discover the
most symbolic regions of southern Italy. Begin on the “Highway of the
Sun,” and "Castelli Romani" (Castles of Rome). See the Abbey of Monte
Cassino, famous for its battle and complete destruction during the Second
World War. Enjoy the views of Naples from the hill of Posillipo, including
spectacular views of the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius, which erupt-
ed in AD79. Visit the ancient fishing quarter of Santa Lucia and see the
impressive Castel dell'Ovo (Egg Castle) for a photo stop. Next, you will
cross the valley of Mount Vesuvius, passing through the villages of
Ercolano (Herculaneum), Torre del Greco and Torre Annunziata before
arriving in Pompeii for a lunch stop. Enjoy a guided two-hour walking
tour of the ancient city of Pompeii, as you explore the ancient ruins buried
in ashes after Mount Vesuvius erupted. Discover the everyday life of the
Imperial Age, and imagine the panic felt by the people in those last few
minutes before the city was so disastrously buried. After the walking tour
of Pompeii, stop at the Coral and Cameo Factory, where you will have the
opportunity to admire and purchase items of this ancient craft that dates
back to the Greek period. Choose to return to Rome, or Wine Tours of the
World will organize your hotel for the evening.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Magnificent Milan,
Walking tour of fashion-forward
Milano, the style and fashion cap-
The Lakes & Piedmont Grapes
N
ital of Europe.
•
Lake District Region that includes 9 N I G H T S / 1 0 D AY S
the Italian-Swiss border, Lake
Garda, the walled hilltop village
of Bergamo, the cobbled street
Northern Italy has a plethora to offer any wanderlust per-
villages of Riva, and Malcesine.
• son who has a curiosity for the region near the Italian &
Italian wine tastings of Barolo,
Barbaresco, Nebbiolo, Roero, Swiss border. This mountainous region is home to one of
Barbera, Dolcetto and Arneis.
• the most famous lake regions of the world, Lake Como.
Castello Sforzesco, a Visconti
fortress redesigned by Leonardo Other picturesque lakes in the region include Lake Garda
da Vinci, now an incredible art
museum. Also visit the Duomo,
the fourth largest cathedral in the
and Lake Lugano. City splendor also resides in the region
world.
• with stops in Milan and Torino. The wines of northern
Lapis Gold Factory in Marco,
Lugano Lake two-hour scenic Italy have world recognition. Your itinerary is carefully
boat Tour, a Tour of Underground
Torino, Wine Bank Tour in crafted to include daily sipping
Pollenzo and White Truffle Tasting
in Alba. splendors of the wine varietals
•
Learn about the historical and from this region while exploring
current viticulture methods, vinifi-
cation practices, producers and
styles, and DOC and DOCG
quaint vineyards, delightful
boundaries and regulations.
• northern Italian cuisine and best
Learn about the Italian wine
labels as you sip your way of all, castle accommodations.
through spectacular wines.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY I T A LY
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to Italy! This evening you will
have your first Italian wine tasting and northern Italian welcome
dinner.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Sunny Sicily
Welcome wine tasting and dinner
with traditional Sicilian food and
The Wine Island
P
regional wines.
•
Orientation and private city tour 7 N I G H T S / 8 D AY S
of Palermo. The city is an exotic
mixture of Moorish, Norman and
Spanish Baroque styles makes this
Palermo is rich with monuments and royal palaces, amidst
a special city.
• the bustle of the 21st-century lifestyle. The wine enthusi-
Personal Sicilian cooking class
and lunch paired to perfection ast will enjoy a first full day of wine tasting in the Palermo
with the wine of the vineyard.
• city limits. Catania, another Sicilian city, is famous for pot-
Olive oil factory tour including
lesson in how olive oil is made. tery, lava stone works and the Napoli family puppets. The
Sample a variety of blends, fla-
vored and extra virgin olive oils as
well as fresh olives.
village of Taormina has breathtaking views because of its
•
Wine tasting in Marsala, Italy’s location 200 meters above sea level, overlooking the
largest contiguous grape growing
region. Ionian Sea. Over the centuries, Taormina has fascinated
•
Private tours of Catania and wretched poets, writers and rest-
Taormina. Shop for treasures and
trinkets such as pottery, lava less painters who decided to put
stone works and the Napoli fami-
ly puppets in Catania. down roots here. Some pilgrams
•
Mount Etna tour at approximate-
ly 3350 meters; Europe's highest
were inspired by the beauty, oth-
active volcano. The height of its
summit changes with each erup- ers by the unique, refreshing cli-
tion, and over the centuries a few
lava flows have reached the mate that makes it seem like it is
coast.
always springtime. Salute!
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY I T A LY
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to the warm, beautiful, and pleas-
ant island of Sicily! Start your orientation with a two-hour city
tour of Palermo. The exotic mixture of Moorish, Norman and
Spanish Baroque styles makes this city special. Your guide will
point out tucked-away churches and lively street markets, where
innumerable reminders of history are woven within the modern
city splendor. Your hotel will welcome you with a wine tasting
and dinner.
HIGHLIGHTS
•
Tuscany is rich in culture, art and Classico Tuscany
culinary creations. Artists from
& Umbria Hill Country
F
around the globe never tire of
depicting this country splendor
on a canvas.
• 7 N I G H T S / 8 D AY S
Time in Florence including a
walking tour by night. Florence by night, is one of the most romantic cities in the
•
Private wine lunches, dinners,
and food pairings throughout the
world. As evening light softens, bustling shoppers head
hill country of Chianti,
Montepulciano, Montalcino and toward popular cafés and bistros. The café door-fronts dis-
Umbria.
• play inviting menus for the passersby to review, while the
Enjoy time in the medieval walled
cities of Siena and Orvieto. chef’s entrees of the day spill aroma onto the cobblestone
•
Italian cooking class and wine streets. Preparation of food is the life blood of all Italians.
seminar with personal chef and
sommelier.
•
The wine regions of Chianti, Montepulciano and
Meet the locals while strolling
Assisi during your private tour. Montalcino consist of rolling coun-
•
Enjoy the local Italian foods try hills with hidden jewels around
including olive oil, balsamic vine-
gar, prosciutto and homemade every bend. The villages of Siena
pastas.
• and Orvieto, with their walled
Wine, Wine, and more Wine
throughout one of the most pic- cities, invite the mind to remem-
turesque regions of Italy.
•
En route to prearranged wine
ber centuries past. The visual beau-
tastings, drive through hillside vil-
lages, past secluded villas that are ty of these Italian regions lures
framed by olive groves and vine-
yards. travelers from around the world.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY I T A LY
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Transfer from the airport to your hotel over-
looking the Arno River, in the heart of Florence. Your afternoon
starts with your first Italian wine tasting paired with a wonderful
assortment of fresh Italian cheese. Then enjoy a walking tour of
Florence in the evening, by a dinner reservation at Ristorante La
Loggia. The restaurant is known for their hand-made pasta dishes
and incredible views of the city skyline.
HIGHLIGHTS
• A Toast in Tuscany
Rome Welcome Wine Tasting
with Italian antipasto.
8 N I G H T S / 9 D AY S
F
•
Enjoy an elegant family owned
farmhouse. From Rome, head north through beautiful rolling hills dot-
•
Roman castle tour with gourmet ted with medieval villages and castles of Tuscany. Tuscany
lunch with wine tasting and an
enchanting Twilight Night tour of is all about wine, romance and a picturesque place to vaca-
Rome.
• tion. The wines have been praised by many for years, with
Tuscany wine tastings including,
Montepulciano wine region and
the sought after Brunello
favorites such as the Brunello di Montalcino and the
(Sangiovese) wines.
• Super-Tuscans. Relax as you play a round of golf or enjoy
Local specialty foods are so deli-
cious! Sample fine Italian choco- a spa treatment. Shopping, chocolate tasting and cooking
late and aged balsamic vinegar
and Parmesano Reggiano, schools are just a few of the activities to choose from. The
cheese.
• way to an Italian’s heart is through the joys of eating. You
Learn the secrets of Italian cook-
ing with your personal chef.
Sienna is the perfect spot to take
will sample mouth watering
a culinary arts class.
• Italian meals and Parmesan
See an authentic leather factory,
while enjoying a day of shopping. cheese. The Art Renaissance city
Tour Florence by night with an in-
depth Art Renaissance tour. of Florence, rich in art, fashion
•
Personalized dinner reservations and culture, is where you will
made at top restaurants in all
tour locations. You will also be conclude this trip. Tuscany is a
treated to a family-style farm-
house dinner and a farewell
winemaker’s dinner. Salute!
dream destination for many.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY I T A LY
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to Italy! Get ready to begin your
Rome orientation with a city tour in late afternoon. This
evening will be your first private wine tasting with some of Italy’s
most exquisite wines.
D A Y F I V E : Today is filled with food and fun at an D A Y N I N E : This is the last chance for souvenirs before
Italian cooking class. Wine Tours of the World has arranged a per- departure. See you again!
sonal cooking class in one of Siena’s top culinary schools. Learn
how to shop, prepare and present a full Italian meal. Today you
will also be treated to a special tasting of Italian balsamic vine- Other Excursions & Extensions
gars. Taste the sweet and delicious aged vinegar that will be Cave Tour, Spa / Wellness Day, Day of Antiquing, Golf the Hills
accompanied with Italy’s own Parmesano Reggiano cheese. En of Tuscany, Painting/Art Class, Extend to Liguria on the
route to the farmhouse, you will stop in Palio, home of one of Northern Coast.
Italy’s oldest horse racing events. Wander through the streets of
this quaint and historical 11th century village. Choose to dine on
property or venture out to a local restaurant in Palio or Siena. Accommodations Meals
Property, location, style, size Restaurants and meals listed
and amenities chosen based above are recommendations
on client specifications. only. Wine Tours of the World
handles reservations at top
Pricing restaurants, small intimate
This suggested itinerary is based bistros and gourmet dinners at
on two people traveling togeth- vineyards. Exact meal inclusions
er. A single supplement fee will and dining reservations will be
apply. Cost of itinerary is priced specified at time of booking
based on dates of travel. based on final trip itinerary.
HIGHLIGHTS
T
•
Shop for local arts and crafts and
regional food items as you enjoy The wine regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige and
free time to explore the unique
shops and open-air markets. Fruili-Venezia Giulia, create what is referred to as the Tre
•
Board a boat bound for the Venezie, Italy’s most northern wine region. This alpine
Venetian Islands including
Murano, Burano and Torcello. region has sheer cliffs and valleys filled with row after row
•
Scrumptious winery lunches
served family style and winemak-
of grapevines. Italy’s most important wine event, Primavera
er’s dinners accompanied with
the brilliant wines of the Tre del Processo, is held in Venice annually. Lesser know
Venezie.
• grapes are found here. Northern Italian cuisine is heavily
Private wine tours and tastings in
the Northern Italian alpine wine influenced by the surrounding countries of Switzerland and
regions of Trentino, Alto Adige,
and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Austria. The unspoiled beauty is like walking into a scene
•
Stay in a beautiful Tyrolean-style
hotel situated in the southern
from “Heidi,” with the Dolomites
Dolomites. Spa treatment includ-
ed. and Alps as giant, silent back-
•
Discover the secrets of Northern drops. There is no other world-
Italian cuisine as you listen and
learn how to prepare regional class wine region in the world as
dishes with your private
chef/sommelier. dynamic as the surrounding areas
•
Step into the quaint homes of of Tre Venezie.
the well-known lovers, Romeo
and Juliette when visiting the
town of Verona.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY I T A LY
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Arrive in Venice! Begin with a 1-½ hour
private boat tour of the Grand Canal and the minor canals of
Venice, the city built on water. Sip on sparkling Prosecco and
other selected wines as the magic of Venice comes alive. This
evening is a welcome dinner at the hotel.
Here with a Loaf of Bread beneath the Bough, A Flask of Wine, a Book of Verse – and Thou,
Beside me singing in the Wilderness – And Wilderness is Paradise enow.
[ O M A R K H AY YA M ]
[ C H I L E F A C T ] The best Chilean wines are produced between 30 and 40 degrees south latitude.
T
This narrow 1,800 mile long country is located between the intense Andes and the
Pacific Ocean, creating a delightful and pleasant Mediterranean climate.
Landscaped with meandering rugged rivers, peaceful lakes, majestic mountains,
rolling hills, meadows, an unforgiving desert and a beautiful coast line, Chile is a
land of plenty. Santiago is a sophisticated city with a strong free market economy
and modern tourist facilities. The people are proud, and as a result, their litera-
ture, music, dance and cuisine have strong influences of culture from both the past
and present. Patagonia is located on Chile’s southern tip. Patagonia is a remark-
able destination for travelers with eco-adventure tourism in their sites. Punta
Arenas, the southernmost city in the world, sits slightly above the straight of
Magellan, the most important natural sea passage linking the Pacific and Atlantic
Oceans. Chile also includes a wonderland of islands, including Easter Island,
Robinson Crusoe Island and Tierra del Fuego, which is shared between Argentina
and Chile. When traveling to Chile, it is important not to forget the accolades
and accomplishments of their wine industry. The luscious and value-packed wines,
combined with the land’s diverse characteristics, will put a new perspective into a
wine vacation.
[ W I N E F A C T ] A large part of the best Chilean wine is sold outside of Chile.
THE TERROIR
OF CHILE
T
The first grapevines arrived in Chile with the Spanish Antarctica ice lying south of the wine country. However,
explorers during the 16th century. But during the mid-nine- these formidable natural boundaries created the perfect
teenth century, it was the French that had the biggest influ- Mediterranean climate and one of the most dynamic wine
ence over the Chilean wine industry, importing Bordeaux regions in the world of wine. The narrowest point is only
grapes and planting mostly Cabernet Sauvignon. For most 96 miles wide, but some of the most expensive grapes are
of the twentieth century, Chilean wine was unexceptional grown here. Snow fall from the harsh Andes winters creates
and labeled as ordinary, cheap wine. The country’s unstable the perfect irrigation system. The warm, dry sunny days and
politics and high taxes in the marketplace only increased the the cool nights allow the skins of the grapes to thicken, cre-
industry’s dismal outlook. Grape growers and winemakers ating incredible concentrated fruit. Today, Chile is consid-
lost the ambition that was needed to turn things around. In ered one of the five major wine regions of the world and is
the 1980’s, with vast changes in the political, economic and
social climates, Chile became the new Bordeaux. Its winery
and vineyard practices were modified, updated, and greatly
improved. This was the beginning of the Chilean wine
boom.
The wine
country is locked
within the massive
Andes Mountains
to the east, the
Pacific Ocean to
the west, and the
Atacama Desert
north with frozen
masses of
CHILE & ARGENTINA
WELCOME TO
SANTIAGO
F
From anywhere you stand in Santiago the bold Andean the guards at one of Santiago’s government palaces. Or
mountain range can be seen. Because of its prime location, it spend some time shopping for souvenirs at one of many local
is the only city in Chile that has easy access to both ski and markets that offer a large variety of arts and crafts, and other
beach resorts. Numerous villages surround the city center and local handcrafted products.
are great places to relax and enjoy the peaceful, tranquil
countryside. Santiago feels like a city going through a mas-
sive makeover with huge new office towers, subway routes
and highway infrastructure being built. It is a bit of a hodge-
podge with areas of old neighborhoods still in rubble due to a
succession of earthquakes that took place in the 60’s and 70’s.
Santiago is a great base for trips into the wine region, and is a
good introduction to the country, offering a pleasing choice
of museums, restaurants, nightlife, markets and historical
monuments, churches and cathedrals. Some of the must see
sites include San Cristobal, where panoramic views of the
entire city can be seen,
and the Mercado Central,
a place where you can
sample the local and
regional foods of Chile.
Consider having a fresh
seafood lunch that
includes a bucket of clams
or mussels. You can also
witness the changing of
CHILE & ARGENTINA
Colchagua Museum
We want the finest wines available to humanity, we want them here, and we want them now!
[ W I T H N A I L , P L AY E D B Y R I C H A R D E G R A N T I N W I T H N A I L A N D I ( 1 9 8 7 ) ]
[ W I N E F A C T ] Argentina ranks fifth in wine-producing countries world-wide.
A
Argentina’s subtropical climate in the north, and the sub-Antarctic climate in the
south, are just some of the special ingredients for an adventurous and exciting
South American wine vacation. It is a melting pot of culture from the many who
settled here, especially those with European decent such as the Irish, Basque,
German, French and Italians. Despite the heavy European influence, the Spanish
language is widely spoken throughout the country, and it is a land influenced by
Latin art and culture. Wider than Chile, but similar in length, the major cities of
Mendoza and Santiago are separated by the giant Andes. The city of Mendoza is
the heart of the Argentine wine country, while Buenos Aires is considered to be
the Paris of Latin America. The sensual dance of the Tango is found throughout
the country, Malbec is the favorite wine, and beef is what’s for dinner. Argentina
is a country of picture perfect lakes, mountains, and grapevines, with the famous
Iguazu Falls and the magical land of Patagonia located at its southern tip.
Argentina has posh beach, golf and spa resorts, and a huge variety of restaurants,
bars and nightclubs. This country is a destination loved by all who visit; the adren-
aline junkies to literature buffs, and those just looking for a relaxing vacation
infused with beautiful scenery.
[ W I N E F A C T ] The words, El Vino Es Vida (Wine is Life) is often found carved in oak barrels.
ARGENTINA
TERROIR
I
It is believed that during the mid-16th century, Argentina’s some of the highest elevation vineyards in the world. With
first grapevines were planted by Jesuit missionaries. But it an average of 320 days of sunlight per year and a semi-desert
was the successive waves of immigrants from wine-producing like climate, this area is a near perfect grape growing climate.
countries during the 19th and 20th centuries that shaped the The four major wine regions in Argentina are Mendoza,
industry of today. When the railroad connecting Mendoza San Juan, La Rioja and Salta. There are two smaller districts
with Buenos Aires was built, a market for wine opened up, in the northernmost part of the country, Jujuy and
which led to a massive expansion of vineyards. But the Catamarca, which is located near Salta. In the south, the
country’s serious political issues created obstacles for the wine coolest region is Rio Negro.
industry and the country fell behind in key advancements
and improvements in their viticulture and winery practices.
It has only been since the mid-1990’s that Argentina
began to develop a fine wine industry. Most of the wines
before this time
period were blends,
and to the surprise
of many, were
mostly consumed
domestically.
Argentina’s
wine regions are in
the west-central
part of the country,
which backs-up to
the foothills of the
Andes, creating
CHILE & ARGENTINA
WELCOME TO
BUENOS AIRES
B
Buenos Aires is the capital city of Argentina. This seductive Next, have lunch at one of the many Argentine cafés and
port city has been the gateway to Argentina for hundreds of take a walk through the beautiful green and flowered gardens
years with, one-third of the Argentinian people living here. in the Palermo. Your day would not be complete without
It is a mixture of multi-national citizens, all boasting their taking a chance in a Tango bar, where locals are happy to
own uniqueness against a backdrop of Latin fusion. Buenos give a quick dance lesson. Finally, the way to end a perfect
Aires has a world-class opera house, modern sky scrapers, day is to take a stroll down the slope to Puerto Madero, con-
Tango bars and unique neighborhoods, each with their own tinuing along the lit-up docks past the beautiful Puente de la
individual architectural style, color and character. The list of Mujer.
attractions is long, with a variety of night clubs, bars and
restaurants. The city center is a meeting place for business,
industry and government. A historical walking tour is rec-
ommended, which will leave you with an understanding of
its working class people and
ways of governing. If you
have only one day to spend
in this fast-passed city, you
may want to begin walk-
ing down Avenida de
Mayo, taking in the beau-
tiful turn of the century
art-nouveau. Then jump
on the subway to the
amazing Palacio Barolo
building, once the tallest
building in Latin America.
CHILE & ARGENTINA
WELCOME TO
MENDOZA
N
Nestled in the foothills of the Andes, Mendoza is a short With the on-going devaluation of the Argentine Peso, the
plane ride from Santiago and is the heart of the Argentine value in visiting Mendoza is great. Feast on high-quality
wine country. With views of snow-capped Aconcagua, Latin food, wine and art as you enjoy the culture, scenery and the
America’s highest mountain, Mendoza and its surroundings diverse climate. In the winter months, there is no better
are becoming a favorite destination, especially for those who place to take a wine and ski vacation. It’s the perfect way to
love good wine and a beautiful countryside. As a conven- ski intense mountainous slopes and sip the amazing red wines
ient base for those visiting wine country, visitors can happily of Argentina as you warm by a romantic fireplace at night.
fill their days with delicious meals in cozy restaurants, take
cooking classes or learn about local art and culture in the
many museums, craft fairs and galleries. Exploring the majes-
tic Andes landscape can bring hours of luxuriating time spent
in spas, beautiful parks, or people watching. Mendoza is
home to many famous winemakers and is a perfect group des-
tination. The forested park, with a zoo and an amphitheater,
is a great place to visit and relax among the vegetation and
zoo critters. It is also
the site of many local
events including the
wine harvest festival.
Mendoza and its sur-
rounding areas are
full with cultural and
historical monuments
and other grand
sightseeing spots.
CHILE & ARGENTINA
Y O U R W I N E TA S T I N G T R I P P L A N N E R
While creating your upcoming trip to either Chile or Argentina, it is important for us to know what inspires you. What
are your travel dreams, trip goals, and experience expectations for your perfect vacation? Sometimes it helps to put your
thoughts down on paper. We have created this guide to help plan the ultimate custom vacation, hand crafted specifical-
ly for you and your companions. What are your trip dreams and desires?
S E L E C T A D E S T I N AT I O N ( S )
W H AT A R E Y O U R T R AV E L I N T E R E S T S ?
Email ________________________________ Fax ______________________ No. of Travelers ____ No. of children ____
Traveling with any other couple, group etc.? ________ If so, may we contact them? _______________________________
Atacama Desert
Running from the Pacific Ocean to the Andes Mountain Range in northern
Chile, The Atacama Desert is the driest place on earth. Mind boggling to sci-
entists, this is one of the few places with no measurable rainfall. It is virtually
lifeless and moon-like in appearance. Astronomers flock here to observe the
clear and uninterrupted skies. There are over a million people who live in
Atacama’s coastal cities, fishing villages and oasis towns. The natural phenome-
na of the Atacama Desert is a tressure to see and explore. The unique desert vil-
lage of San Pedro has excellent hotels and wonderful places to eat. It also con-
tains many art galleries, museums, good street music and is near Devil’s Gulch, a
great place to hike. The Valley of the Moon is filled with unusual geologic for-
mations with brilliant colors, and the Salt Flats are picturesque with their snow-
caped volcanoes and blue mountain lakes. The coastal cities have miles of
deserted beaches with very active tide pools, tasty seafood restaurants and even
a five-star hotel and casino. You can even visit a copper mine if you wish. The
many natural wonders including exotic cactus, wildlife, flamingos and wild flow-
ers make the Atacama Desert a perfect place for an extended wine vacation.
Chile’s Lake District stretches for 210 miles south from Temuco, until
the land starts to disintegrate into the archipelago of Chile, just below
Puerto Montt. The scenery is stunning, with lush farmland, dense
forests, volcanoes, and of course, lakes. There are twelve major lakes
with dozens more that dot the landscape. The capital of the Lake
District is Puerto Montt, and is the perfect place to begin a lake vaca-
tion. There are endless towns, resorts, year-round sports, outdoor
adventures, traditional folklore, arts and crafts. Explore the rainforest
in Alerce National Park, watch molten lava escape from a live vol-
cano, visit beautiful waterfalls, or discover the monkey-puzzle trees,
which are unusual conifer trees native to the land. Enjoy one of the
many wonderful places to stay with, lakehouses and ocean resorts as
options. Dine in fine restaurants or read a book in one of the most
peaceful areas in all of Chile. It is a great place to bird and animal
watch, both along the coast and on the lakes. Walk, hike, boat,
explore museums or simply relax. Before you head for home, let a
Wine Tours of the World expert help you plan the ultimate wine vaca-
tion extension trip.
Your travel passion and our reservation guidance turn a dream into reality.
CHILE & ARGENTINA
Consider a trip to the city of Punta Arenas at the southernmost point of Patagonia
on the Chilean side. From Punta Arenas, drive north through the Patagonia out-
back to the Torres del Paine Park, declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in
1978. This geological rock outcrop has been photographed by many from around
the world. Those who travel to Patagonia find excellent trekking, biking, canoe-
ing, kayaking, river rafting, canyoning, fishing, horseback riding, whale and pen-
guin watching and mountain climbing. Your Patagonia extension trip can either
begin in Punta Arenas, Chile or Bariloche, Argentina. You will be whisked away
by a private guide to a luxurious resort where you can relax and still enjoy the
wines of South America. Enjoy Patagonia for a few nights or spend a week. Enjoy
the natural and cultural environment of the remote regions at the southernmost
tip of South America. This is an ultimate location for a Latin American OutBack
Experience.
Iguassu Falls
Located between Brazil and Argentina, Iguassu Falls is taller and wider
than Niagara, and is surrounded by a dense tropical forest complete with
squawking parakeets and monkeys swinging from trees. The quaint town
of Iguazu, on the Argentina side of the falls, is a wonderful place to begin
your adventure. You will have a personal guide assist you with boat trips,
nature walks and guide you through the park. Your accommodations are
in the park, so you can hear the sounds of the wild at night. The walk to
“Garganta del Diablo,” is worth the trip, as it is the largest and most
impressive waterfall. Your guide will also take you for a short trip to the
Brazil side of the falls for a different view. We can also arrange a delightful
shopping spree in Uruguay. There are several footbridges and paths to
take leisurely walks and identify hundreds of species of butterflies. Golf
and spa resorts are also available while visiting this world wonder. There
are museums, local arts and crafts, and amazing places to experience the
foods of both Argentina and Brazil. Let this natural spectacle be the per-
fect way to begin your Argentina wine vacation.
HIGHLIGHTS
•
Meet your personal Wine Tours Argentina Wine Escape
of the World guide upon arrival
W
at the Mendoza airport, who will
7 N I G H T S / 8 D AY S
assist you with all your needs
during the duration of your
Argentina wine vacation. With nearly 40 million people, Argentina is a land with a
•
Find a welcome wine tasting and diverse population. The North Country is rich in culture,
wine maker’s dinner at a presti-
gious Mendoza winery. This is a natural beauty, and villagers who honor their Andean roots
perfect way to relax and welcome
you into wine country. living in the rainforests. At the edge of Rio de la Plata, is
•
Enjoy your private winery tour, Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital. The dusty central plains
tasting, and vineyard activities in
Mendoza and the surrounding
area’s award winning wineries.
are home to the Gauchos, who keep busy herding the
•
See Mendoza’s Parque General famous Argentinian cattle. On the western border are the
San Martin, including a tour of
historical Mendoza visiting the prized vineyards, producing the world’s finest Malbec.
past and present.
• And the south is home to innumerable penguins, whales
Fly to metropolitan Buenos Aires
for a wonderful city tour, shop- and sea lions, living on the
ping spree and colorful neighbor-
hood tour.
•
Atlantic coastline of Patagonia.
Spend a day at an authentic
Estancia, where you will be treat- This outdoor amusement park is
ed to a fabulous Argentinean
BBQ prepared just for you. You the end of the world and contin-
will also see a horse and dance
show, and will be able to ride the ues to tempt visitors with crystal
beautiful horses, if you wish.
blue mountain lakes, towering
glaciers and white powdery snow.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY CHILE & ARGENTINA
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to Mendoza. Unpack and rest
before your first evening dinner and Argentinian wine tasting.
D A Y S I X : It’s off to Buenos Aires today. A city tour is D A Y E I G H T : After breakfast, you will have some time
to gather your luggage before your transfer back to the Buenos
scheduled, which includes the historic Plaza de Mayo, Casa
Aires airport, where you will catch a flight home.
Rosada, and Teatro Colon. The neighborhoods of Buenos Aires
are wonderful and very unique from one another, each boasting
their own architectural style and design.
Other Excursions & Extensions
Tango Dance Lessons, Fall Wine Crush, Bike Wine Country,
D A Y S E V E N : You will begin the day in the glamorous
Venture south into Argentina Patagonia, Iguassu Falls is a magi-
and wealthy neighborhood of Palermo, decorated with exquisite
cal extension.
homes and gardens. Then you will stop at “La Recoleta,” a mar-
velous shopping area with intimate cafes, clubs and specialty bou-
tiques. You will have lunch before heading to the Recoleta ceme-
tery, where you will find the grave of Eva Peron. You will have
Accommodations Meals
Property, location, style, size Restaurants and meals listed
the remainder of the day to shop and explore this exciting area. and amenities chosen based above are recommendations
Don’t forget to stop in at one of the local leather shop for custom on client specifications. only. Wine Tours of the World
clothing and jackets. Your guide is available to assist you with handles reservations at top
dinner recommendations in the area. Pricing restaurants, small intimate
This suggested itinerary is based bistros and gourmet dinners at
on two people traveling togeth- vineyards. Exact meal inclusions
er. A single supplement fee will and dining reservations will be
apply. Cost of itinerary is priced specified at time of booking
based on dates of travel. based on final trip itinerary.
HIGHLIGHTS
C
Chilean wine vacation, to assure
you all the excitement of explor-
ing a new city with the comforts Chile is Latin America’s most stable and prosperous nation.
and safety of home.
• Extending down South American’s west coast, it is home to
Pick the accommodations that
are right for you. Choose from the Atacama Desert, Torres del Paine and stormy Cape
quaint winery cottages, beautiful
outdoor lodging or luxury golf, Horn. It sits between the world’s deepest ocean and
spa and city resorts.
•
Take in the sites of Santiago,
longest mountain range with beautiful lakes, rivers, majes-
learning its history along the way,
ending with a welcome wine tic mountains, fjords and miles of coastline. It
tasting and dinner.
• is a playground for the outdoor adventurer and
Enjoy the coastal cities of
Valparaiso and Vina del Mar for a haven for the art lover. The sophisticated
amazing sightseeing and touring.
• city of Santiago is the country’s heartbeat.
Search for the perfect souvenirs
to bring home with you on a
magical shopping and art tour.
Chileans are proud of their culture including
•
Indulge in a beach resort spa art, music, cuisine and wine. It has hundreds
treatment as you sip the fine
wines of the country. of museums, historical and government build-
•
Trace the footsteps of Chile’s ings, international restaurants, a variety of
noble laureate of literature, Pablo
Nerude. sports and entertainment, specialty shops, and
•
Find all your winery tours, tast-
ings and activities private and great nightlife. A long list of accommoda-
customized for you.
tions ensures that perfect wine vacation.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY CHILE & ARGENTINA
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Upon arrival, a representative from Wine
Tours of the World will meet you for a transfer to your hotel. In
the afternoon, you will have a Bohemian lunch in the neighbor-
hood of Bellavista. Other sites today will include visits to the
1800’s neighborhood of Yungay, known as “The Llano de
Portales,” Plaza Brazil, Mercado Central, Plaza de Armas and La
Moneda. At sunset, you will see panoramic views of the city
from San Cristobal, where you can take photos of the Virgen de D A Y F I V E : It’s back on the wine road today, with more
las Inmaculada. Back at the hotel, you will find a welcome wine private tours and tastings in the Colchagua Valley. Your day will
tasting and dinner waiting for you. include a winery lunch and a wine-blending seminar. Dinner this
evening is at your leisure.
D A Y T W O : This is your first full day of wine tasting,
Chilean style. You will taste the wines from the Maipo Valley, D A Y S I X : On the way back to Santiago, you will find
including the much talked about Cabernet Sauvignons. You will the wines of Concha y Torro waiting for you. Your winery experi-
have four private tours and tastings today in the best Maipo ence will include a marvelous lunch. Next you will visit Casa
wineries. A food and wine pairing, as well as lunch, will be Marin Winery, before arriving in Santiago. Your guide is avail-
included. This evening, dinner is at “El Madronal,” one of able to assist you with dinner reservations this evening.
Chile’s finest authentic Spanish restaurants.
D A Y S E V E N : Your guide will drive you directly to the
D A Y T H R E E : After breakfast, meet your guide in the commercial center of Alto Las Condes, where you will find
lobby for a drive to the seaport town of Valparaiso, stopping at impressive department stores and an excellent selection of bou-
two wineries along the way. Lunch will be served in a wine coun- tiques and designer stores. Enjoy lunch in the area before arriv-
try restaurant. Upon arrival into Valparaiso, you will check into ing in Los Graneros del Alba, where you will find craftsmen
your new hotel and prepare for a walking tour of the Bohemian working with stone, clay, leather, copper, wool, lapis lazuli and
city. You will ride in a trolley bus and take a hundred year old other natural materials. This is the perfect place to shop for
elevator for spectacular views of the colorful and picturesque city. Chilean products. This evening you will have another wine tast-
You will also have time to shop in the many delightful shops. ing and a gourmet Chilean farewell dinner.
The evening is yours to explore the exciting nightlife and local
restaurants. D A Y E I G H T : Your guide will transfer you back to the
airport, where you will begin your journey home. Or you may
D AY F O U R : Visit the museum home of the Nobel wish to continue your South American wine adventure.
Laureate of literature, Pablo Nerude. Discover the secrets of his
eccentric life and the passions that lead him to his success. Next
you will stop in Vina del Mar. Enjoy the chic, posh restaurants, Other Excursions & Extensions
shops and extravagant casinos. This evening enjoy a spa treat- Trek in the Foothills of the Andes, Fish in the Lake Region to
ment with a champagne tasting at an elegant beach resort, with the South, Visit the Atacama Desert in the North, Don’t forget
dinner to follow. an extension to Torres del Paine Park in Patagonia.
Accommodations Meals
Property, location, style, size Restaurants and meals listed
and amenities chosen based above are recommendations
on client specifications. only. Wine Tours of the World
handles reservations at top
Pricing restaurants, small intimate
This suggested itinerary is based bistros and gourmet dinners at
on two people traveling togeth- vineyards. Exact meal inclusions
er. A single supplement fee will and dining reservations will be
apply. Cost of itinerary is priced specified at time of booking
based on dates of travel. based on final trip itinerary.
HIGHLIGHTS
A
tional experience in the best of
Mendoza, Maipo, Casablanca
and Aconcagua wine country. A vacation to Chile and Argentina is an explosive and
•
Choose your accommodations exciting combination. It offers the best of both countries
from a long list of lodging
options. into a one-of-a-kind wine experience. You will see the
•
Travel to a working Estancia for wonders of a tropical rainforest, feel the heat of the ulti-
an organic Brazilian cooking
class, complete with wine and a
fabulous horse show.
mate desert and enjoy the sites, sounds and culture that
•
Discover a modern waterfront thrive in the modern cities of Santiago and Buenos Aries.
neighborhood in Buenos Aires, as
you shop through boutiques and Whether you want to explore the many fascinating outdoor
stroll through art galleries.
• destinations, or relax and be catered to, “A Taste of South
See Recoleta, one of the most
popular and upscale neighbor- America” highlights both countries
hoods in all of Buenos Aires
•
Take customized tours of with the major sites and important
Santiago and the oceanside cities
of Valparaiso and Vina del Mar. activities. This is an incredible jour-
•
Walk or hike the beautiful nature
paths in Chile’s El Morado
ney that includes art, music, local
National Park, seeing mineral
springs, glaciers and wildlife in its cuisine and fine wine. This is a
natural environment.
dream come true trip for the young
at heart and the sophisticated sea-
soned traveler.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY CHILE & ARGENTINA
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to Buenos Aires! Your first event
in Argentina is an introductory city tour followed by a special
invitation to a Tango dance and dinner show.
D A Y S I X : It’s off to Santiago, Chile today. Santiago is a Other Excursions & Extensions
beautiful Spanish city at the base of the Andes. The sites begin Golf in South America, Become acquainted with Hacienda
with a tour around town and end at San Cristobal, with spectacu- Architecture, Learn about the Rain Forest Habitat, Peddle a Day
lar views of the prosperous city at sunset. Tonight you will enjoy through Wine Country, Canoe the Lake Region of Chile, Picnic
a wine tasting and a wonderful Basque dinner at a popular with Views of the Andes.
Santiago restaurant.
Strategy is buying a bottle of fine wine when you take a lady out for dinner.
Tactics is getting her to drink it.
[ FRANK MUIR, COMEDIAN AND WRITER ]
[ P O R T U G A L F A C T ] D r i e d S a l t e d c o d – B a c a l h u a – i s P o r t u g a l ’s n a t i o n a l d i s h .
P
Portugal is a country of medieval romance, encompassing large cities, quaint vil-
lages, sun, sea and exciting islands. Many cultural treasures, like the seductive cap-
ital of Lisbon, the enchanting and fairytale town of Sintra and the baroque city of
Braga, make Portugal full of many fun and exciting adventures. With such a long
sea coast, it is not surprising that Portugal has witnessed many great sailings and
arrivals from people of many origins, which have left the presence of their indi-
vidual cultures and heritage. Ancient and contemporary attractions, green natural
parks and mountains, grand rivers, and of course charming seaside towns make
Portugal one of the most rewarding destinations for a wine vacation. There are so
many cities and towns to explore that are filled with museums, world heritage sites,
unique architectural structures and hours of entertainment and sporting events to
attend. The food of Portugal is inspired by the Atlantic and thus many of the dish-
es contain fish, especially salted cod. Because Portugal is not a rich country, most
of the regional cuisine comes from either the fisherman or farmers who raise live-
stock, fresh fruits and vegetables infused with Portuguese olive oil. Many of the
cities and towns are named after grape varietals, and the wines are as unique as the
travel experiences that await you.
[ P O R T U G A L F A C T ] Portugal has a population of about 10 million people.
P O RT U G A L
TERROIR
B
Blanketed with several shades of green, Portugal has enough Touriga Nacional, which are the most important of all the
grapevines planted to be among the top 10 wine producing red port grapes.
countries, but only ranks fourteenth because of its focus on The most important wine region in Portugal is Douro.
the production of Port. For years, Portugal was known only There are over 230 different grape varieties planted in
for its great fortified wines, but recently the production of Portugal, and Douro is home to more than 80 of these vari-
still wines has been catching up with modern winemaking. eties. The steep terrain creates a backbreaking harvest for
The wines reflect their Terroir, which range from cool grow- the Douro vintners, and the majority of the wine is floated in
ing regions to intense heat in other regions. casks down the Douro River to Oporto, where today they
Of Portugal’s wine production, 60-percent is red, rose, or still blend, age and bottle the wine. Portugal’s other major
fortified with the remaining 40-percent white wine. The wine regions are Dao, Setubal and Alentejo. The minor
charming riverside city of Oporto, is the center of the Port regions include Minho and Bairrada.
industry. Port is a wonderfully sweet but very intense, forti-
fied wine, that comes in many different styles, such as tawny,
vintage and ruby port. Port firms are called Port shippers
because wine was originally shipped in casks to English
importers who would bottle and label the wine as their own.
The name Port came from the famous city of Oporto, where
the shipments orginate.
Blending is an important part of producing Port, with
each new blend giving the wine distinct personality. The
major Port grapes are Codega, Gouveio, Malvasia Fina,
Rabigato and Viosinho. These are the white Port grapes used
only in a certain style of Port but are found in most table
wines produced in Portugal. The red port grapes are Tina
Barroca, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cao, Touriga Francesa and
P O RT U G A L & S PA I N
WELCOME TO
O P O RT O
T
The ancient and beautiful city of Oporto is actually two cities Port houses for a taste of the delicious wine. The wines
in one. The neighboring town of Vila Nova de Gaia that sits regions of Dao, Bairrada and Douro are also easily reached
across the Douro River, is now merged with Oporto for prac- from Oporto. The many new modern hotels with luxurious
tical purposes. The Oporto side is older and has a combina- and chic rooms will add style and comfort to your wine vaca-
tion of commercial and residential structures with ancient tion, with several great restaurants, shopping and nightlife
squares, wonderful churches, a historical cathedral and the located within easy walking distance. Oporto also offers a
amazing Sao Bento train station. There are plenty of activi- variety of sporting events, live entertainment including a
ties to keep you busy while in the city, between the fabulous grand concert hall, and many festivals and special events
shopping and sight seeing. Because of its diverse population throughout the year.
there is a large variety of restaurants, pubs, cafés and exciting
night clubs and bars. The major attractions on the Vila
Nova de Gaia side, are the numerous Port firms and lodges
where millions of gallons of the world’s famous fortified wine
is aging to perfection. Oporto’s charm is partly because of
the presence of historic buildings, hilly streets and public
squares that are decorated
with some of the most
beautiful blue and white
Portuguese tiles. It is a
great destination and
beginning point for a wine
trip, with many wine
stores to explore and easy
access to Vila de Gaia,
where you can enter the
P O RT U G A L & S PA I N
Spend a relaxing day in nature as your guide takes you into the
beautiful Penada-Geres National Park. The 550-acre park is in a
transition zone between the Mediterranean and Euro-Siberian
regions, creating diverse climates and amazing flora and fauna.
Set your pace as you walk or bike through beautiful mountains,
rivers, dams and waterfalls, keeping an eye out for roe deer, fox,
mountain goats, otters and more. A gourmet box lunch will trav-
el with you, complete with the wines of Portugal.
Exploring Evora
Then wine, I say! I’ll drink to madness! Wine, my girl, to cure my sadness!
And tell me no more, there’s folly in drinking, can anything equal the folly of thinking!
[ CHARLOTTE DACRE (1782-1841) ]
[ W I N E F A C T ] Spanish wine is usually aged in Spanish and French oak.
R
Roman aqueducts, Islamic Palaces, Gothic cathedrals, beautiful cities and villages
are just some of the sites you will encounter on your Spanish wine vacation.
Almost every village has a medieval castle with a diverse variety of music that
vibrates the streets. Known for its Flamenco music and dance, bullfights, and his-
torical monuments dating back hundreds of years, it is a country with fantastic
beaches, easy going people and a whole lot of sunshine. The city of San Sebastian,
on the shores of the Cantabrian Sea, is Basque Country and one of the most
breathtaking cities in northern Spain. The bustling and modern cities of Madrid
and Barcelona have beautiful parks, numerous museums and art galleries, as well as
a wide variety of restaurants and nightlife. The Riviera is a glamorous spot, with
luxury beach resorts and unlimited water activities that attract the rich and
famous, as well as those who want to relax near the warm water and stunning
beaches. Miles of vineyards, working farms and quaint towns are spread across the
gorgeous countryside. Goats, lamb, rabbits and quail are raised for regional cuisine,
and a variety of mushrooms, potatoes, fruit groves and vegetable gardens can be
spotted. Horses also are a big industry throughout Spain, and seeing these beauti-
ful animals adds romance to any vacation.
[ S P A I N F A C T ] In Rioja, the law permits the use of four red grape varieties.
THE TERROIR
O F S PA I N
S
Spain is the second-oldest winemaking country in Western 80-percent of the total wine production. The most popular
Europe. With modern vineyard practices and winemaking grapes used are Garnacha, Garnacha Blanco, Malvasia, Viura,
techniques, Spain is dynamic and extremely diverse in regards Graciano, Mazuelo and Tempranillo. Spain ranks third in
to the large variety of grapes that are grown in this large coun- wine producing countries and has more acres of planted
try. But even with all of the wine industry’s modernization, grapevines than any other country.
Spanish vintners continue to respect the wisdom of the old
ways of making wine, and the end result proves to be luscious
and full-bodied wines. The classic Spanish wine is red and
made from the Tempranillo grape, showing balanced bright
fruit such as strawberry and raspberry with just the right
amount of toasty oak characteristics.
The wine regions of Spain include Ribera del Duero, Jerez,
Galicia the Penedes, Rias Baixas and the most important
region of Rioja. Spain also has an up-and-coming region
called Priorato that is home to mostly red grapes. The wineries
in Spain are
referred to as
“Bodegas.”
There are
more than six
hundred varieties
of native Spanish
grapes planted in
Spain, 20 of
which account for
P O RT U G A L & S PA I N
Rioja
The famous wine
district of Rioja is located in northern Spain in the valley of
the Ebro River. Rioja is well known and frequently visited by
wine lovers of all levels of sophistication. It is often referred
to as Spain’s Bordeaux, even though the wines are similar to
France’s Burgundy region. The Tempranillo grape is the dis-
trict’s shining star. The wine produced from this grape is an
elegant, very intense red wine, similar to a Pinot Noir.
Wines produced in this area are aged in oak barrels longer
than any other wine from anywhere else in the world. This
creates delicate, but long aged worthy wines.
[ S P A I N F A C T ] Spain is the third largest producer of wine in the world
Rias Baixas
The small
northwestern wine
region of Rias Baixas
located in the
province of Galicia,
is known for its pro-
duction of white
wines. The Albarino
grape is the main
grape in this region used for making wine. It has citrus and
peach flavors with hints of almond and honeysuckle. The
wines are light and creamy, but not lacking any flavor. The
Albarino wines are the most expensive and known as the
best white wines in all of Spain. Again, the seafood in this
area is magnificent, especially the pulpo (octopus), which is
considered a Galician specialty, and empanadas made from
seafood or pork are also a fantastic foods to pair with the
wines that are produced here. The northwestern coastline of
Rias Baixas is beautiful with treacherous bluffs and violent
seas, located north of Portugal. Visiting this wine region will
enhance any wine itinerary.
P O RT U G A L & S PA I N
Galicia
With deep river Most of my treasured memories of travel are
valleys, granite peaks recollections of sitting.
and secluded coastal
[ R O B E RT T H O M A S ]
coves, this wine
region lying next to
Portugal is among
the most beautiful in
Spain. The growing
conditions are ideal
for the production of fresh, dry, fruity white wines due to the
cool climate and versatile granite soils. The most expensive
and most important wine made in this region is Albarino.
The vineyards are small and dot the steep slopes and areas
around the river valleys. The grapes hang below a blanket of
leaves, protecting them from the sun and over-ripeness.
However, rain is sometimes a problem creating mold and
mildew issues.
[ S P A I N F A C T ] Some of the worlds most beautiful prehistoric cave paintings were found in Spain.
WELCOME TO
MADRID
M
Madrid, the capital of Spain, has become one of the most bullfights can be seen during the months of May and June.
important cultural centers in Europe. It is a meeting place of Madrid is centrally located in the middle of Spain, and acts
many and an inspiration for artists, musicians, poets and writ- as a hub for many day trips into the surrounding countryside.
ers. The city is also famous for its museums, classical archi- The combination of endless museums, parks, religious and
tecture and nightlife that seems to never end. Watching a historical sites, zoos, water parks and amusement parks and
soccer tournament in a Tapas bar is just one of the expected miles of streets and sidewalks to explore make Madrid the
things to do during your visit. The city has a population of heart of the country.
over 3 million, is rich in history and offers a range of cultural
and artistic experiences, such as visiting the Prado Museum
which houses the works of Velazquez and Goya. Hotels in
Madrid range from budget to five-star opulence with many
types of lodging in between. The city is a place of the fla-
menco, salsa and jazz. Whether you want to dance or just sit
and listen, the variety
of music styles are end-
less. When shopping
in Madrid, a range of
items can be found
from arts and crafts to
large department stores
and boutiques to
extravagant shoe hous-
es. It is home of the
world’s large bullfight-
ing arena. The major
P O RT U G A L & S PA I N
Where better to learn the thrill of the infectious beat of the Salsa
and the Flamenco than in Spain? The Flamenco dance is
believed to originate from the Spanish-Arabic origin (gypsies),
and lies at the very soul of these often misunderstood and misrep-
resented people. The Salsa refers to a fusion of informal dance
styles, having roots in Cuba, Latin and North America as well as
the Caribbean. Enjoy a dance class of one or both dances.
Lunch and a wine pairing will follow your class. Experience a
day of artistic evolution.
Spa Holiday
WELCOME TO
BARCELONA
P
Positioned on the northeastern coast of the Iberian beef, stews, pasta, and rice dishes as well as a great assortment
Peninsula, Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain, and of fruits, vegetable and sweet treats are found for lunch and
is the Capital of Catalonia. This sprawling Mediterranean dinner. Tapas and bocadillos (stuffed bread) can be pur-
city honors its history, traditions and is culturally influenced. chased anytime of day in most restaurants and cafés. The
The 1888 World’s Fair became a symbol of the capacity for beaches of Barcelona will bring hours of water fun, shopping
hard work, and gained international recognition, that marked and are lined with quaint cafés and bars with spectacular
the beginning of the splendid and modern city that it is views. At night, Barcelona becomes electric with its many
today. The two official languages are Catalonia and Castilian international, regional and posh bars and nightclubs. It is also
Spanish, but English is easily understood. Barcelona is a col- the gateway into the wine regions of Priorato and Penedes,
lection of multi-faceted and diverse cities. Those visiting for making it a wonderful city to call home while on your Wine
the first time may be surprised that such a modern and enter- Tours of the World vacation.
prising city preserves its historic Gothic center with a maze of
narrow streets and historical and religious sites. Sightseeing
is at its best in Barcelona with hundreds of monuments,
museums and the modernist architectural works of Antoni
Gaudi. Day excursions are
a breeze to the surround-
ing areas where pictur-
esque villages, exceptional
landscapes and historical
remains can be found.
Barcelona’s cuisine is very
cosmopolitan and loaded
with Mediterranean flavor.
Fresh seafood, chicken,
P O RT U G A L & S PA I N
Y O U R W I N E TA S T I N G T R I P P L A N N E R
While creating your upcoming trip to either Portugal or Spain, it is important for us to know what inspires you. What are
your travel dreams, trip goals, and experience expectations for your perfect vacation? Sometimes it helps to put your
thoughts down on paper. We have created this guide to help plan the ultimate custom vacation, hand crafted specifical-
ly for you and your companions. What are your trip dreams and desires?
S E L E C T A D E S T I N AT I O N ( S )
W H AT A R E Y O U R T R AV E L I N T E R E S T S ?
Email ________________________________ Fax ______________________ No. of Travelers ____ No. of children ____
Traveling with any other couple, group etc.? ________ If so, may we contact them? _______________________________
Santiago de Compostela
Discover Santiago de Compostela, the capital of the region of Galicia. The old
town has a fascinating cathedral and is filled with several monuments and artis-
tic gems. In Galicia, gastronomy is part of the daily culture. There is a spectac-
ular array of restaurants, bars and taverns that feature the freshest seafood,
shellfish, beef and organic produce. Santiago and its surrounding areas are out-
standing places to visit, due to the happy and jovial disposition of the people
living here. Santiago is a city that never sleeps with many terrace bars, pubs
and hot nightclubs, while the countryside is peaceful, calm and extremely
relaxing. Nature is also an important aspect of the culture, with beautiful
parks, gardens, mountains and forest, with luxuriant vegetation waiting for your
arrival. It also has impressive year-round events such as local music and dance,
theatre, films, concerts, exhibitions and festivals. The land is dotted with vine-
yards and wineries producing the fresh, fruity, dry, white wine made from the
Albarino grape, which is known as Spain’s best white wine. Come experience
magical beaches, enchanted forests and unusual traditions. Select from a whole
range of routes and paths to follow as you continue your wine vacation.
The Azores Islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean, about two hours flying time
from Lisbon. They are a chain of nine islands with a harmonious convergence of
majestic scenery that is both timeless and contemporary. The islands have a hand
full of hotels, manors, pousadas and inns mostly rated between 3 & 4-stars. Sao
Miguel is known as the “Green Island,” and is the largest and most populated
island, with green mountains, rolling hills and grassy valleys. The cosmopolitan
town of Ponta Delgada offers a blend of contemporary amenities with historic fla-
vor. It is a town with turn of the century architecture, parks, cobblestone streets,
great restaurants, shopping, nightclubs and a modern marina. It also has wonder-
ful golf courses, lakes and beaches. There are endless activities to choose from,
including whale watching, swimming with dolphins, a jeep safari, bird watching,
trekking and any kind of water sport imaginable. Terceira is the second most pop-
ulated island with similar things to do as Sao Miguel, but it is home to the caves
of “Algar do Carvao.” This is a spot that is famous for grottoes, stalactites, stalag-
mites and an interior lake. Other popular islands are Faial and Pico, which can be
reached only by plane or ferry. You need to be on island time, as the schedules run
as few as three times per week. Visiting the Azores is like a cross between visiting
Hawaii and Switzerland.
Madeira Island
HIGHLIGHTS
• The Pleasures
Enjoy a welcome wine and Port
tasting that is paired perfectly
of Portugal & Port
R
with a scrumptious dinner.
•
Enhance your knowledge on how 1 0 N I G H T S / 1 1 D AY S
Port is made and the history of
Port as you visit several Port
lodges.
Romantic, medieval Oporto is a city divided by the mighty
•
Learn the history from past to Douro River and a perfect place to stay during a Portugal
present, including the shipping
trade while exploring Oporto and wine vacation. It has a huge range of lodging options and
Portugal as you visit historical
sites and landmarks. a wonderful assortment of restaurants and exciting
•
Private wine tours of Dao and nightlife, spread throughout the city’s narrow streets.
Bairrada.
•
Your trip will include a winemak-
Across the river is Vila Nova de Gaia, home to the Port
ing seminar followed by a private
Portuguese cooking class. lodges and Port firms. Upon entering these establishments,
•
See the highlights of Douro, the smell of the sweet fortified wine hits your senses imme-
including a river cruise and its
wineries. Stay in a countryside diately. The sight of the juice rest-
mansion.
• ing in its barrels is amazing, and the
Explore Viana do Castelo, Pinhoa
and the beaches of Praia, tasting taste is heavenly. It is a land of
wine along the way.
•
Travel by train to Lisbon where
incredible beaches, endless shopping
you will have a complete tour of
the city. and interesting history. Oporto is a
•
Walk your way through the fla- place where old features meet new
vors of Portugal, sampling region-
al favorites and world famous and a place to fall in love.
Tapas.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY P O RT U G A L & S PA I N
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Upon arrival at the Oporto Airport, meet
your Wine Tours of the World representative in the baggage claim
area, for a transfer to your hotel. This evening enjoy a welcome
wine tasting and dinner at the hotel.
HIGHLIGHTS
•
See the magic of Barcelona at La Viva Loca
night with your private guide
A
after a welcome to Spain wine
1 1 N I G H T S / 1 2 D AY S
tasting.
•
Sip Spain’s amazing sparkling At first glance, Spain will capture you with its size.
wines known as “Cava,” as you
have a full day in the Penedes Separated from the mainland of Europe by the Pyrenees, it
wine region.
• behaves more like a self-contained continent, rather than a
Enjoy Spain’s most inspiring wines
with a full day touring and tast- country. The people who live there will agree. The coun-
ing in the Priorato wine region.
• try’s population is diverse, from Celts to Moors who chose
Plan, shop, and prepare your deli-
cious 3-course wine paired meal
that you and your personal chef
to settle in this western European cul-de-sac. Spain’s
create.
• regional differences are embodied in the wines. On the
Stand before famous works of art
by Picasso, Goya, and other wine road, you will find a cool climate white wine, as well
famous artists with your city and
Art Tour in Madrid. as full-bodied reds. Traveling in Spain is easy, fun, and very
•
Uncover the secrets of Toledo, educational. In addition,
Spain’s first Medieval Capital city.
•
Taste your way through the pres-
Accommodations are plentiful,
tigious wine regions of Rioja and
Ribera Del Duero. the climate is pleasant, and the
•
Have a wonderful tapas lunch as local food is a culinary treat for
you explore the streets of histori-
cal and upbeat Salamanca.
•
all who visit. This itinerary
Experience the art of Spain’s pas-
try shops, specialty bakeries and includes the best of what Spain
other sweet treats on your pri-
vately guided tour. and its wine country have to offer.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY P O RT U G A L & S PA I N
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Upon arrival into the Barcelona Airport,
meet your representative from Wine Tours of the World in the bag-
gage claim area for a transfer to your hotel. This evening, you
will have a welcome wine tasting and a city tour of Barcelona by
night. Your personal dinner reservation will be waiting for you at
a popular city restaurant. D A Y E I G H T : Today you will have a combination of
wine tasting and sightseeing in Rioja. Taste the full-bodied wines
D A Y T W O : You will travel into the Penedes wine coun- of the region as you see the area’s most important sites. Lunch
try for a full day tasting cava. A delicious lunch will be included will be served along the way. This evening, you will have a wine-
with a view of the vineyards. This evening, you will have free maker’s dinner at a popular local winery.
time to explore the upbeat neighborhoods in Barcelona, stopping
to dine at a restaurant of your choice. D A Y N I N E : Breakfast at your hotel and then you will
depart Logrono to Valladolid stopping to wine taste in the Ribera
D A Y T H R E E : Have an early breakfast at the hotel, and Del Duero wine region. You will be guests for lunch at a famous
then it’s off to the remote, high-tech wine region of Priorato, winery along the way. This evening, dinner is at your leisure.
where you will taste some of Spain’s most inspiring wines. A food Your guide is available to assist with reservations.
and wine pairing will be available for lunch. This evening, you
will have a Catalan cooking class hosted by a prestigious chef. D A Y T E N : Your full-day of private tours and tasting will
Your 3-course meal will be paired with wines from Penedes and be waiting for you today in the wineries of Ribera Del Duero and
Priorato. the surrounding areas. A winery lunch and dinner will be includ-
ed before returning to your hotel.
D A Y F O U R : This morning, you will board a flight
bound for Madrid. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel D A Y E L E V E N : It’s back to Madrid, via Salamanca.
and have the rest of the afternoon to get acquainted with your You will have time to see the highlights of the golden city and
surroundings. This evening, you will have a city tour of Madrid. stop for a wonderful tapas lunch. Back in Madrid, you will have a
A wine-paired dinner will follow in a popular Madrid restaurant. tour of Madrid’s best pastry shops and bakeries, where you will
sample sweet treats, including chocolate dipped churros. This
D A Y F I V E : This morning, you will meet your guide in evening, dinner is at your leisure.
the lobby for your Madrid Adventure. You will visit the Prado
Museum, Queen Sofia Arts Center, Retiro Park, and Plaza Mayor D A Y T W E L V E : Today you will be transferred back to
where you will have time for lunch and a walk in the Plaza. the Madrid Airport to begin your journey home. Or you may
Then you will stop at El Rastro, where you will have the remain- wish to prolong your Spanish Wine Vacation with a Wine Tours of
der of the day to shop for bargains in the open air market. the World extension trip.
Dinner is at your leisure this evening.
Other Excursions & Extensions
D A Y S I X : South of Madrid is the glorious city of Toledo, Antiques, Botanical Gardens, Basque Cooking School, Art &
the capital of Spain during its medieval times. Explore this won- History, Performing Arts, Flamenco & Salsa Dance Class, The
derful city uncovering the many churches, castles, and the life of Azores Islands.
the master painter, El Greco. Lunch and dinner is included on
this full-day excursion.
Accommodations Meals
Property, location, style, size Restaurants and meals listed
D A Y S E V E N : After breakfast, meet your guide in the
and amenities chosen based above are recommendations
lobby for your trip into the Rioja wine region. You will stop at a
on client specifications. only. Wine Tours of the World
well-known winery, where you will have a vineyard and wine-
handles reservations at top
making tour. Your next winery will include a reserve tasting and
lunch. Upon arrival into Logrono, you will find a wine-paired
Pricing restaurants, small intimate
This suggested itinerary is based bistros and gourmet dinners at
dinner waiting for you at your hotel.
on two people traveling togeth- vineyards. Exact meal inclusions
er. A single supplement fee will and dining reservations will be
apply. Cost of itinerary is priced specified at time of booking
based on dates of travel. based on final trip itinerary.
G
Germany is a nation that until a few years ago, was divided into two parts, West
and East Germany. Reunited since 1990, it is now one of the largest, most popu-
lated and productive countries in Europe. Germany has many vibrant cities with
amazing architecture, fabulous shopping and a pulsating nightlife, as well as
enchanting medieval villages and friendly wine communities. Large varieties of
festivals are held year-round and can be found throughout the country. The pic-
turesque countryside is perfect for taking walks, hiking or simply relaxing among
nature. The castles, palaces and abbeys are the epitome of German romanticism.
It is a place where you can be a sport spectator or take part in a sport. It is also
home to many special retreats that specialize in wellness and relaxation.
Germany’s regional specialties are a culinary treat for those who visit. One can
indulge in several of the local dishes, including dozens of sausages, spatzel and a
large variety of fresh meats, poultry, fish, fresh produce and scrumptious desserts. It
is suggested that you arrive hungry for dinner because a typical German dinner
consists of an average of seven courses. It’s also important to remember Germany’s
fame to beer and pretzels, and its beloved Mercedes Benz and BMW. This is a
country that knows how to have fun and do it in style.
[ G E R M A N Y F A C T ] G e r m a n y i s c o n s i d e r e d o n e o f t h e w o r l d ’s t o p p r o d u c e r s o f e l e g a n t w h i t e w i n e s
GERMANY
TERROIR
B
Beautiful Johannesburg is the heart of Germany’s wine coun- Germany, “Tafelwein” and/or “Landwein,” and a quality
try. Up until the twentieth century, other than France, wine category. Tafelwein and Landwien are very inexpensive
Germany was the Supreme European wine area, known for table wines, and the quality wine category is divided into two
producing outstanding wines. It is widely believed that sub-categories.
German wines are sweet wines; however, the majority of Ninety-five percent of all German wine is “quality wine.”
wine produced in Germany is bone dry. The sub categories are QbA or Qualitatswein bestimmter
Due to Germany’s unique Terroir, there is no other place Anbaugebiete, and QmP or Qualitatwwein mit Pradikat.
on the planet that can produce such rare, exquisite and The QbA wines are grown and produced in one of
almost colorless white wines worthy of spectacular flavor, Germany’s thirteen official wine regions, and again are inex-
clarity and character. Because Germany’s wine region is pensive, everyday wines. Wine in the QmP group are the
located so far north, the climate is often cool and damp. highest quality of German wines. Kabinett, Spatlese,
Grapevines are planted on steep, shear, mountainous slopes Auslese, Beerenauslese, Trockenbeerenauslese and Eiswein
that face south, to catch as much sun as possible during the
course of the day. The slate and basalt soil are also unique,
and retain good amounts of heat, helps the grapes to mature
and ripen. Germany’s step mountain grapevines are extreme-
ly difficult to harvest. The majority of the harvest is com-
pleted by women, who can be spotted scaling the steep vine-
yards with baskets strapped to their backs. German vineyard
owners often name their vineyards with amusing little names
like “Goldtropfchen,” meaning “Little raindrops of gold.”
The leading German wines are Riesling, Gewurztraminer,
Muller-Thurgau, Rieslaner, Rulander, Scheurebe, Silvaner,
Spatburgunder, Weissburgunder and Sekt, which is a
sparkling wine. There are two major categories of wine in
G E R M A N Y, H U N G A RY & AU S T R I A
WELCOME TO
F R A N K F U RT
L
Located on the Main River, Frankfurt is the financial and Frankfurt also has many great historical sites and anelec-
transportation center of Germany, as well as one of the two tric nightlife. The city offers a wide range of magical river
largest financial centers in continental Europe. The city cruises, and has many spectacular shopping centers and bou-
contains the tallest skyscraper in the European Union and is tiques. Sporting events, the opera and a magnificent theater
home to many cultural and educational institutions, such as district are also within easy access. It is the gateway into the
the Johann Wolfgang Goethe University. Frankfurt has most important German wine regions and the surrounding
many famous museums, fine art facilities and is known for its villages that dot the countryside along the Rhine. Its inter-
beautiful botanical garden, Palmengarten. During World national airport is a great place to connect to other German
War II, the city was heavily bombed, destroying its medieval cities and the neighboring countries. And if you happen to
city center. In turn, it created the modern and efficient city it get stuck at the mega-airport, there is a nightclub, art gallery
is today. You will find over 3000 restaurants with a fare from and a cinema to help tick away your transit hours.
over 70 countries, boasting excellent quality at reasonable
prices. The population is largely diverse with only one third
of the people actually being citizens of Germany. One of the
most popular ways to spend time in Germany, is to visit an
Apple Wine Tavern (or
Cider Pubs). While there,
you will be served plates of
“Handkas,” which are
strong but flavorful dishes
of cheese and onions,
accompanied with a pitch-
er of Frankfurt’s own apfel-
wein (apple wine).
G E R M A N Y, H U N G A RY & AU S T R I A
Jump on your bicycle and hit the petals as you enjoy the beautiful
sites of Vienna. Your bike adventure begins at the edge of the
Danube River and takes you into the center of Vienna. Set your
own pace and go for as long as you desire. Bike over beautiful
bridges and soar through magical gardens and parks. The Vienna
bicycle path is a perfect way to see all the major sites both in the
metro and outside of Vienna’s city limits.
A
Austria is a landlocked Alpine country that shares its borders with eight other
European countries. It has a stable democracy, a modern economy and many grand
cities with miles of surreal countryside. The country experiences all four seasons,
with a continental climate in the east that has low precipitation, hot summers and
moderate winters. The Alpine regions have high precipitation, short summers and
often harsh and cold winters, leaving the remainder with a transient and mild cli-
mate. Visiting Austria means hours of walking, biking, trekking and seasonal winter
sports. There are several world heritage sites, hundreds of museums, gorgeous nation-
al parks, and fabulous souvenirs to take home. It is the homeland of world renowned
skiers, talented musicians and people who love to eat and drink. There are incredi-
ble restaurants and cafes, an array of music venues, a healthy film industry, tons of
nightclubs and the one and only “Sound of Music,” tour. The country is charmed
with Vienna, and its Opera House, Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart. Salzburg boasts
stunning baroque cathedrals and Innsbruck, the center of the Austrian Alps.
Austria’s wine industry is also amazing. The vineyards are beautiful, the cellars are
dusty, and the wine is some of the most unique in the world. Austria is a destination
for those seeking adventure, or want to enjoy the country’s treasures.
[ A U S T R I A F A C T ] T h e i n d i g e n o u s w h i t e g r a p e , G r u n e r Ve l t l i n e r i s t h e l e a d i n g g r a p e i n A u s t r i a .
AU S T R I A
TERROIR
A
Austria’s vineyards lie in the eastern half of the country and except for sweet dessert wines, are dry. The leading
where the summers are warm, the winters not too cold and white wines are Gruner Veltliner, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc,
the rainfall is adequate. Viticulture in this part of the world Weissburgunder and Welschriesling. The red wines include
is said to pre-date the Romans. Austria’s first grapes are Blaufrankisch and Zweigelt.
thought to be planted by the Celts. It was not until the There are four major wine regions: Lower Austria,
1950s that small groups of growers based in lower Austria, Burgenland, Styria and Vienna. Vienna is the only major
began to reform this tourist-focused industry by making some
serious Austrian wines. Austria’s wine industry was shaken in
1985, when sweet and semi-sweet wines were discredited by
the unlawful practices of a handful of merchants, who had
added chemicals to their musts. But two decades later, with
new blood replacing old, Austria’s wines are absolutely
incredible.
Austria is often
wrongly assumed to be
a social cultural subset
of Germany. Though
they share some similar
characteristics, the
wines bear little resem-
blance in taste to
German wines.
Austrian wines are full-
bodied and show
exceptional fruit notes,
G E R M A N Y, H U N G A RY & AU S T R I A
WELCOME TO
VIENNA
F
Famous for Wiener Schnitzel, Cheese Danish, and history. Sightseeing is everywhere and can be found while
Apfelsturdel, Vienna, the capital of Austria, is also and wandering along the narrow, medieval alleyways, or within
Europe’s cultural capital. It is a unique metropolis with a lot the walls of the Imperial Palace or historical squares. The
of charm and outstanding infrastructure. The vibrant city is shopping in Vienna is delightful, not because all the principal
clean and safe, and is an inspiration to artists, writers and shopping-streets are close together, but because many shops
those who appreciate beautiful things. It has been synony- are luxuriously appointed. Take home local specialties, found
mous with music for centuries, and is home to Mozart, only in Vienna, such as sporting good items, extravegant jew-
Beethoven, Schubert and Johann Strauss. It is also home to elry, handcrafted furniture and delicious specialty food items.
the Vienna Boys’ Choir and Wiener Philharmoniker, one of It is also the perfect place to begin an Austrian wine adven-
the world’s top orchestras. It is a city of culture with a vast ture.
array of cultural attractions, from classical or experimental
theatre, to film or dance, and exhibitions and concerts.
Reguardless of the time of year, or how long you visit, there
are always many things to see, do and explore. People also
visit Vienna to relax at one of its many famous coffee houses,
wine taverns, cozy cafes
and award winning restau-
rants. Vienna is known as
a city of art, which has
produced and nurtured
world famous artists such
as Gustav Klimt and Egon
Schiele. It is magical for
those with a passion for
romance or an interest in
G E R M A N Y, H U N G A RY & AU S T R I A
Hungary is a land of over 1,000 hot springs, and enough spa facil-
ities to accommodate 300,000 people at the same time. Spas and
springs are located throughout Hungary, and some are as simple
as thermal baths serving the local communities. Thermal waters
from different springs vary in terms of the ailments they benefit.
Treatments are designed for individuals who visit the spas and
baths. Whether you want to relax or treat a specific body part, a
day at a specialty spa is heavenly.
Take a full day to see the lovely Szala Valley and its Fatyol cas-
cade. Walk among nature and an open-air forestry museum.
Your lunch will be a three-course, wine paired meal, featuring the
dishes of Hungary. After lunch, your guide will take you to
Josvafo and the Aggtelek Mountain Range, where you will have a
tour of the extensive cave system. Enjoy the beautiful under-
ground stalactite formations that are voted some of the best in all
of Europe.
D During Hungary’s tumultuous thousand year old history, rulers came and went,
empires rose and fell but Hungary’s distinctive charm has never waned. Free from
communism since the turn of the new century, Hungary is a place with a smiling,
dynamic image, and a reputation for nostalgia. The face of the country has
changed with new and modern technologies and infrastructure. But there is a con-
stant reminder of a largely vanished Europe, with old fashioned customs, such as
kissing of hands and the presentation of flowers that are mixed with modern behav-
ior from a diverse population. Hungary is known as the land of thermal waters,
with over 30 thermal springs that can help relax or gently cure specific ailments.
As a result, there are many wonderful hotels and spas that focus on health and well-
ness. It is a destination for those who like choice. Every season has its own special
events and every region has its own personality, culture and folklore. The country
is filled with picturesque villages, historical sites, beautiful lakes and the Danube,
creating a long list of indoor and outdoor activities. Hungary has been producing
wine for hundreds of years and its beautiful wine country is steadily gaining popu-
larity with amazing old and new world wines. A wine vacation to Hungary is spec-
tacular, and includes the very best that this amazing country has to offer.
[ H U N G A R Y F A C T ] D u r i n g t h e t u r k i s h i n v a s i o n , d a m p w i n e c e l l e r s w e r e u s e d a s h i d i n g p l a c e s i n To k a y.
HUNGARY
TERROIR
H
Hungary’s association with fine wine goes back further than humid mornings and warm afternoons, produce a magic that
any other country in the Eastern Bloc. While it was under is crucial for making Tokaji
communism the wine industry was monolithic. State farms Tokay (Tokaji) is the finest wine of Hungary, and a
and state cooperatives produced state wine. The country has national treasure. First recorded in the mid-1600s, it was
22 wine regions, though not all of them produce quality declared the “Wine of Kings and King of Wines.” Today, it is
wine. The most important growing area is the Northeast so important to Hungary, that it is even mentioned in the
region around Eger, where loess, tuffeau and clay soils at the national anthem. Mostly made from Furmint and Harslevelu
foot of the Matra Hills, help to make bold red wines. grapes, the great, sweet wine relies on Botrytis cinerea for its
Matraalja, just to the south is the second-largest wine character. The botrytized shriveled grapes referred to as
region, where you can find Chardonnay and Sauvignon Aszu, are put into puttony (wooden tubs, though today stain-
Blanc that are reliable and reasonably priced.
The wine regions of Badacsony and Somolo, located in
the west, are influenced by the Danube and several lakes.
Vibrant Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc,
Gewurztraminer and local specialty wines like the aromatic,
spicy Csersegi Foszeres, can be found.
In the south, the wine regions consist of Szekszard,
Villany-Siklos and Great Alfold. Nearby is the new region of
Tolna, producing Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer and a
Bordeaux-style red, named Talentum. The south is now
Hungary’s largest red-grape-growing region.
Tokaj-Hegyalja is the most famous wine region, and is
centered around the little town of Tokaj, where the rivers
Bodrog and Tisza meet. It is the perfect region that creates
the autumn growth of botrytis. The combination of cool,
G E R M A N Y, H U N G A RY & AU S T R I A
less steel vats are also used), and left while a small amount of
free-run juice collects at the bottom. This juice is called
essence and is added to other musts. The contents of the
puttony, minus the essence, is crushed to a paste and added
to dry base wine made from non-botrytized grapes. The
measure of sweetness on the label is shown as 3, 4, 5 or 6 put-
tonyos. The mixture is left to macerate for one to five days,
and then the liquid is drawn off to ferment in barrels in
underground cellars. The cellar walls are covered in a thick,
black growth of the fungus, Racodium cellare, which helps
maintain the humidity that is vital in allowing Tokaji to
mature. The wine has a Sherry-like nose (oxidation being a
deliberate part of the winemaking process), and becomes
richer in flavor over fifteen years. Old Tokays are thirty years
plus and can still taste very fresh.
Bikaver - - The Blood of Bulls - - is the second most pop-
ular wine in Hungary. The name allegedly dates back to the
siege of the fortress of
Eger in 1552, when the
attacking Turks took
fright at the dark red
wine stains on the
Magyar soldiers’ uni-
forms, believing that
they drank bull’s blood
to give them strength.
The wine is a blended
red and made from at
least three grapes.
Traditionally, it includes Good company in a journey
a high proportion of
makes the way seem shorter.
Kadarka, but this grape is
[ I Z A A K WA LT O N ]
tricky to grow and is
often replaced by
Kekfrankos. Cabernet
Sauvignon, Kekoporto
and Zweigelt are also
usually part of the blend. From 1945 until the late 70s, the
wine was one of the most widely distributed cheap red wines
in Western Europe. Today there is a move to improve the
method of creating this wine, to increase its reputation for
quality.
Hungary’s Terroir, overall, has a continental climate with
predictable cold winters and hot summers, with prolonged
autumns that favor botrytis. The topography is mainly flat
and arid, although some regions are hilly from past volca-
noes. Lakes and rivers are also found throughout the country.
[ H U N G A R Y F A C T ] H u n g a r y ’s l e a d i n g w i n e i s To k a y A s z u .
WELCOME TO
BUDAPEST
B
Budapest is the capital and the heart of Hungary. It is the delightful area great for window shopping, indulging in fine
center of the country’s industry and commerce, and the place dinning establishments or relaxing in casual cafes. On the
where all the important decisions are made. Historically, Pest side you will find the Central Market Hall, one of the
Budapest has seen many revolutions with the last of them largest markets in Europe. Here you will see housewives
ending in 1989, when the government gave up its power to shopping for groceries, men meeting for a beer and visitors
the people, freeing it from communism. In 1990, Budapest buying souvenirs. It is a great place to eat “langozs,” which is
went through a total reconstruction that involved tremen- fried dough filled and topped with everything imaginable.
dous growth and development, creating modern buildings There is also a variety of cultural arts and museums. Budapest
and beautiful parks. The new surge also included new luxury is located in the center of Hungary’s wine country.
hotels, huge malls, and a variety of restaurants, pubs and
nightclubs. It is still know as the “Pearl of the Danube,” and
its grand turn-of-the-century buildings and bridges marvel
with elegance and grace, especially when the flood lights are
turned on illuminating the great structures. The River
Danube serves as a good
orientation landmark,
with Buda on the hilly left
bank and flat Pest on the
right. Buda has main-
tained its old charm with
many historical sites and
landmarks, while Pest is
the commercial center or
downtown. “Vaci Street,”
located in Pest, is a
G E R M A N Y, H U N G A RY & AU S T R I A
Y O U R W I N E TA S T I N G T R I P P L A N N E R
While creating your upcoming trip to either Germany, Hungary or Austria it is important for us to know what inspires you.
What are your travel dreams, trip goals, and experience expectations for your perfect vacation? Sometimes it helps to put
your thoughts down on paper. We have created this guide to help plan the ultimate custom vacation, hand crafted specif-
ically for you and your companions. What are your trip dreams and desires?
S E L E C T A D E S T I N AT I O N ( S )
W H AT A R E Y O U R T R AV E L I N T E R E S T S ?
Email ________________________________ Fax ______________________ No. of Travelers ____ No. of children ____
Traveling with any other couple, group etc.? ________ If so, may we contact them? _______________________________
Munich
Munich is the largest city in South Germany and is the heart of Bavaria.
Originally, the city was built within stone walls, safe from unwarranted visitors.
As time went by the city expanded beyond the enclosure, but sections of the
original wall and the gates still remain. There are countless things to do and
sights to see in Munich, making it a wonderful extension to any wine vacation.
The Munich English Gardens is a great place to relax from the hustle and bus-
tle of the city. The park can be enjoyed throughout the year, and is a favorite
spot for water sports and recreation of all kinds. Visit one of the many beer
gardens, taste the favorite delicacies at the amazing Food Hall, or listen to the
chimes of the Glockenspiel, the world’s biggest cuckoo clock. There are many
splendid hotels, museums, art galleries, shopping and historical monuments and
churches. Munich is also the site of the original concentration camp,
“Dachau.” While a visit can be sobering and disturbing, the camp is a well
attended tour and will take you through hours of interesting WWII history.
Munich is a wonderful adventure, complete with fairy tale castles and the
Olympic park that hosts year-round events, festivals, concerts and more.
Salzburg
Slovenia
Visiting Slovenia is a dreamland filled with incredible beauty and amazing adven-
tures. It is a land of charming, historical towns and breathtaking countryside. Its
rivers, lakes and Slovene part of the Adriatic Sea offer a wide variety of water-
related sports from traditional boating, yachting, diving, adrenaline induced
white-water rafting, to relaxing among crystal clear, green water surrounded by
beautiful waterfalls. Wellness and body harmony is a big part of the Slovenian
life-style with over 15 natural thermal and climatic health resorts. Mile after mile
of mountain paths can be walked, hiked, biked and climbed. Slovenia has three
different wine regions with wines that are elegant and fresh. The regional food
consists of dishes that are made with cabbage, beans, potatoes and a huge variety
of fresh meats, poultry and fish. Each region specializes in its own bread, potica,
pastries and cakes. Modern casinos with deluxe accommodations, a variety of
entertainment, shops and gourmet dinning are also part of the Slovenia landscape.
Luxury ski resorts settled among the mountains can also be found. The capital city
of Ljubljana offers a variety of options for the traveler. Visit museums, castles, a
magical town square, cathedrals, churches and lush green parks and gardens.
There are also metropolitan cafes, shopping areas, sport centers and exquisite
international restaurants that line the city’s famous riverside. The people are
warm and hospitable waiting to serve your every need.
Switzerland
Fantastic routes, beautiful vistas, bridges, tunnels and an Alpine sunset are
some of the views you will see while visiting Switzerland. The diversity of
this landlocked mountainous country is the essence of the land, and gives
the country a unique identity. This tiny little country has it all! See
inspiring glaciers and waterfalls, crystal clear lakes and streams, fields of
wildflowers and even grapevines. Every Swiss city honors its own sympho-
ny, opera, theatre, festivals and traditions. It is home to some of the best
cheese and chocolate in the world. You will find Chocolate Heaven, The
Swiss Chocolate Train, chocolate schools and even chocolate bathes.
Switzerland’s major cities include Berne, Geneva, Zurich, Basil and
Lucerne. Wonderful resorts and hotels, world-class restaurants, museums
and a variety of historical sites and monuments are just a few things you
will discover on a Swiss getaway. The regional cuisine is wide and varied.
Find fish dishes on the shores of one of the beautiful lakes, or indulge in
fresh meat dishes, fresh produce and amazing desserts. Shopping is a must
while traveling throughout the country. Embroidery and linens, wood
carvings, Swiss army knives, watches and of course cheese and chocolate
are just some of the items you will want to bring home. Switzerland has
endless hours of fun and adventure waiting to be explored.
HIGHLIGHTS
•
Your professional guide is avail- Germany’s Wine Roads
able to assist you with your every
G
need, from dinner reservations to
9 N I G H T S / 1 0 D AY S
suggestions throughout your
wine vacation.
• Germany is known for fabulous year-round festivals,
See the highlights of Frankfurt on
your personal tour of the city. medieval castles, amazing history, and mouth-watering food
•
Relax and enjoy lunch and the including an assortment of sausages, beer, pretzels and deli-
beautiful sites of the Rhine River.
• cious desserts and pastries. Germans live to have fun and
Wander through the streets of
the quaint village of Rudesheim. are producers of some of the most stunning white wine in
•
Enjoy Trier located at the opening
of the Mosel-Saar Ruwer wine
the entire world. Miles of vineyards surround beautiful
region. See the historical city and
enjoy a local sausage and beer rivers such as the Rhine and the Mosel-Saar-Ruwer.
tasting with other regional spe-
cialty foods. Traveling to Germany is like stepping into a fairytale; com-
•
Cross the border into plete with picturesque villages, medieval castles, crystal
Luxembourg for a day with an
incredible tour of the city, both clear lakes and snow capped mountains.
above and below ground.
•
Explore lovely Heidelberg as you
Its cities are elegant and stylish with
stop to shop and indulge in the
wonderful sites offered vibrant culture, historical centers and
•
Find your private wine tours, sidewalk cafes. A wine vacation to
lunches, dinners and vineyard
activities in the wine regions of
The Rheingau, The Rheinhessen
Germany is a beautiful experience and a
and the Mosel River
• wonderful way to see this magnificent
Feast on a farewell wine paired
dinner. country in its entire splendor.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY G E R M A N Y, H U N G A RY & AU S T R I A
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Upon arrival into the Frankfurt airport, you
will find your guide for a transfer to your hotel. This afternoon,
you will meet in the lobby for a welcome wine tasting and a 2-½
hour tour of Frankfurt. Your tour will end with standing on the
platform of the main tower, with a bird’s eye view of the entire
city. This evening your personal dinner reservation will be wait-
ing for you at “Weinhaus Bruckenkeller.” Excellent German cui-
sine will be served in a medieval ambience as musicians serenade
you.
HIGHLIGHTS
•
Feel a warm welcome with your Austria & Hungary
welcome tour of Vienna and
Wine Experience
A
wine-paired dinner.
•
Taste the wines of Austria and
Hungary in the countries most 9 N I G H T S / 1 0 D AY S
prestigious wineries and wine cel-
lars. Austria and Hungary are two of the most beautiful coun-
•
Enjoy your personal dinner reser-
vations, winery lunches and din-
tries in Europe. A vacation that combines the highlights
ners in some of Austria and
Hungary’s best eating establish- of both countries will bring hours of adventure in the
ments and wineries.
• breathtaking Alps, world famous rivers, crystal clear lakes,
Bargain hunt for souvenirs and
other regional specialty items in quaint towns and villages and modern yet ancient cities.
the hottest shopping districts of
Vienna and Budapest. Both countries are extremely rich in history and very proud
•
Spend an entire day at the
Austria Wine Academy. Choose
of their unique and beautiful wine countries. Charming and
the classes of your choice,
instructed by Austria’s best wine- modern accommodations can be found
makers.
• throughout each of the countries, as well
Taylor your trip by selecting the
activities and excursions that best as mouth watering restaurants, cafes and
fit your lifestyle and preferences.
• a variety of exciting nightlife. The sum-
Select your accommodations
from a long, careful list of hotels, mer months bring celebrations and festi-
inns, cottages, wine properties
and castles.
•
vals and winter becomes a magical won-
Learn the history of Hungary,
both past and present, with your derland, making this itinerary accessible
personal guide.
year round.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY G E R M A N Y, H U N G A RY & AU S T R I A
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to Vienna! Meet your guide in the
baggage claim area for a transfer to your hotel. Take some time to
relax before your private tour of Vienna, where you will see all
the major points of interest. This evening you will have a wel-
come dinner paired with fine Austrian wines.
Let us have wine and women, mirth and laughter, Sermons and soda – water the day after.
[ FROM DON JUAN BY LORD BYRON ]
[ W I N E F A C T ] South Africa wineries are referred to as “Wine Farms.”
W
With a huge variety of fascinating experiences to explore, South Africa will create
a memorable vacation. Imagine game watching the Big Five one day, sipping wine
in the vines the next, and hitting the beach the day after. South Africa has a spec-
tacular wine route, a large number of world heritage sites, glamorous resorts, excel-
lent seafood and the wild kingdom in all its glory. It is a place where you can watch
whales perform acrobatic moves, and at the same time engage in an ostrich race
taking place along the seashore. Africa is a land of beautiful gardens and incredi-
ble sunsets. It is a marine wonderland with snorkeling, surfing, boating and diving.
It is also an outdoor fortress for those seeking adventure. South Africa has been
referred to as “The Rainbow Nation;” a title which illustrates the country’s cultur-
al diversity. The population is one of the most complex and diverse in the world,
with a combination of native Africans, Europeans and Asians (mostly of Indian
descent). The African majority is composed of many different ethic groups, the
largest of which are Zulu, Xhosa, Tswana and Bapedi, all with their own unique
identity and customs. Africa is also thought to be the birthplace of humankind,
giving it historical, aesthetic, archaeological, scientific, ethnological and anthro-
pological value. It is the world’s largest outdoor zoo with all creatures living in the
wild, fighting for survival. A South African wine vacation will go beyond the
boundaries of your wildest dreams.
[ W I N E F A C T ] South Africa has over 300 years of winemaking.
SOUTH AFRICA
TERROIR
S
South Africa’s main winegrowing regions are located in the usually blended and can be referred to as hermitage, from its
southwestern corner of the country, known as the Cape. But Rhone origin. It is the great grape, Pinotage that comes to
wine and wineries can be found in Morocco, Algeria, mind when thinking about the wines in South Africa.
Tunisia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar, Pinotage, was born in 1925, when Professor A.L. Perold at
Reunion, Mauritius, Namibia and Zimbabwe. However, Stellenbosch University crossed Pinot Noir and Cinsaut. It
most of these regions are not suitable for growing grapes. produces a robust, complex wine, which ranks among the
Therefore, the fruit or juice is brought in from surrounding best varietals in the world. With the ability to age, it can
areas like Spain, Portugal and France. also be a refreshing wine when consumed young. With a
South Africa is the continent’s leading wine region, and
is ranked seventh in production in the world. Strangely, half
of all the grapes are distilled and made into brandy and lesser
expensive spirits. Because of South Africa’s location, a mar-
itime, Mediterranean climate exists, and only occasionally
drought and wind pose a problem for the vines.
The country’s top wine districts spread out from the old
port city of Cape Town. The major grape that is widely
planted is Chenin Blanc (called Steen), but many other
whites are found such as Cape Riesling, Chardonnay,
Hanepoot, Mascadel, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.
Hanepoot is a very popular ancient grape also known as
Muscat of Alexandria. This wine is sweet and is usually forti-
fied.
The leading red grape, Cabernet Sauvignon, is found
alone but is also used for Bordeaux style blends. Cinsaut is
the next most used grape, and has a lighter style also it is
SOUTH AFRICA
WELCOME TO
CAPE T OW N
T
The West Cape or Cape Town is known as the “Mother City many scenic wonders, awesome seascapes and panoramic vis-
of Africa.” It is an area regarded as one of the most beautiful tas. It is a city of culture, with a unique architectural design
places in the world. The city is a rare cultural gem, resulting and structure. The music and dance also perfectly reflect its
from a diverse population of immigrants, mostly from diverse population. The pleasant Mediterranean climate cre-
Indonesia, Western Europe and also the Bushman, ates warm gentle summers and cool temperate winters. It is
Hottentots and Bantu tribes from the north. With the the gateway to the wild, and a magical wine vacation for any-
impressive presence of Table Mountain, flanked by the leg- time of year.
endary Devil's Peak and historical Signal Hill standing
proudly above the city, a vision is planted that is never for-
gotten. The beautiful white sandy beaches along the peace-
ful coastlines frame the Cape Peninsula. The peninsula is
unique for its floral kingdom, bountiful rivers, and magnifi-
cent countryside landscaped with grapevines. Cape Town
has a wide range of entertainment, from outdoor activities to
its extreme nightlife, with many shopping areas including
Green Market Square,
sophisticated malls and
stylish boutiques. The
long list of restaurants
including international
cuisine, fast food, elegant
dinning and posh cafes
that feature food reflecting
its multicultural history.
Cape Town is a setting for
Y O U R W I N E TA S T I N G T R I P P L A N N E R SOUTH AFRICA
While creating your upcoming trip to South Africa, it is important for us to know what inspires you. What are your
travel dreams, trip goals, and experience expectations for your perfect vacation? Sometimes it helps to put your
thoughts down on paper. We have created this guide to help plan the ultimate custom vacation, hand crafted specif-
ically for you and your companions. What are your trip dreams and desires?
S E L E C T A D E S T I N AT I O N ( S )
W H AT A R E Y O U R T R AV E L I N T E R E S T S ?
O Food and Wine O Private Guide O Cape of Good Hope O Transfers / Airport
O Historical Tours O Golf O Regional Festivals O Archeological Sites
O Hot Air Ballooning O Specific Wine Types O Child Friendly Camps O City Tours
O Sailing O Big 5 Animals O River Vessels O Safari
O Specialty Gastronomy O Rail O Art & History O Picnics
O Helicopter O Group Travel O Dinner Reservations O Shopping
O Performing Arts O Self Drive O Fall Wine Crush O Botanical / Gardens
O Spa & Wellness
W H AT T Y P E O F W I N E S D O Y O U D R I N K ?
Email ________________________________ Fax ______________________ No. of Travelers ____ No. of children ____
Traveling with any other couple, group etc.? ________ If so, may we contact them? _______________________________
Take some time out from wine tasting to enjoy Cape Town’s Two
Oceans Aquarium. It is Africa’s largest aquarium, housing over
300 species of marine life. Meander through the impressive and
informative displays and watch seals playing in a bed of kelp with
brilliantly colored fish. The sharks are fed daily at 3:30, so don’t
be late. The aquarium offers an excellent variety of bookstores,
souvenirs shops and the Bayfront Blue Restaurant, where you can
enjoy magnificent lunch.
See lions in their natural habitat without traveling too far into
Africa’s wild. The wild cats live in a high quality, authentic surround-
ing, located 30 minutes from Cape Town. The center allows visitors a
chance to relax under a rustic thatched roof building, with an open-
air viewing deck. To make things more interesting, there is a catwalk
suspended over the lion’s den, creating an up-close encounter of these
amazing animals. The facility also features a gift shop and refresh-
ment center. This is a perfect spot to spend part of a day.
Robben Island
World of Birds
The Kruger National Park is the best game reserve in South Africa. Ride in
open vehicles as you escape near-collisions with 1,000 pound Rhinoceros, or
walk through the bushes with your knowledgeable guide. The park is over 500
million acres and packed with fascinating components of an intricate ecosys-
tem that is unspoiled by man’s progress. It hosts several private reserves and
concessions, with beautiful forests, gardens and waterfalls. Discover how to
appreciate the wildest of animals in a luxurious lodge, modest bungalow, cot-
tage, fashionable guest house or African-style hut. The park even has a vari-
ety of tents for those brave enough to sleep under the stars. The land’s geolo-
gy is staggering with huge boulders strewn across a densely vegetated land-
scape. Stop at popular rest camps hidden in extensive grassy plains, only
interrupted by rivers. Northern Kruger is a region sheltered from all, due to its
remoteness. The Sabi Sand game reserve, located in the southwest area of the
park, will ensure close encounters with all creatures great and small. Enjoy
mouth-watering meals that consist of fresh fruits, vegetables, South African
wine and an incredible selection of fresh meat, fish, and poultry prepared by
your personal chef. Your African safari will be a part of your wine vacation
that which you will cherish forever.
Botswana Adventure
Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a gateway for
a South African safari, home to one of the wildest, white water rafting
experiences and is the site of the highest commercial bungee jump on
earth. It is truly spectacular and deserves the spot as the number one
attraction in Africa. It is still an evocative destination for hunters,
survivors, thrill seekers, explorers and anyone with an eye for beauty.
With a variety of lodging options available in Zimbabwe, Zambia,
Botswana and Namibia, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy
Africa. Canoeing, biking, horseback riding and nature walks are
among the favorite things to do while visiting the Falls. Day trips to
game parks, river expeditions and evening drives to popular watering
holes at night, are also some favorite excursions. Highlights may
include a helicopter ride over the Falls, a guided photography tour,
hot air ballooning, a lunar rainbow walk, visiting a lively casino and
indulging in the unique cuisine of the land. Your guide from Wine
Tours of the World will design your Victoria Falls adventure, using your
interests to make the trip a dream come true.
Your individual travel vision is our focus while planning your trip.
HIGHLIGHTS
•
Enjoy a welcome wine tasting Wine in the Wild
and lunch.
I
•
1 0 N I G H T S / 1 1 D AY S
Your personal guide is available
throughout your wine vacation,
to assist with your dinner reserva- Imagine sipping a glass of South African Pinotage while
tions, transportation, knowledge
and private tours. riding on the back of an elephant. Or sharing your beach
•
See amazing views from Table walks with a variety of African wildlife frolicking in the
Mountain and The Cape of Good
Hope. Enjoy free time to shop surf. Wines in the Wild combines stunning African wine,
and explore the beachfront com-
munity of Kalk Bay. picturesque scenery, and of course, Africa’s wild nature.
•
Visit the penguin colony of Foxy
Beach as you take in an incredi-
The beautiful city of Cape Town is the perfect base when
ble sunset.
• visiting the wineries of the surrounding land. The vine-
Walk along a white sandy beach
at Cape Point Natural reserve, yards fan out from the city in all directions. After a full
spotting zebras, ostrich and other
wildlife. day of wine tasting, you can return to find unlimited activi-
•
Stroll through the beautiful vege- ties to do, such as shopping,
tation at Kirstenbosch Botanical
Gardens.
•
exploring the unique city
Spend two nights in the middle
of wine country at the posh streets and feasting on savory
L’Auberge du Francais.
• cuisine. This is a perfect itin-
Discover the secrets of South
African cuisine in your private
cooking class.
erary to enjoy South African
•
Enhance your wine knowledge as nature, culture and wine!
you sip through your private
tours, tasting and educational
exercises.
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY SOUTH AFRICA
OR
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to South Africa! After arriving in
Johannesburg, you will continue traveling to Cape Town. Cape
Town is the jewel of South Africa! Check in… relax and get
aquainted with the city. Dine at one of the fabulous waterfront
restaurants this evening.
D AY F O U R : Kirschenborsch Botanical Gardeens has D A Y E L E V E N : Take some time this morning to say
over 4000 species of African flowers and other indigenous South your good-byes to your staff and the wild. You will board a short
African plants. After a morning at the gardens, it’s time for a pri- flight back to Johannesburg where you will begin your journey
vate tasting at Groot Constantia, makers of some of the best home.
South African ports. Your day will conclude with tastings of
Zevenwacht and Stellenzicht. Other Excursions & Extensions
Consider a Hot Air Balloon Ride, Golfing along the Ocean, or
D A Y F I V E : Today you will check into Le Quartier visiting a Cheetah Rescue Facility. Heading to the North enjoy
Francais for two amazing nights in the heart of wine country. the spectacular Victoria Falls, while visiting Vic Falls consider a
Wineries are referred to as “Working Farms” in South Africa. You trip to the Okavango Delta of Botswana to the West. After a
will enjoy two days of wine tasting, a brandy tasting, and food restful stay in Cape Town venture to the East along the Garden
pairings. South Africa is gaining notoriety for the noble grape Route outside Port Elizabeth.
Pinotage. While sipping Pinotage, consider other wine country
activities including golf, bike tours and spa treatments. A wine-
maker’s dinner will be served in a tasting room that will be pre- Accommodations Meals
pared by Chef Margo Janse. Cheers! Property, location, style, size Restaurants and meals listed
and amenities chosen based above are recommendations
D A Y S I X : We have arranged a very special African cook- on client specifications. only. Wine Tours of the World
ing class for you today. Learn about some of Africa’s most unique handles reservations at top
cuisine and how to pair it with South African wine. Learn how Pricing restaurants, small intimate
and why wine really can compliment and enhance food. You will This suggested itinerary is based bistros and gourmet dinners at
then be guided through a list of wine that can be paired with the on two people traveling togeth- vineyards. Exact meal inclusions
meal. The afternoon includes two of the area’s most well-known er. A single supplement fee will and dining reservations will be
wineries. apply. Cost of itinerary is priced specified at time of booking
based on dates of travel. based on final trip itinerary.