10 Underrated Wine Regions You Need to Visit

Beyond the well-trodden vineyards of Napa and Bordeaux lies a world of undiscovered wine regions, each offering unique flavors, stunning landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences.

For the adventurous wine lover, these hidden gems promise unforgettable journeys, where you can savor exceptional wines without the crowds and inflated prices. From the ancient vines of Slovenia to the sun-drenched slopes of Somontano, prepare to embark on a sensory adventure to these 10 underrated wine regions.

Slovenia Beckons: A Land of Ancient Vines and Biodynamic Wonders

Slovenia, a small country nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic, is quickly emerging as a star in the wine world. With a strong commitment to organic and biodynamic practices, Slovenian winemakers are crafting wines that are both delicious and environmentally conscious. The country boasts three primary wine regions: Primorska, Posavje, and Podravje. For this journey, we'll focus on Podravje, the northeastern region known for its aromatic white wines, particularly Šipon (Furmint).

The heart of Podravje is Maribor, a historic city that is home to the world's oldest vine, a Žametovka, which is over 400 years old. This ancient vine still produces grapes, a testament to the region's deep winemaking roots. While in Maribor, a visit to the Vinag Wine Cellar is a must. This sprawling underground cellar boasts 2.1 kilometers of passages, making it one of the largest and oldest classical wine cellars in Central Europe. Here, you can explore the history of Slovenian winemaking and sample a variety of local wines.

Beyond Maribor, the Podravje region is dotted with charming wineries, each offering a unique experience. Consider visiting Hisa Vina Cuk, Hisa Vina Doppler , Hisa Vin Rondic and Skerlj Tourist Farm Winery, where you can taste exceptional wines amidst rolling hills and picturesque landscapes. At Hisa Vina Doppler, you can enjoy a modern cellar with a view, and sample wines paired with local delicacies.

Imagine yourself amidst rolling hills, the air filled with the scent of wildflowers, and the taste of crisp, mineral-rich wines on your palate. This is the sensory experience that awaits you in Slovenia. The best time to visit is in the fall, when you can participate in a harvest experience and witness the winemaking process firsthand.

Uruguay's Tannat Trail: Discover South America's Best-Kept Secret

Nestled between Argentina and Brazil, Uruguay is often overlooked as a wine destination, but this small country is home to a thriving wine industry and a unique grape variety: Tannat. Uruguay is South America's most underrated wine region, offering a distinct winemaking tradition and stunning landscapes.

The country's wine regions are concentrated in the southern part of the country, with Montevideo, Canelones, and Maldonado being the most prominent. Here, the Atlantic breeze influences the vineyards, creating wines with a unique character and freshness. Tannat, Uruguay's signature grape, thrives in this climate, producing bold and flavorful wines with rich tannins and dark fruit aromas.

A visit to Bodega Garzón in Maldonado is a must for any wine lover. This state-of-the-art winery is known for its sustainable practices and award-winning wines. The estate covers 2,200 hectares with a vibrant biodiversity. You can take a tour of the vineyards, sample their exceptional Tannat, and even take a cooking class with celebrity chef Francis Mallmann. For a luxurious experience, consider staying at Bodega Narbona in Carmelo, which combines winemaking with gourmet dining and elegant accommodations.

Imagine the bold taste of Tannat on your palate, the scent of the Atlantic breeze in the air, and the sight of rolling vineyards stretching to the horizon. This is the sensory experience that awaits you in Uruguay. Visit during the harvest season (February-April) for special events and to witness the vineyards at their most beautiful.

Greece Beyond Santorini: Unearthing Ancient Flavors in the Peloponnese

While Santorini may be the most famous Greek island, the Peloponnese peninsula offers a rich winemaking history and a diverse range of grape varieties. This region, steeped in ancient history, is home to Nemea, known for its Agiorgitiko grape, and Mantineia, famous for Moschofilero.

Nemea, the largest red wine appellation in Greece, is known for its Agiorgitiko, a versatile grape that produces wines ranging from light and fruity to rich and complex. The area includes 429,506 acres, of which 25,000 are planted with Agiorgitiko. Domaine Skouras offers a scenic tasting experience, where you can sample a range of Agiorgitiko wines and learn about the region's winemaking history. The winery cultivates a diverse selection of local and international grapes.

In Mantineia, the Moschofilero grape reigns supreme. This aromatic white grape produces crisp and refreshing wines with floral aromas and a distinctive pink hue. A visit to Ktima Gerovassiliou provides the opportunity to taste Malagousia. The winery has been involved in vine cultivation and winemaking since 1981.

Imagine the aroma of dark cherry and licorice in Agiorgitiko, the taste of crisp Moschofilero on your palate, and the sight of ancient ruins dotting the landscape. This is the sensory experience that awaits you in the Peloponnese. Attend the Great Days of Nemea festival in September to meet winemakers and learn more about Agiorgitiko.

Douro Valley, Portugal: Port and Beyond

The Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its stunning terraced vineyards and its production of Port wine. However, this region is increasingly gaining recognition for its exceptional dry red and white wines. The steep slopes along the Douro River create a unique microclimate, ideal for growing a variety of grapes.

For a comprehensive tasting experience, visit Quinta do Crasto or Quinta do ValladoQuinta do Vallado, built in 1716, is one of the oldest and most famous Quintas of the Douro Valley. The estate combines technological advancement with tried and tested methods.

Picture the breathtaking views from the terraced vineyards, the scent of the local flora in the air, and the taste of rich, full-bodied wines on your palate. This is the sensory experience that awaits you in the Douro Valley. Take a river cruise to fully appreciate the valley's beauty and immerse yourself in the region's rich history and culture.

Alsace, France: Fairytale Villages and Riesling with a Twist

Alsace, a picturesque region in northeastern France, is known for its charming historic villages and its unique interpretation of Riesling. The towns of Colmar and Strasbourg are particularly enchanting, with their colorful half-timbered houses and vibrant Christmas markets.

The region's winemakers focus on organic winegrowing and emphasize the seven official grape varieties, with Riesling as the flagship. However, Alsatian Riesling is distinct from its German counterpart, typically being drier and more aromatic. For a memorable tasting experience, visit Domaine Zind-Humbrecht or Trimbach. Trimbach has been a reference point for fine Alsace wine since 1626.

Imagine yourself strolling through quaint streets, the aroma of local cuisine wafting through the air, and the taste of dry, aromatic Riesling on your palate. This is the sensory experience that awaits you in Alsace. Explore the Route des Vins d'Alsace for a scenic drive through the vineyards and discover the region's hidden gems.

Styria, Austria: Sauvignon Blanc in the Land of Rolling Hills

Styria (Steiermark), a hidden gem in southeastern Austria, is known for its stunning landscapes and its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc. The steep slopes and volcanic soils create a unique terroir, ideal for growing this aromatic grape. Styria is one of the three major growing regions in Austria.

Visit wineries like Weingut Tement or Domaine Ciringa to sample the region's best Sauvignon Blancs. Weingut Tement is located on the Slovenian border. The Tement family also owns Domaine Ciringa over the Slovenian border.

Imagine yourself amidst rolling hills, the scent of wild herbs in the air, and the taste of vibrant, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc on your palate. This is the sensory experience that awaits you in Styria. Explore the wine villages of Kitzeck and Gamlitz to discover the region's charm and hospitality.

Longuedoc-Roussillon, France: Where Innovation Meets Tradition

Languedoc-Roussillon, the largest wine-producing region in France, is a dynamic area where innovation meets tradition. With a blend of international and indigenous grape varieties, the region offers a diverse range of wines to explore.

In recent years, Languedoc-Roussillon has seen an influx of young, innovative winemakers who are committed to organic practices and crafting high-quality wines. Visit Gérard Bertrand's biodynamic estate or Domaine de la Grange des Pères to sample some of the region's best wines and learn about their winemaking philosophies.

Picture the warm Mediterranean climate, the aroma of the garrigue (the region's distinctive scrubland) in the air, and the taste of Carignan and Cinsault on your palate. This is the sensory experience that awaits you in Languedoc-Roussillon. Explore the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while enjoying the local wines and soaking up the region's rich history and culture.

Moravia, Czech Republic: Affordable Elegance in a Hidden Gem

Moravia, a rising star in the Czech Republic, offers exceptional quality at an affordable price point. This region, with its rich winemaking tradition and favorable climate, is producing wines that are gaining international recognition.

Visit wineries like Sonberk or Volařík to sample the region's best wines and experience the Moravian hospitality. The rolling vineyards and picturesque landscapes create a charming backdrop for a memorable wine tasting experience.

Imagine yourself amidst rolling vineyards, the scent of fruit orchards in the air, and the taste of crisp, refreshing wines on your palate. This is the sensory experience that awaits you in Moravia. Take a day trip from Prague to explore the Moravian wine region and discover its hidden treasures.

Thrace, Greece: Unearthing the Roots of Winemaking

Thrace, the birthplace of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, is a region steeped in ancient winemaking traditions. With numerous archaeological findings and a unique terroir, Thrace offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of wine.

Explore the region's ancient sites and visit Gerovassiliou Winery to taste Malagousia and other distinctive wines. Ktima Gerovassiliou has been reviving the family vineyard since 1981.

Imagine yourself exploring historical sites, the aroma of local herbs in the air, and the taste of the region's distinctive wines on your palate. This is the sensory experience that awaits you in Thrace. Explore the ancient city of Philippi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and delve into the region's rich history and culture.

Somontano, Spain: Pyrenees Views and Wines Without the Crowds

Somontano, a quiet region nestled near the Pyrenees Mountains, offers relaxed vibes and underrated wines. Away from the crowded wine routes, Somontano provides a slower pace and stunning views.

Visit Bodegas Enate or Viñas del Vero to sample the region's unique wines and experience the Somontano hospitality. Bodegas Enate unites its image to Contemporary Art and Culture. Enate owns 450 hectares of vineyards.

Imagine yourself breathing in the crisp mountain air, the scent of wildflowers in the air, and the taste of the region's unique wines on your palate. This is the sensory experience that awaits you in Somontano. Explore the Sierra de Guara Natural Park for hiking and breathtaking scenery, and discover the region's natural beauty.