Embarking on a food and wine trip is an exquisite journey that tantalizes the senses and leaves lasting memories. From savoring delectable dishes crafted with local flavors to swirling glasses of velvety wine, this culinary adventure immerses us in a world of gastronomic delight. Exploring vineyards, indulging in farm-to-table experiences, and discovering hidden gems off the beaten path, we uncover the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions woven into each bite and sip.
Waterfalls, Wildflowers, and Wineries
-Cavender Creek Vineyards
Cavender Creek Vineyards is a picturesque winery nestled in the heart of the North Georgia mountains. With its serene setting and commitment to producing exceptional wines, it has become a beloved destination for wine enthusiasts and nature fans alike.
Located just a short drive from Dahlonega, Georgia, Cavender Creek Vineyards boasts sprawling vineyards that stretch across the rolling hills, offering breathtaking views at every turn. The winery is dedicated to sustainable and organic practices, ensuring that each grape is cultivated with care and respect for the environment.
We’ll enjoy wine tastings and guided tours through the vineyards, where we’ll have the opportunity to learn about the grape-growing process in a charming mountain setting.
-Wolf Mountain Vineyards
On our last day of this trip, we’ll enjoy brunch at Wolf Mountain Vineyards! This winery is renowned for its award-winning wines and stunning panoramic of the north Georgia mountains. The vineyard's commitment to quality and sustainability is evident in every bottle, from their exquisite reds to their crisp whites and sparkling selections.
With its blend of natural beauty, exceptional wines, and warm hospitality, Wolf Mountain Vineyards promises a truly memorable and enriching wine country experience that is the perfect end to this adventure.
Bulgaria’s Mountains and Monasteries
There’s a good chance you have never heard of Bulgarian wine, and that is because they don’t export much out of Europe. At some point, Bulgaria was the 4th largest producer of wine in the world until the industry collapsed in the 1980s as a result of centrally imposed limits on the alcohol industry and the downfall of the Soviet Union. This is a place for wine lovers not to miss with a great mix of your “classics” like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, all the way to local favorites like Rkatsitelli and Pamid!
Bulgaria has been growing wine since the Thracian times in the 10th century BC, so they have evolved to be masters of their craft. Favorable currency conversion rates will have you grinning from ear to ear as you purchase a bottle of fine Bulgarian wine for what you would pay for a single glass of wine elsewhere. Cheers to Bulgaria!
Pearls of the Croatian Coast
The wines of the Peljesac Peninsula in Croatia are a true reflection of the region's rich viticultural heritage and unique terroir (when a wine tastes like the region it is from). Nestled along the remarkable Adriatic coastline, this photogenic peninsula is renowned for its steep slopes, abundant sunshine, and cool sea breezes, creating an optimal climate for grape cultivation.
The indigenous grape varieties, such as Plavac Mali and Dingač, thrive in the region's rocky soils, resulting in wines that exude character, complexity, and distinctiveness. With their bold reds boasting notes of dark fruits, Mediterranean herbs, and hints of spice, the wines of the Pelješac Peninsula captivate wine enthusiasts with their robust flavors and exceptional quality. Whether enjoyed alongside local cuisine or as a standalone delight, these wines offer a truly memorable taste of the Pelješac Peninsula's winemaking tradition and the natural beauty that surrounds it.
Enjoy a selection of locally brewed white and red wines with lunch or dinner on this trip. The light body, variation in flavor, and unique quality of wine will insist that you say “živjeli!” (cheers!) with each glass savored.
Sicily and the Amalfi Coast
On this departure, we’ll take time to sample local Sicilian wine. To do so, we’ll make our way to a family-run winery located in the Vesuvius area, and visit the town of Marsala: the home of the world-renown Marsala wine. We’ll descend into world-class cellars and learn more about how the wines are made.
Whether it's the delicate balance of flavors in a perfectly paired dish or the laughter shared over a glass of wine with newfound friends, these trips invite us to embrace the beauty of life's simple pleasures. So, set off on this food and wine odyssey, and let your taste buds guide you through an unforgettable journey of culinary discovery. Cheers to a remarkable experience that will leave you yearning for more!
