In the world’s vast array of esteemed wine regions, and rapidly growing range of enotourism, some might say those looking for the ultimate wine experience are spoilt for choice.
And a global vineyard competition is the greatest way to lead you to your dream destination; where you can enjoy excellent wines, top-notch tastings and tours… not to mention outstanding views in stunning surroundings.
To release your inner wanderlust, this year’s list of The World’s 50 Best Vineyards has been released at an awards ceremony held at Amelia Park Wines, in the famous Margaret River wine region, Western Australia.
With Chile’s VIK claiming the top spot and The Best Vineyard in South America, these are the headliners grabbing our attention…
1. VIK, Millahue Valley, Chile
Chile is a big hitter with its increasingly diverse style of wines and impressive wine regions, and last year’s second runner-up, VIK, was crowned number one.
Award-winning, world-class wines may be their passion, but this luxurious 22-bedroom hotel offers a panoramic vista of the Andes, with 360-degree views of its surrounding vineyards and nature reserve.
On a wine quest to impress, it combines striking architectural features such as its awesome futuristic design with a Zen garden, infinity pool, glass-walled restaurant overlooking the valley; and significant artworks by Roberto Matta, one of the country’s most admired painters.
2. Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau, Germany
Riesling is on the rise, and if you ever needed an excuse to drink in the best, Schloss Johannisberg is the birthplace of Germany’s flagship white grape – and also voted the Best Vineyard in Europe 2025.
With more than 1,200 years of winemaking history, this is the place to savour the admirably stony purity and delightful floral aromatics their dry (trocken) riesling is known for – and a sommelier’s favourite for food pairing.
Overlooking the Rhine River and renowned for its historic palace grounds, this 18th-century castle is home to Bibliotheca Subterranea… an 11th-century subterranean cellar which puts you at the heart of the estate’s most revered riesling.
A stellar bottle dating back to 1748 still lies in the cellar, alongside some other vintages to remember.
3. Bodegas Ysios, Rioja, Spain
Ranked fourth last year and up a notch, this avant-garde, boutique winery is nestled in the foothills of the stunning Sierra de Cantabria mountain range; and offers several wine tasting experiences… each as seductive as the next.
With a stable of medal-winning whites, rosé and reds to whet your whistle – the only thing left is to get on board one of their oenological journeys – and a passport to pleasure.
From an Architreasures Trail to explore the wineries state-of-the-art design; to an intimate Winecar Exclusive Tour for two through the vineyard and tip-top tasting, Ysios is a magnet for serious wine lovers.
4. Bodega Garzón, Maldonado, Uruguay
At first glance, Uruguay may not be on your bucket list… but it should be. Especially with leading producer, Garzón, gearing us up for a memorable experience.
Here, the tannat grape is king, and worth seeking out for its dark fruit intensity, tannic character, and full-bodied style. And with a 120-seat restaurant offering traditional fired cooking – expect smoke and flames – with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, this sustainable winery has firmly put Uruguay on the global wine map.
Moreover, this southern Uruguay superstar specialises in picnics among the vineyards via foot or by bike; and hands-on cooking classes… cue the passionate foodie with a love of two wheels.
5. Château Smith Haut Lafitte, Bordeaux, France
The red wine capital of the world is home to some of the most illustrious and elegant wines, not to mention its prize vintages – and Château Smith Haut Lafitte in Bordeaux’s Pessac-Léognan region, a grand cru classé winery, the place to head…
A champion for biodynamic agriculture, expect to see Shire horses ploughing the land, nature at its best, orchards, beehives and most importantly, wonderful wines – and golden ticket to toast Mother Nature.
Check-in to the five-star Les Sources de Caudalie in the heart of the vineyards, and home to the much coveted two-Michelin starred restaurant La Grande’Vigne. Set in an 18th-century orangery where you can lunch like a prince or dinner like a pauper… it is good to dream.
