6 Great Wine Tour Ideas for 2023

Organising a wine tour can be daunting but armed with these six great wine tour ideas for 2023, you’ll be set in no time. Wine touring doesn’t depend on the weather being great, but when the sun’s out, there’s not better way to explore the world of wine.

Now, perhaps this sounds familiar: “Wouldn’t it be brilliant if we all did a wine tour together?” 

When someone at your last gathering of mates floated the idea, it sounded smart. Not so smart was that you were voted Chief Organiser. Don’t panic. South Africa’s Winelands beckon with their breathtaking landscapes, world-class wines, and country hospitality. You just need to get everyone there and the rest is a breeze. These 6 great wine tour ideas for 2023 will make it all come together without stress.

1. Choose the right destination

The first step in setting your great wine tour ideas into motion is to select the perfect destination. Consider regions renowned for their wineries. Research the wine-producing areas and their specialties to align your preferences with the destination’s offerings. Each region has its own unique wine culture, varieties, and geography, so choose a location that resonates with your tastes and interests. The Robertson Wine Valley for example lies just over one hour’s drive from Cape Town and is home to award winning producers such as Bonnievale Winery. This hidden gem is known for its diverse wine offerings and warm hospitality. It’s also a great place to stop for pizza and pairings served with wines. 

2. Plan ahead for your wine trip

Make the most of your wine tour, so stick to a plan. Without planning, these 6 great wine tour ideas for 2023 would definitely be less great! Contact wineries in advance to schedule visits and tastings. Many wineries require reservations, especially during peak seasons, so be sure to secure your spot. Consider creating an itinerary that includes a mix of large and small wineries because a diverse experience keeps the trip interesting. Research local events, festivals, or harvest seasons, as they can add an extra layer of excitement.

3. Seek expert wine tourism advice

Engage with local wine experts or travel agencies specializing in wine tours. Their knowledge and expertise can be invaluable in planning a successful trip. They can recommend wineries based on your preferences, provide insights into the region’s wine culture, and help you make the most of your time – it’s one of the cornerstones of these 6 great wine tour ideas for 2023. Their guidance can enhance your understanding of wines and ensure you visit the most notable vineyards in the area.

4. Consider transportation

Transportation plays a crucial role in a wine tour – it’s the reason we’ve included it among the 6 great wine tour ideas for 2023. Depending on the extent of your wineland travels and destinations, you may choose to rent a car, hire a private driver, or join organized group tours. If you opt for self-driving, ensure you have a designated driver who abstains from alcohol. Alternatively, private drivers or group tours allow everyone to indulge in the wine tastings without worrying about driving. Some wineries produce wines for just this kind of situation. Whether or not you’re driving give these wines like Bonnievale NEAT de-alcohlised wine a try!

5. Embrace the wine tasting experience

A wine tour is not only about tasting different wines but also about embracing the entire experience. Get to know the winemakers, ask questions, and learn about the unique characteristics of each wine. Take time to explore the vineyards, admire the landscapes, and understand the winemaking process. You’ll find that many of these “secondary” features have strong links to the wines themselves, such as why Bonnievale Wines produces a range called The River Collection. Also try a local restaurant as a way of immersing yourself in the community vibe.

6. Capture memories

Remember to keep a record for the sake of sharing the 6 great wine tour ideas for 2023 with your friends and others. Take photographs of the vineyards, wineries, and your favourite wines. Keep a journal. This way, you can relive the experience later (when the next Chief Organiser has to be nominated!).

The final tip of this blog is to never forget that the journey is as important as the destination when it comes to exploring the world of wine. It’s just as important as all the other recommendations among these 6 great wine tour ideas for 2023. Safe travels!