Whether you’re a veteran oenophile with a cellar full of Old World vintages or a budding enthusiast with a passion for the latest biodynamic releases, spending time amid the rolling vineyards, centuries-old châteaux, and stone-walled caves of the world’s most respected winemakers is an essential part of any wine lover’s European vacation. With so many storied producers to choose from, however, the task of creating the perfect itinerary can be a challenge. If you’re headed to the Rhône Valley, Tuscany, or Rioja this fall, these wineries promise picturesque scenery, stunning architecture, and, of course – some of the best wines their regions have to offer.

E.Guigal – Rhône Valley, France

This legendary region is best known for Syrah grapes and superstar wines like Côtes du Rhône and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, but after more than 2,400 years of winemaking here, there’s much more to discover. The Maison Guigal was founded in 1946 in the ancient village of Ampuis and now, under the leadership of the third generation of the Guigal family, it produces an impressive range of wines including Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, Hermitage, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Saint-Joseph, and Crozes-Hermitage. Headquartered in the Château d’Ampuis, a painstakingly restored 14th-century castle and national historic monument, there’s no better place to immerse yourself in the history and diversity of Rhône wines. 

Marchesi Antinori Chianti Classico – Tuscany, Italy

After more than 600 years in the winemaking business, the Antinori family understands that the only thing better than a beautiful glass of wine is an equally beautiful place in which to savour it. That’s why they opened their modern Antinori nel Chianti Classico winery, an architectural masterpiece with a pair of dramatic spiral staircases and an intimate tasting room overlooking a high-ceilinged brick cellar. Set into a hillside planted with Sangiovese as well as Canaiolo, Ciliegiolo, Colorino, Malvasia nera, and Mammolo grapes, the winery’s rooftop restaurant is the perfect spot to fall in love with Chianti Classico. 

Marqués de Riscal – La Rioja, Spain

With a legacy stretching back more than 2,000 years, Rioja has earned its place among the titans of the wine world and in 1895 Marqués de Riscal made this status official as the first non-French wine to win the diploma of honour of the venerated Bordeaux Exhibition. More than a century later, Marqués de Riscal remains on the leading edge of innovation, with a diverse portfolio of wines from stately oak-aged Riojas to herbaceous verdejas and a spectacular Frank Gehry–designed château and hotel. With a range of dining options including the Michelin-starred Restaurante Marqués de Riscal and a Caudalie vinothérapie spa, an education in one of Spain’s most revered varietals is just one of many reasons to visit Elciego.