Spanning 48 countries and recognising excellence across 16 categories, the awards shine a light not only on outstanding produce but also on the traditions, places, people, and heritage behind it, understanding that wine travel is as much about storytelling as it is about quality quaffing.

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This year the public selection places two European vineyards and one Latin American in its top three “must-visit” destinations. The top spot is taken by Georgia’s SHUMI Winery, in the Alazani River valley that forms a border with Azerbaijan. Here in Tsinandali lies a noted palace and historic winery-estate. The region is not only home to an ancient earthenware fermentation wine-making method but also boasts an oenotheque with a collection of over 16,500 historic bottles of wine and the world’s largest private collection of grapevine species.

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Second in the public vote lies Venissa Estate in Italy, where the ancient art of winemaking, almost lost to the Venice Lagoon islands after the great flood of 1966, is being nurtured anew among the native grapes that grow in an atmospheric walled vineyard on Mazzorbo. The estate promises exclusivity, with only five rooms and tastings from its limited output of just 3,500 bottles a year.

The public also put forward Bodega La Luz del Vino in Argentina, where some of the oldest vineyards in the Uco Valley sit at a minimum of 1,000 metres above sea level, surrounded by the soaring peaks of the Andes.

When it comes to the year’s top wine regions, Europe managed to place three in the top five. Burgenland in Austria was the public’s first choice; California Wine Country, with its 6,200 vineyards placed second; South Africa came third; Romania, the sixth largest wine producer in the bloc was voted in at fourth; and Italy’s Verona rounded out the top five.

Some unexpected candidates also make it into the ranking. Taiwan’s climate-driven innovation in winemaking merited it a mention. Iryna Diachenkova, CEO of the Wine Travel Awards notes that it “earned its place on our list thanks to its pioneering work in underwater ageing. They are among the early innovators of deep-sea-aged wine.”

The overall winners for this year in each of the award categories will be revealed by the Wine Travel Award judging panel on 1 May 2026. And on 17 June, in Beaune, the Wine Travel Awards Ceremony will take place at the inaugural Global Wine Tourism Day.

L’article What are the must-visit wine destinations for 2026? est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

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The first grapevines in the region were planted in Heuvelland back in 1996. Today, 63 winegrowers cultivate 155 hectares across various municipalities and cities in West Flanders, including Heuvelland, Zonnebeke, and Tielt. Grapes such as Riesling, which previously struggled to ripen in cooler climates, now thrive in warmer conditions. Sommelier José Lemahieu notes that December temperatures in the region now average 12 °C, compared with just over 10 °C in the past. Investment from Flemish entrepreneurs and automation has also professionalised production, allowing larger-scale cultivation while maintaining quality.

However, the rapid expansion of vineyards is raising environmental concerns. Intensive pesticide use produces triazoles—chemicals that can contaminate streams supplying towns like Ieper and Diksmuide, with potential long-term health effects. As the sector grows, experts say, responsible management is essential to balance economic benefits with environmental protection. 

Other parts of Belgium offer insight into how the industry is adapting to a shifting climate. In Wallonia, warmer conditions allow earlier grape ripening but also increase vulnerability to spring frosts, floods, and pests such as Drosophila suzukii, a fruit fly that attacks ripening grapes and other soft fruits. Winemaker Jeanette van der Steen at Château Bon Baron near Dinant protects vines with clay and leaf thinning, while harvests have moved from mid-October to early September in response to the changing climate.

Belgium is also investing in sustainable wine tourism. The “Wine Street” initiative, spanning 80 km through Hageland, Haspengouw, and the Meuse valley, features six wine hubs and around 60 establishments for tastings and learning experiences. Visitors can cycle or walk through vineyards, discover local cuisine, and learn about sustainable practices. In Hageland, five scenic walking routes offer opportunities to explore vineyards, forests, historic castles, and artisan wine estates, with options for farm-to-table dining and luxury stays. 

Belgian wines are gaining international recognition. Estates such as Chant d’Éole in Wallonia have won awards like “Best Sparkling Wine” at the London Wine Competition (2020). Protected Designations of Origin (PDOs) and Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs) ensure authenticity, strengthen regional identity, and boost tourism. The Belgian Winegrowers Organization supports over 80 percent of producers through training, guidance, and advocacy.

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From West Flanders’ rapid expansion to climate-smart practices in Wallonia, sustainable tourism initiatives, and international acclaim, Belgium’s wine sector is transforming. Climate opportunities, investor support, and professional expertise are creating a vibrant industry that attracts tourists while demonstrating the potential for responsible growth in northern European wine regions.

L’article West Flanders sees unprecedented expansion of wine industry thanks to global warming est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Developed in partnership with Mindtrip, an AI travel platform founded in San Francisco in 2023, LOU – short for ‘Life Opens Up’, Sonoma County’s slogan – creates itineraries stretching from coastal cliffs and redwood forests to vineyard-covered hills and farm-to-table towns.

Frank Filice, SCT’s vice president of marketing and brand, explained in a statement that LOU’s mission is to capture what makes Sonoma so distinctive. ‘It is creative, inclusive, and inspired by the talent of our community,’ he said. ‘By blending smart technology with the richness of our local culture – the winemakers, chefs, farmers, and artists who bring this place to life – we’re helping travellers discover experiences that truly capture the essence of Sonoma County.’

Visitors can access LOU directly from the SCT’s website, where they will be greeted by a warm ‘welcome to Sonoma County, where, as they say, “Life Opens Up”! LOU here to help plan your trip’. They are then prompted by the assistant to write what inspires them most when planning a visit: ‘relaxing activities, exploring local restaurants, or discovering unique attractions?’.

While wine tasting remains at the heart of most itineraries, what sets LOU apart is that its suggestions go well beyond this, including hiking among the redwoods in the morning, followed by an afternoon tasting of the region’s famous Pinot Noir, and finishing with a gourmet dinner prepared by a chef who sources ingredients from nearby farms, enjoyed poolside at sunset.

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Travel Tomorrow tested LOU with a simple prompt: a three-day trip focused on history, nature, and wine.

In less than a minute, a fully personalised programme appeared titled ‘Sonoma County: Three Days of History, Nature & Wine’, complete with an interactive map and an emphasis on the historical side of the trip.

Day 1 began with Mission San Francisco Solano and Sonoma State Historic Park, followed by lunch and in the afternoon, a visit to Ceja Vineyards’ tasting room to sample a Sauvignon Blanc, a Pinot Noir, and a Chardonnay. For those with time, it added Buena Vista Winery, California’s oldest premium estate, for a glass of sparkling wine or another Pinot Noir before a relaxed evening in town.

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Day 2 led through Jack London State Historic Park and the towering redwoods, ending with tastings at Abbot’s Passage Winery & Mercantile for Rhône-style blends or Little Vineyards Family Winery for Zinfandel and Bordeaux-style reds.

The final day followed the coast to Sonoma Coast State Park and Fort Ross Vineyard, where the cool climate shapes elegant Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. On the way back inland, LOU added Cline Family Cellars as an optional stop for Old Vine Zinfandel or Rhône varietals, a reminder that Sonoma’s 19 appellations produce more than 60 grape varietals – far more diversity than its neighbour, Napa.

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When prompted about ‘drinking and driving’, given the distances between the destinations, LOU California’s 0.08% BAC limit, the presence of active patrols, and the possible penalties for DUI, including licence suspension, suggest safer alternatives such as ‘hiring a driver, or checking wineries with shuttle services’. It even added as a practical note that services such as ‘Uber/Lyft may be unreliable in Sonoma County and could involve long waits’.

The only thing LOU does not (yet) do is make the bookings for you. It can’t quote live prices or reserve restaurants, though it provides accurate links and full contact details, phone and email for each recommended venue.

L’article Sonoma launches its AI concierge to explore California’s wine county est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The European Network of Wine Cities (RECEVIN), which coordinates the European Wine City programme, has crowned Baixo Alentejo with this distinction. It recognises the region’s 13 municipalities for their innovative strategy in the economic and regional development of wine and tourism, as well as its status as the birthplace of Talha wine, a traditional Portuguese wine crafted in large clay amphorae known as talhas.

In 2026, Baixo Alentejo will host 25 events over 235 days, making it a must-visit destination for wine lovers and curious travellers alike. From the Mértola Wine Festival to Wine in Water and Wine Talks with Science, these activities will blend wine with arts, science, heritage and sport, appealing to a wide range of interests. With one in four households tied to the wine sector, visitors will experience a living wine culture rooted in two millennia of tradition.

To honour winemaking and wine tourism, RECEVIN selects one region each year to showcase excellence in both fields, awarding it this prestigious title. The project is organised by the network in collaboration with wine city associations in the countries where RECEVIN is represented. This designation not only celebrates Baixo Alentejo’s rich wine heritage but also underscores wine’s broader impact on the economy and culture.

“Wine generates investment, creates jobs, encourages agricultural innovation, and stimulates the restaurant, accommodation, and retail sectors,” said Luís Encarnação, President of the Board Association of Portuguese Wine Municipalities (AMPV), during a press conference in Brussels.

But for the Portuguese, wine is more than an economic product. It symbolises history, culture, tradition, science, and sustainability. “We are celebrating a region with more than 2,000 years of wine-making tradition where vineyards, culture, and people have formed a living heritage,” said António Bota, President of the Baixo Alentejo Intermunicipal Community (CIMBAL).

This deep-rooted wine tradition is complemented by Baixo Alentejo’s modern commitment to sustainability, which strengthens its appeal. With 537 winegrowers cultivating 5,880 hectares of vineyards, the region blends centuries-old practices with environmentally conscious cultivation. Notably, 59% of this area (3,455 hectares) is part of the Alentejo Wine Sustainability Programme, with 167 winegrowers participating. Ten producers have earned the Sustainable Production Certificate, and nine hold a PSVA certificate, showcasing the region’s dedication to eco-friendly winemaking.

Additionally, wine tourism allows for better management of the tourist influx by drawing wine enthusiasts to less crowded areas. “Wine tourism allows us to diversify our tourism offer, reduce seasonality and bring visitors to the interior regions, where tourism was once scarce,” noted Encarnação.

He further emphasised that modern tourists seek authentic experiences that connect them directly to the land and its people. “Through wine, we promote balance between the coast and the interior, we strengthen social cohesion and we project an image of Portugal as a modern, sustainable and authentic country.”

During their visit to Brussels, the Baixo Alentejo delegation also had the opportunity to present the European Wine City 2026 programme at the European Parliament, thanks to the support of MEP Paulo do Nascimento Cabral, who hosted a special session to highlight the initiative and its significance for Portugal and the wider European wine community.

RECEVIN brings together more than 1,000 European cities that share a culture and passion for wine. The initiative fosters collaboration and helps strengthen the sector. “Cooperation among the cities in the network allows us to develop joint projects to promote wine tourism, defend designations of origin and launch major European events — such as the one that brings us together today, the election of the European Wine City 2026,” said Rosa Melchor, President of RECEVIN.

This further promotes Europe as a destination for wine lovers, offering opportunities to explore renowned wines, visit vineyards and cellars, and taste local produce. 

L’article Baixo Alentejo unveils European Wine City 2026 programme in Brussels est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

1. The Wijngaardberg Walk

1.1. The walk

Head out from the heart of the wine village of Wezemaal for a 7.4 km tour of the Wijngaardberg, an enchantingly beautiful vineyard landscape and a nature reserve with singular views.

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1.2. Highlights

Discover all the colours, scents, and flavours of the wine region at the Hageland Wine Visitor Centre. The De Hagelander statue invites you to climb the Wijngaardberg, where the tough ironstone vineyard wall shields the grapes from chilly northerly winds. Back in the valley, the stately old Norbertine presbytery awaits. Did you spot the graft from the world’s oldest vine in the vineyard?

1.3. Your stay

The t’ Kareelbos holiday home is a ten-minute jaunt from Wezemaal centre and the Wijngaardberg. It can accommodate up to sixteen, so why not bring the whole family along?

1.4. Out and about

This walk begins and ends at the Hageland Wine Visitor Centre on Kerkstraat 16 in Wezemaal. Follow the nodes 6 – 604 – 62 – 63 – 65 – 74 – 64 – 61 – 605 – 6.

2. The Houwaartseberg Walk

2.1. The walk

Houwaart church is where your climb up the Houwaartseberg starts. The ‘mountain’ is crowded with vineyards soaking up the sun. What does crowded mean? De Houwaartse Vineyard, Den Eeckhout Vineyard, Het Eiken Vat Vineyard, Steenkuyl-Wijnfaktorij Vineyard, Hagelander Vineyard, Sint-Denijs Vineyard, and Ten Gaerde Vineyard are all there…but we may have missed a few. The walk is 9.2 km long.

2.2. Highlights

Clamber onto the Wijnbank for a majestic view of the sprawling vineyard tapestry below. A few kilometres further along your walk, you’ll spot the keep of Horst Castle peeking through the trees. This cross-shaped keep has stalwartly kept watch over Wingebeek Valley since the 15^th century.

2.3. Your stay

Stay overnight in a cosy, beautifully decorated cottage set in a spacious garden. Vossendries sleeps up to four guests and offers the perfect escape into nature, with peaceful surroundings that invite you to fully unwind.

2.4. Out and about

Begin and end your walk at Sint-Denijskerk, Haldertstraat, in Houwaart. Just follow the nodes 246 – 228 – 227 – 226 – 225 – 155 – 154 – 153 – 152 – 151 – 144 – 228 – 246.

3. The From Hill to Hill Walk

3.1. The walk

A 10.7-km journey takes you over the Houwaartse Berg and through the beautiful Walen Forest. Artisan pride has been passed down from father to daughter at Liemau Vineyard, and Danouise Vineyard has been a reference since 1994. 

3.2. Highlights

Enjoy a bit of forest bathing in the Walen Forest, a marshland treasure scattered with peat mosses and orchids. Just don’t forget your wellies! 

3.3. Your stay

Provençal, contemporary, or country? At B&B Silentium, it’s up to you! The edge of the Walen Forest is always steeped in blissful quiet.

3.4. Out and about

Start and end your journey at the Church of Our Lady car park on Bergstraat in Tielt-Winge. Follow the nodes 2 – 22 – 23 – 243 – 241 – 242 – 231 – 229 – 230 – 226 – 225 – 157 – 222 – 221 – 21 – 2. 

4. The Chartreuzenberg Walk

4.1. The walk

This walk (7 km) takes you through the dreamy sunken roads of the Chartreuzen Forest and up the slopes of the Chartreuzenberg. These slopes nourish the ripening grapes of the Chartreuzenberg Vineyard, which is 60 acres large with 1,200 vines.

4.2. Highlights

A huge sun gate welcomes you to the natural oasis Chartreu-ZEN Forest, where you can leave your worries behind. There’s a yoga platform and a labyrinth with large chunks of ironstone for walls… There’s even a wooden bed with a pillow and all.

4.3. Your stay

Fun, hands-on kits, an extendible table, and astonishing stories! The Hageland Holiday Home farmhouse is family and kid friendly.

4.4. Out and about

Begin and end your walk at Sint-Mauruskerk, Gebroeders Van Tiltstraat in Holsbeek. Follow the nodes 1 – 12 – 19 – 18 – 111 – 112 – 171 – 17 – 11 – 1 or the red-print rectangular signs.

5. The Speelberg Walk

5.1. The walk

12 km of adventure await with an eclectic landscape and fantastic vistas of the Linden Forest, Chartreuzen Forest, and their surroundings. But the prettiest spot of all? That’s the Vandeurzen Wine Estate of Linden Castle.

5.2. Highlights

Hmm… The Linden Forest play areas or the Chartreuzen Forest’s green oasis? You get the best of both worlds on this walk.

5.3. Your stay

At Villa Krat, you stay in stylish comfort with the luxury of a natural swimming pond, a garden perfect for barbecues, and a farm-to-table dining experience just around the corner.

5.4. Out and about

Your journey begins and ends at Sint-Kwintenkerk, Martelarenplaats 1 in Linden. Follow the nodes: 5 – 51 – 53 – 55 – 56 – 47 – 19 – 18 – 111 – 112 – 113 – 114 – 57 – 52 – 5  or the red-print rectangular signs.

From forested hills to sweeping vineyard views, Hageland’s walking routes offer a perfect way to discover the charm of Vlaams-Brabant. Whether you choose a short stroll or a longer hike, each path blends nature, history, and local wine culture into an experience worth savouring.

L’article 5 Walks through Hageland’s vineyards est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

As Ever, the Montecito-based venture, up to now has focused on artisanal kitchen essentials, has come up with the new beverage that is reported to have “soft notes of stone fruit, gentle minerality and a lasting finish,” the description on the website says, “this bespoke blend is launching just in time for summer entertaining.” 

The launch date is significant for The Duchess of Sussex as it coincides with what would have been Princess Diana’s 64^th birthday, as well as the anniversary of the day Prince Harry first messaged her in 2016.

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“I want to really focus on the hospitality angle of As Ever, but as we take the learnings, we can understand what the customer’s needs are seasonally,” Markle said. “My heart is very deeply in my home. Everything comes from being rooted in the love story of your home and garden, and then you can imagine different verticals coming out of that.”

After its first product drop sold out in just 45 minutes on 2 April, Meghan Markle’s brand made its highly anticipated return on 20 June with a fresh batch of products. The second drop brought back six items from the initial lineup, along with two new seasonal additions. The raspberry spread was replaced with an apricot version, while the limited-edition wildflower honey with honeycomb gave way to a fresh offering of orange blossom honey. As demand remained high, products were again sold out within hours. 

“Our Apricot Spread is made with gorgeous fruit and a touch of sweetness, letting the apricot’s bright flavor shine,” as it is described on the website. “The smooth texture and gentle tartness pair beautifully with everything from toast to cheese boards.”

The Duchess of Sussex has pointed out that As Ever makes its products carefully and sustainably, and this also goes for the rosé wine. The personal touch of Markle is evident from videos shared on social media showing her and her daughter, Lilibet, harvesting natural ingredients used in the brand’s products. 

The rosé will be available to purchase exclusively via the As Ever website from 11 a.m. ET on 1 July, inviting customers to celebrate summer gatherings with a product rooted in family, sustainability, and personal meaning.

L’article From royalty to rosé: Meghan Markle’s brand enters wine market est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

A new study published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology looked at cardiac arrests and how they could possibly be avoided. The researchers looked at the data of 502,094 middle-to-older aged people in the UK Biobank of data, 3,147 of whom suffered sudden cardiac arrest over a period of 13.8 years. During a cardiac arrest, the heart suddenly stops beating, usually without warning. As a result, people become unconscious and stop breathing (normally). If no medical aid is given, most patients die of the arrest.

By analysing the data, the scientist found 56 risk factors when it came to cardiac arrests, including lifestyle factors, socio-economic status, and local environment. With that in mind, they think 40 to 63% of sudden cardiac arrests could be avoided.

As far as lifestyle factors go, a higher consumption of Champagne, white wine and fruit could protect people against cardiac arrest. So-called ‘fed-up’ feelings, a high body mass indexe (BMI), a high arm fat mass, high blood pressure, and lower education level instead increased the risk, as did poor sleep patterns and a lack of exercise.

“The study found significant associations between various modifiable factors and sudden cardiac arrest, with lifestyle changes being the most impactful in preventing cases,” said lead investigator and first author, Dr Huihuan Luo, from the Fudan University in Shanghai in China.

Why white wine and Champagne?

While it is unclear how Champagne en white wine are protecting the heart against a cardiac arrest, the study is already gaining a lot of attention because of the findings.

“One of the study’s most intriguing findings is the cardioprotective effect associated with Champagne and white wine consumption, questioning long-held assumptions about the specificity of red wine’s cardioprotective properties. Research on the underlying mechanisms remains unclear, but these findings reinforce the idea that the benefits of moderate alcohol consumption may be more complex than previously assumed,” said Nicholas Grubic from the University of Toronto and Dakota Gustafson from Queen’s University in Ontario in an editorial accompanying the study.

Previously, studies have showed how polyphenols in can potentially lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. However, those antioxidants are mainly found in red wine. The fact that the study found Champagne and white wine in particular to be beneficial is intriguing. As mentioned before, the study hasn’t identified a cause and does not look at the potential harms of such a glass of wine on other health aspects.

L’article How white wine and champagne can reduce your risk of cardiac arrest est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The PDO designation encompasses approximately 473 hectares within the municipalities of Cogolludo, San Andrés del Congosto, and Membrillera in Guadalajara. Currently, 42 hectares are under vine cultivation. These vineyards are situated at elevations ranging from 940 to 1,000 metres above sea level, contributing to the wines’ distinctive profiles

Winemaking traditions and practices

The ‘Río Negro’ area boasts a long-established winemaking tradition, with local producers passing down their expertise through generations. The region’s mountainous terrain and specific climatic conditions have led to the careful selection of grape varieties and cultivation practices tailored to these unique environmental factors. This harmonious interaction between human intervention and nature has been instrumental in defining the characteristic qualities of ‘Río Negro’ wines.​

Finca Río Negro: A testament to regional excellence

At the heart of this PDO lies Finca Río Negro, a winery that epitomises the region’s viticultural excellence. Spanning 42 hectares of vineyards at an altitude of 1,000 metres, the estate challenges traditional wine-growing conventions.Surrounded by forests, the winery cultivates a range of grape varieties, including Tempranillo, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Gewürztraminer. 

Finca Río Negro produces several notable wines:​

• Finca Río Negro: The flagship red wine, blending Tempranillo, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, reflecting the estate’s essence.
• Gewürztraminer: A white wine showcasing the successful adaptation of this Alsace-origin grape to the estate’s high-altitude conditions. 
• 992 FRN: Named after the vineyard’s altitude, this wine embodies the unique terroir of the estate.
• Finca Río Negro 5^th Year: An aged red wine, requiring at least five years of careful preparation, designed to evolve gracefully over time. ​

Implications of PDO recognition

The PDO status not only acknowledges the unique characteristics of ‘Río Negro’ wines but also offers legal protection against imitation throughout the European Union. This recognition is expected to enhance the reputation of these wines, providing consumers with assurance of their quality and authenticity. Furthermore, it supports local producers by promoting their products in both domestic and international markets.​

With this addition, Castilla-La Mancha reinforces its position as the Spanish autonomous community with the highest number of wine-related PDOs recognised by the European Union, totalling 24. This achievement underscores the region’s rich viticultural heritage and its commitment to preserving and promoting its unique wine-producing areas.

L’article Spain’s Río Negro wines gain EU Protected Designation of Origin status est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Determining a start for the Uzbek winemaking tradition isn’t easy. When Alexander the Great conquered the city of Samarkand in the 4^th century BC, the city’s sweet wines were already well-known, meaning their roots go back even further. Due to Uzbekistan’s location along the Silk Road, its produce was shipped all over the globe and, simultaneously, international wines and grapes passed through the country, permanently marking the local craftsmanship.

With the start of Islamic rule in the region came the prohibition of alcoholic beverages, including wine. This meant that many of the vineyards switched to table vines instead of those meant for winemaking, thus somewhat halting the evolution of Uzbek winemaking. However, not all winemakers halted their activities, and in the 11^th century, polymath Ibn Sina (Avicenna) outlined both the negative and the positive effects of wine in his Canon of Medicine. 

Modern winemaking in Uzbekistan really started at the end of the 19^th century. In 1868, the ambitious Russian merchant Dmitry Filatov decided to plant new vineyards and make wine in Samarkand. Under the influence of the Russian Empire, he managed to expand his business, which still exists today.

Since then, many wineries have opened in Uzbekistan, especially since the start of the Soviet regime in the country. Mikhail Khovrenko, the first Russian winemaking professor, was particularly important in this regard, as he systematised the types of wine being made, cultivated several new varieties of grapes, introduced new technologies for wine production, and developed technological schemes for vintage wines.

Today, Uzbekistan has numerous wineries and a total of 118.000 hectares of vineyards (as of 2022, according to Statista). The main white wine varieties are Bakhtiori, Bayanshira, Bishty, Kuldzhinskii, Muscat Blanc, Rkatsiteli, Riesling and Soyaki (one of the ancient local vines). The main red wine varieties are Aleatico, Khindogni, Morrastel (Graciano), Pervomaisky, Rosenmuskateller, and Saperavi.

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Overall, more than 300 types of grapes grow in Uzbekistan nowadays, whether on a smaller or larger scale. However, not all of those are used for winemaking, resulting in a production volume of 217.000 hectoliters per year. The Uzbek wineries produce everything from sweet whites over sparkling options to strong reds and dessert wines.

Even though Uzbekistan has a mainly continental climate, not all regions lend themselves to winemaking. The foot of the mountains and the river valleys around Tashkent, the Fergana Basin, the cities of Bukhara and Samarkand, and the country’s southeast are the most popular among winemakers.

Those who want to discover some of Uzbekistan’s finest wines while visiting the country can visit one of the many vineyards. These often provide guided tours and tastings, giving you the opportunity not only to learn a little more about the wine you are drinking but also to test your taste buds. 

L’article Exploring Uzbekistan’s winemaking tradition est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

These include Sauerkraut, a signature dish of Alsace, which consists of fermented white cabbage served with various types of meat, such as knacks, kassler and bacon. But there are lots of other Alsace specialities and, during the month of October, people here can sample some of these classic dishes, and wines, at the Sofitel Brussels Europe hotel at Place Jourdan, situated at the heart of the EU Quarter.

The food comes courtesy of a couple of top-rated chefs: Mathieu Klein, chef of the Sofitel restaurant in Strasbourg and Gabriele Petrucci, chef of “1040”, the restaurant at the Sofitel Brussels Europe, which is hosting this month’s event. Klein has worked at Michelin-rated restos in both France and Switzerland, while Petrucci, from Italy, has worked at the 1040 resto since 2021 and was the first Chef de cuisine at “La Meilleur Jeunesse”.  

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As the name of the event suggests, wine is also a key ingredient of the event’s success, and this year is no different. Refreshing or coating the palate with thousands of aromas, the Vins d’Alsace can either accompany dishes with elegance and finesse or with force and character, and some excellent Alsatian wines will be served during the “Wine Days” event.

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These come courtesy of Arthur Metz, a well-known Alsace wine producer, which, this year, is celebrating its 120^th anniversary. Its contributions include Crémant d’Alsace Réserve de l’Abbaye Rosé Sec and the classic Riesling from Maison Arthur Metz. They will go well with the Alsatian dishes and other dishes on the “1040” menu. The same wines can be ordered by the glass or bottle and will also be available at the hotel bar for an aperitif tasting.

So what else can customers expect?

Well, boxes of buckwheat pancakes, stuffed with Alsatian Munster cheese, ricotta and Ardennes chanterelles flavored with sage are offered as starters; the emblematic Alsatian sauerkraut is the main course while a charlottine with pears and chestnuts promises also to go down a treat for dessert.

Topping the bill, on October 18 and 19, will be a couple of exclusive evenings during which the two aforementioned chefs will create a special 4-handed dinner (reservation required). This costs a modest €69 pp (excluding drinks and cheese). A wine/food pairing or wine-by-the-glass package is also available. The special dinner is described as “a unique meal” combining Belgian and Alsatian cuisine in “perfect harmony” with the selected wines. On October 18 and 19, Arthur Metz’s representative will also present their Alsace wines.

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This year, the event also aims to mark Sofitel’s 60^th anniversary, lasts until the end of October. An event spokesman said, “Wine Days has proved a very popular event in the past in Brussels and is a great chance to taste some Alsatian specialities accompanied by wine from the region.“

L’article Alsatian food and drinks set to go down a treat in Brussels est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.