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1. Napa and Sonoma, California, USA
“The wines in the Sonoma area are so full of life! The flavors are complex, refreshing, and oh so yummy!!! The region is not over-developed yet, and the rolling hills are absolutely gorgeous. The wineries tend to still be low-key, are not over priced, and you are always guaranteed a beautiful relaxing day.” –Gerilyn Attebery, Lonely Planet Staff
“My favorite hotel is The Sonoma Creek Inn, which is located a few miles from the plaza in Boyes Hot Springs. Charming, affordable, adjacent to The Creekside Café (which has the best breakfasts), and around the corner from The Sonoma Mission Inn (which has heavenly massages).” –Karen Finlay, Lonely Planet Staff
2. Barossa Valley, South Australia
“It produces the finest red wines in the world. The Barossa is a short drive from Adelaide, and is welcoming and low-key though very well established. The cuisine is world class using only local produce." –Tom Spurling, Lonely Planet Author
“My favorite is the little-known Troll Creek vineyard.” –Jonathon Ryan, Lonely Planet Staff
3. Marlborough, New Zealand
“As a visitor, you can base yourself in a beautiful region (Marlborough Sounds) and drive around all the tightly clustered wineries. Plus the sauvignon blanc is just gorgeous, especially on a scorching day. Cool, crisp and refreshing.”
“My favorite place to stay is Te Mahia Bay Resort, Kenepuru Sound. Favorite vineyard is Oyster Bay.” –Averil Robertson, Lonely Planet Staff
Trailing close behind was Bordeaux, France. Other popular regions with our staff and authors were the Margaret River in Western Australia, the Mendoza region in Argentina, McLaren Vale in Southern Australia, the Rhone Valley in France and Tuscany, Italy. Spain, Hungary and Chile were also well-liked.
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