Even as we enjoy the best weather of the year, it’s hard not to start the new year without dreaming just a bit about upcoming vacations. While Napa, Sonoma, Bordeaux or Tuscany are no-brainer wine-lover winners, maybe you’d like to step off the beaten path and explore a different wine region. We applaud you.

While this is by no means an exclusive list, it should be enough to get your imagination running wild.


1. Argentina
Why not combine your sipping with travel to one of the most beautiful, romantic countries. If you stay long enough, you should spend some time in Mendoza and the Andes. And stay a little longer and you’ll be dancing the tango and drinking Malbecs by the gallon.

But don’t take my word for it. Take Dry’s:

“There are many things to love about Argentina – the mountains, the people, the food and the wine – but my favorite by far are the asados. These family-style barbeques center on slow-grilling meat over a charcoal fire. Almost every celebration, no matter how large or how small, is reason enough for an asado.

“I love how serious the men become when they prepare an asado. Individual recipes and techniques are closely guarded secrets. Every man proudly believes that he makes the best asado.

“The huge feasts are served late in the evening, allowing hours of anticipation. No matter whose asado it is, the meat is always delicious, served alongside empanadas, salad, and a big, juicy glass of Argentine Malbec. It’s the meal of the gaucho – or Spanish cowboy – rustic, bold and almost primal in character. At the end of the meal, everyone reclines with bellies so full, they protrude like rounded beach balls. But the evening has just begun. There’s plenty more wine and raucous conversation to last late into the night.”


2. South Africa
If your honey isn’t that into wine, then maybe the words “World Cup” will be all the convincing he or she needs to book the two of you on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to South Africa. This is the home of the South African creation of Pinotage as well as amazing landscapes and fascinating Cape Town. On non-wine drinking days, explore the wildlife at Kruger National Park. And the beaches are pretty darn nice, too (so we hear). South Africa has been making wine for over 300 years. Isn’t it time you went and tried some?


3. Hungary
I’ll admit it, I’m biased by having a Hungarian father and by spending summers lounging at Lake Balaton while growing up. But I never had the chance to explore the sweetly amazing Tokaj in Hungary. As Louis XV described Tokaj: ” wine of kings, king of wines” and there’s a darn good reason for the sentiment. It’s heavenly.

I have fond enough memories of the Palatchinta and Langos (two treats not to be missed). But I’ll also vouch here and now for the beauty of the land, kindness of the Hungarians and a mean dish of Chicken Paprika as well.



4. Chile
After Argentina, the hottest new wine value region is definitely Chile. Bursting into the wine world and shaking everyone up with their inexpensive, delectable wine, visiting Chile now is the perfect time to witness the country taking hold of the wine world. Enjoy local food, horseback rides and the distinctly Chilean carmenere.



5. Paso Robles, CA
Just a few hours away from Napa is another booming, though much more laid-back and reasonable wine region. Paso Robles, home to great olive oil and great wine, offers a chill, up-and-coming wine region. But don’t let the kindness or more modest tasting rooms fool you. These people are serious about making good wine. There are over 150 boutique wineries.This one is Swirl Girl approved, as I spent an afternoon last summer visiting wineries and found the hospitality and kindness very, very appealing. Plus, it’s a heck of a lot more affordable. Don’t drop your jaw if the tasting room doesn’t charge…just enjoy it.

Check back next week for the five more awesome destinations!

~ Sweet (Libby Volgyes)