4 Of The Best Coastal Wine Tours
Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply intrigued, these wine-tasting experiences offer more than just your average tour. Conveniently located near the coast, they provide the ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in the Mediterranean lifestyle, blending luxurious yachting with unforgettable onshore adventures.
Château d'Esclans in Provence
Embark on an exclusive wine tour at the esteemed Château d'Esclans in Provence.
Journey into the heart of sophistication in Saint Tropez, where a seamless departure from the town's heliport awaits, offering a delightful escape from the summer bustle. Your helicopter adventure will whisk you to the enchanting realm of Provence, just 30 miles (48km) north of Saint Tropez, where the iconic Chateau d'Esclans awaits your arrival.
Here, you'll have the rare opportunity to meet Sacha Lichine, a luminary in the world of Rosé, and the driving force behind the Rosé renaissance. As the son of renowned wine critic Alexis Lichine and with prestigious ties to Chateau Prieuré-Lichine in Bordeaux, as well as historical connections to General Eisenhower during WWII, Sacha assumed stewardship of Chateau d’Esclans in 2006.
His innovative vision has propelled the creation of esteemed Rosé brands including Whispering Angel, Rock Angel, Chateau d’Esclans, Les Clans, Garrus, and The Palm by Whispering Angel, elevating the global Rosé experience to new heights of sophistication and enjoyment.
Lipanović, Vis
Embark on a journey to savor the expertly guided taste of vintage Vis, nestled on the most secluded island in Dalmatia, Croatia.
Vis stands as a beacon of Croatian wine heritage, boasting ancient vineyards established by the Greeks over two millennia ago. Shielded from the tourist rush, Vis preserves its winemaking legacy, offering an authentic experience for travelers venturing on a Croatian yacht expedition.
At the heart of this legacy lies the Lipanović Winery, a custodian of Vis's rich history. For generations, the Lipanović family has meticulously crafted fine wines, aging them in a WWII-era military tunnel—a unique cellar that provides an ideal environment for wine maturation and tasting.
Visitors are invited to indulge in an intimate wine-tasting experience within the historic cellar or amidst the vineyard's lush surroundings. Sample six vintage Plavac wines, thoughtfully paired with an array of six Croatian cheeses and local delicacies, including fish pâté, marinated anchovies, olives, caper buds, bread, and Lipanović's olive oil.
The tasting journey reaches its zenith with a sip of the luscious red dessert wine, Prošek, and homemade liqueurs that capture the essence of Vis. This immersive experience not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a glimpse into the island's rich flavors and history, making it an exquisite addition to any yacht charter along Croatia's enchanting coast, celebrating the timeless craftsmanship of Dalmatian winemaking.
Santo Wines, Santorini
Known for its wines grown in volcanic terrain that produces naturally sweet Vinsanto wines and mineral-rich whites made from the Assyrtiko grape, wine tasting in Santorini is a must for those on a Cyclades yacht charter.
Established in the charming village of Pyrgos in 1992, Santo Wines captivates visitors with its unique cliff-top terraced layout and stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Enhance your visit with a guided winery tour led by a sommelier to learn about the intricacies of Santorini's winemaking, including the traditional basket vine training and pruning technique specific to the region. After the tour, admire the sunset over the caldera while sampling a variety of local wines.
Santo Wines is part of a cooperative that includes all of Santorini's wine producers, offering a diverse selection of older and rarer vintages, sparkling wines, and dessert wines. You can also opt for a "wine flight" to try a range of local wines guided by an expert.
Finish off the day with a memorable dinner at the on-site restaurant, where wines are expertly paired with the finest local ingredients for a meal filled with exquisite flavors, aromas, and textures, all enjoyed against the backdrop of stunning views of the Aegean Sea from the terraces.
Il Borro, Tuscany
Contrary to common belief, the prestigious vineyards of Tuscany can be easily accessed by those embarking on an Italy yacht charter. Starting from Viareggio, a helicopter ride will take you straight to the heart of Italy's wine country for an unforgettable tasting experience. Depart from the luxury of your yacht to take in the breathtaking views of Tuscany, passing by iconic cities such as Lucca, Pisa, and Florence, before reaching Il Borro, a historic winery and village owned by the Ferragamo family in the enchanting landscapes of Arezzo.
Upon your arrival, a member of the Ferragamo family will greet you personally and guide you through the expansive 700-hectare estate, located amidst the stunning landscapes of Florence, Siena, and Cortona. Explore both ancient and modern wine cellars, learning about the estate's rich history and the family's decision to revitalize the vineyards in 1996. Indulge in the estate's renowned wines, picturesque views, and luxurious surroundings, culminating in an exclusive dinner and concert in a wine cave, providing a unique opportunity to understand why Il Borro is considered a top destination for wine enthusiasts around the world.
