Thinking about getting away and enjoying winter sipping wine by a warm hearth? Here are a few of our favorite picks for a wine lover’s winter destination. Whether you are sitting by an open fire enjoying a luscious port or celebrating the turn of the year with a tantalizing champagne, these places are sure to enhance the pleasures of the season.
Biltmore Estates, Asheville, N.C.
Biltmore Estates
If you would like to be pampered and relax in luxury, consider treating yourself to the hospitality of the Biltmore Estates. They have a suggested two-day itinerary for food and wine lovers that is particularly fun at the holidays. In addition to their estate wines and winery, afternoon teas, exquisite dining choices, full spa services and beautiful surroundings, you can take in the magic of the winter season as only Biltmore Estates delivers it.
Experience winter on a grand scale with more than 40 decorated trees, accented with miles of ribbon, garlands, and lights. Candlelight, firelight and live music in the evenings, festive menus in the restaurants, with winery tours and tastings all make for a memorable visit. See shop now for Discounted tickets to Biltmore. Save up to $20 off gate price.
Ahwanhee Lodge, Yosemite National Park
Heidi Peterson Barrett
Yosemite is a favorite destination for wine lovers who enjoy the spectacular scenery of the national park in winter. Starting in early November, the Ahwanhee Lodge hosts the Vintner’s Holidays, including a series of wine tastings, seminars, the opportunity to socialize and meet celebrated winemakers, plus a gala Vintners’ dinner finale. Six Vintner Holidays sessions are offered through early December and Gourmet Chef adventures take place in January and February.
See http://www.yosemitepark.com/chefs-holidays.aspx for details.
Yulefest Celebration in Solvang, CA
Solvang, CA
Solvang, the “Danish Capital of America”, celebrates Winter and the Christmas holiday season with charm unlike any other place in California (with the possible exception of Disneyland’s Magic Kingdom). Laid back and casual, wine fans will enjoy strolling the lushly decorated streets and stopping in at 13 tasting rooms in downtown Solvang.
We recommend visiting Solvang any time of year but especially during the holidays when the charm factor is at its peak. This year’s Solvang Annual Holiday Wine Walk is happening on Saturday and Sunday, December 13th and 14th. If afterwards you still have energy to explore the area, you can choose from more than 100 wineries in Santa Ynez Valley wine country. For more information, see http://www.solvangusa.com/explore-solvang/what-to-do/julefest/
Visit A Winery Near You!
Sometimes the best finds are those you discover on your own. The holidays are actually a very good time to call or visit local wineries and ask about holiday tasting events, winemaker dinners or open houses. Many winery associations also sponsor holiday “wine trail” events and festivals. Below is a short list of some we’ve run across but there are many, many more. Know of others you would recommend? Feel free to add them to our list.
Cheers and Happy Holidays!
Seneca Lake Wine Trail, Deck the Halls
Finger Lake District Holiday Wine Trails
Walla Walla Holiday Barrel Tasting
Livermore Valley Wine Country, Holiday in the Vineyards
Woodinville Wine Country, St. Nicks Holiday Wine Tasting
Placer County Wine Trail, Holiday in the Hills
Maui’s Upcountry, Annual Lighting of the Tree
Cape May, Holiday Wine & Food Events
