“I believe that the responsibility of the winemaker is to take that fruit and get it into the bottle as the most natural and purest expression of that vineyard, of the grape varietal or blend, and of the vintage.”
Robert M. Parker, Jr., Founder of the Wine Advocate
We welcome Guest Author Armughan Zaigham, who will share some of the world’s lesser-known wine regions. We have not been to several of these countries, and with our love of wine, this might just be the inspiration we need!
There are a number of diverse regions in Europe where wine growing is prominent. Whether
it is red wine, white wine, or something unique like Cognac, one thing is sure: European wine
won’t disappoint you.
Tuscany, Rioja, and Bordeaux are famous for their vineyards. However, true wine lovers know many other regions produce exceptional wines with rich flavors.
Next time you plan a wine-tasting tour, think beyond Bordeaux and Tuscany. Explore underrated destinations that offer unique flavors for every palate.
Croatia
When it comes to emerging wine destinations, it is hard to look beyond Istria, Croatia, a
peninsula that reaches out into the Adriatic Sea and shares its borders with Slovenia.
The region’s Mediterranean climate is perfect for growing grapes and viticulture in Istria
dates back to the 6th century BC when wine was introduced into the area by the Greeks.
Vineyards can be found all over the peninsula, scattered between the pretty towns and
coastal villages. This region is best explored by a cruise, and many ships cruising to different destinations in Croatia offer wine experiences and wine-tasting tours.
Slovakia
Not many people may be aware of the long wine tradition of Slovakia, which dates back to
medieval times. Though not well known internationally, the local wine enjoys a healthy
reputation within Slovakia and neighboring countries as well.
The Little Carpathians Wine Region is the most popular among the six wine regions in
Slovakia is a short excursion from the capital, Bratislava. There are numerous families-
owned wine cellars here where one can sample local wines and learn about their production
process.
The ideal time to visit this region is twice a year in May and November during the Wine
Cellars Open Day, when you will get an opportunity to try and savor from over a hundred
different wine varieties.
Georgia
With more than 8000 years of winemaking tradition behind it, George is fast becoming a
reputed winemaking region in Europe, especially for its popular natural and low-intervention
varieties.
Winemaking in Georgia revolves around wines made in Qvevri, a rotund clay vessel that is
buried underground during the entire fermentation process for temperature control. This is
more popular in the wine country of Georgia – Kakheti, even though winemaking is a tradition in almost all parts.
Amber wines that use grape skin, seeds, stems, and all are also synonymous with the
country, as are the semi-sweet Khvanchkara wines. Cellars welcomes guests for casual
tastings and tours, while the more prominent wineries encourage more formal degustations.
Armenia
Armenia, like its neighbor Georgia, is an ancient wine-producing nation. Areni, known for wine-making since 4000 BC, is a key center. During the Soviet era, quantity mattered more than quality. Today, Areni winemakers are reviving the industry by adopting modern techniques. They use wine cubes and offer floating tasting rooms where visitors can try various fine Armenian wines.
In the Armavir province, most Kangun and Voskehat grapes are grown. This region is ideal for wine and brandy production, making it perfect for a wine-tasting tour.
Switzerland
Swiss wine is so good that you will rarely find it in stores outside of the country, and that is
because the locals like to keep it to themselves. As a result, wine tourism in Switzerland is a
burgeoning industry with nearly 15,000 hectares of land under vineyards in the warmer south and west regions.
The regions of Geneva, Vaud, Valais, Ticino, Three Lakes, and the German-speaking region
Switzerland has a long history of winemaking that goes back to the Roman era.
From the UNESCO World Heritage-listed vineyards above Montreux to Saillon, the smallest
of its kind in the world.
Only 1% of the wine produced in the country is allowed to be exported; therefore, it is no
wonder that wine tourism is fast gaining popularity, including wine tastings and tours to
encourage the connoisseurs of fine wine to linger longer.
Spain
The lesser-known El Bierzo region is located in northwest Spain. It is known for producing high-quality red wine made from the Godello and Mencia grape varieties. The reason for the unique flavor of the wine produced here is the high mountainous terrain and varying soil types. Some of the top wineries, like Bodegas Estefania, welcome visitors to
tour their vineyards and sample their products.
Besides the wine, the El Bierzo region is a place of stunning natural beauty full of charming
villages and rich heritage. This makes it an excellent destination for wine tasting in off-beat
wine regions and explore new places of cultural and historical significance.
Greece
One region of Greece which wine connoisseurs often overlook is Mantinia, a
picturesque region on the Peloponnese peninsula in favor of the better-known wine
producing islands of Crete and Santorini.
However, if you desire to sample some lesser-known but highly regarded Greek wines,
Mantinia has a rich history of winemaking and offers visitors an opportunity to do so.
The popular white grape variety known as Moschofilero has a rich floral and citrus flavor and
the best wine is produced in the heart of this region, where visitors can enjoy wine-tasting
experiences, as well as food and wine pairings.
Hungary
Eger, a historic city in northern Hungary, is an excellent destination for wine enthusiasts. It’s famous for Egri Bikaver, or “Bull’s Blood,” a red wine made from grape varieties like Furrmint and Egri Leanyka. Visitors can explore the vineyards around Eger and taste local wines from wineries dating back to the 13th century, the oldest in Hungary.
Bulgaria
The Thracian Valley in southern Bulgaria is a hidden gem for wine lovers, known for its red wines made from grapes like Rubina and Mavrud. The vineyards are set in scenic locations, surrounded by mountains, with a climate and fertile soil ideal for growing quality grapes. The region’s top wineries, including Domaine Boyar and Yustina, attract many visitors for wine tastings and food pairings.
The wine history of the region also makes for exciting reading. The Thracians were known
for their love of food and wine; hence, their winemaking skills are apparent even today. The
quality wines of the region are gradually gaining recognition on the international stage
because of their unique flavor.
Moldova
Moldova is a large wine producer, exporting to countries such as Japan, China, Germany, and Ukraine. However, the quality of its wine improved only after 2013, when exports to Russia were resumed. This marked a turning point for the country’s wine industry, helping boost its international reputation.
While Moldova produces a wide variety of international names like Sauvignon and Merlot,
their local unique varieties like Rara Neagra and Feteasca Alba are the ones that are making
waves in Moldova and can only be found there. So make sure you add it to your underrated
wine-touring itinerary to Europe the next time you are there.
There are extensive underground cellars in Cordu, near the capital city of Chisinau, where some
of the major producers are located, with the largest wine cellar in the world being at Cricova,
known as the underground wine city.
Since the other regions are further up, it is best to stay in Chisinau and take a guided tour to
take you to Cordu. Keep an eye on brands like Cricova’s Viorica and Salcuta’s Pinot Gris.
Denmark
When it comes to wine, few people associate Denmark with wine production or wine tourism. The Nordic region has long been considered an underrated wine destination in Europe. However, Denmark stands out as the only region capable of growing the fast-growing Solaris grape. which thrives despite the cold night temperatures.
That said, the Rosnaes Peninsula in Denmark is a sizeable winemaking region on the west coast of Zealand, apart from smaller vineyards on Samsoe island and the east coast of Jutland. These regions have a more extended summer and more sunny days, while the soil is especially suited for grape production.
Moreover, the sediments of sand left from the receding glaciers millions of years ago and the
moderate temperature around the season and fjords of the coastal region, quality grapes
have been produced to make wine literally flow in Denmark.
The easiest way to sip and sample Danish wine is to make a base in Copenhagen and drive
to the large wineries in Dyrehoj on the Rosnaes Peninsula. While you are sure to like all the
labels, look out, especially for Souvignier Gris and Ros.
Nyhavn, Denmark, is a must-visit when in Denmark. Check out our article on Nyhavn for more information.
Reflection
As we explore the hidden corners of Europe’s wine landscape, it’s clear that true wine enthusiasts can discover treasures far beyond the renowned vineyards of Bordeaux and Tuscany. From the sun-drenched hills of Croatia’s Istria to the ancient cellars of Armenia, each destination presents a unique blend of flavors and traditions that enhance the wine-tasting experience. Discovering these lesser-known regions not only expands your palate but also deepens your appreciation for the rich history and culture that shape every bottle.
In a world where wine tourism often gravitates towards the well-trodden paths, venturing into these underrated destinations invites discovery and adventure. Each sip carries a story—whether it’s the ancient winemaking methods in Georgia or the innovative techniques emerging from Denmark. So, the next time you plan your wine journey, consider stepping off the beaten path to embrace the unexpected. You might just find your new favorite wine and a deeper connection to the vibrant traditions that make European viticulture so extraordinary.
© 2025 Wanderers Compass All Rights Reserved
Author Bio
We wish to thank Armughan Zaigham for his kind contribution to our blog. You can find him on his Instagram site, Wander With Arm. He will take you on a journey to satiate your wanderlust! Explore hidden gems, savor local flavors, and dive into the vibrant cultures around the globe. See the magic that happens when you follow the compass of curiosity.
Are you traveling to any of these amazing destinations? Check out accommodation prices during your research process.
It is important to price out accommodations on various sites. Expedia is a US-based company, whereas Booking.com is Europe-based. Not all properties appear on both, so it is ideal to check both out. Our personal first choice is Booking.com. If the establishment has a website, check the price there as well. Click the link below to check out hotels and vacation homes in the area. It may be just the motivation you need to start planning that next grand adventure.
Check out our most recent posts
Presidio: Exploring San Francisco’s Iconic Park
April 22, 2025
Airline Elite Status Match: A Travel Hack
April 21, 2025
Tavira Portugal: Suberb Mix of Tradition & Nature
April 12, 2025
Easter Island: Beyond the Moai
April 3, 2025
Eze France: Medieval Splendor
April 1, 2025
Siena Italy: A Medieval Wonderment
March 22, 2025
Tokyo Experiences: Unique and Fun Things to Do
March 12, 2025Do you have a question for us or have a comment?
Our Top Recommended Travel Products
Travel Insurance
Squaremouth.com
Our favorite travel insurance site!
We strongly advocate for comprehensive travel insurance, not only for minor inconveniences but also for major, unexpected events like medical emergencies. We never leave home without it. Our go-to resource is Squaremouth.com. which offers a user-friendly platform that connects you with top-rated, reputable insurance carriers. Plus, they’ll mediate on your behalf if you run into any issues.
To empower you as a consumer, we recommend you read our blog post on why travel insurance is essential and how to secure the best coverage from leading companies at an affordable price.
MedjetAssist
Medical transport back home from anywhere in the world
Medjet is a leading provider of global air medical transport. Unlike traditional travel insurance, which typically covers medical evacuation to the nearest facility, Medjet goes further by ensuring you’re transported back to the U.S. to the hospital of your choice once you’re stable enough to fly. Medjet offers membership plans that focus on medical transport, while Medjet Horizon provides expanded coverage for broader protection. Individual trip policies start at just $99, and annual policies are available for around $300. Most policies have an age limit of 74.
To learn more about how Medical Evacuation membership with Medjet Assist works, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.
Accommodations and Airfare
Booking.com
Hotels, Home rentals, BNBs, Flights, and other Transportation & Tours
Booking.com connects millions of travelers to unforgettable experiences, a wide range of transportation options, and incredible places to stay—from homes to hotels and beyond. As one of the world’s largest travel marketplaces, it supports well-known brands and entrepreneurs of all sizes. For its convenience, variety, and reliability, it’s our preferred booking platform.
Transportation
Expedia and VRBO
Hotels, home rentals, BNBs, flights, and other transportation & tours
Expedia is a U.S.-based company with a mission to make global travel accessible to everyone, everywhere. At Wanderers Compass, we embrace independent travel, and platforms like Expedia are essential to making that a reality. Expedia allows you to book every aspect of your trip—from flights and accommodations to rental cars, cruises, and activities—making it a one-stop shop for all your travel needs.
Daytrip
Personalized city-to-city private car transfer service
Daytrip provides an affordable private car service for city-to-city transfers worldwide, and we absolutely love their service. It’s a cost-effective alternative to renting a car, providing comfortable, stress-free travel with the bonus of scenic stops along the way. For example, we used Daytrip for travel between Budapest and Vienna, enjoying some fantastic detours to local attractions. With professional drivers and customizable routes, Daytrip ensures a smooth ride while allowing you to explore hidden gems and unique sights along your journey.
To learn more about how Daytrip, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.
Travel Experiences
Viator
The leading marketplace for travel experiences
Viator believes that travel is all about creating unforgettable memories. With over 300,000 experiences to choose from—ranging from simple tours to extreme adventures, plus a wide array of unique, niche activities—it’s never been easier to make lasting memories. We frequently use Viator during our travels and especially appreciate their flexible cancellation policy, which adds peace of mind to every booking.
Communication products for seamless connectivity overseas
GigSky International eSIM Data Plans
Local Prices. No Roaming. Fastest Networks.
GigSky eSIM effortlessly connects travelers around the globe, eliminating the need to swap physical SIM cards or deal with surprise roaming charges. With affordable data plans and instant activation, you can enjoy reliable internet access in over 190 countries, making your travel experience more convenient than ever. Plus, they offer a fantastic deal: a free 100 MB data plan with no credit card required. They are so confident that you will love their service!
Enjoy 10% off all GigSky Plans (except cruise and inflight) with our discount code WCOMPASS10.
To learn more about how GigSky works, check out our blog post for a more detailed review.
Shopping
Wanderers Compass Amazon Storefront
An excellent source for all travel essentials and guides that we have vetted ourselves
Amazon is one of the world’s most comprehensive online shopping platforms, offering lower prices, a wide selection, and fast delivery through teams worldwide.
This page contains affiliate links. When you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your ongoing support!
