Sip & Savour at Top Vineyards
As September ushers in harvest season across some of the world’s most renowned wine regions, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the art of wine tasting. With the last traces of summer warmth lingering and the hustle of peak tourist season subsiding, vineyards are alive with celebration.
The grapevines, heavy with ripened fruit, signal the start of the winemakers’ most anticipated time of year, creating a festive atmosphere in charming villages. The air turns crisp, the wine flows freely, and the landscape bursts with colour and flavour. Here’s a guide to the most famous vineyards to visit during the September harvest.
Opus One Winery – Napa Valley, California
Visiting Opus One Winery in Napa Valley during the September harvest is an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts. As one of the most prestigious wineries in California, Opus One opens its doors to visitors, offering a rare glimpse into the art of winemaking during the busy harvest season. In September, visitors can enjoy exclusive vineyard tours, where they can observe the grape-picking process and learn about the meticulous methods behind crafting their iconic Bordeaux-style wines. The winery also offers guided cellar tours, where guests can explore the barrel ageing rooms and taste wines straight from the barrel, gaining insights into the different stages of production.
One of the highlights of visiting during harvest season is the special wine-tasting sessions, where you can savour limited-edition releases alongside carefully curated food pairings that enhance the complexity of the wines.
Château Margaux – Margaux, Bordeaux, France
A visit to Château Margaux in Bordeaux, France during the September autumn harvest offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for wine lovers. As one of the most legendary wine estates in the world, Château Margaux is renowned for its rich history and the production of some of the finest Bordeaux wines. During the September harvest, the estate opens its doors to visitors, allowing you to witness the bustling activity in the vineyards as grapes are meticulously handpicked, offering an intimate view of the winemaking process that has been perfected over centuries.
Guests can indulge in exclusive wine tastings that feature some of Château Margaux’s most prestigious vintages, paired with local gourmet delicacies that enhance the tasting experience. The guided tours of the grand estate and its historic cellars offer fascinating insights into the estate’s legacy, architecture, and the techniques behind its world-class wines. For a unique touch, visitors can explore the picturesque vineyards, where the golden autumn leaves create a breathtaking backdrop, making it perfect for leisurely walks or photo opportunities.
Sula Vineyards – Nashik, Maharashtra
Sula Vineyards in Nashik offers a perfect blend of relaxation, wine exploration, and scenic beauty. As one of India’s most popular and pioneering wineries, Sula Vineyards is renowned for its extensive range of wines and breathtaking views of rolling vineyards against the backdrop of the Western Ghats. In autumn, the weather is pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the lush vineyards and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.
Visitors can indulge in guided vineyard tours, where they get an insider’s look at the grape cultivation and harvesting processes. These tours offer fascinating insights into the journey from grape to bottle, showcasing the craftsmanship behind Sula’s award-winning wines. Afterwards, you can enjoy wine-tasting sessions at the Tasting Room, where a selection of Sula’s finest wines—including their signature Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Shiraz—are paired with light snacks to enhance the experience.
Antinori Chianti Classico, Italy
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Chianti region, this iconic winery, owned by the renowned Antinori family, offers a rich blend of history, architecture, and exceptional wine. Autumn, with its crisp air and vibrant fall colours, is the perfect time to explore the vineyard as the harvest season is in full swing, filling the estate with lively energy.
The Antinori Cellar is a highlight of the visit, offering a stunning architectural experience. Built into the hillside, the state-of-the-art cellar is an immersive space where visitors can learn about the intricate winemaking process, from fermentation to ageing. For a more hands-on experience, Antinori offers wine blending workshops, where guests can create their own unique blends, guided by expert winemakers.
Grover Zampa Vineyards – Nandi Hills, Karnataka
With over three generations of winemaking expertise, Grover Zampa Vineyards stands as one of India’s oldest and most renowned producers of premium wines. Located on a sprawling 410-acre estate at the foothills of the scenic Nandi Hills in Doddaballapura, about 47 km from Bangalore’s MG Road, this vineyard offers a serene and picturesque setting.
Grover Zampa’s rich history and tranquil surroundings make it a perfect destination for an immersive wine experience. Visitors can enjoy a comprehensive wine tour, which includes a stroll through the vineyards, a guided walk-through of the winemaking process, and a sommelier-led tasting, followed by a delightful lunch, making for a perfect day out amidst nature and fine wine.
Autumn’s harvest season is a special time to visit the world’s most famous wine regions. With the excitement of grape picking and exclusive tastings of limited-edition wines, each vineyard offers a unique mix of tradition, culture, and beautiful scenery.
