Unique wine tasting experiences include a $54,000 Burgundy trip

For many individuals, food and travel are synonymous, and 80% of travelers research food and drinks options before visiting their desired destination. Research shows that 70% of individuals select a destination based on the food and drinks available there. Wine often plays a very important role of their decision, with many travelers having fun with a wonderful Pinot Grigio or aged Chardonnay with their meals.

From a $54,000 trip to Burgundy to a tour of Champagne in France, these wine experiences are perfect for each the experienced wine sommelier and beginners trying to expand their knowledge of this grape variety.

Abbaye de la Bussière is a prestigious Relais & Châteaux property dating back to the twelfth century. The former Cistercian abbey pulls out all of the stops and offers guests the keys to find Burgundy with an unparalleled experience. Visitors can expect exclusive wine tastings, exquisite gastronomic experiences with award-winning chefs, a private lunch with a famous sculptor serving the British Royal Family and a hot air balloon ride, providing the right post-Olympic country retreat. This latest experience is a journey into the guts of Burgundy’s hottest hotel and most famous wine culture.

The ultimate Burgundy wine tasting experience includes:

* Three nights in luxury accommodation throughout the historic partitions of a twelfth century abbey, where Gothic architecture and Renaissance style predominate.

* Private lunch within the studio of Paul Daya world-renowned sculptor who works with the royal family, shall be accompanied by Day and a choice of his favourite local wines.

* A curated full-day trip through the vineyards of Burgundy, with private driver, including visits to each famous and up-and-coming vineyards, wine tastings and a leisurely picnic in picturesque Beaune.

* A collector’s choice of the Grands Crus wines of the 2019 vintage from Domaine de la Romanée Conti with Corton Charlemagne, Grands Echezeaux, Romanée Saint Vivant, Richebourg and La Tâche, available for direct shipping to your own home.

* A scenic hot air balloon ride offers breathtaking views of the rolling hills and vineyards of Burgundy.

* Gastronomic delights starting from an intimate gourmet charcuterie and personal wine tasting to a bespoke tasting menu within the hotel bistro.

* An exclusive wine tasting with Freddy Jaugey, the respected sommelier of the Abbaye de la Bussière, who offers personal insights into the region’s best vintages.

The fully immersive experience costs $54,000.

SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites offers customized wine routes personally curated by Susana Balbo, Argentina’s first female winemaker, together together with her son José Lovaglio Balbo and daughter Ana Lovaglio Balbo.

Nestled amidst Mendoza’s picturesque vineyards, SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites invites guests on bespoke journeys through a few of Mendoza’s finest wineries. Each journey is designed to immerse travelers within the wealthy history, revolutionary techniques and passionate stories of Argentina’s winemaking pioneers.

• Diverse wine routes: Travelers can explore the varied offerings of Mendoza’s wineries, categorized into:
• Rising stars of winemaking: Discover the following generation of innovators.
• Innovative wineries: Experience wineries that push the boundaries of traditional winemaking.
• Wineries with history: Immerse yourself within the wealthy heritage of a few of Mendoza’s most famous places.
• Women in wine: Celebrate the successes of female winemakers.
• Green wineries: Enjoy environmentally friendly practices that mix sustainability with winemaking.
• Hidden Gems: Discover unique, lesser-known wine experiences.
• Personalized experiences: The hotel’s dedicated Experience Manager tailors wine tours to guests’ interests, ensuring a novel and unforgettable experience. From personalized vineyard tours and exclusive tastings to private visits to winemakers, every detail is perfected.
• Exclusive access: Get insider access to special reserve vintages, behind-the-scenes tours and exciting anecdotes from the winemaking community, all while having fun with the luxurious comfort of the hotel’s spa suites.

Whether travelers are seasoned wine connoisseurs or just curious, the experience guarantees an unprecedented exploration of Mendoza’s wine culture under the guidance of one among the world’s most influential winemaking families.

After the Olympics end, many visitors search for a retreat to calm down and revel in the great thing about France. Champagne, a 1.5 hour train ride from Paris, is home to Champagne Bollinger and Champagne Ayala. These renowned wineries offer an exquisite mix of history, elegance and world-class wines, making them perfect for seasoned wine lovers and those that simply need to extend their trip after the Olympics.

Champagne Bollinger

Known for its exceptional craftsmanship, Bollinger is a logo of luxury and tradition. Visitors can explore the picturesque vineyards and historic cellars where a number of the world’s finest champagnes have been produced since 1829. The winery offers exclusive tours and tastings that let you delve deep into the meticulous winemaking process. The Bollinger experience is just not nearly wine, it’s about immersing yourself in a heritage of excellence and class.

From the courtyard of the family home, where the barrels dry, it’s just just a few steps to the storage room where the wine begins its lengthy means of making champagne. Two streets up at Chaudes Terres lies the winery with gleaming, temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks. A staircase separates it from the cellars where the cuvées mature in peace.

Champagne Ayala

Located within the picturesque village of Aÿ, Ayala is understood for its fresh and stylish champagnes. Founded in 1860, the home offers a novel opportunity to experience its wealthy heritage and modern facilities. Visitors are welcomed within the majestic Belle Epoque-style dining room, where they receive an introduction to Ayala’s storied history. The journey continues through the production facilities, showcasing the seamless mix of tradition and innovation that characterizes Ayala champagnes.

Guests have the chance to explore the cellars where the Champagnes are aged and gain insight into the meticulous process that provides them their special quality. The visit features a commented tasting led by a knowledgeable guide, allowing guests to benefit from the nuances of Ayala’s exquisite range in an intimate setting.