This year’s top 50 list, announced at the stunning Nyetimber Estate in West Sussex, brings together a collection of extraordinary wineries known for their wine quality, immersive visitor experiences, and beautiful landscapes. Here’s a guide to some of the top vineyards from this year’s list, perfect for wine lovers seeking unforgettable travel experiences.
1. Bodegas De Los Herederos Del Marqués De Riscal, Rioja, Spain
Topping the list for 2024 is the historic Marqués de Riscal in Rioja, Spain. Established in 1858, this iconic winery is renowned not only for its exceptional wines but also for its striking architecture. Designed by world-famous architect Frank Gehry, the winery’s luxurious hotel features sweeping views of the vineyards. Visitors can indulge in a wine-paired dinner at its internationally acclaimed restaurant, where traditional Rioja cuisine is elevated to new heights. Marqués de Riscal truly encapsulates the magic of wine and architecture.
2. VIK, Cachapoal Valley, Chile
VIK, the South American continent winner, secured the second spot with its ultra-modern design and innovative approach to winemaking. The winery’s titanium roof reflects the surrounding natural landscape, creating a seamless blend of architecture and environment. Besides wine tastings and vineyard tours, visitors can explore the estate on horseback, gaining a unique perspective of the vineyards and valley. VIK’s dedication to sustainability and design makes it an extraordinary destination for wine enthusiasts.
3. Creation, Hemel-en-Aarde, South Africa
Nestled among fynbos-covered mountains and rivers, Creation secured the third position, making it the highest-ranked vineyard from Africa. Known for its inventive tasting menus paired with locally crafted wines, Creation offers an educational journey into winemaking. Visitors can learn about the intricate processes of vineyard management and wine production, making it ideal for those passionate about understanding every detail of wine creation.
4. Bodegas Ysios, Rioja, Spain
Bodegas Ysios climbed 67 spots this year to reach the fourth position, earning it the Highest Climber award. Located in Rioja, this vineyard is celebrated for both its high-quality wines and its avant-garde architecture, featuring a roof designed by Santiago Calatrava. Private tours with expert sommeliers allow visitors to explore the winery’s offerings and gain deeper insight into the region’s wine heritage.
5. Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau, Germany
Ranked fifth, Schloss Johannisberg is a winery steeped in history, known as the birthplace of Riesling. Surrounded by views of the Rhine River, this former monastery-turned-castle has over 1,200 years of winemaking tradition. Visitors can immerse themselves in centuries-old winemaking techniques and explore Riesling’s heritage with tastings and guided tours that evoke the romance of Germany’s wine legacy.
Notable Trends and Regional Highlights
This year’s list reflects a diverse range of regions and styles:
- Spain led with eight vineyards in the top 50, including three in the top 10, solidifying Rioja’s reputation as a world-class wine region.
- France also had a strong presence, with eight vineyards on the list, half of which are Champagne houses such as Maison Ruinart (ranked 6th) and Champagne Bollinger (ranked 12th), showcasing the enduring appeal of French sparkling wines.
- Germany had two entries in the top 10, further emphasising its role in the global wine scene, especially in Riesling production.
- Beyond Europe, South America featured 12 vineyards, while Asia, North America, Africa, and Australasia also had representation, highlighting the global appeal of winemaking.
Honorable Mentions and Continent Winners
This year’s continent winners included:
- North America: Robert Mondavi Winery in Napa Valley, U.S.
- Australasia: D’Arenberg in McLaren Vale, Australia
- Asia: Château Héritage in Lebanon
Additionally, Catena Zapata in Argentina, a previous winner, entered the World’s Best Vineyards Hall of Fame, a prestigious honor reserved for past winners of the top spot.
Plan Your Next Wine Adventure
Whether you’re drawn to Spain’s architectural masterpieces, Germany’s historic Riesling roots, or the innovative and sustainable designs of Chile and South Africa, the 2024 list of the World’s Best Vineyards offers destinations that go beyond wine tasting. Each of these vineyards presents a cultural experience, scenic beauty, and a deep connection to the art of winemaking. For wine lovers around the world, these top vineyards promise unforgettable travel experiences that celebrate both tradition and innovation in winemaking.
