Wine travel has exploded in popularity over the past decade. The classic, old guard wine regions have seen their offerings expand as crowds have descended from around the globe, and new world growers have been stepping up their game.
Fortunately for wine enthusiasts, there’s an ever-growing assortment of notable winery accommodations. Some of these are traditional chateaus and estates with active vineyards, while others are world-class wineries offering secluded, highly romantic units hidden away in between rows of heritage vines.
CALIFORNIA
In the charming Central Coast city of Paso Robles, Justin Winery—famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon—delights fans with the cheekily named JUST Inn. Surrounded by vineyards, the suites offer luxurious appointments (fireplaces, Frette linens), and an overnight stay includes extras such as a tour of the winery and caves. Celebratory groups opt for The Chateau, a palatial, four-bedroom mansion with a rare art collection and panoramic views over the Santa Lucia Mountains.
Serious music enthusiasts flock to Napa Valley’s Stags Leap District to visit Cliff Lede Vineyards, where the namesake owner has named each vineyard block after some of his favorite rock songs and albums—from My Generation to Dark Side of the Moon—creating the vineyards’ famous “rock blocks.” The stunning property merges a classic rock edge with fine wine, art, architecture, and nature. Completing the experience is the five-room Poetry Inn, a private villa that’s perched above the Silverado Trail. Each room features sweeping valley views and a wood-burning fireplace.
Standing in contrast on the other side of Paso Robles is CASS Winery and its Geneseo Inn, where eight boutique units built out of shipping crates offer panoramic views of 145 acres of vines, ancient oaks, and rolling hills. Chef gardens are situated around the perimeter and guests can choose from an array of agriculturally based classes and outdoor adventures on the property. Design elements include frosted glass, marble and granite, and reclaimed materials, while expansive windows and 15-foot clerestories bathe each room in natural light.