At the height of COVID-19—when we were barely permitted to leave the suburb let alone the country— keen travellers had to find alternative means of fulfilling their wanderlust. They harnessed the power of their senses to transport themselves to another reality unplagued by lockdowns, case-numbers, and border passes. We’d use our eyes to read stories of exotic far-away lands and watch films set in glamorous cities. With our ears we’d listen to music from another corner of the world—perhaps some American blues, 60s French pop, or some Brazilian bossa nova. For the gang here at Witches Falls, tasting wines from across the globe was our form of travel. We’d often share a drink together at the end of the workday. One afternoon we’d be sipping a Tuscan-style Sangiovese, fantasising about exploring the Italian countryside—the next day we’d be in the Napa Valley sipping on a bold and buttery Chardonnay. If nothing else, wine tasting proved a more-budget friendly way of seeing the world. But now—coming up to almost three years since the pandemic hit and changed our lives forever— it seems some sense of reality has finally returned.

Post-pandemic, when and where to travel has become a divisive issue. There are those who have been chomping at the bit to get on the first plane out of the country—they’ve had their bags packed since mid-2021, their passports at-hand, ready to fly away at a moment’s notice. There are those who love the idea of getting out there again but seem a little wary of doing so in a post-COVID climate. And finally, there are those who now have little interest in making large trips and prefer to keep it local. No matter which camp you fall into… if you love wine, there is no shortage of destinations (both near and far) to enjoy!

Without further ado… here are our top 5 destinations!
#1 Australia. For those who like to keep it local, you’re in luck! Some of the very best wine in the world is produced right here in our own backyard. Barring the NT, every state and territory in the country makes wine. Tassie is known for its sparkling and Pinot, while SA’s Barossa Valley is the home of classic Aussie Shiraz.

#2 Italy. Beautiful wine. Delicious food. Rich History. Mesmerising art and culture… need I say more?

#3 USA. When people think about wine and America, they instantly think of California. While it’s true that the “Golden State” produces upwards of 85% of the country’s vino, you’ll find wineries in all 50 states—including some scrumptious ice wine in Alaska and a beautiful Tempranillo in Texas. 

#4 Portugal. This country is home to some of the world’s most famous wine growing regions—The Douro Valley, Porto, Madeira. Not only will you find a delicious wine made from native varietals, but the scenery is equally astonishing.

#5 France. A list of this nature would hardly be complete without the inclusion of the country whose wine is arguably the most famous and revered on the planet. If you’re after classic, traditional wines, old-world charm, cobbled streets and magnificent châteaux…

Cheers and Happy Travels,
Alexandra Douglas and the Witches Falls Winery Team