At Food and Wine Trails, we’ve loved introducing our guests to some amazing wine and locations through wine cruises in 2019. That’s why we’re so excited to announce that 2020 will see even more fabulous epicurean tours hosted by some outstanding local wineries.
These epicurean tours will give you the chance to travel in style, visiting stunningly beautiful destinations – all while being hosted by some of the world’s premier wine makers. With these tours, you can taste great wine, learn more about the industry, and create amazing memories with fellow epicurean enthusiasts.
To introduce you to some of our hosts in 2020, here are three wineries who will be welcoming guests on board.
James Family Cellars
Nestled in a picturesque part of Sonoma County, James Family Cellars is the result of a family-wide obsession with great wine. Lucky for the rest of us, this obsession has led to the release of some of the country’s best Pinot Noir – as well as a slew of other great wines.
Along with their two sons, epicurean tour hosts Jeff and Judy James are the heart and soul behind James Family Cellars. Having first planted the vineyard in 1998 and released their first vintage in 2007, it’s been up and up for the family-led venture.
Their pinot noir, in particular, has reeled in the accolades – in part thanks to the vineyard’s uniquely cool climate.
Jeff and Judy hosted their first epicurean tour back in 2018, and in 2020 they are thrilled to again welcome guests for an amazing getaway – paired with fabulous wine. This time, they’ll host a trip throughout Alaska. Not only will you enjoy the mesmerizing scenery of this region, but you’ll also have the opportunity to explore the under-appreciated wine scene as well.
Hill Family Wines
There’s an undeniable charm to family-run wineries, and they don’t come much more charismatic than Hill Family Wines. This vineyard offers the warmth and hospitality of a true family enterprise, but with wine quality than can easily compete with any big label.
Hill Family Wines began back in 1981, when Doug Hill first opened the doors to his Napa Valley winery. Almost four decades later, the next generation of Hills – who grew up stomping around the vineyard – are now at its helm, true to its original ethos but with a few modern tricks up their sleeve.
The result is an exceptional label producing various wines from a number of estates. Their varietals include Syrah, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon – so hosts Ryan and Nicole Hill are sure to be hits with any red enthusiasts. However, white drinkers will also be well taken care of, as the estate produces a number – including an excellent chardonnay.
Ryan and Nicole Hill will be hosting a fabulous cruise around the Baltics, stopping off at some more unusual wine producing regions. It’s promised to be a unique and utterly delightful cruise – so book your ticket now!
Beauregard Wines
If good winemaking is all about knowing the terroir you’re working with, then Beauregard Wines has quite the advantage. The estate has been in the same family since 1945, meaning the current owners know the Bonny Doon vineyard like the back of their hand. In fact, current winemaker and epicurean tour host Ryan Beauregard spent his childhood playing amongst the vines.
It’s a tradition he was happy to pass onto his own children – Nora and Madeline – who will also be joining the tour, along with his wife Rachel. The result of all that shared passion is an amazing vineyard that offers both authentic charm and modern excellence.
Being among the first vineyards to plant Zinfandel, this is a particularly sought-after label – while other varieties including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Shiraz are also noteworthy. Part of the Beauregard philosophy is producing wines that are true to style, so it’s a great place to learn about the typical characteristic of each grape.
As well as enjoying the hospitality and knowledge of this wine loving family, the epicurean tour will also let you take in the beauty of the Mediterranean. Enjoy the sights and flavors of epicurean powerhouses Italy, Spain and Monaco, in what’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
For more info on epicurean tours and wine cruises, contact us.