Top 10 World-Class Destinations for Beer, Wine, and Spirits Enthusiasts
Elevate your drinking adventures beyond the ordinary. Discover these premier global hotspots, perfect for savoring pints of beer, exquisite cocktails, or fine drams in unforgettable settings.
Pivni Lazne Bernard, Prague, Czech Republic
A classic pilsner is always welcome, but bathing in premium Czech lager while enjoying unlimited pours takes indulgence to another level. Prague’s renowned Pivni Lazne Bernard (pivnilaznebernard.cz/en) revives this Middle Ages tradition, believed to benefit skin health. Cap off your hour-long session with a massage and rest in one of the spa’s specialty recovery beds.
Go easy on the robust red wines of Argentina's wine capital if you're opting for a bicycle tour of Mendoza. Image by Andrew Peacock / Lonely Planet Images / Getty Images.
The Vines of Mendoza, Argentina
Argentina’s wine capital offers unmatched allure. Nestled in Mendoza’s heart, The Vines of Mendoza boasts over 100 boutique bottles, with a focus on Uco Valley gems. Opt for a guided 'flight' tasting of five wines, expertly explained by in-house sommeliers. Pair with their signature cheese platter to complement the bold Malbecs.
Billecart Salmon, Champagne, France
One of Champagne’s last family-owned wineries, Billecart Salmon (www.champagne-billecart.fr) provides an elegant tasting experience. Located beside the family’s historic Maison in Mareuil-sur-Ay, the understated room leads to tours of 1840s cellars brimming with rare bottles. Savor the exquisite Brut Rosé for a luxurious introduction.
Santé! Say 'cheers' in a vineyard in France's Champagne Valley. Image by Sylvain Grandadam / Robert Harding World Imagery / Getty Images.
Jura Whisky Tasting, Craighouse, Scotland
While Islay garners fame, the Isle of Jura’s single malts deserve acclaim. Join a distillery tour (daily at 11am and 2pm) in Craighouse to explore production using pristine water from the Paps mountains. Conclude at the shop with bottles of the smoky, warming Superstition whisky.
Elsa, New York City, USA
An East Village legend, Elsa (elsabar.com) crafts potent, inventive cocktails that rival NYC’s finest. Ditch stuffy hotel bars for creations like 'Invitation to a Beheading' (gin, jasmine, green tea syrup, orange bitters). Follow with 'Death of a Ladies’ Man' (rye, maple, Laphroaig scotch, lemon) for a sophisticated buzz.
The riverboat won't be the only thing swaying after sampling super-strength sake in Japan. Image by lensonjapan CC BY 2.0.
Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, Kyoto, Japan
Since 1637, Gekkeikan has perfected sake in Kyoto’s Fushimi district. Visit their exceptional museum to explore centuries-old tools and hear traditional worker songs. A dedicated tasting lets you experience the crisp, historic brew firsthand.
Polish Food and Vodka Tour, Krakow, Poland
Crazy Guides’ intimate tour (crazyguides.com/krakow_tours) pairs hearty Polish cuisine with five shots of local spirits, including classic vodka, Wyborowa rye, and potent śliwowica plum brandy. Expect inhibitions to vanish—and mornings to challenge your resolve.
Never try to outdrink a Pole – but if you insist, then start with these. Image by Tim Lucas / CC BY 2.0.
Vineyard Safari, Victoria and South Australia, Australia
Led by Master of Wine Tim Wildman, Vineyard Safaris (vineyardsafaris.com) offers exclusive day trips from AU$2,800. Travel by chauffeured car through Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula, with expert tastings, winery visits, and gourmet lunch included for discerning palates.
Meantime Brewery, London, England
Trade pub pints for insight at Greenwich’s Meantime Brewery (meantimebrewing.com/brewery-tour). Tours (Thu/Fri evenings, weekends) reveal award-winning beer production, followed by tutored tastings. 'Pie and Pint' nights provide hearty fuel.
A perfectly pulled pint in leafy Greenwich. Image by Visit Greenwich / CC BY 2.0.
Tequila Express, Guadalajara, Mexico
Board the Tequila Express from Guadalajara to Amatitán (gdltours.com/Visit.Tequila.Express), home of Tequila Herradura. Enjoy a scenic hour-long ride, factory and hacienda tour, lunch, then shots and beers on the return. Arrive back merry and reflective.
