Wine lovers, take note. Rioja, Spain has just been crowned the top wine tasting destination in Europe for 2025, and it’s not hard to see why. The team at Quotezone put together their Vineyard Mini-Break Index by diving into the details that matter most for wine tourists, including winery tour costs, hotel prices, local weather, and international wine awards. The result? Rioja poured its way right to the top of the list.
Known as the largest wine region in Spain, Rioja boasts over 600 wineries and more than 65,000 hectares of vineyards. But beyond its sheer size, the region stands out for being surprisingly affordable. The average winery tour will only set you back about $24 USD, and you can snag a good bottle of wine for just $28 USD, making it a wine lover’s paradise that doesn’t break the bank.
Most famous for its flavorful red wines made primarily from Tempranillo grapes, Rioja also showcases blends featuring Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or just in it for the cheese boards and beautiful views, you’re almost guaranteed to find a winery you’ll fall in love with in one of Rioja’s 144 charming towns.
Italy also made a strong showing, taking the next two spots on the list with Piedmont and Tuscany. Piedmont is best known for its bold, Nebbiolo-based wines like Barolo and Barbaresco, while Tuscany shines with its iconic Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.
The top 10 wine regions in Europe
- Rioja, Spain
- Piedmont, Italy
- Tuscany, Italy
- Bordeaux, France
- Douro Valley, Portugal
- Rhone Valley, France
- Champagne, France
- Burgundy, France
- Tokaj, Hungary
- Mosel, Germany
