Where a Wine Pro Dreams of Going (Budget Permitting)

1. Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico

Know For: Bold reds and unique blends
Why I want to visit: Valle de Guadalupe is experiencing the most exciting natural wine movement in Mexico right now. While the region's history dates back to Spanish missionaries in the 18th century, the current wave of experimental winemakers has caught my attention. The diverse microclimates allow winemakers to experiment with everything from Nebbiolo to Tempranillo, often with minimal intervention approaches.

Visit Bodega Monte Xanic for stunning views and a tour of their cavernous wine storage, where they keep everything cool during the scorching summers. Or head to Vinos Pijoan, a smaller, family-run winery, for a more rustic experience and organic wines made from estate-grown grapes.

Valle also boasts a thriving culinary scene, with standout restaurants like Fauna, named the best restaurant in Mexico. What makes dining here unique is how each restaurant integrates the natural surroundings—whether it’s cooking on outdoor grills or incorporating nature into their architecture. Plus, there are adorable dogs everywhere!

Wineries to visit: Vena Cava, Lechuza Vineyard, Pijoan Vineyard

2. Virginia, USA

Known for: Viognier and Cabernet Franc
Why I want to visit: Virginia’s wine scene has deep historical roots, dating back to the colonial era when Thomas Jefferson tried (and failed) to cultivate European grapevines. After years of challenges, the modern Virginia wine industry began to take off in the late 20th century. Today, the state is recognized for its diverse terroirs and innovative winemakers crafting everything from aromatic Viogniers to structured Cabernet Francs.

Events like Two Up Wine Down showcase both established and emerging producers, highlighting Virginia’s growing reputation. This rising interest is helping Virginia wine gain national recognition for its quality and unique character, making it an exciting time for the region.

Wineries to visit: Common Wealth Crush Co., Early Mountain Vineyards, Blenheim Vineyards

3. Swartland, South Africa

Known for: Syrah, Chenin blanc
Why I want to visit: Swartland is at the forefront of South Africa’s natural wine movement, with winemakers here embracing organic practices, minimal intervention techniques, and experimental blends. This region’s unique terroir, rich with ancient soils and a warm Mediterranean climate, has attracted both local and international winemakers who are pushing boundaries in the world of natural wine. From Chenin Blanc to Syrah, Swartland’s wines are bold, expressive, and full of character.

Not only is Swartland a hot spot for natural wine, but it’s also home to a vibrant food scene. South African braai (barbecue) is a must-try, with locally sourced meats grilled over an open flame, and Cape Malay cuisine, a fusion of Dutch, Indonesian, and Malaysian influences, offers a unique culinary experience.

I’d like to time my visit to the Swartland Revolution festival—a celebration of the region’s natural wine producers. It’s the perfect chance to taste a wide range of local wines while soaking up Swartland's culture and stunning landscape.

Wineries to visit: Sadie Family Wines, AA Badenhorst Family Wines, Lammershoek Wine Estate

4. Finger Lakes, New York

Known for: Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Noir

Why I want to visit: While the region built its reputation on pristine Rieslings, a whole new wave of winemakers, like Bloomer Creek and Nathan Kendall, are doing incredible things with low-intervention wines and experimental techniques.

I'm particularly intrigued by how these natural wine pioneers are working with the region's cool climate. Imagine spending a morning hiking through gorges, then tasting unfiltered, living wines that express this unique terroir in entirely new ways. The combination of traditional wineries and these exciting natural wine upstarts makes it the perfect time to visit.

I've heard Odd Duck in Ithaca has an incredible natural wine list, and it's definitely on my must-try list after a day of tasting.

Wineries to Visit: Bloomer Creek, Living Roots, Wild Arc Farm

5. Aegean Islands, Greece

Known for: Assyrtiko and Moschofilero

Why I want to visit: The Aegean Islands seem like they might be the original natural wine region. They've been making low-intervention wines there for thousands of years. I'm fascinated by the photos I've seen of Santorini's ancient vineyards: century-old vines growing in volcanic soil, trained into these incredible basket shapes called 'kouloura' that protect them from the intense winds

What's really drawing me is how a new generation of winemakers is experimenting with these traditional methods. They're doing amphora aging, zero-zero bottlings, and extended skin contact to create these incredible, complex wines. Plus, the idea of tasting these raw, unfiltered Assyrtikos in their birthplace, paired with fresh seafood and those legendary Aegean sunsets.

Wineries to Visit: Garalis, Vassaltis Vineyards, and Karamolegos.

Beyond the Usual: 5 Wine Regions on My 2025 Travel List