Wine can tell us so much about a place, its people, and its culture. Slopes, altitude, sunlight, soil, tradition, and winemaking technique – almost everything unique to a region influences its wine. It’s a fun way to taste the world, glass by glass, and connect more deeply with a destination.
To enhance their guests’ appreciation and enjoyment of the wines of the destinations they visit, Azamara has introduced new wine-focused shore excursions, as well as guest favorite land programs and onboard wine experiences.
Volterra, Italy – Onshore Wine Excursion
Onshore Wine Excursions
Set sail on Azamara to the world’s most renowned and unique wine destinations and learn more about the local winemaking industry with Azamara’s new wine-focused shore excursions. From the South of France to Australia’s Barossa Valley and the many microclimates of South America’s Andes, a glass of wine always seems to taste better where it’s grown.
On these curated excursions, you’ll visit vineyards abroad to sample local wines and to learn about the local winemaking industry. You’ll have an opportunity to speak to the vitners and viticultures about the wine region’s traditions, terroir, and techniques.
Volterra, Italy: Exclusive Bocelli Wine Tasting
After touring Volterra – including the Teatro del Silenzio, where Maestro Bocelli’s annual concert is held – sample your way through the Bocelli family vineyards in the heart of Tuscany. Tour the olive groves and vineyards, learn about the cultivation and harvesting of grapes, and get a closer look at the winemaking process. Your next tasting room is the stunning Bocelli Restaurant, where you’ll be treated to a private four-course lunch with wine pairings hosted by Andrea Bocelli’s nephew.
Montevideo, Uruguay: Wine Workshop at Spinoglio Winery
Journey to the southern wine region of Cuchilla Pereyra and visit the Spinoglio Winery. On this unique adventure, you’ll meet one of the family winemakers and learn the Spinoglio family’s time-honored winemaking secrets. Learn the fine art of wine blending during an exclusive winemaker-led workshop, discover the subtle nuances of Tannat and Merlot varietals, and sample the cellar’s wines paired with a selection of snacks.
Dubrovnik, Croatia: Meet the Winemakers
Visit the wineries of the stunning Konavle Valley. After a scenic drive along the Dubrovnik Riviera and through the Dubrovnik countryside, your first visit is Vodopić Winery, where you’ll sample four delicious wines accompanied by traditional local bites – smoked ham, cheese, olives, and bread. Afterwards, continue through picturesque villages to Crvik Winery, where you’ll taste some of the finest wines from this region and meet the wine producer.
Napier, New Zealand: Wineries of Hawkes Bay
From Napier, venture through New Zealand’s famed wine country for a tasting tour with stops at three distinctive wineries. Your first stop is Sileni Estates, renowned for bold cabs and subtle chardonnays. Next, continue to the Mission Estate Winery, considered the birthplace of New Zealand wines. Tour the vineyards and enjoy a tasting, with a chance to sample the award-winning Mission Estate Rosé. Your final stop is at Abbey Cellars, where you’ll sample wines and enjoy local ice cream.
Stellenbosch, South Africa – Land Experience
Pre- and Post-Cruise Experiences
Extend your vacation and enjoy extra time for in-depth wine tasting and touring with one of Azamara’s all-inclusive pre-or post-cruise land experiences. Guest favorite excursions include:
Cape Town, South Africa: Greater Kruger National Park Safari & Winelands
First, explore South Africa’s Kapama Game Reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park. Then, discover the South Africa wine region with gourmet meals paired with local wines in picturesque Stellenbosch and wine tastings at several renowned local wineries.
Tuscany, Italy: Enchanted Tuscany Countryside
Spend three nights at the Castello di Velona Thermal Spa & Winery, a stately 11th-century former castle in the heart of Tuscany. You’ll partake in incredible foodie experiences, including a vineyard tour, a Tuscan-cuisine cooking class, an Umbrian meal with a local family, and wine stomping at a local vineyard.
Azamara – Onboard Wine Experience
Onboard Wine Experiences
Sit back and drink in the views at one of Azamara’s restaurants, accompanied by a glass of complimentary and exclusive wine. This selection of nine single-vineyard wines are created exclusively for Azamara and showcase the styles and flavors of the world.
To ensure tasting perfection, a wine expert must approve every vintage before it arrives in a guest’s hand. The current selection of Azamara-labeled wines includes:
- Cabernet Sauvignon – L’Union des Vignerons, France
- Chardonnay – Viña Requingua, Chile
- Merlot – Zonin, Italy
- Pinot Grigio – Cantine Quattro Valli, Italy
- Pinotage – Swartland Winery, South Africa
- Riesling – J. & H. Selbach Weinkellerei
- Rosé – L’Union des Vignerons, France
- Sauvignon Blanc – L’Union des Vignerons, France
- Syrah – L’Union des Vignerons, France
In addition, Azamara’s cellars are stocked with rare and fine wines from around the world – the current wine list carries over 100 labels!
At each port, Azamara’s sommelier expands wine options further by purchasing local wines to offer during lunch or dinner, so you can continue to savor the region’s flavors.
If you are looking for a bespoke onboard experience, you will love the Chef’s Table, an exclusive dining experience created by the ship’s executive chef and sommelier. Enjoy exclusive, locally-focused, and personalized culinary and wine experiences based on the destinations you visit and your own personal preferences.
If you’re dreaming of sipping your way through a wine region, there’s an upcoming Azamara cruise to help you live your dream. With Azamara’s onboard experiences and onshore excursions, you’ll be guaranteed the perfect pairing.
SOURCE: Azamara
