One of the most appealing reasons to travel is to enjoy the local cuisine. But together with the food, there is the advantage of experiencing the local drinks!
Some people prefer the accents of a strong, velvety red wine, while others may prefer the summery essence of a rum punch, the aromatic taste of ginger beer, or the fizz of champagne.
Snow-capped mountains call for something warming, whilst city breaks are better enjoyed by ending the day with a refreshing cocktail or two. There’s no better travel idea than choosing a holiday destination with the added benefit of savouring a favourite tipple!
Here is a selection of great destinations - and the great drinks that accompany them.
Tuscany
Rolling hills, olive groves, and – of course – vineyards represent the traditional image of the Tuscan countryside; an image that often includes an ancient stone house on top of a hill and a bottle of wine ready to be sipped after a long drive.Birthplace of some of the best red wines in the world, from the exclusives Brunello di Montalcino and Sassicaia to the ubiquitous Chianti, a wine tasting opportunity in Tuscany is not to be missed. The charming Castello di Vicarello, with seven hectares of vineyards, offers an authentic flavour of Tuscan wines and hospitality.
Austrian Alps
Colder climates call for warming drinks – and schnapps is definitely one of those. Made from fermented fruits, this drink is very popular in Austria: ideal after a meal or as a pick-me-up after a day’s skiing, this sweet drink is also a great base for cocktails, maybe sipped while enjoying the superb mountain views from the terrace of Chalet N in Lech.With 11 bedrooms, and spacious lounges benefitting from cosy fireplaces, the chalet has a children’s suite where the little ones can play, leaving the grown-ups to their well-deserved nightcap.
Gironde
This region of France is where the celebrated Bordeaux vineyards are located. Stretching over 120,000 hectares, this is the largest viticultural area in France and one of the most celebrated, with a history that goes back to Roman times and millions of enthusiasts all over the world.To immerse yourself in this rich wine culture, there’s no better place than the prestigious Chartreuse de Cos D’ Estournel, the private home of hotelier Michel Reybier. Surrounded by vineyards, the property offers palatial interiors and an immersive wine-making experience.
Turks and Caicos
A by-product of sugar cane, rum is a traditional drink of the Caribbean islands. Whether it makes you think of silver screen pirates or American writers ensconced in Cuban fincas, a trip to the West Indies wouldn’t be complete without partaking in the amber or white liquid.Amongst the many islands where rum is produced, the Turks and Caicos offer a delicious, traditional recipe for rum punch. Head over to the beautiful nine-bedroom Villa Paradiso del Mar to enjoy it whilst sunbathing on the day beds of its private beach.
Bali
Nestled in the Balinese jungle, coffee plantations are one of the main attractions of the island – and for good reason. This Indonesian island is where coffee lovers from all over the world come – almost on a pilgrimage – to get a taste of the authentic Luwak coffee. Considered by most a delicacy (despite its slightly off-putting origin), it is the most expensive coffee in the world.For a complete jungle experience, we recommend the tranquil six-bedroom Sungai Jungle Residence. It is a haven of relaxation, yet surrounded by all the best Bali has to offer, coffee included.
