Wines are some of the most enjoyable drinks in the world. Different countries and regions produce wines based on the environment and the grapes they grow, which are done with utmost care. For oenophiles, they stop at nothing to go to the best wine countries in the world so they could take a sip of excellent wines.

In this article, we check out different wine countries in the world and the regions where wines and which wines reign supreme.

For some other information about vegan wineries, Barnivore offers an extensive list of vegan wines, in some cases verified by the winery if they practice sustainability in creating vegan wines.

Loire Valley, France

In any list where to find the best wines in the world, France is usually at the top of the list. Sometimes, it’s France that’s on the throne.

While France has a variety of wines spread across the country, it’s Loire Valley that provides a wide selection of wines. According to Loire Valley Wines, many have taken interest in the region because of moderate alcohol content and its signature, authentic taste.

According to Wine Folly, white wines reign supreme in Loire Valley. Their whites are citrusy in Lower Loire. While in the Middle Loire, it varies per district. In some parts, it’s dry, while in others it’s fruity. On the other hand, the Upper Loire boasts flowery white wines.

Rosés are also common in Loire Valley, which you can find mostly in Anjou (Middle Loire). The Loire Valley rosés are typically dry but fruity. Their reds are usually typically in different areas of Loire Valley.

Vegans can definitely enjoy wine from the Loire Valley because growers grow their grapes organically.

Etna, Italy

Italy is one of France’s fiercest competitors as one of the best wine countries in the world. According to Wine Folly, three of the best wines in Italy comes from Veneto, Tuscany, and Piedmont.

One part of Sicily, however, did gain some attention. Mt. Etna, an active volcano, houses some wineries in Southern Italy. Etna’s incredibly fascinating because the wines are grown at high-altitudes, at the lowest around 3,500 feet. It causes challenges to the vintners that it’s difficult to get any machinery high up.

Despite the difficulties vintners face, many praise Etna wines because of its taste, largely attributed to the soil, in which the grapes are grown (lava from Mt. Etna itself).

Oenophiles should try their Etna Rossos (red wines), because of their earthy and fruity tastes.

Organic and vegan-friendly wines are also available in the region, which is certified, so you can drink wine that suits your needs.

Niederösterreich, Austria

The state, Niederösterreich, is translated to Lower Austria in English. Its most famous wines are located in the Danube region. The region produces more white wines, which makes the Riesling and Veltliner famous in the area. Its terroir contributes to its dryness.

There’s a wide variety of Veltliner in the region too, depending on quality. If you’re looking for affordable options, it can be peppery and may even be melony. High-quality Veltliners are similar to Chardonnays. Meanwhile, Austria’s Rieslings are usually dry.

One of the great things in Austria is many of its wineries or vineyards practice sustainability. So, rest assured, you can enjoy and drink wine guilt-free. Thus, it’s one of the best wine countries in the world.

Finger Lakes, New York

When thinking about wine production in the United States, Napa Valley is one of the first vineyards that comes to mind. However, the United States boasts other spectacular vineyards in the county and two of them are from New York City.

The lakes actually help in ensuring grape growth over the seasons. Also, in the Finger Lakes, you’ll get to taste both whites and reds in the region. Rieslings are popular in the lakes, which are usually dry.

According to Barnivore, here are some wineries that produce vegan wine in Finger Lakes:

• Living Roots Wine & Co. (they even sent an email to Barnivore stating what makes their wine vegan)
• Anthony Road Wine Company
• Atwater Estate Vineyards (also provided info to Barnivore they don’t use any animal products, dairy, or eggs in their vineyard)

Hudson Valley, New York

Hudson Valley is not just known for its rich history. Apparently, it’s the oldest wine region in the United States.

If you plan on going to Hudson Valley and taste their finest wines, LoHud recommends you get a Hudson Valley winery passport and indulge in the variety of wines in the region. Some wines in the region are fruity and dry.

If you’re fond of tasting white wines, Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery is so far the only winery in the valley that produces and serves vegan white wines. 

La Rioja, Spain

According to many travelers and oenophiles, La Rioja houses the best wines in Spain. 

Rioja is known for its red wines. Its terroir and acidity contribute to its fruity taste, which many laud when tasting their wines. Their reds can sometimes taste like cherry too, just like some Pinot Noir wines.

Fortunately, if you’re planning on trying some of their wines, some La Rioja wineries have sustainability practices in place if you want to try organic or vegan wines from the region.

Mendoza, Argentina

Mendoza is bountiful in the Malbec, a purple grape that originated in France, and made its way to Argentina. To some, it’s one of the best wine countries in the world.  However, not all the wines produced are red. Chardonnay and Torrontes are also popular whites in the region.

If you’re on the hunt for vegan or organic wines in the country, Uco Valley (a region in Mendoza) is the best place to get these wines for your drinking pleasure. Aside from it producing vegan wines, Uco Valley is situated in a high-altitude, just like Italy’s Etna.

Key Takeaways

Oenophiles can enjoy many different tasting wines thanks to their growing methods and taste. Winegrowers produce high-quality reds, whites, and rosés that some even go to great lengths just to experience its distinct tastes. Vegans can also enjoy wines because of sustainability practices that allow them to indulge in their favorite wines.