Hunter Resort, Hunter Valley

Hotel. Unwind in serenity surrounded by an endless green landscape of mountains and vineyards in Hunter Valley. Hunter Resort is in the heart of beautiful Hunter Valley wine region on 70 acres of land. Family owned by the Helé’s, this resort is the most flourishing in the area because of the hardwork and dedication that has been put into making it the best, not to mention the three generations of innkeepers in the family. Hunter Resort has only 35 rooms, ensuring your stay at this Australian inn will be quiet, relaxing, and personal.

Wine. Hunter Resort boasts a glass wine cellar at the front of their restaurant proving their large selection of labels. Guests may enjoy bottles from around the world, and even some local, private, and hard to find selections. A better place than Hunter Resort will not be found in the valley since it is the largest in the area; the winery offers the top tastings with unique creations of locally grown and hand-made wines and guests can even see how wine is made. With vintages that date back to the 1940’s, it is obvious to see why they Hunter Resort has been awarded Restaurant & Caterers Hunter Region Wine List of the Year Winner in 2000-2001, 2001-2002 & 2005-2006.

Dining. Chef Phillip Collis has created a variety of delectable dishes to suite your palate that exemplifies the tradition of Australian cuisine. Of course, San Martino Restaurant only uses the freshest local produce in each recipe guaranteeing the finest zest possible. Cooking classes are offered to those who would like to take a taste of the fine cuisine home with them.

Chateau des Salles, Gironde

Hotel. Each decorated in the French country style, the six rooms of Chateau Des Salles invite you to put down your bags, unwind and take in the surroundings. Half a century ago the Couillaud family restored this charming chateau to its original beauty and elegance. Today the chateau is surrounded by gardens where guests can go enjoy their breakfast or just sit and relax. The estate produces its own wine and cognac that guests tend to enjoy in the traditional salon of the chateau. Furthermore, Chateau Des Salles is nestled in the countryside of Saint-Fort-sur-Gironde in the Bordeaux region.

Wine. The nearby vineyards of Saint-Emilion, Médoc and Bordeaux invite the guests of Chateau Des Salles to visit the vines and taste the wines. However, alongside the Cognac that is produced on the chateau’s estate is a fortified wine called “Pineau des Charentes.” Another, “Domaine des Salles,” appears on the wine list as well.

Dining. The small dining room of the hotel fits provides a cozy space for a delectable meal of traditional local foods. With emphasis on fresh garden vegetables grown on the estate and seafood, the plates that come out of the kitchen are always crisp and refreshing. Good regional wines from the wine list flatter the dishes.

Les Sources de Caudalie, Bordeaux

Hotel. Do you want to discover the Grands Crus Classes of Bordeaux? Whether you know what that even means or not, Les Sources de Caudalie is a Mecca for anyone looking to escape this world and transport into another. The country inn style of this 49 room, nine-suite hotel provides an at-home feel in the French countryside. Unwind in the Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa located next door in the vineyards of Château Smith Hout Lafitte with these unique treatments that combine natural springs and grape extracts. And choose from the two restaurants where you will enjoy the most refined and tasty cuisine.

Wine. If the cellar full of 15,000 bottles is not enough, head out into the Bordeaux countryside and explore some of the most famous varieties in the world. With over 700 million bottles of wine coming out of the Bordeaux region each year, it has become the leading contributor to this area’s economy. Ranging from inexpensive to absurdly high-priced, these are some of the most prestigious wines of the world, not just of France. Les Sources de Caudalie offers its guests wine tasting lessons along with a day trip to a wine school at St. Emilion and a private château visit.

Dining. Both restaurants of Les Sources de Caudalie present dishes rich in flavor that can be accompanied by wines from the hotel’s cellar. However for a more country-style cuisine head to “La Table du Lavoir.” And for the gourmet gastronomic experience, “La Grand Vigne” has a menu filled with refined and classic dishes that exude the best in French cuisine.

Château de La Grave, Bordeaux

Hotel. This magical turreted chateau sits amongst rolling hills of vines and vast panoramic views of the Bordeaux region. Since 1900 the Bassereau family has lived at Château de La Grave, running both the hotel and winery, making sure each entity maintains its excellent reputation. In other words, the Bassereau’s certify that the wine pleases and the hotel feels like home. The hotel has only three guest rooms, and for a magnificent value. Past guests praise this hotel for its attention to detail and for ensuring a mystical wine experience.

Wine. The Château de La Grave winery is an exclusive AOC Vineyard recognized for its Côtes de Bourg, Dédicace. By blending Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot – classic Bordeaux grape varieties – the winemakers came up with the smooth richness of Dédicace. After being aged in oak barrels, the scent of vanilla lingers around the bouquet of blackberry. The name Dédicace stems from the utter dedication that the winemakers put into this blend. When staying at the chateau, guests have the opportunity to taste Dédicace and other winery treats in the cellar.

Le Relais de Franc Mayne, Sant-Emilion

Hotel. Le Relais de Franc Mayne sits in the middle of a vineyard in Saint-Emilion, one of Bordeaux’s most charming and beautiful towns. It is believed that Romans began using the soil of Saint-Emilion to cultivate grapes as early as the 2nd century. For the wine tourist, Le Relais de Franc Mayne is the perfect place to rest your head after a full day of tasting and exploring this world-famous wine-region. An intimate hotel, with only 9 rooms, each decorated in its own unique theme, consists of a natural swimming pool, a beautiful setting, and scenery of medieval bell towers and sprawling vineyards.

Wine. Le Relais de Franc Mayne makes sure that every guest takes in as much of the wine culture as possible, starting with a free tour of the wine estate, followed by free tasting of Grand Cru Classe wines. As a principal producer of red wines, Saint-Emilion vineyards primarily grow the Merlot and Cabernet Franc grape varieties.

La Collegiata, Chianti

Hotel. Built as a Franciscan monastery in 1589, what was once the cloister of this medieval estate is now the Hotel La Collegiata. Overlooking the Chianti region of Italy, each of the hotel’s 20 suites will take your breath away. One suite at the top of the tower has a 360 degree view of the valley and San Gimignano, the historic town nearby only a few kilometers away. La Collegiata, though historic by nature, consists of all the necessary amenities and services to satisfy the needs of any guest. From business meetings to romantic getaways, the hotel staff attends to every need while also making sure guests have a private, intimate experience.

Wine. One of the many amenities of the hotel is a beautifully designed wine cellar. Located under the well of the hotel, the wine bar and cellar has been beautifully transformed into the perfect space for private tasting of local Tuscan wines, as well as celebrated champagnes. Because La Collegiata sits in the Tuscan countryside, some of the world’s best vineyards are within reach to hotel guests for tours and visits.

Dining. Il Sagrato Ristorante serves to bring only the best of Tuscan traditional cuisine to its patrons. Set in the old church of the monastery, the restaurant’s beautiful architecture alone is something to marvel at. However, the chef’s commitment to flavors and Tuscan delicacies is also apparent. Alongside the comprehensive and excellent wine list, the restaurant boasts a remarkable oil tasting list. After all, Tuscany produces the best olive oil in the world.

Meadowood, Napa Valley

Hotel. Started as a private club turned hotel forty years ago, Meadowood is known as the original meeting place for wine lovers in Napa Valley. The hotel’s classical architecture, located in the deep valleys of California and surrounded by rolling mountains and beautiful evergreens, is the perfect location to enjoy outdoor activities or absorb the scenery while sipping on glass of wine. The rooms offer and easy and at-home feel, making the stay at Meadowood appealing to come back to time and time again.

Wine. Surrounded by vineyards and wineries of the most exceptional labels in the States, Meadowood is an ideal place to enjoy a variety of vintages. A wine tour around the Napa Valley area is sure to provide you with wine exposure to further your knowledge. Experience the passionate flavors of Napa Valley produced Cabernet Sauvignon from diverse wine districts like Stag’s Leap, Oakville, Rutherford, Spring Mountain, Howell Mountain, and Diamond Mountain. Guests are not limited on wine selections as Meadowoods lists include 950 varied labels. Take advantage of Meadowood’s own sommelier Rom Toulon, who is keen to pairing fine wine and cuisine to enhance the flavors of each.

Dining. The Restaurant at Meadowood serves only the finest cuisine, and in return is one of the few Californian restuarants to receive two stars from the prestigious Michelin Guide. Chef Christopher Kostow executes a creatice touch on his recipes, using unique ingredients paired with classic technique to enhance the aura at Meadowood. Dishes are made to concentrate on Napa Valley’s fresh ingredients and to infuse the palate with a numerous amount of flavors.

Château de Marçay, Loire Valley

Hotel. The 21st century meets the 15th century at the Château de Marçay. Inside this preserved fortress there is a 4-star hotel with 32 rooms, 4 apartments, a wine cellar of over 700 labels and a restaurant you will never forget. All this and more in a palace surrounded by a private vineyard, a beautiful pool and the charm of the Loire Valley. Relax and take in the splendor and romance of the hotel’s vast estate with the ones you love.

Wine. With one of the largest (and oldest) wine cellars in the region, the Château de Marçay is sure to have a label that will tickle your fancy. Underneath the massive fortress, the wine cellar houses a selection of more than 700 references. The chef works alongside the cellar master to highlight the strongest vintages from the Loire Valley. But to really see the tradition of wine making, take a tour through “Le Château de Marçay” vineyard and see first-hand the grapes that eventually evolve into complex flavors in a bottle.

Dining. Colorful and skillfully crafted dishes make up this kingdom of food at the hotel’s restaurant. The bright yellow décor of the dining room contrasts the dark hues of Loire’s reds, adding to the rainbows made by the food itself. The goal of the restaurant is to bring out the flavors of wine with each and every dish.

Grande Roche, Cape Town

Hotel. The Cape Winelands region of South Africa boasts some of the most beautiful vineyards and flavorful wines of the world. The Grande Roche hotel sits in the valley of the Cape Winelands surrounded by sprawling greens and close to the town of Paarl. After being renovated in the early 90s, the Grande Roche hotel emerged as the premiere luxury hotel of the region – it was even declared a national landmark. Amongst the hotel’s lush rooms and beautiful architecture, the humidor is a special attraction for many. With a huge assortment of the finest cigars from around the world, the hotel staff has been trained to care for and recommend these exquisite novelties for your particular likes. Only 40 minutes outside of Cape Town, the Grande Roche must be on everyone’s to do list during a trip to South Africa.

Wine. Cape Winelands’ beautiful vineyards emerge out of the fertile valleys of the region that are diverse in soil and climate. This range results in the world famous flavors of the Winelands’ reds and whites. The Grande Roche fully embraces the viticulture surroundings. Every year, the hotel hosts special Gourmet Evenings complete with five-course meals and wine pairings that highlight Cape Winelands’ fortes. Different hotel packages provide guests with tours of local wine estates, introductions to winemakers, and of course a private wine tasting.

Dining. A “Jacket and Tie” are required for Bosman’s Restaurant in the hotel’s main Victorian manor house. Getting dressed up is not a burden because this exquisite, innovative cuisine returns the favor. Taping into some of Africa’s most flavorful ingredients, Bosman’s dishes excite the palate. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the Bistro Allegro’s outdoor terrace by the pool serves traditional dishes that everyone will enjoy.

Viña Meín, Galicia

Hotel. Viña Meín is a treasure chest of history and viticulture for Spain’s Galicia region. This family owned and operated vineyard and winery invites wine lovers from around the world to stay in their small 8-bedroom retreat and explore the birthplace of Ribeiro wines. This small hotel’s beautifully decorated rooms have views overlooking the vines and are only steps from the winery facilities. As a true residence, the hotel does not have a restaurant, however being so close to the village of San Clodio, guests can enjoy the critically acclaimed eateries nearby.

Wine. When the monks of San Clodio began cultivating vines in this region, they recognized the advantages of sabrego soil and the terrain’s natural slopes. The area became ideal for fostering traditional Treixadura as well as other varieties. As a result, Viña Meín has bottled mouthwatering wines with floral aromas that are not only luscious but also unforgettable.

Chateau de Bagnols, Lyon

Hotel. In 1987 when Lady Hamlyn crossed the drawbridge of the Chateau de Bagnols, her imagination ran wild with possibilities. After lovingly restoring the Chateau to its Renaissance beauty, it became quite clear that this historic, luxurious hotel would be unparalleled. Complete with a dry moat, gardens, towers and turrets, this one of a kind castle overlooks its vineyards as well as the rest of the Beaujolais countryside of southeastern France. Only a short drive from Lyon, the 13th century chateau eagerly awaits its guests, wanting to welcome them to one of 21 elegant rooms or suites. A five star hotel with one-of-a-kind experiences is exactly what you should expect from Chateau de Bagnols.

Wine. In the cellar and cave of Chateau de Bagnols, it is almost as if the wine is hibernating. The utter calm of the long hallway lined with casks is haunting, but a private wine tasting amidst this atmosphere reminds one that the wine is very much alive. The hotel’s sommelier happily serves and recommends only the best of French wines, specifically those from the local Beaujolais region and neighboring Burgundy. Chateau de Bagnols’ impressive wine list compliments the decorated dishes of Matthieu Fontaine.

Dining. Executive chef Matthieu Fontaine joined Chateau de Bagnols in 2003 to lead the kitchen of the hotel’s gastronomic pleasure, La Salle des Gardes. Sitting under a French coat of arms, patrons experience the unique style of Fontaine’s slow cooking and combinations of freshest local produce. With one Michelin star proclaiming its excellence, La Salle des Gardes boasts traditional Beaujolais cuisine that satisfies each and every taste bud. Or for a more intimate experience Le Cuvage allows guests to dine where the wine is made directly above the cellar. And finely, enjoy the outdoors and beautiful French climate by dinning at Le Salon d’Ombrage under the estate’s 100-year-old lime trees.

Clos Apalta, Colchagua Valley

Hotel. This idyllic and modern winery has opened its doors to the wine lover in everyone with the premiere of its exclusive guesthouse. The family-owned Clos Apalta winery has been cultivating superior Chilean wines of deep purple hues and full-bodied tastes for almost a decade. Now with four incredibly private “casitas” nestled on the hillside overlooking the vineyard, guests are now in close proximity to the vines. However, the various terrains of the property permit guests to experience the Chilean countryside through trekking, hiking, and of course exploring the other surrounding wineries and vineyards.

Wine. Clos Apalta is Casa Lapostolle’s world-class iconic wine. This winery in Chile devotes itself solely to Clos Apalta production. Uniquely, this new facility has taken advantage of one of nature’s wonders: gravity. Through the use of gravity, by building the winery against a hillside, the beginning stages of wine making occur at the highest point and as the grapes and juices slide lower in altitude they grow closer to the aging caskets. The beauty in the process: the elimination of pumps that can sometimes alter the wine’s ultimate flavors. This high-tech system alone is fascinating to any wine connoisseur.

Dining. The hotel’s restaurant is located inside the main exclusive guesthouse and, of course, features Clos Apalta’s vintages from the underlying cellar.

Chateau Yering, Yarra Valley

Hotel. One of Australia’s finest country hotels, Chateau Yering, lies in the Yarra Valley (an hour drive from Melbourne) surrounded by more than 70 local vineyards and filled with enchantment and beauty. Since reopening in 1997, the Milner family has turned this once flourishing vineyard into a paradise of cuisine, décor, and beautiful countryside. At one point this Victorian home acted as one of the most respected vineyards in Australia. However, when the land was sold off piece-by-piece the vines were neglected and only the structures remained. Fortunately, the house’s cellar, built in 1840, still functions and remains a prized possession of Chateau Yering.

Wine. As wine tourism has flourished so has the Yarra Valley. Because it is only an hour away from Melbourne, it is easier than ever for visitors to explore this wine region best known for fits “cool climate” wines and especially its sparkling wines. Chateau Yering’s cellar dates back to 1840, automatically making it one of the historic cellars of Australia and making it home to the best vintages of Yarra Valley’s labels.

Dining. Executive Chef Mathew Macartney heads the hotels two restaurants, Eleonore’s Restaurant and Sweetwater Café, serving dishes that are skillfully prepared and exquisitely delicious. For a casual meal head to Sweetwater Café where breakfast is served daily, however for a more daring foodie, go to the elegant dining room of Eleonore’s. Surely Mathew Macartney’s French influence that has won him countless awards will leave any guest wanting more.

Cavas Wine Lodge, Mendoza

Hotel. The idyllic Cavas Wine Lodge is perfectly situated in Mendoza, the heart of Argentina’s wine industry. Setting the standards for other wine lodges, Cavas Wine Lodge was the first of its kind in South America opened by Martin Rigal and Cecilia Diaz Chuit.
The lodge is advantageously placed in the center of its own 35 acre vineyard, the best wineries in the region, and near the Andes Mountain range which provides unbelievable sights for guests enjoying the beautiful outdoors. Each of the 14 rooms stand individually so each guests experience is their own. Rooms are situated in structures comparable to adobe huts on the outside, but have are beautifully rustic and luxurious on the inside.

Wine. With over 900 wineries at its hands, Cavas Wine Lodge bares and exceptional wine cellar. So many choices are available, but the expert sommeliers have narrowed down the selection for Cavas’ cellar to only 250 labels from the Mendoza area. Test the sommelier’s taste buds with a wine tasting or a private dinner in the cellar.

Dining. Like the rest of the lodge, the Cavas restaurant is beautiful. The menu bares a wide variety of dishes, using mostly fresh local ingredients. Guest's palates are often overwhelmed with happiness after enjoying a nice entrée and wine combination.

Villa Mangiacane, Tuscany

Hotel. Do as much or as little as you want at Villa Mangiacane. With only 26 rooms at this Tuscan villa, only a few guests are privileged enough to enjoy Tuscany and this unbelievable hotel. As a working wine and olive oil estate built by the powerful Machiavelli family, there is not doubt that the 600 acres of vineyards and groves aren’t something worth marveling at. Amidst the villa’s beautifully preserved 15th century structure, the rose gardens and spa treatments provide sanctuary for hotel guests. Every nook and cranny of this estate is filled with Renaissance details that are worthy of even the finest museums. And what better place to capture Italian artistry than Florence, which is only 12 km from Villa Mangiacane?

Wine. The complexity of Villa Mangiacane’s wines stems from the diverse climate exposures created by the vastness of the estate’s 41 hectares. With vineyards in the San Casciano area and the Greve region, the combination of these grapes produces a fuller more satisfying flavor. During your stay, enjoy the winery’s Grappa along with the Merlots and Chianti Classico.

Dining. Along with providing guests with one-on-one cooking classes, executive chef Massimo Bocus shares his love of Tuscan cooking through his dishes. Innovative use of fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients have resulted in the signature dishes of red tuna fillet and braised beef calf. Bocus ensures that Villa Mangiacane wines compliment his own variety of flavors. Take advantage of the location by taking Bocus’ dishes al fresco out on the terrace.

Castello di Meleto, Tuscany

Hotel. Blossoming out of the idyllic Chianti landscape, Castello di Meleto sits amongst the swaying junipers and the gentle sloping vineyards. Once the home of Benedictine monks, the strong 15th century structure provides a sense of royalty and aristocracy. Complete with an 18th century theater in the Villa Nobile, the Castello di Meleto invites everyone to come make their own fairytale. This small quaint castle has a reputation for its beautiful weddings and even more beautiful surroundings. Located a short distance outside of Siena, the castle takes advantage of the Tuscan sun and soil by producing award-winning Chiantis.

Wine. With vineyards covering almost 180 hectares around the castle, the prevailing grapes are cultivated and evolved into the production of Chianti Classico, Merlot, Cabernet, Syrah and other varieties. The wine makers have found that the soil of marl and alberese has produced the best, most fragrant fruits. The winery’s most successful wines – Chianti Classico DOCG, Chianti Classico DOCG Reserve, Castello di Meleto Fiore – are all elegant with modern tastes and superior structure and body.

Locanda Palazzone, Orvieto

Hotel. The Umbria country house of Locanda Palazzone should be marked as a historic landmark because of all the treasures that lie amidst it. Beautifully preserved to capture the essence of its original 13th century structure, the architectural style and construction exude the strength and grace that accompany thoughts of the medieval times. Believed to have originally been a hostel for travelers and pilgrims because of its very residential layout, the present owners honor its past by making it a sought after destination hotel. Along with the renovation of the interior, over the years the estate grew into a winery. The Palazzone’s endless views of vineyards and rolling hills provide a spectacular treat to anyone who sees it.

Wine. The grand potential of Locanda Palazzone’s winery rests in the carefully cultivated vines of the estate. The Dubini family works together as a cohesive unit on the land in an effort to foster the best wines and grape varieties. Less is more applies to this vineyard. Focusing only on the vines that produce the best tastes and structure has gained the winery its impeccable reputation. Complete with a cave for bottle aging alongside a spectacular cellar, the different varieties of reds and whites stand out amongst other wines from the Orvieto region.

The Richardson Hotel, Perth City

Hotel. The Richardson Hotel, designed by famous London Architect Sir Terry Farrell, is set apart from the norm. The new boutique hotel is innovative and considers it´s entire structure in the plans for its context and functions in design. The structure of The Richardson Hotel has an unusual sense of formality and grandness while maintaining a conservative feel. Gorgeous views of Perth City, Kings Park, and neighboring areas are available from the 74 guestrooms and suites that are equipped with beautiful decor themselves. Each room embraces contemporary decor filled with rich texture and design, modern lines and plush furniture which blends the colors together nicely.

Wine. Located in The Richardson Hotel is the fancy Wine Annex. Similar to a wine cellar, the annex is located in the back of the the Opus Restaurant where a small room is situated. This area is perfect for a wine tasting or small private event, as the stone walls and wooden shelves set a lovely sense of elegance.

Dining. Not only does Opus Restaurant offer great creations in each of its seasonal menus, but the atmosphere found here is irreplaceable. The restaurant achieves a ¨modern old-fashioned elegance¨ enhanced by the attentive and sophistaced service provided by the staff. Chef Todd Cheavins puts his own personal twist on French cuisine by infusing tastes of Oriental and Australian flavors.

Breuer’s Rudesheimer Schloss Wine Hotel, Rudesheim

Hotel. A small hotel in a small German village holds the key to a great vineyard and an even greater history. The archbishops of Mainz built the original structure of what is now Breuer’s Rudesheimer Schloss Wine Hotel in 1729. After keeping the estate in the family for generations, Georg Breuer renovated the main house and reopened the hotel’s restaurant in 1952. Since then, a seamless progression of events has transformed this antique abode into a leading wine hotel destination in the heart of Rudesheim, a remarkable town in the Rheingau region – famous for Germany’s Riesling wines.

Wine. Since the Romans, winemakers have flocked to the Rheingau region to take advantage of the hills that line the river and capture the pure sunlight for their vines. Because cultivating wine has existed in this area for centuries, monasteries, vaulted cellars, mansions and castles fill the town landscape making Rudesheim a living museum of the native wines. The Breuer family has cultivated the Georg Breuer estate vineyard since the beginning of the 20th century manufacturing wines of the highest quality that are internationally known and respected. Tour guides lead hotel guests through the vines and provide tastings of the winery’s products to introduce guests to this distinctive region.

Dining. The Wine Restaurant of the hotel entertains its patrons not only with great service, superior food, and an unbeatable wine list, but on occasion the live band pumps up the atmosphere turning a quiet dinner into an environment of song and dance. Having fun only makes the food taste better! Taking ingredients from local vendors like Hertel the bee-master and Hof Zorn the cheese-dairy, the chef prepares traditional regional food best enjoyed with a good glass of wine from our Rare Wine Card. The wine list has over 300 Rheingau wines including incredibly rare vintages, one from 1893, and bottles of all sizes – magnums (1.5litres), Jeroboam (3litres) and Imperial (6litres).

Possessio Binicomprat, Mallorca

Hotel. The island of Mallorca’s beautiful landscape and superior climate has always been something to marvel at, but now with the development of fincas like Possessio Binicomprat, anyone can have the opportunity to stay in this amazing atmosphere. The main house’s rustic style stays true to mallorquean rural architecture even though recent renovations of the six apartments and two rooms have brought the kitchen and bathrooms into the modern age. But it is hard to believe that anyone staying at Binicomprat will be spending anytime in doors. The large lush gardens and the swimming pool are reason enough to lounge in the sun, but the close proximity to Mallorca’s mountains allow guests to take in the views of the island. Binicomprat brings the word relaxation to a whole other level.

Wine. Being on an island makes everything a little closer. It is no wonder that Possessio Binicomprat has fostered a wine cellar that is made up of Majorcan wines from various different vineyards and vintages. As a finca in its own right, Binicomprat consists of 150 hectares, a part of which is a vineyard that produces 30,000 bottles of house wine.