• Introduction
• 1. British Columbia: Okanagan Valley
• 2. Hungary: Villány and Szekszárd
• 3. India: Nashik
• 4. Israel: Upper Galilee and Golan Heights
• 5. Mexico: Guadalupe Valley
• 6. New York: East End, Long Island
• 7. Portugal: Douro Valley
• 8. Tasmania: The Tamar, Derwent, Huon, and Coal River Valleys
• 9. Uruguay: Colonia
• 10. Virginia: Charlottesville

British Columbia: Okanagan Valley

The land: Like France’s Champagne region, the Okanagan Valley (4 hours northwest of Spokane) nuzzles the 50th parallel. The 155-mile valley is home to large, deep lakes that cool the summer sun, and a rich volcanic soil ideal for winemaking. The crisp, dry winter also makes it an ideal spot for high-caliber ice wine.

Why it’s hot: There’s the wine, of course, but visitors enjoy fantastic four-season recreation—from hiking to skiing—and incredible mountain scenery while savoring white Rieslings and deep-red Pinot Noirs.

Wineries to watch: Cedar Creek, Kettle Valley, and Sandhill.

Lodging pick: The town of Oliver – at the base of the Okanagan wine route – is home to Burrowing Owl Winery’s brand-new, posh 11-unit guesthouse. It has a pool and hot tub, and is adjacent to the winery’s renowned restaurant, the Sonora Room. (2-hour drive from the Kelowna, B.C. airport; 250/498-0620; rooms from $175)

Take it home: Oculus, a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, from Mission Hill Family Estate.

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