If people who really enjoy good food are called “Foodies”, what do we call those who really appreciate wine? I don’t want to call you “Winers”… and “Winey” or “Wino” just sounds wrong.
Perhaps we’ll just stick with “Wine-Lovers”.
If you’ve already done a European river cruise or you’re looking for a good excuse to do one, then you may want to consider a “Wine Cruise” with Ama Waterways.
There are a whole bunch of reasons why I think this looks even more appealing than the regular river cruises in Europe. On any European river cruise, you are subject to the tremendous history and culture that only Europe can offer. Some people, however, might have already done this, and others may just be looking for some variation in their activities as opposed to visiting museums and castles day after day.
If you’ve ever cycled through (or wanted to cycle through) the Napa Valley, then imagine that experience, but in Europe during the harvest season. If cycling is not really your gig, then you still have the opportunity to visit the wineries and do wine tastings all along the route of your river cruise.
The menu on board is prepared to complement the local wines, and the exceptional food available at the time of the European harvest. There are also wine experts on board to help you get the most out of the experience. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost.
The other thing I like about these wine cruises is that you get to visit wineries in countries not normally associated with wine. In North America, we tend to think of European wines as originating in Spain or Southern France. But there are vineyards in more Northern locations in Europe that have the advantage of longer summer days, which affects different varietals of grapes in different ways. So you’ll get to visit wineries in Germany, Austria, Hungary, and the Czech Republic.
Whether you have a seasoned appreciation for fine wine, or simply indulge in a sip here and there, this is a wonderful way to “uncork” the traditions of the local culture and learn about the region you’re visiting.
These Wine Cruises look much like other European River cruises in so far as most of them are 7-nights, and add-ons in European cities such as Prague or Budapest are easy to do.
If you’re unfamiliar with Ama Waterways, they are an American-based river cruise company with lots of experience in Europe. I have personally sailed with them in Europe, and found them to be excellent.
So if you’re considering a trip to Europe this fall, this could be an excellent way to go. There are several departure dates still available in October and November.
Planning a Cruise? I’d love to help! Click here to get in touch today.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Sue Bradley
Sue Bradley
