Bye-bye Blues - Winter Escapes, Big and Small
Winter doesn’t just bring colder temperatures—it also comes with dark, gray days that can weigh on our mood. Before you know it, the so-called winter blues quietly sneaks in, and suddenly, everything feels a little heavier. But instead of surrendering to winter’s gloom, there’s a particularly tempting solution for wine lovers: a getaway to the sun-drenched wine regions of the world! There's hardly anything more enticing than escaping the cold – ideally to a place where the grapes are already harvested or just about to reach perfection.
Chasing the Sun
While vineyards in Europe rest during the winter and the new vintage matures patiently in cellars, the wine regions of the Southern Hemisphere invite you to soak up not just light and warmth but also exceptional wines. What could be better than standing in the middle of lush vineyards in South Africa, Australia, or New Zealand, sipping a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay while feeling the sun on your skin and listening to winemakers share their stories? Instant mood boost guaranteed! A trip to these regions during harvest season is the perfect way to escape the winter blues while recharging with fresh energy and inspiration.
Escaping South of the Equator
For wine lovers, the start of the year offers a special opportunity to combine travel with indulgence. From February to April, the Southern Hemisphere’s wine regions are in the midst of harvest season, giving you the chance to experience the magic firsthand. Whether you’re strolling through South Africa’s vineyards or enjoying a lazy afternoon in New Zealand’s Marlborough Valley, one thing is certain: you’ll discover incredible wines and breathtaking landscapes. With an extra dose of vitamin D, your escape from the winter gray will feel even more rewarding.South Africa – Harvest Season in the Land of Sun
South Africa is renowned for its spectacular wine regions, particularly the Cape Winelands around Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. While Europe is still deep in winter, February and March see South Africa’s vineyards in full, vibrant green, with harvest season in full swing. Rows of glistening, ripe grapes stretch as far as the eye can see, soon to be transformed into the country’s signature wines. Picture endless sunny days and pleasantly warm temperatures, perfect for enjoying a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc.
A harvest-season trip to South Africa is a true highlight, as many wineries open their doors to visitors, offering special tastings and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the winemaking process. The combination of breathtaking scenery, mild climate, and outstanding wines makes this region an unforgettable destination.
Kicking off the year, sommelier Michael Kutej traveled to South Africa and shared this short travel journal with us:
“My journey to South Africa with friends – including some fellow sommeliers – started with a breathtaking safari at the still relatively new Babanango Game Reserve in the country’s northeast. [...]
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“My journey to South Africa with friends – including some fellow sommeliers – started with a breathtaking safari at the still relatively new Babanango Game Reserve in the country’s northeast. [...]
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From there, we made our way to Hermanus, ready to immerse ourselves in the fascinating world of South African wines. Fittingly, we stayed right at the winery of Sebastian Beaumont in Walker Bay – an exceptional winemaker and a longtime friend of mine.
Naturally, we spent countless hours in the cellar, tasting just about everything. The verdict? Mostly impressive! Evenings were something special, too. Over dinner, more winemakers joined us, each bringing their own wines. Soon, every bottle was on the table, and every guest was part of one lively mix. Manny, the owner of the restaurant, topped it all off by serving the best shrimp I’ve had in years. Simply outstanding! What a night.
Next, we visited the family-run Paul Clüver winery, home to some of South Africa’s finest Chardonnays. Even the estate itself is impressive, but the wines truly speak for themselves. Winemaker Andries Burger gave us a personal tour of the cellar before we enjoyed a spectacular lunch at the estate’s brand-new restaurant BLOEM.
This visit to Paul Clüver was the perfect finale to my trip. South Africa offers incredible experiences for wine lovers—especially at this time of year."
Sommelier Michael Kutej Recommends:
My first pick is a top-tier Chenin Blanc (5 out of 5 Platter stars) that’s not bone-dry, clocks in at just 13% ABV, and beautifully showcases why Chenin Blanc is THE signature white grape of the Cape. Unique, Burgundy-like salinity, and a delicate acidity that keeps everything in perfect balance.For those who associate South Africa with rich, full-bodied reds, my second pick is our best-selling wine from the region: JUBILUM Shiraz No. 1—moderate in alcohol but bursting with South Africa’s warmth. A wine for every day.
Available in the Pese Wein Online Shop:
Australia & New Zealand – Uplift Your Spirits Down Under
When Europe is deep in winter, Australia and New Zealand are basking in summer—and both have a lot to offer wine lovers. These regions deliver a fascinating mix of well-known classics and unexpected discoveries.
Southern Australia’s renowned Barossa Valley and Margaret River are legendary for their top-tier wines. Here, Shiraz reigns supreme, producing bold reds that have earned global recognition. Add to that endless sunshine and vibrant wine festivals celebrating life, and you have the perfect recipe for a winter escape.
Sommelier Michael Kutej Recommends:
The perfect wine to warm both body and soul? Mitolo Shiraz by Ben Glaetzer, a 2018 vintage that’s now softened beautifully with some bottle age. No jamminess—just deep, complex flavors. Important: don’t drink it too warm—14°C is perfect.For something truly special, Penfolds BIN 28 is where the magic starts. The best BIN 28 in years was produced in 2020—an explosion of juicy, meaty fruit, so rich it even overshadows the oak. Layered with spices, Black Forest cherry, and an umami depth that keeps you coming back for more. Silky tannins, lively acidity—this wine is a showstopper.
Available in the Pese Wein Online Shop:
In New Zealand, the Marlborough and Central Otago regions are particularly renowned for their outstanding white wines, especially the crisp Sauvignon Blanc and the elegant Pinot Noir. Harvest season here is a highlight for wine lovers from around the world, drawing visitors eager to experience the vineyards at their most vibrant. A journey through the wine regions of Australia and New Zealand offers not just world-class wines, but also breathtaking natural landscapes that refresh the spirit and reinvigorate the soul.
Sommelier Michael Kutej Recommends:
A Burgundian-style Chardonnay from the southernmost tip of the North Island: Martinborough. Elegant, taut, and a true alternative to classic Meursault. And then there’s a big name, a well-known winery, yet many still haven’t discovered Te Koko. Sourced from the finest sites, this is no simple fruit-forward crowd-pleaser, but rather a serious Sauvignon Blanc that gains even more depth with air and aging. 95+ Parker points for this vintage—the highest rating this wine has ever received.Available in the Pese Wein Online Shop:
Wine, Sunshine & Wellbeing – The Perfect Combo
A harvest-season getaway is a fantastic way to beat the winter blues and recharge. Of course, there are many tempting destinations, but South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand offer the perfect blend of sunshine, warmth, and extraordinary wine experiences – a dream escape to lift your spirits and leave winter behind.
Small but Great Escapes
A wine tasting can take you to the other side of the world.
But it doesn’t always have to be a grand adventure or a long-haul trip just because winter’s got you down. Sometimes, small and spontaneous breaks from routine are the best way to counter the seasonal gloom.
For wine lovers, tastings are a fantastic way to embrace adventure and explore new flavors. Whether it’s a regional deep dive, a focus on organic wines, or a session dedicated to rare grape varieties, there’s a tasting for everyone.
Even a wine tasting can transport you to the other side of the world. You’ll discover new wines, sharpen your palate, and expand your wine knowledge by learning about different regions, grape varieties, and winemaking traditions.
For wine lovers, tastings are a fantastic way to embrace adventure and explore new flavors. Whether it’s a regional deep dive, a focus on organic wines, or a session dedicated to rare grape varieties, there’s a tasting for everyone.
Even a wine tasting can transport you to the other side of the world. You’ll discover new wines, sharpen your palate, and expand your wine knowledge by learning about different regions, grape varieties, and winemaking traditions.
Discover Wine Tastings Near You
Tasting a new wine is like taking a sensory journey – it clears the mind, so why not give it a try? Many wine bars and restaurants regularly offer themed tastings, allowing you to explore South African vineyards or deepen your knowledge of Spanish, Portuguese, or Italian wines – without ever leaving your city.A Break for Body & Mind
If total relaxation is more your style, a wellness weekend could be just what you need. Picture yourself in a luxury spa, surrounded by soothing aromas and soft music, as stress melts away. Massages, saunas, and long soaks in thermal baths give your body and mind the reset they deserve.Wellness and wine are matching
Many wine regions now offer the perfect balance of cultural indulgence and wellness retreats, pairing wine tastings with world-class spas. Increasingly, wineries and hotels recognize that the harmony of wine and wellness is a winning combination.
The Well-Deserved Getaway
Whether you’re actually heading south or just taking a mental escape, let wine be your inspiration—and say goodbye to the winter blues.
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