Top Wine Producing Countries

Wine is produced and consumed all over the world. As both a culinary pairing and a simple hobby, tasting vino is growing in popularity. Although highly based on personal preference, there are certain countries that stick out from the crowd when it comes to wine production. In order to find your favorite, try a selection at a local wine bar or tasting.

Perhaps the most well-known wines come from Europe, where wine making follows a more traditional means of production. For example, in France, wine consumption is higher than any other country per capita. Italy produces more wine than any other country with its best coming from the northern regions of Tuscany and Piedmont. Germanys cooler climate makes it difficult for red grape production which is why it focuses mostly on white. Spanish wines are popular because Spain has more vine acres than any other country in the world, although most is made for domestic consumption.

In South America, countries such as Argentina and Chile are known worldwide for their vineyards. In Chile specifically, such vineyards were first implemented by the Spanish in the 1500s. Currently, varieties of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay are popular there. They do not, however, offer the robust fruitfulness of wines in other parts of the world.

In the United States, states like New York, Washington, Oregon and most notably California, produce a variety of grapes and blends. Other well-known areas for wine production include South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. With so many varieties of wine and with production being done in so many regions worldwide, it can be a bit intimidating. Try a local tasting or consult your server for the best pairing with your meal. Make a mental note of which wines you like best.