2021 Wine Cruises
Our current wine cruise offerings for 2021. Check back for updates!
View our 2022 Wine Cruises instead.
Colors of Provence
Aug 5, 2021
Dan Paynter
Wine Expert & GM for Zerba Cellars, Walla Walla, WA
Zerba Cellars is a family owned, estate winery located in the heart of the Walla Walla Valley in Washington. The three estate vineyards are in the appellation’s most exciting viticultural areas, including The Rocks District of Milton-Freewater. Each vineyard and grape varietal has a unique characteristic and contributes to the quality, complexity and balance of the individual wines. A native of Oregon, Dan Paynter grew up helping his grandparents with their retail nursery business. After graduating with a degree in Production Horticulture he went on to farm outside Portland. A total departure led to a successful career in the hospitality industry. The budding Oregon Wine Industry provided Dan with a pathway to work both with plants and customers. For the past 25 years he has been striving to promote wines from the Pacific Northwest. Over the past decade Dan has focused on building the Zerba brand and is currently their General Manager.
Essence of Burgundy & Provence
Aug 5, 2021
Jason McClain
Owner & Winemaker for McClain Cellars, CA
McClain Cellars is a new winery from California founded on family, friends, faith, and freedom. Founded by Jason & Sofia McClain, they harvest and make all of their wine in the Santa Ynez Valley of California. They offer amazing reds, crisp whites, blends and even a port in their current release. After spending over 30 years tasting wines on the other side of the bar, Jason and Sofia decided to throw caution to the wind and start their own winery to follow their dreams. The goal…. to create amazing wines to be shared with my family and friends. With a luxury tasting lounge in Laguna Beach, CA and a winery in Buellton, CA McClain Cellars specializes in unique blends and creations that are constantly earning gold medals and double-gold medals with many scoring between 90 to 96+ points per vintage. This is truly one of the fastest-growing wineries in California. Join them on this wonderful wine cruise through Burgundy and Provence.
Taste of Bordeaux
Aug 5, 2021
Merrill & Paul Bonarrigo
Owners & Winemakers Messina Hof Winery, Bryan, Texas
Founders of Messina Hof, Paul & Merrill Bonarrigo, married and settled in Bryan, Texas and together would re-introduce the concept of winemaking in Texas. The Bonarrigo family began making wine in the 1800s in Sicily. Paul & Merrill planted their first vineyard in 1977 and named it Messina Hof, after their family origins of Messina, Sicily and Hof, Germany. The Bonarrigos became pioneers of the Texas wine industry having established Messina Hof as the 4th winery in the state. Today, their son, Paul Mitchell Bonarrrigo and his wife, Karen, continue the legacy of world-class wines and hospitality with the same founding principles of family, tradition and romance. Messina Hof remains a leader in the Texas wine industry, which now has over 350 registered wineries. The Messina Hof brand has also grown from producing only 1,300 gallons to now over 130,000 gallons per year with three locations in Texas: Bryan, Fredericksburg, and Grapevine.
Gems of Southeast Europe
Aug 8, 2021
Regional Wine Expert
Special wine cruise experience
Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. 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.
Essence of Burgundy & Provence
Aug 12, 2021
L. Paul Vezzetti II
Co-Owner & Winemaker, The Vineyard at Hershey, Middletown, PA
Carving out a niche for signature white wines in an unconventional wine region can be tough, but Mr. Vezzetti has done just that. His wine philosophy revolves around handcrafting approachable vintages that focus on aromatics and balance. Since opening, The Vineyard and Brewery at Hershey has been committed to experiential interactions with wine, and more recently, craft beer and cider. Every sip is an opportunity to discover whats new, and rediscover some of the long-lost favorites, and underneath that experience, a knowledgeable and trusted guide to take you on the journey. An added bonus, Mr. Vezzetti is an experienced chef, having made numerous guest appearances at local establishments for one-time-only wine pairings.
Taste of Bordeaux
Aug 12, 2021
Steve Cass
Owner, Cass Winery, Paso Robles, CA
Steve Cass began his journey into wine after retiring from Charles Schwab in 1999. Originally planning great escapades of sailing the world with his beautiful wife, Alice, the dream quickly shifted to an adventure not requiring sturdy sea-legs and a wandering spirit. Beginning an exploration of Paso Robles, CA, Steve discovered a new passion that sated his craving for adventure while letting his family put down deep roots. Forever the heart of an investor, the sweet little burgeoning wine country offered the thrill of new feats. In 2000, Alice and Steve established the 145 acre CASS Vineyard. A fateful trip to South Africa with his contractor, and now business partner, Ted Plemons, fleshed out the full dream of the Vineyard. Syrah inspired late-night conversations led them to the steps of the University of Stellenbosch where they vetted their first winemaker and the journey of true, old-world winemaking began.
Captivating Rhine
Aug 12, 2021
Margie & Jeff Runquist
Owners of Jeff Runquist Winery, Amador County, CA
Since graduating from UC Davis in 1980, Jeff Runquist has been the winemaker at Montevina Wines in Amador County, Napa Valley Cooperative in St Helena, and the J. Lohr Winery in San Jose and Paso Robles. In 1996, Jeff designed and helped construct the McManis Family Vineyards in Ripon then launched his brand in 1997. Jeff’s dream was to move back to Amador County and open his own tasting room and that dream came true in 2008. From the 2012 vintage, Jeff offered twenty-nine different wines from twenty different varietals ranging from Barbera to Touriga. Depending upon the varietal, Jeff teams with twenty-four different growers from throughout California, pairing the particular grape varietal with a specific vineyard site. All but four of his wines carry a vineyard designation and the name of the grower. A close relationship with growers and a respect for their fruit is revealed in every bottle of Runquist wine.
Gems of Southeast Europe
Aug 15, 2021
Regional Wine Expert
Special wine cruise experience
Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. 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.
Taste of Bordeaux
Aug 19, 2021
Jody Bogle
Co-owner of Bogle Vineyards & Winery, Clarksburg CA
Jody is a 3rd generation winegrower who, along with her brothers, currently manages the day to day operations of Bogle Vineyards & Winery in California. Born and raised on the family farm in Clarksburg, Jody knows all about being a “farmer’s daughter.” She spent many a summer in her youth tying, weeding and pruning vines on the 1500 acres her family farms in the Sacramento River Delta. After earning an English degree and spending some time away as a teacher, Jody returned to the family business in 1997 after the death of her father, Chris Bogle, who along with her grandfather Warren, founded the winery in 1968. Upon returning, Jody began overseeing the newly opened tasting room, where today over 600 guests visit weekly. She has developed several departments at Bogle, including direct-to-consumer marketing, events and hospitality, as well as the extremely popular Bandwagon wine club. Jody also currently manages the international sales of Bogle wines in 40 different countries as well as working in various sales support roles across the domestic U.S.
Rhine & Moselle Splendors
Aug 24, 2021
Regional Wine Expert
Special wine cruise experience
Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. 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.
Europe's Rivers & Castles
Nov 2, 2021
Michael Lewellen
Managing Partner at Lucas & Lewellen Winery, Solvang, CA
Founded by retired Judge Royce Lewellen, and long-time grape grower Louis Lucas in 1996, Lucas & Lewellen Vineyards has been producing fine grapes and wine for many years. Royce’s son Mike Lewellen became a minority owner of the company in 1999 and joined the company full-time in 2009 to help manage the operation as it grows into the future. As Managing Partner, Mike carries out business planning and analysis and works with all departments at the winery; Marketing & Sales, Finance, the Tasting Rooms, and of course the Winery. Prior to Lucas and Lewellen, Mike worked for over 16 years in the multi-channel retail business. Working at different times as Marketing Director, Circulation Manager and Inventory Planner, he gained valuable experience that he has applied toward the wine business. Mike was raised in Solvang, California near the vineyards, has a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Colorado, a Professional Designation in Business Management from UCLA, and has furthered his wine education through programs at U.C. Davis.
Flavors of Portugal
Nov 4, 2021
Amelia Ceja
President, Ceja Vineyards Napa, Ca
Amelia Morán Ceja was born in Las Flores, Jalisco, Mexico and migrated to the United States in 1967 to join her father, a farmworker in the Napa Valley. On her first weekend, Amelia was in the vineyard, harvesting grapes alongside her family where she met her future husband Pedro Ceja. After studying history and literature at UC San Diego, Amelia married Pedro in 1980, and in 1983 Amelia, Pedro plus three family members purchased their first property in Carneros in the Napa Valley. They planted their first vineyard in 1986, and Ceja Vineyards Winery was founded in 1999. The family now owns 115 acres in the Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Her leadership of Ceja Vineyards is also groundbreaking, as she became the first Mexican-American woman ever to be elected president of a winery in 1999. In 2005, the California Legislature recognized Amelia as “Woman of the Year” for “breaking the glass ceiling in a very competitive business.” Join Amelia on this wonderful wine cruise along the Douro!
Colors of Provence
Nov 4, 2021
Ryan Levy & Ian Eastveld
Certified Sommeliers, Wine Educators & Le Cordon Bleu Trained Chefs, The Nice Winery, Houston, TX
Foodie superduo Ryan Levy and Ian Eastveld of The Nice Winery are Certified Sommeliers, wine educators, and Le Cordon Bleu trained chefs. Their hand crafted, boutique wines are poured in top restaurants and have won gold medals in internationally recognized wine competitions. Two of their wines have received 94 point and 92 point ratings from Wine Enthusiast Magazine and the Beverage Testing Institute, and were selected as Top 100 Cellar Selections. Ryan and Ian built their epicurean pedigree first while studying in Paris, France, then directing culinary education for Viking Ranges, teaching cuisine to thousands of students at Central Market, and operating their restaurant and catering companies, Republic and Nuance. They craft 14 award winning varietal wines in Texas, Argentina, and California’s Napa Valley and Paso Robles regions.
Essence of Burgundy & Provence
Nov 4, 2021
Peter Marks
VP of Education & Partner Master of Wine, Napa Valley Wine Academy
Peter Marks is one of only 24 Masters of Wine residing in the U.S. and was the first American to win the Madame Bollinger Foundation Award for having the highest tasting score on the rigorous MW exam. He has served as Director of Wine at the upscale Draeger’s Supermarkets in the San Francisco area, Chief Wine Merchant for online wine retailer Wine.com, and Senior Vice President of Wine at COPIA, the American Center for Wine, Food & the Arts. Peter is also a member of the Society of Wine Educators, sits on the Board of Directors of the Napa Valley Wine Library and judges many international wine competitions.
Paris & Normandy
Nov 4, 2021
Paula & Rob Campbell-Taylor
Owners, Graveyard Vineyards, San Miguel, CA
Don’t let the name Graveyard Vineyards fool you. This highly acclaimed California winery began from a dream that owners, Rob and Paula had of owning property in the country to raise their two 2 young sons. After searching the California coast, they discovered an 81-acre property on the top of a hill past a little country graveyard dating back to 1865. The property had everything on their list of “must haves” including an existing vineyard. The biggest find though came soon after when they discovered and hired their winemaker, Jason Bushong. What started with 184 case bottling in 2006 is now an award-winning winery and tasting room with direct to consumer sales of 5,000 cases per year to a wine club of over 2,000 people. Join them as they lead you along the wonderful Seine River.
Impressions of the Seine & Paris
Nov 4, 2021
Jody Elsom
Owner & co-Winemaker for Elsom Cellars, Washington
Jody’s a travelling spirit. If you ask her what inspires her, you get a million glimpses of the world she’s seen. This old world teaches us a lot, if we slow down and let it. And, if we sit across a table from a stranger with a couple glasses of great wine, before long, it’s surprising how much we all share. Wine gathers its taste from everything it encounters. The earth. The air. Everything leaves a mark. So do people. Jody’s passion for wine began in the Napa Valley and further explored through numerous experiences in the vineyards and wineries throughout Italy and France. Formally educated as one of the first graduates from WSU’s extension studies of Enology. Jody has a passion for developing wines that best represent the possibilities for Washington Wines.
Taste of Bordeaux
Nov 4, 2021
Regional Wine Expert
Special wine cruise experience
Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. 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.
Captivating Rhine
Nov 4, 2021
Karl & Carole Dinger
Owners of Terra Vina Wines, Wilsonville, Oregon
In their early 20’s, Karl & Carole moved to California’s Bay Area, enjoying the region’s big red wines. A trip to Italy in the early 80’s inspired them to become home winemakers as their grandfathers once did. Relocating to Oregon in 1996, they found the local Pinot Noirs dissatisfying, so they planted a small vineyard to produce wine for their own consumption. Soon, as fermenting wine carboys took over the house, they transitioned to a custom crush facility nearby. For the last 16 years this boutique winery has produced award winning reds year after year. The first to plant Cabernet Franc in the valley, their signature wine is produced from their Estate vineyard as well as vineyards in Washington. Current offerings include Estate Grown Pinot Noir Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Dolcetto, and Eastern Washington sourced Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Sangiovese, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Tempranillo. Join them on this Captivating Rhine Wine Cruise.
Enchanting Rhine
Nov 4, 2021
Ray & Sue Verrill
Owners & Winemaker for Caudalie Crest Winery, Celina TX
It was 1996 when Ray took a job in Chicago with one of the world’s largest corporations, and moved the family to the US. After only a few years, a new opportunity sent them to Texas, the place that would steal their hearts and inspire their passions. While in McKinney, they lived through one of the most tragic times in American history – the September 11th terrorist attacks. It was then they decided to reevaluate what was truly important to their lives. During a candid conversion, Sue asked Ray, “If you could do anything with your life, what would you do?” Ray responded, “I’d like to make wine.” This was no surprise to Sue. He had been an amateur beer and winemaker since high school. Soon, Ray started attending Viticulture and Enology classes through Grayson County College. From there, Sue and Ray’s dream was born. They established Caudalie Crest Farm & Vineyard in the Cross Timbers region of Texas, north of Dallas. Somewhere in the process of forming Caudalie Crest, Sue was introduced to Dwarf Nigerian dairy goats and was immediately hooked. She now spends time breeding, raising, and selling goats. In fact, there is often a new set of kids to watch while enjoying a glass of wine.
Melodies of the Danube
Nov 6, 2021
Arthur White
President and Winemaker of Arthur Earl Winery and Santa Ynez Wine Corp.
Art is a WSET Level 3 Certified Specialist in Wine and a member of the Chaine des Rotisseurs as well as the President and co-owner of Santa Ynez Wine Corp., which is the parent of Arthur Earl and Alexander and Wayne wineries. He is also the winemaker for both. In 1992, he partnered with long time friend Earl Brockelsby to purchase a small Santa Barbara county winery. Having spent the first few years focusing mostly on the day-to-day business and marketing aspects of the winery, in 1995 he assumed full responsibility for the winemaking function. All in all, Art feels that winemaking is a complex combination of art and science. While it takes good chemistry to make good wine, successful winemakers are able to combine that science with the individual artistry of their craft to make great wines.
Romantic Danube
Nov 6, 2021
Regional Wine Expert
Special wine cruise experience
Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. 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.
Romantic Danube
Nov 8, 2021
Regional Wine Expert
Special wine cruise experience
Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. 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.
Enticing Douro
Nov 9, 2021
Steve Chapin
Owner & Winemaker Chapin Family Vineyards Temecula, CA.
Located in the prime winegrowing area of Temecula, California, the Chapin Family Vineyards adventure started with an initial planting of five acres in 2002 with varietals of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Verdot. A few years later, the vineyard was expanded into another six acre parcel with planted varietals of Voignier, Aglianico and Montepulciano. Each and every year since 2004, Steve Chapin, owner and winemaker has made more wine and sold less grapes to other wineries. Since 2012, 100% of the grapes harvested on the property have been utilized for production of Chapin Family Vineyards wines. The journey continues today with eight different wines being sold in the tasting room by knowledgeable sales associates. “I want our winery friends to feel like they had a great time and felt welcomed in the quiet ambiance of the tasting room and patio area, a mini-vacation of sorts.” This is why on every Chapin bottle of wine reads “For the Love of Friendship”.
Europe's Rivers & Castles
Nov 9, 2021
Holly Howell
Journalist & Wine Expert, Finger Lakes, NY
Holly Howell writes a wine column for the Democrat & Chronicle in Rochester and is a well-respected New York-based authority on the wines of the Finger Lakes region, particularly Rieslings. She spent a year in France studying French food and wine, teaches wine and food pairing classes, and has served as a judge for the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition. She is a Certified Specialist of Wine through the Society of Wine Educators and also writes a popular blog. Holly is currently pursuing her Wine Spirit Education & Trust diploma.
Essence of Burgundy & Provence
Nov 11, 2021
Kevin Gott
Wine Educator & Certified Wine Appellation Specialist
As a certified California Wine Appellation Specialist, Kevin’s expertise is Pinot Noir and guiding wine enthusiasts through both Old World and New World Wines. In 2014, he earned the title of Senior Wine Educator for Wente Vineyards, and he along with a handful of fellow team members, were approached by Wente Vineyards to open a new Wine Tasting Experience Concept: “The Winemakers Studio at Wente Estates.” Featuring small lot wines and education experiences, Kevin is the exclusive educator of “Get to Know Pinot,” and guide for Wente’s Vineyard Tour which makes him the perfect Wine Host for this Wine Cruise through Burgundy and Provence. Combining travel and wine has allowed him to travel extensively throughout North America, Europe and Asia, while promoting his love for wine and its history. Kevin and his wife make their home in California’s Livermore Valley, where he is a respected member of the wine community.
Taste of Bordeaux
Nov 11, 2021
John & Jody Wrigley
Owners of J Wrigley Wines
Twelve years ago, a girl from Arizona decided to head to Oregon to sip Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley. It was there she met an ambitious wine enthusiast who had a dream to plant his own vineyard and make World Class Wine. It was on that very weekend, John and Jody Wrigley met, fell in love, purchased 200 acres and started on a lifetime adventure. Twelve years later, and a whole lot of passion, these two have built a beautiful life in the heart of Oregon’s wine country. John has amassed numerous wine awards and Jody continues to promote and cheerlead her favorite winemaker. They invite you to join them on their adventure.
Enchanting Rhine
Nov 11, 2021
Steve & Karen Lutz
Owners of Lenne Estate Winery, Yamhill OR
Lenné Estate is the classic Willamette Valley winery: small, family-owned, entirely estate-grown, intensely focused on well-balanced Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays that express soils and climate. Proprietor Steve Lutz spent his early 20s in Napa Valley, working and learning in cellars and tasting rooms at Beringer, Franciscan, Inglenook, Vichon and Merryvale. While in Napa, he made his first homemade pinot in 1986 and was immediately hooked on the challenges and rewards of pinot. After returning to Oregon to find a vineyard in 1999, Steve says: “I knew the minute we climbed into that pasture that this was an A+ site. What I didn’t know is how difficult it would be to farm.” After initially losing 1,000s of plants, the vineyard started to reveal why you grow Pinot Noir without any irrigation in difficult soils: delicious wines totally reflective of one specific place. And that unusual name? It’s a tribute to Karen’s father Lenny, who helped Steve and Karen put a down payment on that perfectly terrible hayfield. Over the years Lenné has earned dozens of accolades and 90 – 95 point ratings from Wine Enthusiast, Wine Advocate, Wine Spectator, Pinotfile, and the Prince of Pinot. Steve and Karen are particularly proud of being panel-selected as a Featured Winery at the prestigious IPNC (International Pinot Noir Celebration) recently.
Captivating Rhine
Nov 11, 2021
Regional Wine Expert
Special wine cruise experience
Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. 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.
Romantic Danube
Nov 13, 2021
Carol Hoyt
Owner & Winemaker for Hoyt Family Vineyards, Paso Robles CA
When Carol and Stephen Hoyt were just married, a stay at a working vineyard inspired them to have a vineyard of their own. At the time, Carol was a working model and actress, best known for her popular character, the villainous Divatox, in the Power Rangers series. Upon starting a family, Carol took a break from performing, and she and Stephen moved to Malibu. There they planted their first vineyard – in their backyard! Having no idea of what they were getting themselves into, Carol soon discovered they would have a lot of fruit, and quickly learned to make her first wine in their kitchen. Long gone are the days of making wine at home. Carol now makes wine and grows all her grapes in the heart of Paso Robles’ coveted west side. The Hoyt’s boutique winery, not only boasts award winning wines, but also micro-winery of the year.
Melodies of the Danube
Nov 13, 2021
Chapel Down Vineyard, UK
Wine Expert
English sparkling wine has won more awards in recent years than any other country and Chapel Down is England’s leading wine producer with a world-class range of both sparkling and still wines. Based in the picturesque market town of Tenterden in Kent, Chapel Down sources fruit across the South East of England and produces traditional method sparkling wines, crisp, aromatic white wines, delicate rosés and elegant light red wines. Freshness and vibrancy are key features which we look for in our wines and English fruit really delivers on this, whether it be unique aromatic white wines, classic fizz, or a twist on a rich Chablis-esque Chardonnay. Balance is at the heart of every good wine and our aim is to continually surprise and delight our customers. A member of the Walpole collection of luxury British brands, an official Cool Brand. A supplier to many prestigious venues across the UK and beyond including Harrods and Selfridges as well as being an official wine supplier to No.10 Downing street.
Rhine & Moselle Splendors
Nov 16, 2021
Regional Wine Expert
Special wine cruise experience
Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. 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.
Colors of Provence
Nov 18, 2021
Nicholas & Cindy Palumbo
Owners & Winemaker, Palumbo Family Vineyards, Temecula CA
Nicholas Palumbo, passionate Viticulturist and budding Oenologist, believes in producing only what he grows himself. “I believe there is only two basic ingredients in making fine wines, the fruit itself and the barrels it ages in”. With one foot in modern techniques and the other foot firmly planted in tradition, the wines produced possess a depth and elegance that is becoming harder to find in California wines. The Palumbo’s purchased the property in 1998, opened the tasting room in November of 2002 and have been in operation for 17 years and is also a California Certified Sustainable Winery and Vineyard. Specializing in full-bodied reds, the estate-grown and produced offerings include both single variety bottlings as well as a few special blends, like the very popular Meritage called “Tre Fratelli”. Other blends like the Shiraz/ Cabernet Sauvignon help round out the wine list and showcase the versatility and depth of quality that the Palumbo wines are known for. They have planted Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Sangiovese varietals. A block of Viognier and Syrah was planted on neighboring properties to round out the line of wines available. Join Nicholas & Cindy on a wine cruise adventure along the beautiful Rhone river on board the award winning AmaKristina.