British winery makes it into a list of the world’s best vineyards

THE World's best vineyards have been named in a new award aimed at raising the profile of wine tourism.

A total of 17 countries were represented in the list, with just one appearance from the UK.

10

The best vineyard has been revealed as Zuccardi Valle de Uco, located in the Mendoza region of Argentina.

The winery has been praised for its visitor centre, which offers stunning views of the vineyards and the mountains, as well as the restaurant where guests can enjoy a four-course seasonal menu matched with wines.

The rest of the top ten is dominated by South American wineries, including another Argentinean contender, two from Chile and one from Uruguay.

Europe also had a strong showing, with Spain, Portugal and Germany all represented.

One UK contender made the list - Ridgeview at number 36.

The East Sussex estate is well known for its award-winning sparkling wines and its tasting room has a fantastic view of its vineyards in the South Downs.

The World's Best Vineyards is a new award and comes from the same organisers as the prestigious World's 50 Best Restaurants and World's 50 Best Bars awards.

The winners are voted for by a panel of judges, who pick seven vineyards based on the "total experience" rather than just the views or just the wines.

1. , Argentina

10

Zuccardi Valle de Uco is located at the foot of the Andes mountains in the Mendoza region of Argentina.

Visitors can take tours of their vineyards and there are tastings available.

It's also possible to enjoy lunch in its restaurant, Piedra Infinita Cocina.

2. , Uruguay

10

Bodega Garzón's vineyards completely surround the estate, and you can have picnics among the vines.

If you prefer a sit down option, the estate has a restaurant on site.

In fact, if you have the time, you can even enjoy a cooking class followed by a four-course lunch.

3. , Spain

10

R. López de Heredia Viña Tondonia sees itself as a "cathedral to wine", with areas to explore above and below ground.

Architecture lovers will enjoy it for its eclectic mix of old and new buildings.

For those interested in history, there's a wine museum, known as The Cemetery.

4. , Portugal

10

Quinta do Crasto is located in Portugal's stunning Douro Valley, where it makes dry table wine as well as port.

You can't visit without sitting down to a lovely lunch with an unbeatable view.

And then of course, there's the infinity pool

5. , Argentina

10

Catena Zapata is a family-run winery that's been around since 1902.

They offer a few different tours, including a visit to its barrel rooms.

Or if you're interested in the history of its wines, there's also a tour based on the history of the Malbec grape.

=6. , Chile

10

Montes' winery is perhaps one of the few in the world that's been built with Feng Shui in mind.

They also play Gregorian chants to their wines in the cellar.

And you can experience all of that on one of the many tours they offer at the winery.

=6. , Chile

Joint sixth place with Montes is Clos Apalta, located in Chile's Colchagua Valley.

Unmissable is the winery tour, and you'll see some stunning views to boot.

But make the time to enjoy lunch with a view, too, or enjoy the pool.

8. , New Zealand

10

It's hard to beat the view at Rippon, located in New Zealand's Central Otago.

For gourmet travellers, they occasionally host a Chef's Table where you can dine with a view.

And if you like, you can even get married there.

9. , Spain

10

Marqués de Riscal has one of the more unusual winery architecture, designed by Canadian architect Frank O. Gehry.

There's a hotel on site, as well as a spa using beauty products made from grapes and wine.

And of course, there's a restaurant where you can try all their Rioja wines.

10. , Germany

10

Weingut Dr. Loosen is best known for their Riesling wines, which are delicious and widely available.

But if you want to visit the estate, you will have to make a reservation first.

It's the only way you'll have access to the winery, which is normally closed to the public.

Most read in travel

PARADISE ISLAND

Best of Balearic Islands beyond the crowds - our travel editor’s top picks

SANDS GOOD

Huge beach named 'best in England' by Sun readers gets new £2.6m tourist centre

SO FARE

Ten affordable summer holiday destinations where Ryanair flights are under £15

SO SHORE

My county has most Blue Flag beaches in the UK - the ones I rate & those I avoid

Sun Online Travel previously revealed there's a winery in Portugal where you can stay inside a barrel.

And in South Africa, you can stay in a wineland hideaway where Elton John has his own suite.

We also reveal why you should never buy wine from Duty Free.