Any oenophile worth their decanter will have plenty to say about European grapes. Some will favor the inky purples of a Tuscan blend, noting hints of chocolate, violet and brambleberry; some look to Germany for a refreshing and snappy Riesling with its tight citrus finish; others may opt for the downy, fruity notes of Greece’s Agiorgitiko vines; and more than a few will praise France for its mastery of Champagne, finding honeyed, rich flavors layered over complex and vibrant notes in an Ambonnay Grand Cru Brut.
These vines are polished, studied, authentic. And while any wine aficionado may open a long list in Paris, Berlin, Athens, or Rome and know just the bottle (or two) for any occasion, a real devotee will call the vineyards of these classical countries their own backyard.
Montepulciano, Italy
18.000.000 € | Montepulciano, Italy | Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
If owning a vineyard is the dream, this is the place to realize it. Sun-soaked grapes and rolling hills are just the right finishing notes for this incredible wine estate in the heart of Tuscany. Its green kingdom includes 84 hectares of vineyards, olive groves, sunflower fields, Italian woods and fertile land, including 14 hectares of Nobile vineyards, two hectares of Vigneto Rosso di Montepulciano grapes, and 20 hectares destined for IGT Toscano status.
The property also features a proud 1756-square-meter wine cellar to house and age your collection. Elsewhere, traditional Italian styling reigns. The main villa on the hill radiates warmth and relaxation from the fine wood detailing and internal courtyard accessible from every area of the house. Soak in 360-degree views of the estate from a studio in the tower, or take a relaxing walk across six hectares of garden. Friends and family will find their own Italian retreat in the guesthouse or annex.
Hessen, Germany
Price Upon Request | Hessen Germany | Peters & Peters Sotheby’s International Realty
Stately European elegance meets modern German detailing in this Frankfurt-adjacent villa. Situated on the bank of the Rhine, this 1012-square-meter space features gentle nods to its 1870-1871 roots in notched crown moulding and delicate chandeliers.
Upgrades from an early millennium renovation include granite, sandstone and parquet flooring, a beautiful chef’s kitchen with Miele and Gaggenau appliances, and a truly fantastic wine cellar. The nearby coach house has also been fully renovated and split into three units, so guests can stay for a lengthy tasting and all the region has to offer. Elsewhere on the property, mature trees and charming flowerbeds play neighbor to recreational treats like the tennis court and heated pool, not to mention the fully-equipped vineyard with pump house, garden irrigation system, and Rhine water usage rights.
Uzes, France
Price Upon Request | Uzes, France | Uzes Sotheby’s International Realty
A magnificent chateau just north of Uzes marries all the pomp and circumstance of the 14th century with modern-day pleasures. Should fellow wine lovers wish to stay with you in the heart of Provence, a private airstrip provides easy access. A tour of the romantic gardens and reflective pool offer a natural refresh after the flight in. Grand reception rooms offer an unforgettable welcome to the 900-square-meter main house, which features 14 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, a professional kitchen, and open conservatory.
The property also hosts severals barns, a guest house, pool house, and caretaker’s house, making it ideal for large parties. If having your own private paradise isn’t enough, perhaps producing your own organic olive oil from the grounds’ 1400 olive trees (and using the property’s own mill) will be. Just the setting for a summer salad and a glass of rosé.
Siena, Italy
6.750.000 € | Siena, Italy | Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
With this five-star Tuscan estate, you’ll discover more than just a home. Nestled amongst its 1,700 hectares of vineyards, olive groves and orchards are original dwellings, an 18th-century castle turned 41-suite hotel, and a boutique luxury resort and residence club.
The private three-bedroom Tuscan home features a sunny terrace, solarium and swimming pool, while fine finishings complement the contemporary living area. It’s made even more impressive by an illuminated wine cube, ready to house your curated local collection. Open a bottle and gaze across stunning landscapes as the Tuscan sun sets over nearby San Gimignano.
Argolida, Greece
6.500.000 € | Argolida, Greece | Greece Sotheby’s International Realty
The exclusive Aman Residences offer a slice of heaven on the Argosaronic Gulf. This four-bedroom villa features views of the nearby island of Spetses, beautiful modern interior design, and full access to the resort’s facilities and services, including dining services crafted to match any palate
The Amanzoe Beach Club is just an eight-minute drive from the resort, where all-day dips in the turquoise waters are best chased with alfresco dining in the Restaurant at Amanzoe. Dip into the wine list then head to the spa for a refreshing end to the evening.
Whether you’re after a good vintage villa or the modern undercurrents of a full-finish property, the serenity of Europe’s wine region is something to uncork, breathe in, and savor.