Audley Travel Reveals The Best Wine Destinations Outside Of Europe

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Based on data from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), experts from Audley Travel have identified the top ten wine-producing countries outside of Europe. The United States leads the list as the premier non-European wine producer.

Among the top ten, four countries from the Americas are featured, with the United States at the forefront. In the analyzed year, the U.S. produced 24.3 million hectoliters of wine, accounting for 9.2% of the global output.

Although the U.S. produces less than half the amount of wine compared to France—the leading wine producer globally—it still produces double the quantities of Chile (4.6%), South Africa (4.2%), Australia (4.1%), and Argentina (3.7%), which are the other leading countries outside Europe.

Together, these five nations contribute to a quarter of the world’s wine production. Audley Travel’s destination experts also offer insights on how to explore the finest wine regions of these countries through culinary-focused trips.

Why does the U.S. hold the top ranking, and what are the best ways to explore its wine offerings?

The United States boasts a thriving wine industry, with over 11,000 wineries scattered across all 50 states, including Texas, North Carolina, Washington, and Oregon.

That said, California is by far the biggest contributor, producing around 80% of the country’s total output. Visiting the three valleys north of San Francisco — Napa, Sonoma, and the Russian River — highlights the state’s variety of wineries, from Tuscan-style castle estates to rustic, family-run wineries tucked into converted barns, and urban wine trails.

Other leading wine-producing nations in the top five also offer unique experiences:

Chile is renowned not only for its award-winning vineyards across 20 diverse wine-making regions but also for its rich array of activities. For instance, the Casablanca Valley in the north combines the delight of crisp white wines with horseback riding trails, while the historic Maipo Valley offers a deep dive into the country’s winemaking heritage.

Argentina, similar to Chile, harmoniously blends viticulture with outdoor adventures. With sky-high vineyards in Mendoza and sun-drenched valleys in Salta, Argentina is home to seven major wine regions, approximately 2,000 wineries, and some of the highest vineyards in the world.

In South Africa, wine enthusiasts can explore a vast spectrum of wines, with options to suit every palate, as highlighted by Matt Nilsson, Senior Product Executive for South Africa at Audley.

“We can arrange visits to a handful of wineries in the Cape Winelands based on client preferences and organise cellar tours, wine tastings, and lunch. Or for a more active approach, travellers can explore by bike.

Australia boasts a rich diversity in its wine offerings, with over 65 wine regions and 2,400 wineries. The most renowned wine regions are predominantly found around Adelaide in South Australia, including the Barossa Valley and the Adelaide Hills.

Top 10 wine-producing countries outside of Europe:

• United States – 9.2%
• Chile – 4.6%
• South Africa – 4.2%
• Australia – 4.1%
• Argentina – 3.7%
• Brazil – 1.50%
• China – 1.30%
• New Zealand – 1.00%
• Georgia – 0.80%
• Mongolia – 0.50%