The Wine Enthusiast Magazine brings consumers vital information on the world of wine, with hundreds of wine reviews in every issue. Each year, the editors travel around the world "to suss out the absolute must-visit spots" in terms of wine-making destinations. To a few traditional wine regions, they’ve added several modern classics, thus "making a compelling list of destinations." April to October are the busiest months with the best weather, but true wine geeks aim for the August grape harvest. island of Santorini is essentially one large farm, Samos has terraced vineyards on Mount Ambelos, and Crete is home to a variety of white and red grapes.

Topping the list is Greece, with a destination that few people think of as a wine destination: the Aegean Islands. Santorini is essentially one large farm, Samos has terraced vineyards on Mount Ambelos, and Crete is home to a variety of white and red grapes. On Samos, one must visit the Malagari Winery, to sample the local sweet wines and to visit the Samos Wine Museum. Crete offers a variety of wines, including zesty Vilana and apricot-scented Vidiano, while Mantilari is considered one of the best Cretan reds "it’s aromatic and pairs perfectly with lamb." Cheers!