TOP 5 ALL INCLUSIVE RESORTS FOR WINE LOVERS

For many of us, the best thing about jetting off on holiday isn’t simply the sun, sea, sand or even the opportunity to relax. For those who love their food and wine, the best thing about an all inclusive holiday is the chance to indulge in some guilt-free, cost-free, eating and drinking and to heck with the scales! Who doesn’t enjoy relaxing by the pool, knowing that your next drink is a finger click away and totally free? We sat down with one of the UKs best wine blogger to get the low down on the best destinations to get a bottle of the good stuff...

Back in January, I went to Fuerteventura on an all inclusive holiday and while the food and cocktails were top notch, as a wine lover, the local wines available as part of the package were harsh and unpalatable. Now, Fuerteventura is known for many things, but the barren, dry and arid landscape does not naturally lend itself to low cost, quality wine production.

Most all inclusive resorts offer only free  local wine inside their packages. So if you’ve booked a getaway to Bulgaria, for example, the quality of wine included in your “free” all inclusive deal will, in most cases, be of a lower quality than that offered on the Costa Brava. There are exceptions to the rule, though.

A top end, 5-star resort in an area not known for wine production will likely offer better wine than a 3-star resort in a wine making region. But on the whole, star for star, choosing to holiday near a wine producing area will mean the free wines included in your all inclusive package will be of a higher quality.

Luckily for the UK holidaymaker, the quality of wine production at all levels has been improving in some of our most treasured holiday destinations. Spain, Portugal and Greece have all undergone a wine renaissance in the last 15-20 years and wines that were considered average years ago are now the new go-to wine regions. Think Cava, think wines from the Douro, even Assyrtiko from Greece is winning International wine awards in 2018.

We’ve put together a list of the five best places to holiday if you love going all inclusive and your wine, together with a resort recommendation that offers superb quality within their all inclusive wine offering;

1. COSTA BRAVA & BARCELONA

The Costa Brava is now the gastronomic highlight of Spain. In fact, some of the world’s best restaurants are now concentrated along the Costa Brava. The rapid and dramatic improvement in the quality of the local restaurants, inspired by the fame of the world’s best restaurant, El Bulli (sadly now closed) meant that the hotels along the coast also needed to up their game, to ensure their clientele ate at the hotel. Great food can’t be served with poor wine and so as the local food improved, so did the local wine.

For those who love their Cava and Grenache (Garnacha locally) there’s no better place to go for an all inclusive holiday than the Cost Brava.

2. MAJORCA

Of all the Spanish Islands, Majorca offers the best quality local wine (and food). If you love an Island holiday but still like some gastronomic variety, Majorca is the island for you. In the South East of the Island you’ll find incredible reds, from indigenous grape varieties like Manto Negro and Fogoneu. Inland, towards Manacor, you’ll find vineyards who have also embraced French varieties and some excellent Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah wines as well as blending with local grapes. This depth and breadth of grapes together with the excellent climate means, good quality, low priced wine abounds, perfect for the holidaymaker.

3. GREEK ISLANDS

A holidaymaker is spoilt for choice in the Greek Islands! Both Crete and Santorini have a long tradition of winemaking and both have undergone a quality hike especially in the last five years. If you love your white wines, then Santorini is the island for you as home to some of the most highly rated whites in the world. If you enjoy both red and white wine, then Crete is gaining an international reputation for its local and international grape varietal wines.

4. ALGARVE

Portugal is blessed with an excellent climate that is both perfect for the holidaymaker and the winemaker with sun and sea breezes ideal for growing grapes. It also has a mighty river, the Douro, which has a long history of helping to grow and transport wine through the ages

The UK is Portugal’s largest export market for Port. We Brits have been not only consumers of Port but instrumental in the Port trade for centuries with many of the greatest estates bearing English names.

The love affair between Portugal’s wine and the UK consumer extends also to table wine with wines from the Douro frequently touted in the UK press as amongst the best quality/value in the world. The Algarve itself also has a thriving wine scene producing quality reds from Touriga Nacional and Syrah.

5. MEXICO

Mexico isn’t known as a great wine producing country (yet) although some excellent wines are made in the Valle de Guadalupe. Mexico is known for fabulous, luxury resorts who provide delicious cocktails and import wines from neighbouring California. Mexico is a favourite holiday destination for US holidaymakers who have increased their wine consumption since 2000 by a third! The recommendation below is for a hotel styled on its gourmet credentials – going all inclusive here is a foodie, as well as a holiday, experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does wine quality matter on an all-inclusive holiday?

For those who truly appreciate wine, a holiday is about more than just soaking up the sun and lounging by the pool. A good bottle of wine can elevate your meals, help you unwind, and transform a pleasant getaway into an unforgettable experience. On the flip side, subpar wine can really put a damper on things.

Why is local wine often included in all-inclusive packages?

Many all-inclusive resorts feature locally sourced wines because it helps keep expenses in check. The silver lining? If you pick the right spot, you might discover that local wines are not only surprisingly good but also a fantastic bargain.

Does the destination really affect wine quality?

Absolutely! Resorts located near wine-producing regions tend to offer better-quality wines. Places with a rich food and wine culture naturally push hotels to maintain higher standards.

Is a five-star hotel always better for wine?

Not necessarily, but it can be a plus. A luxury hotel in an area that isn’t known for wine might still have some decent imported options. However, when comparing hotels with similar star ratings, those near vineyards typically provide better complimentary wine.

Why is the Costa Brava so popular with food and wine fans?

The Costa Brava has emerged as one of Spain’s premier food destinations. Local hotels now serve up fantastic wines like Cava and Garnacha, perfectly complementing the region's high culinary standards.

What makes Majorca stand out for wine lovers?

Majorca is home to some of the finest wines in the Balearic Islands. Indigenous grapes like Manto Negro mingle with French varieties, offering a diverse selection of affordable, high-quality wines.

Which Greek islands are best for wine?

Santorini is renowned for its exceptional white wines, particularly Assyrtiko. If you’re a fan of both reds and whites, Crete is a great choice, boasting a mix of exciting local and international grape varieties.

Why is Portugal a great choice for wine holidays?

Portugal is a treasure trove of fantastic value wines, especially from the Douro Valley. The Algarve also produces outstanding reds, thanks to its warm sunshine and refreshing sea breezes.

Is Mexico good for wine, even though it’s not famous for it?

Yes, especially in luxury resorts. Many import high-quality wines from California, making Mexico a brilliant choice for foodies who enjoy good wine alongside premium dining.

How do I pick the best all-inclusive holiday for wine?

Look for places that have a rich wine culture, delicious local cuisine, and hotels that prioritize quality. Making a smart choice means you can savor amazing wines without breaking the bank—sip after sip!