Wine Box Experience - Karen Joiner

Staycation in a Glass: Your Passport-Free Wine Excursion

Wine has a unique way of transporting us to another time and place, allowing us to wander the world one sip at a time. No boarding pass required—just uncork and let your senses travel. The salty sea breeze of the Portuguese coast, the sun-soaked hills of Brazil, the rugged mountains of South Africa. These aren’t just destinations, they’re experiences bottled for your enjoyment. A glass of wine is more than just fermented grapes; it’s a postcard from its homeland, carrying the story of the soil, the climate, and the people who shaped it.

From exploring the volcanic vineyards of the Azores or the soulful reds of Brazil’s Vale dos Vinhedos. You can feel the southern hemisphere in all its infinite glory in one sip of Tannat from Uruguay, or delight in Chenin Blanc from South Africa, or relax with Pinot Noir from New Zealand. A glass of South African Pinotage pairs perfectly with smoky braais (barbecues), while a Portuguese Vinho Verde shines alongside fresh seafood and laughter at a coastal café. You can also let Eastern Europe surprise you with a pour of Austria’s crisp Grüner Veltliner or bask in the earthy reds of the Balkans; even lose yourself with the ancient, spice-laden wines of Lebanon and Cyprus. Each of these wines invites you to step into its world without leaving your home.

This month, we’re highlighting wines that take you off the beaten path and into lesser-known corners of the world. Let’s check out where in the world you’ll be taken for your glass of discovery.

Let’s send you on your way with your first wine this month. The Tikveš ‘Belo’ Special Selection is your golden ticket to the heart of Macedonia with no overpacked suitcase. Each sip brings the warm Povardarie region to life and historic vineyards into your glass, delivering brightness that’s just as refreshing as a detour to an unknown wine corner of Europe. The ancient region of Tikveš Plainthrives today despite being one of the oldest winemaking areas in Europe, with traditions dating back more than 2,000 years. To experience this wine fully, indulge yourself as you reach back to ancient times with this crisp, aromatic wine while you pair it with traditional Macedonian dishes like Tavče Gravče (considered the national dish of baked white beans with onions, paprika and herbs) or grilled fish with Ajvar (a roasted red pepper spread). It’s all the charm of an exotic getaway with no passport required.

Don’t unpack your bags just yet as we set off to our next selection. The Lubanzi Cinsault Swartland is like discovering a charming countryside hideaway. This wine brings the sun-baked granite soils and natural winemaking ethos of the region straight to your glass. A fascinating aspect of South African wines is the country’s blend of Old-World tradition and New World innovation. South Africa has been making wine since 1659, one of the oldest wine-producing countries outside Europe, but its industry has undergone a renaissance over the last few decades. Today, winemakers combine centuries-old techniques with cutting-edge experimentation, leading to a dynamic range of styles. You can pair this wine with a local iconic baked dish of Bobotie (a spiced ground meat casserole topped with a savory egg custard). But the true treat is to keep it authentic and experience this wine as part of a Braai(South African Barbecue and a national institution). It involves grilling meats like boerewors (spiced sausage), lamb chops, and chicken over open flames. The must have meal to a declare your bold getaway in a glass, without the jet lag.

Wine is a cultural ambassador, reflecting the heartbeat of its region from its food to its history and traditions. Each bottle tells the story of its homeland’s climate, cuisine, and the social rituals that define it. So, grab your bottles and let these wines be your gateway to an unforgettable end of summer staycation as you travel through the world of wine. Saúde!