Who are the other Great Wine Capitals?

The Great Wines Capital Global Network

Hawke's Bay is keeping exceptional company after recognition from The Great Wines Capital Global Network as one of the world's foremost destinations for wine tourism.

Alongside Bordeaux, Napa Valley, Mendoza, South Australia and more, Hawke's Bay holds its own amongst its impressive alliances.

For those not familiar with the wine-growing prowess of these regions, consider this your crash course in the 11 other Great Wine Capitals.

You can view the announcement here or, for a more detailed overview, check out the Great Wines Capital Website. 

Bilbao - Rioja, Spain

Bilbao is the most important city in northern Spain and the largest city in Basque Country. Home to nearly 600 wineries, Rioja wine harvests date back to the time of the Phoenicians and the region has produced outstanding red wines for global markets since the 19th century. 

The land of a thousand wines, Rioja is the most famous designation of origin for wines in Spain and is also famed for its spectacular blend of traditional and modern architecture, including the iconic Guggenheim Museum. 

Cape Town - Cape Winelands, South Africa

Home to some of the world's most bountiful vineyards and boasting numerous award-winning restaurants, Cape Town and the Cape Winelands in the Western Cape is a gastronomic wonderland for food and wine connoisseurs alike.

A place where majestic mountains meet wild open seas, Cape Town and the Cape Winelands is home to nearly 600 wine cellars. Nestled on the coast at the foot of Table Mountain, Cape Town is a popular international tourist destination.

Mainz - Rheinhessen, Germany

Positioned on the banks of the Rhine River, Mainz is a 2000-year-old city, founded by the Romans, and the former Capital of Germania. Today Mainz is a popular river cruise destination for tourists from all over the world, where visitors enjoy cycling, sightseeing and many delicious food and wine venues.

Rheinhessen, Germany's largest wine growing region, is globally famed for its Riesling wines, with many other red and white varietals growing in popularity. With a long history of organic viticulture practices, Rheinhessen's wine industry is positioning itself for a bright sustainable future.

Porto, Portugal

Porto is Portugal's second largest city and one of Europe's oldest tourist destinations. Set on the shores of the Douro River, the city lends its name to the most prestigious and internationally renowned of all Portuguese wines, Port Wine.

Porto is surrounded by the Vinho Verde wine region, a dynamic and bustling province, where visitors relish the history, architecture, culture, climate and its many food and wine delicacies.

Valparaíso - Casablanca Valley, Chile

Famed for its unique architecture perched on colourful hillsides, Valparaíso is a major city, seaport and education centre for Chile. Home to bohemians, artists and cultural entrepreneurs, Valparaíso has a year-round festive energy.

Located just 40 miles away is Casablanca Valley, where a privileged climate is perfect for growing Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah grapes. It is a place of seemingly endless sunsets, fresh coastal seafood, gorgeous cool-climate wines and colourful local culture.