💸 Where to sip on a budget


Hi Reader,

I don’t know about you, but I’ve definitely felt the pinch of higher travel costs lately. 💸

The good news is that a wine vacation doesn’t have to be expensive.

I’ve found plenty of destinations where the pours are generous, the tasting fees don’t make you cringe, and the vibe is refreshingly down-to-earth.

These spots may not have the same name recognition as Napa or Bordeaux, but they’re proof you can sip well without overspending.


🌊 New Buffalo, Michigan
The Lake Michigan Shore wine region flies under the radar, but you’ll find approachable tasting rooms, sandy beaches, and plenty of wallet-friendly pours.
👉 Southwest Michigan Wineries Guide
👉 New Buffalo Itinerary

🥂 Cava, Spain
Craving sparkling wine? Skip Champagne’s price tag and head to Catalonia for Cava. This bubbly is made in the same traditional method but is easier on the budget.
👉 Cava Wine Tasting Guide

🌅 Seneca Lake, Finger Lakes
One of New York’s most scenic wine regions is also very affordable. Expect stunning lake views, and tasting fees that make it easy to hop from one spot to the next.
👉 Seneca Lake Wineries Guide
👉 Seneca Lake Itinerary

⛴️ Douro Valley, Portugal
While Port is the star here, you’ll also find fantastic dry reds. Pair tastings with a river cruise, and you’ve got a bucket-list trip that’s surprisingly affordable.
👉 Douro Valley Guide

🏞️ New Hampshire
Yes, wine in New Hampshire! Small, family-run wineries keep things casual (and cheap). It’s the perfect low-key day trip option for some sipping and leaf-peeping.
👉 New Hampshire Wineries Guide


Budget wine travel isn’t about cutting corners. It’s about finding places where your money stretches further without losing the fun.

Check out more budget-friendly wine destinations around the world.

Cheers,

Laura

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Stays I'm Loving

This membership for unlimited winery RV camping

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These winery passports for tasting on a budget

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Travel Tools I’m Using

This site for great deals on car rentals

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Wine Travelista

Hi! I'm Laura, your go-to source for all things wine and wanderlust. Whether you're a wine newbie or a seasoned pro, I'm here to help you experience the same joy and education that wine country travel has brought me. From wine travel basics to wine region guides to done-for-you itineraries, I make planning a wine tasting trip simple…and fun!

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