Articles & Opinion

The Best Retreats for Sommeliers and Gourmands

Do you enjoy discovering the unique and intense flavors of different nations? Maybe you’re an aficionado of pairing gourmet food and fine wine, or perhaps you’re looking to enhance your palette and improve your sommelier skills. Whatever the case, Luxury Link has the perfect food and wine-based escape to satisfy your culinary desires.

Domaine de Capelongue in Bonnieux, France

Located approximately an hour from Marseille in France’s Luberon region, the Domaine de Capelongue in Bonnieux offers spectacular countryside vineyards and orchards, as well as beautiful hill-top villages, delicious natural produce, and the influence of artists like Van Gogh and Cezanne. Explore the abundance of wineries, including the Chateau la Conaorgue and the Chateau de l’Isolette, dine on fabulous cuisine in elegant restaurants, and visit markets for specialty ingredients like truffles, Cavaillon melons, and first-class olives and olive oil.

L’Albereta in Erbusco, Lombardy, Italy

This gorgeous region of Italy shares a border with Switzerland, stretching from the Alps to the lowlands of the Po Valley. In Erbusco, you will experience rolling hills, the western coast of Lake Garda, and picturesque towns surrounded by Lake Como and Lake Maggiore. The Franciacorta area of Erbusco includes the “Wine Trails,” famous for their production of high-quality sparkling wines. When you stay at L’Albereta, you can visit vineyards in the foothills of the Italian Alps, and enjoy wine paired with fine cuisine at restaurants like Leonefelice and Vistalago Bistro.

1801 First in Napa, California

The Napa Valley is famous for its expansive vineyards and premium wines. You can experience all of this when you stay downtown at 1801 First, a restored 1903 Queen Anne Victorian home. You’ll receive a complimentary breakfast of fresh-baked breads and fruit, and later in the day enjoy a social hour where you can taste different wines and enjoy accompanying artisanal cheese selections and characuteries. This establishment often hosts wine tastings led by a master sommelier. Enjoy delicious Napa delights and the beautiful California sunshine at 1801 First.

Bedford Village Inn in Bedford, New Hampshire

The Bedford Village Inn in this charming, Colonial town houses four five-star dining venues: The Dining Rooms, Corks: A Wine Bar, Tavern: The Patio, and Lobby: The Bar. You can choose from a wide selection of fine wines, draft beers, and delicious entrees, desserts, and appetizers in any of these fine restaurants. These restaurants use local ingredients from producers and farmers in New Hampshire, from eggs and maple syrup, to top-quality meat, fresh seafood, and artisanal cheeses. Enjoy delicious New England tastes amongst the rolling green hills of Southern New Hampshire when you stay in this elegant home away from home.

Castille Paris in in Paris, France

Stay at Castille Paris to experience Parisian allure, French style, and unparalleled luxuries. This stunning hotel is one of the city’s oldest buildings, remodeled in the 18th century, with the original façade shining through luxury upgrades. You can experience the best of French and Italian dining without even leaving the hotel at L’Assagio. At this restaurant, you will have an elegant dining experience as you are served a variety of food and wine in different colors, fragrances, and flavors that are guaranteed to enhance and satisfy your palette. Immerse yourself in this European world of fine wine, gourmet food, historical artwork, and rich culture at Castille Paris.