Wine, culture and history are connected in many parts of the world, and UNESCO knows it. The organization has designated these seven European wine destinations as World Heritage sites. All promise visitors access to centuries of history woven into winemaking.

Alto Douro, Portugal

This region has a winemaking history that dates back 2,000 years. The precipitous, scrubby, arid hillsides provide an excellent view of the winding Douro River. Stop in Oporto for a tour and tasting at the Taylor Fladgate cellars in the historic Vila Nova de Gaia.

Burgundy, France

The Climats and terroirs form a jigsaw puzzle of winemaking that has been in place since the High Middle Ages. Small, individualized vineyard plots are the norm here. Larger domaines like Maison Joseph Drouhin offer fascinating historical tours of its cellars filled with dusty old bottles, followed by a tasting.

Champagne, France

The best views here are actually deep underground. The region’s maze of chalky tunnels serves as ideal storage for those precious bubblies, as well as a reminder of Roman Gaul, the societies who first excavated the caves. Taittinger’s caves are among the most impressive, with soaring crayères (chalk pits) and a fascinating monastic history.