WINE & WANDERLUST

From epicurean artistry and cultural immersions to exclusive wine-tasting tours, here's some of the best gourmet experiences for culinary connoisseurs around the globe.

- 

1 STRAIGHT TO THE TOP

Restaurant El Bulli changed the face of not only Spain’s, but also the world’s, gastronomic scene – indeed, it took out the number-one spot in the inaugural World’s 50 Best awards. Today, three of the dining room’s alums (Mateu Casañas, Oriol Castro and Eduard Xatruch) have achieved the feat again, being named 2024’s World’s Best Restaurant for their Barcelona establishment Disfrutar (enjoy). Whether you opt for the ‘classic’ or seasonal ‘festival’ tasting menu, expect a performance – fire, ice, smoke and lots of flavour and colour. Creations are at once playful and unpredictable, often surprising you by telling your eyes one thing but sending your taste buds on a completely different journey. disfrutarbarcelona.​com

2 FLAVOURS OF TUSCANY

Castello Di Casole, A Belmond Hotel, is a singular Tuscan immersion. Originally a 10th-century castle on an Etruscan site, the storied estate boasts true culinary heritage. Tuscany is home to the rarest truffles on Earth, and Castello Di Casole hosts hunting expeditions concluded with a four-course truffle-inspired dinner. Learn to cook classic Italian dishes at one of the on-site classes or arrange private dining in the enchanting garden, as seen here. belmond.​com

3 THE CHEF’S TABLE

Embark on a world-class culinary journey with the ‘Trust The Chef’ Dinner at Tantalus, a family owned estate vineyard on New Zealand’s beautiful Waiheke Island. A curated degustation menu of six courses, each carefully paired with local wine, pays tribute to the estate, the surrounding Waiheke region and valued small producers from Aotearoa. From pale ale-battered oysters served with