When traveling abroad, I always seek out wineries whenever possible. To some, going wine tasting in Myanmar might be somewhat of a surprise – an anomaly and to an extent it is. However, there are two wineries in the country, (Aythaya Vineyard and Red Mountain Estate) both in the vicinity of Inle Lake.
Red Mountain Estate Winery is located on the outskirts of the small town of Nyaungshe. As one arrives, one quickly sees vineyards lining the hillsides against a backdrop of scenic mountains. Based on the scenery, one could almost be visiting a winery in South Africa or perhaps select wine regions in South America.
Red Mountain Estate dates back to 2002 when the site was chosen to plant the vineyards and eventually build the winery. 2006 was their first vintage. The winemaker is French.
A number of visitors arrive by bicycle (only about a 30 minute cycle ride from Nyaungshe) or leave their bikes at the base of the hill and then walk to the winery.
Very affordable tasting flights are offered on a scenic overlook with the vineyards directly below – this is an ideal place to meet other travelers. We heard the Pinot Noir was one of their better wines but they were not serving this at the time of our visit. The Sauvignon Blanc was well made and seems to produce a decent wine from this terroir. Several sweet wines are also made.
A nearby small restaurant and patio offers equally scenic vistas but in a different direction. Come to the restaurant patio for sunset but be sure to arrive at least an hour before as it can get quite crowded and you may not find a seat. This memorable location features gorgeous views and a sunset paired with small bites and rare Myanmar wines by the glass or bottle including their Shiraz.
Even if you don’t drink wine – come for the food and the expansive views!
For more information visit: www.redmountain-estate.com
Really neat. I missed these spots in Myanmar last year when traveling through. Had no clue this country had a wine scene, like the many vineyards here in New Zealand, my current travel location. Enjoy!
Ryan
Ryan – yea, I was surprised to find out Myanmar has vineyards – one of my writers told me about this a number of years ago and since I was already in the country, I had to go check it out.
Kudos for shedding light on some of the best off-the-beaten-path in this exotic country, seldom people would think of doing wine tasting in Myanmar, your quest to uncover the hidden gem is the beauty of traveling!
Chin – thanks for you nice comment – its the unexpected discoveries when traveling that keep me inspired
– Dave – always nice to read about wineries, especially in countries one doesn’t always associate with vineyards
Thanks for sharing.
Never realized they had such beautiful wineries in Myanmar! Always a welcome treat to discover new places
Great article! We are having a hard time keeping up with all your trips Dave! Always a useful post
Thanks Susan
Sophia – yea, I thought I was in some other wine region – perhaps Australia or somewhere in California
Amazing post! Thank you so much for sharing this information. One day i do visit over here.
Yay! Great to find someone else who’s been there. While the wine wasn’t to my taste, the views were amazing! We also found vineyards in India and took a wine tasting tour (self organized) by tuk tuk, it was superb!
Sarah – I haven’t yet visited any vineyards in India – its on the list. I know of a Napa winemaker who has consulted in India before. Visiting via a tuk tuk, that sounds cool
Enjoyed reading your post – never thought of Myanamar as a wine destination
My husband and I visited this winery last September – truly a special spot with the sunset as an added bonus. Nice to stumble across your blog Dave.
Thanks Elizabet – hope your time there was as memorable as my visit
Had no idea that Myanmar actually has such an amazing vineyard. Loved it. Thanks for sharing.
Really Interesting post! Thank you so much for sharing this post with us!
Amazing blog. Had never noticed this about Myanmar. Thanks for sharing.
In comparison to another blog. This one is quite interesting to read. I prefer to read this blog it sounds awesome to read and to know about new places.
Appreciate it for your great effort to write this blog.
Hi Dave!
I often used to read this blog which makes me happy by reading it. You have fabulous blog writing skills. Appreciate it.
I genuinely enjoy reading your articles. Your blog provided us useful information
Even I have been visited Myanmar but I have missed the drinking the tasty wine. Thank you so much for your blog, next time I won’t miss it.
Wow, wine tasting in Myanmar, who would have thought!