Creativity has always thrived in wine countries around the world, easily experienced by tasting the good juice created by the winemakers or reading the quirky labels of many wine bottles these days.   Ingenuitive chefs flock to these regions to create a culinary pairing for these local wines and are inspired by the wines to create new and exotic flavors while pushing the boundaries of cuisine. Wine has also inspired many great creative figures throughout history, Hafiz, the great Sufi poet even titled one of his masterpieces “The Great River of Wine.”

Nowadays, that creativity is shining through in the unique architecture and settings of these 8 hotels in wine countries around the world. Whether designed by world-renowned architects or locals using the best of the natural materials and surroundings, these properties are nothing short of creative genius and combined with the consumption of wine are sure to inspire many more great works.

Hotel Marques de Riscal – Rioja – Spain

The Frank Gehry masterpiece is not only a retreat for wine lovers but since it’s opening in 2006, has attracted many architecture lovers from around the world.   Perched atop the hill, overlooking the town of Elciego, it’s located in the center of Spain’s famed Rioja wine region and is the flagship hotel for the Marques de Riscal bodegas and boasts a Michelin starred restaurant.

Endemico – Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico

Endemico’s 20 luxury cabins blend seamlessly into the rugged, arid landscape of the hills surrounding the Valle de Guadalupe wine region in Baja California. It’s just another Grupo Habita property that has mastered the art of casual luxury, with 360 degree views from the individual guest cabins, the open lobby that doubles as a winery & tasting room as well as from the pool and BBQ areas, allowing mother nature and the wine valley below to be in the spotlight.

Argos Cappadocia, Turkey

Carved out of caves on the hillside of Cappadocia, Turkey, the Argos is one of the most architecturally unique hotels both on the inside and out. Local emir grapes grow within the terraces of the property grounds and outside of town, the Argos has it’s own vineyard, Argos Baglari, growing Syrah and Kalecik Karasi grapes and there are many other wineries to visit in the area surrounding Cappadoccia.

Bardessono – Napa Valley, California

Bardessono’s minimalistic chic blend of eco friendly (LEED Platinum Certified) and simple naturally sustainable products easily attracts an environmentally conscientious traveler, but the guest suites with ample indoor and outdoor private spaces, including outdoor showers and soaking tubs are perfect for enjoying a little vino with your loved one after a long day of wine tasting.

Loisium Wine & Spa Resort- Langenlois, Austria

One would never expect to find a modern, glass box shaped hotel in a land that has a grape growing history that dates back to the ancient Roman times. In the Kamptal region of Austria, the Loisium Wine & Spa Resort, is held in such high regard that two local, neighboring wineries have joined together to dedicate an exclusive sparkling wine blend “Genius” to the property. Dinner at Loisium’s Vineyard Restaurant can also give you a “one of a kind” experience of dining amongst the grapes, right in the vineyard and during concert season, dinner is always accompanied by a live music.

Ermito, Hotelito del Alma – Umbria, Italy

This eco-luxury hotel, built of 13^th century stones, set atop the green hills of Umbria is the most perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation after your daily visits to the area’s wineries…or just stay in, make it a spa day and completely disconnect as Eremito boasts no telephones or televisions in the guest rooms in order to deliver an experience that truly touches the soul.

Cavas Wine Lodge – Mendoza, Argentina

Private plunge pools for the warmer months and rooftop terraces equipped with fireplaces for stargazing year round are just a few of the ultra exclusive details at this tiny adobe village like resort in the vineyards of Mendoza. With nearly 25 wineries in the immediate vicinity of Cavas, the concierge can arrange private guides or you can just take the bikes out an explore on your own. Later upon returning, the private chef cooking class with Mendoza wine pairing is a culinary experience not to be missed.

Hotel Mas Tinell – Penedes, Spain

In the land of cava, what could be more fitting than a hotel designed to look like the cava bottles resting in the fermentation process? Hotel Mas Tinell perfectly blends into it’s vineyard and countryside setting with a mosaic tiled roof, and from inside the guest rooms, you actually feel like you’re inside a cava bottle, looking out. The wine pairing dining experience at En Rima, Mas Tinell’s, intimate, chef’s table style restaurant is also truly unique and not to be miss.