This enchanting journey will sweep guests along the serene Saône River, guiding them through a collection of France's most esteemed vineyards. But that's not all! The esteemed river cruise company has also handpicked a group of distinguished wine hosts to grace their 2023 and 2024 series of Celebration of Wine River Cruises, creating a truly immersive and indulgent experience for oenophiles and epicureans alike. With over 60 hosted departures each year, AmaWaterways promises to whisk you away on a voyage that delves deep into the flavors of Europe, serving a delectable menu of exclusive wine and culinary encounters.

Kristin Karst, the co-founder and executive vice president of AmaWaterways, expressed her excitement, stating, "Since the debut of our Celebration of Wine River Cruises in 2010, we've continued to see increasing demand for these epicurean experiences, giving our guests the opportunity to sip local wine while sailing through breathtaking wine regions of the world alongside acclaimed North American and European wine hosts." The allure of the fascinating world of French wines has ignited such fervor that AmaWaterways has crafted the meticulously curated "Flavors of Burgundy" itinerary, promising an unforgettable sojourn through the beautiful vineyards of this renowned wine-producing region of France.

Enveloping epicurean travelers in an intoxicating river cruise between Dijon and Lyon, the "Flavors of Burgundy" itinerary unveils the distinctive French flavors found in the Burgundy region. This captivating voyage will transport guests to the very heart of France's iconic vineyards and enchanting châteaux, all while savoring regional cuisine and delectable treats both onboard and in the charming ports along the way. Ah, the mere thought of it all is enough to set one's taste buds aflutter.

Each Celebration of Wine River Cruise is elevated by an array of enhanced epicurean experiences, graciously hosted by qualified wine experts hailing from North America and Europe. AmaWaterways has curated an illustrious lineup of wine hosts, including esteemed vineyard owners, accomplished winemakers, certified sommeliers, and knowledgeable wine educators. These experts bring with them a selection of handpicked wines, to be savored during special meals, tastings, and seminars, all of which are included in the cruise fare. Some of the wines are sourced from the hosts' very own wineries, while others hail from the charming wineries dotted along the river cruise itinerary.

In the year 2023, AmaWaterways presents an abundance of over 60 Celebration of Wine River Cruises, each promising a unique and enchanting experience. Let me entice you with a sampling of the splendid itineraries and esteemed wine hosts that await your discerning palate:

First on our vinous voyage is the "Taste of Bordeaux" itinerary, whisking you away to the legendary wine capital of France—Bordeaux. Here, you will have the opportunity to explore iconic châteaux, meander through lush vineyards, and partake in exquisite wine tastings in the charming towns of Libourne, Blaye, Bourg, Pauillac, and Cadillac. To further elevate your experience, indulge in a pre-cruise land package, treating yourself to two nights in Bilbao and two nights in San Sebastian. And after your wine-filled adventures, savor a post-cruise land package that offers two nights in the Loire Valley, followed by a night in the enchanting city of Paris. With eight Bordeaux Celebration of Wine River Cruises to choose from in June, July, August, October, and November of 2023, the opportunities to embark on this unforgettable journey are plentiful. Consider joining the November 9, 2023 sailing, where the esteemed wine host will be Mark Newman, the CEO of Accolade Brands Inc. and SteakHouse Vineyards in California. Truly a toast-worthy experience!

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Next, we set our sights on the magnificent "Magna on the Danube" itinerary, where wine and music intertwine seamlessly along the majestic Danube River. Allow yourself to be carried away by the melodic currents as you step aboard the flagship vessel, AmaMagna, embarking on a spellbinding journey between Budapest and Vilshofen. This extraordinary adventure will transport you through Austria, Germany, and Hungary, where capital cities beckon, inviting you to indulge in the flavors of each region. Prepare your taste buds for the delightful apricot-scented wines of Austria's Wachau Valley, where the very essence of the terroir dances on your palate. While sailing aboard AmaMagna, prepare for an exclusive wine festival in Spitz, Austria—a truly exceptional experience reserved just for you and your fellow travelers. To extend your journey, indulge in pre- or post-cruise land packages in the vibrant cities of Budapest and Prague. Choose between two AmaMagna Celebration of Wine River Cruises in October and November of 2023, including the November 12, 2023 sailing with the esteemed wine host, Guy Davis—winemaker and owner of Davis Family Vineyards in Healdsburg, California. Raise your glass to such splendid company!

Last but certainly not least, we invite you to embark on the captivating "Captivating Rhine" itinerary—a wine-themed journey along the picturesque Rhine River. This enchanting voyage promises to immerse you in the flavors of this remarkable region, allowing you to savor its essence through wine tastings and a vineyard hike in Rudesheim—a place renowned for its exquisite Riesling wines. But the journey doesn't end there! Extend your adventure with a two-night pre-cruise land package in the charming city of Amsterdam or indulge in a post-cruise land package that offers two nights in the enchanting Lake Lucerne, followed by two nights in the vibrant city of Zurich. With three Captivating Rhine Celebration of Wine River Cruises to choose from in August and November of 2023, including the November 9, 2023 sailing, where the esteemed wine host will be Anna-Maria dos Remedios—winemaker and owner of Idle Hour Winery in Oakhurst, California—your vinous exploration will be nothing short of extraordinary.

So, my fellow wine enthusiasts, embark on these wine-infused odysseys and surrender to the allure of these enchanting Celebration of Wine River Cruises. AmaWaterways invites you to indulge your senses, awaken your palate, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of wine as you sail through Europe's most breath taking wine regions. Cheers to the voyage that awaits, filled with exquisite flavors and unforgettable memories!

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