Hey wine lovers! we’ll be taking a look at the top 10 movies about wine. Whether you’re a movie buff or just enjoy sipping on a glass of your favorite vintage, these films are sure to make you laugh, cry and appreciate the complexity of winemaking. So grab a bottle and get ready to pour yourself into these unforgettable stories!
1. Sideways
A 2004 movie that follows two men on a road trip through California's Wine Country, the movie was an instant hit and won an Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay. The film showcases some of the best wineries in California and is a must-watch for wine lovers everywhere.
2. Bottle Shock
This 2008 release tells the true story of how California wines came to challenge French ones in 1976 at the infamous “Judgement of Paris” tasting event. It stars Alan Rickman as Steven Spurrier, a British wine connoisseur determined to prove Californian wines could compete with those from France.
3. Mondovino
This documentary takes viewers around the world exploring how globalization has impacted the world’s wine industry. It’s a fascinating exploration of how big business has infiltrated winemaking, as well as a look at some of the people fighting to maintain traditional methods and techniques.
4. A Good Year
This 2006 romantic comedy follows Max Skinner (Russell Crowe), a London-based stockbroker who inherits a winery in Provence from his uncle Henry. While there, he discovers that the vineyard is worth more than money—it helps him discover true love and an appreciation for wine.
5. The Secret of Santa Vittoria
Starring Anthony Quinn and Anna Magnani, this 1969 movie tells the story of Italian villagers trying to hide 1 million bottles of wine from German invaders during World War II. The film captures the beauty and culture of Italian winemaking, as well as the courage that it takes to protect something you love.
6. A Walk in the Clouds
This 1995 romantic drama follows a soldier (Keanu Reeves) who meets a woman (Aitana Sanchez-Gijon) while traveling through California's Napa Valley after World War II. It’s an exploration of the power of true love, set against the backdrop of vineyards and wineries in one of America’s most beautiful regions.
7. Red Obsession
This 2013 documentary reveals how China's booming economy has impacted Bordeaux wines, as affluent Chinese buyers bid up prices to astronomical levels. It’s a fascinating look at the power of money and economics, as well as an exploration of China’s relationship with the finest wines in the world.
8. Wine Country
This 2019 comedy follows six friends who reunite for a weekend trip to California's Napa Valley. The movie is written by and stars SNL alums Amy Poehler, Rachel Dratch, Maya Rudolph, Tina Fey, Ana Gasteyer and Paula Pell—so it’s sure to be hilarious!
9. Mondovino: Part 2
This 2014 sequel to Mondovino focuses on how some noble winemakers are fighting back against corporate takeover of their industries. It takes viewers to some of the world's most famous vineyards, and is sure to be a delight for wine lovers.
10. A Year in Burgundy
This 2013 documentary follows seven families of winemakers in the Burgundy region of France as they grapple with the challenges of making great wines. It’s an intimate portrait of what it takes to craft some of the world’s most sought-after vintages.
With these 10 movies about wine, you'll explore different cultures, different regions, and different eras—all while learning more about one of the world's oldest beverages and greatest passions! So grab your favorite bottle and settle in for a movie night that will transport you all over the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What are some must-watch movies about wine?
- Some iconic movies about wine include Sideways (2004), Somm (2012), A Good Year (2006), Bottle Shock (2008), The Secret of Santa Vittoria (1969), Uncorked (2020), Mondovino (2004), Red Obsession (2013), A Year in Burgundy (2013), and The Wine Lover’s Son (2013).
-
Why are wine-themed movies so popular?
- Wine-themed movies offer a mix of romance, adventure, history, and passion. They explore the cultural and personal significance of wine, its craftsmanship, and the artistry behind winemaking, appealing to both wine enthusiasts and casual viewers.
-
What is the most famous movie about wine?
- Sideways (2004) is widely considered the most iconic wine movie. It’s a comedy-drama about two men on a road trip through California’s wine country, and it significantly boosted the popularity of Pinot Noir while causing a decline in Merlot sales.
-
Are wine movies based on real events?
- Some wine movies are based on true events, such as Bottle Shock (2008), which tells the story of the 1976 "Judgment of Paris," a blind wine tasting that put California wines on the global map. Somm (2012) is a documentary that follows real-life sommeliers preparing for the Master Sommelier exam.
-
What makes wine movies appealing to non-wine drinkers?
- Many wine movies focus on human stories—relationships, self-discovery, and personal growth—set against the backdrop of winemaking or wine culture. The combination of stunning vineyards and relatable character arcs makes these movies enjoyable even for non-wine drinkers.
-
What are some good wine documentaries to watch?
- Excellent wine documentaries include Somm (2012), Red Obsession (2013), A Year in Burgundy (2013), Mondovino (2004), and A Year in Champagne (2014). These films explore the world of wine from the perspectives of sommeliers, winemakers, and wine critics.