No walk-ins allowed: What to know when touring the world’s best wine regions

Gone are the days when wine tasting was confined to local wineries or national borders.

Today's consumers crave authentic wine experiences in the land where it's cultivated.

In Europe, where the wine economy is predominantly export-driven, tasting rooms tend to be family-operated. That means there may be just one person serving visitors, and appointments are often hard to schedule.

The United States, Australia and South Africa take a more open-door approach, with wineries built to accommodate tourism and walk-in visitors.

No matter where your wine travels lead you, consider these questions before heading out:

Of France's 11 wine regions, Bordeaux, Burgundy (or Bourgogne) and Champagne are the most eminent.

Bordeaux is known for lush reds such as cabernet sauvignon, while Burgundy champions pinot noir and chardonnay wines. Champagne produces sparkling wines made from chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier grapes.

While in Bordeaux, visitors can stop at the Cité du Vin wine museum, explore elegant chateaux and dine in Michelin-star restaurants. Bordeaux is the only city in Europe with wineries within the city walls. Some are accessible via bike or tram.

Burgundy is home to spectacular landscapes covered by vineyards and dotted with centuries-old chateaux. An area of its vineyards, called The Climats, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The region of Champagne is worth a visit and not only for the bubbles. Wine tours at some of the older producers may include a view of the ancient underground cellars used to escape the German soldiers during World War I.

Most in-demand French tasting experiences must be booked in advance. Also, hours of operation vary from region to region.

Travelers should consider hiring a driver in Burgundy and