I Traveled 6,000 Miles To Try George & Amal Clooney’s Favorite Wine

Celebrities are notoriously particular about just about everything, and beverages are no exception. To wit: Beyoncé reportedly prefers her water at exactly 21 degrees celsius (and served with a titanium straw, mind you), while Robert De Niro is said to demand his cocktails are shaken for far longer than one would think is necessary. But perhaps the most specific quirk is George and Amal Clooney's. It's been reported that when summering in Italy, they only drink wine from a friend's winery in a remote northern Italian region called Franciacorta.

So, when I got the opportunity to explore the region and taste the wines in question, I jumped at the chance. Of course, it's no secret that the couple is obsessed with the Italian region of Lombardy — and two flights, three car rides, and 19 hours later, I realized why. Almost totally untouched by tourists, it has the sensuality of Italy, with the charm of nearby France, and prestige of neighboring Switzerland. And did I mention their newest export — sparkling wine made in the style of Champagne — is giving the world of bubbly a run for its money?

The Italian destination is the perfect place to add to your travel bucket list, and not just for the chance to rub elbows with Hollywood A-listers. Ahead, everything you need to know to add Franciacorta to your dream European vacation itinerary. And until then, you can school even the biggest winos with your new knowledge on poppin' bottles like an Italian. Cheers!