You may be surprised to hear Morocco is the second-largest wine producer in Africa, or that the country is home to sprawling vineyards and wineries, many often upscale and with accompanying spas and restaurants. But Morocco is rich when it comes to wines, even if the rest of the world has yet to discover it. In fact, did you know only 1.45 percent of Moroccan wine is bottled for international consumption?

Moroccan viticulture dates to antiquity, pre-dating even the ancient Romans. French occupation in the country later spearheaded the large-scale, commercial production of Moroccan wine. Today, Morocco produces about 44 million bottles per year. But where can you find the wineries and vineyards producing Moroccan wine?

Château Roslane © Moroccan National Tourist Office

Rabat

In Rabat, you’ll find Château La Ferme Rouge, one of the country’s most highly regarded wineries. Led by Jacques Poulain, this winery has produced more than 40 different types of white, red, rosé and gray wines, as well as 24 exclusive collaborations. Visits are by appointment only.

Essaouira

The only Moroccan vineyard dedicated to grape varieties of the Rhone Valley is Domaine du Val d’Argan. Tours here include tastings of two signature whites, two reds and a rosé. Bookings are required. Just next door to the vineyard is Ryad des Vignes, a small and intimate hotel with a restaurant and swimming pool.

Château Roslane © Moroccan National Tourist Office

Casablanca

Located 1.5 hours from Casablanca, Domaine des Ouled Thaleb Estate in Benslimane is more than a century old and is not only a wine estate but also home to numerous eucalyptus forests and small villages. Take a guided truck tour through the planted vines before ending with a tasting and lunch at on-site restaurant Le Ryad des Vignes.

Meknès

The Fès-Meknès area accounts for about 60 percent of Moroccan wine production thanks to a more Mediterranean climate and fertile soils. In the heart of these winelands is Château Roslane, among the first in Morocco to use oak barrels for aging wines. This winery lies in a Spanish-Moorish construct and also includes L’Oliveraie restaurant and signature Roslane Spa by Vinésime skincare brand.