There’s nothing like a scenic destination to make you want to pop open a bottle of your favorite wine. Napa and Sonoma have always taken the cake when it comes to picturesque wine regions, but there are many more hidden gems waiting to be discovered here in the U.S. This summer, embrace your inner traveler and indulge your restless wanderlust with these 5 best U.S. wine regions.
Walla Walla Valley, Washington
Sunny days, fertile soil, and a 200-day-long growing season make this destination one of the best U.S. wine vacations. And there’s no shortage of wineries – Walla Walla Valley is home to the highest concentration of wineries in Washington State. What is this area known for? Reds. Its most widely planted grape is Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by other iconic red wines like Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec.
Finger Lakes, New York
This west-central New York hot spot is famous for its Riesling, followed by Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer. With over 100 wineries, you’ll have to pick and choose wisely. We’re fans of Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, Fox Run Vineyards, and Ravines Wine Cellars.
Willamette Valley
Pinot lovers, rejoice! Welcome to Willamette Valley, a quaint wine destination that sits on the same latitude as Bordeaux. It’s a quick day trip from Portland, but we’d recommend giving yourself more than a full day there. It’s one of the top Pinot Noir producers on the planet, but it’s also recognized for Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Grigio.
Paso Robles
Located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, this wine destination is full of picturesque views and delicious wines. It’s best known for Cabernet Sauvignon, but we’d also recommend Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel, and white Rhône-style blends.
Lake Michigan Shore, MI
The “Napa of the Midwest” is calling! The Lake Michigan Shore region grows quality grapes with complex flavors. There are many benefits to being right on the lake – wine grapes flourish due to the ‘lake effect’ that regulates the climate (plus the views aren’t too shabby!)
In Vino Finito
Where are you jet setting next? Let us know in the comments!
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