Mention a U.S. wine tour and conversation usually turns to Napa Valley, but wine is grown in every one of the country’s 50 states.There are more than 8,700 wineries in the U.S. With international travel close to non-existent, Americans who travel with wine on the mind can experience the diversity of wine on the great American road trip. Here's a list of 10 states with wineries:
1. Finger Lakes, New York
Thanks to the chilly climate, the 140 wineries in this area are famed for producing high-quality sparkling wines, Riesling, Pinot Noir and ice wine.
2. Walla Walla, Washington
There are around 100 wineries spread out across five areas in Walla Walla, producing the country’s best Bordeaux-style varietals.
3. Sedona, Arizona
Arizona is more famous for its cacti than its vines, but a small number of vineyards make Sedona a more-than-worthy stop on a wine trip.
4. Palisade, Colorado
The Palisade region north of Denver is small but has a focus on grapes like chardonnay, merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and sauvignon blanc. For the full experience, bike the Fruit and Wine Byway.
5. Texas Hill Country, Texas
This Texas region attracts more than five million visitors annually to its 46 distinct wineries between Austin and New Braunfels.
6. Willamette Valley, Oregon
Willamette Valley has become synonymous with the production of highly rated Pinot Noir. The rolling hills and hazelnut tree orchards are within touching distance of Portland, making day trips from the city an extremely popular pastime.
7. Charlottesville, Virginia
Regarded as the birthplace of American wine, Charlottesville is renowned for its old-style wines.
8. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Spanish missionaries planted wine grapes on the banks of the Rio Grande near Albuquerque in 1629, a full 140 years before California put down roots.
9. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City is home to 24 wineries taking advantage of the area’s unique microclimates
10. Kansas City, Missouri
More than 125 wineries can be found tucked among the state’s verdant hills.
So, #letsgettrekking and hit the road to discover the great wines of the USA!
Who knew all of these places had wineries so cool!