The Absolute Best Wine Vacations in the U.S.
If you’re looking for an exciting, entertaining and delicious getaway idea, consider a wine destination. Wine vacations are increasing in popularity in America because whether you’re booking a one day trip or a multi-week escape, there is something for everyone to savor. For the experienced wine enthusiasts, visits to a vineyard offer a deeper knowledge and insight into their beloved vino. For the novice, traveling to a vineyard offers an eye-opening taste and new found appreciation for what goes inside each and every blend. And American vineyards are ready to quench your thirst. Owners welcome visitors with open arms (and open bottles), scheduling festivals, special events, excursions and intimate gatherings to make a stay on their beloved property as delicious and memorable as the vintage they produce. They realize that a wine destination is a journey into a world they love and want to share with the world.
America is the home of some of the most breathtaking wine destinations. Here are just a few with some of the most character for you to pour over.
1. Minnesota
Going vineyard hopping in Minnesota is a perfect way to experience more than 40 wineries throughout the state’s gorgeous landscape. While Minnesota is known for growing crops like wild rice, sweet corn and blueberries, it’s the state’s drinkable crops that are making headlines. Wineries, breweries and distilleries are the local craze and everyone is invited to the party. The Minnesota Grape Growers Association features a passport to Minnesota Wineries that encourages enthusiasts to visit, taste and enjoy everything the area has to offer. Their “wine trails” are organized outings that feature tasting their fabulous blends, drinking in the sights and toasting to a destination spot to remember.
http://www.exploreminnesota.com/travel-topics/minnesota-wine-escapes/
2. Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley is one of the most famous wine regions in the country. There are more world-acclaimed wineries in Napa Valley than in any other region in North America. Its beautiful landscape offers rolling hillsides, one of a kind views and intoxicating vineyards where tucked in-between are first class resorts that are renowned for pampering their patrons. They are renowned for their legendary vino, not to mention their fabulous food and sophisticated spas. A wine destination trip to Napa Valley offers everything the senses would imagine as well as a tasteful opportunity of a lifetime.
http://www.visitnapavalley.com/napa_valley_wineries.htm
3. Mendocino, California
What’s not to love? It’s hard to believe that more than 17,000 acres of vineyards makes this laid back part of Northern California a wine destination full of body, character and the unexpected. Its breathtaking giant redwood trees, rugged rocky coast and rolling landscapes offer wine enthusiasts plenty of wine to savor, interesting people to meet and unexpected roads to explore. Uncork some smooth new vintages and learn first hand the journey from the “vine to wine.”
4. Finger Lakes, New York
New York’s best kept secret. Some may not realize the Finger Lakes wine region in upstate New York is home to some of the best cool-climate wines in America. More than 100 wineries surround the Cayuga, Seneca, Canadalqua and Keuka lakes that make the landscape as picturesque as the wine is delicious. Enjoy a world-class Riesling overlooking a cascading waterfall one day, dine alfresco at a trendy wine bar the next, or take a walking tour through some gorgeous trails, but whatever you do drink in their extraordinary lakeside hospitality and view.
http://www.fingerlakeswinecountry.com
5. Texas Hill Country
A big state, yes, and a big wine producer, too. Texas is the fifth wine producing state in the United States and is a wine destination with big possibilities. It’s time to raise a glass to Texas wineries for their dedication and commitment to their craft. Just as the old saying goes, everything is bigger in Texas, and this includes the number of new wineries to explore. Texas Hill’s Highway 290 has 42 unique and visually stunning wineries, is full of old fashioned country charm, and offers something new to see around every bend. In Texas, get ready to drink in some delicious award winning wines, let your hair down and kick up your cowboy boots at the same time.
https://www.texaswinetrail.com
6. Portland, Oregon
Portland is home to some of the Pacific Northwest’s most intoxicating, smoky pinot noirs, you’ll experience. Their full body flavors and rich bouquets are just as captivating as the vineyards and rugged landscapes where they are produced. Stay a day or two in one of their hip hotels or cozy bread and breakfast spots, perfect for resting up after a long day of wine tasting. Oregon is full of history, gorgeous underestimated scenery and offers a delicious destination that will satisfy all your senses and exceed your expectations.
http://www.viator.com/Portland-tours/Wine-Tasting-and-Winery-Tours/d5065-g6-c21?pref=02&aid=g6191
7. Walla Walla, Washington
This area of Washington might be best known for its panoramic view of the grand Blue Mountains or for producing one of the sweetest tasting onions, but more recently the area is winning accolades for their wineries that are popping up around the region. Each winery in the area boasts their commitment to producing the best wines possible while taking exceptional care of the land. Walla Walla’s scenery is breathtaking, the locals are warm and friendly and the exceptional vintage they blend and pour is second to none. Savor a sip or two of Syrah, Merlot or Cabernet while the sunshine warms your face and you will understand why this area is being called, The Next Nappa Valley.