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8 Dec 2024
When you think of wine tourism in the U.S., California’s world-famous Napa Valley and Sonoma County undoubtedly come to mind. Just north of San Francisco, these grape-growing regions are home to hundreds of wineries with tasting rooms and scenic patios where visitors can relax and sample reds, whites, rosés and more.
But Napa and Sonoma aren’t geographically or financially accessible for everyone. Or perhaps you’ve already visited these areas and are thirsting for a new wine experience. Fortunately, there are many other “wine countries” in the U.S.
From Oregon to Michigan to Texas, here are 14 American wine regions that aren’t Napa and Sonoma.
Walla Walla, Washington
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Although Washington's Walla Walla Valley is known for its namesake sweet onions, this part of the Pacific Northwest also boasts an impressive lineup of winemakers. Visit the many tasting rooms in downtown Walla Walla or the vineyards in the surrounding area to sample local bold reds like cabernet sauvignon and syrah.
Loudon County, Virginia
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Virginia Wine Country is a popular destination for day trips from D.C., but with at least 40 wineries and tasting rooms, Loudon County has enough to fill a much longer visit as well. Chardonnay, petit verdot, merlot, and cabernet franc are among the most popular varieties in the region, and you can sip your wine while taking in stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Finger Lakes, New York
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The Finger Lakes region of New York is a great destination for hiking, boating, farm-to-table dining and of course, wine-tasting. Visitors can hit up dozens of wineries along the Seneca Lake, Cayuga Lake and Keuka Lake wine trails for delicious riesling, chardonnay, cabernet franc, merlot and more. Consider stopping by the Corning Museum of Glass and picking up some new stemware in the gift shop as well.
Paso Robles, California
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Located about halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Paso Robles boasts rolling hills, olive groves and more than 200 wineries. These mostly family-owned businesses offer a wide variety of wines, though the area is known for cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel and Rhône-style wines.
Willamette Valley, Oregon
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If you're a fan of pinot noir, a visit to Oregon's Willamette Valley is essential. Home to more than 700 wineries, this 150-mile-long region also features acclaimed farm-to-table dining, gorgeous views and relaxed vibes.
Texas Hill Country
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West of Austin and north of San Antonio, the Texas Hill Country area is full of charming towns with German roots and plenty of local wine. Fredericksburg is considered the epicenter of this southern wine region, which produces tempranillo, mourvedre, marsanne and a large number of other varieties.
Traverse City, Michigan
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Traverse City in northwest Michigan is conveniently situated just between two of the state's notable wine regions — Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula. While the local wineries in the area produce many different types of wine, riesling and cherry wine are particularly popular.
Southern Arizona
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Arizona is famous for its national parks and desert landscapes. But the Grand Canyon State is also home to a number of vineyards and wineries — particularly in the southern part, aka "Napa-zona." If you find yourself in Tucson, consider taking a drive to Sonoita, Elgin,Sierra Vista or Willcox to sample some sauvignon blanc or malbec.
The North Georgia Mountains
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Temecula Valley, California
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Nestled between San Diego and Los Angeles, Temecula Valley is the designated wine country of Southern California. More than 40 vineyards and wineries dot the landscape of rolling hills with mountains in the distance. Order a bottle of sangiovese, syrah or montepulciano and enjoy the views.
The North Fork, New York
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The North Fork of Long Island in New York is a charming and more affordable alternative to the Hamptons. And as an added bonus, you'll find wineries galore. From oak-aged reds to celebratory sparkling wines, there's something for everyone.
Grand Valley, Colorado
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The Grand Valley in western Colorado is home to about 30 wineries, primarily in the Grand Junction and Palisade areas. The cliffs and mesas that surround this region make for a breathtaking backdrop as you sip viognier, merlot, cabernet sauvignon and other local wines.
Snake River Valley, Idaho
Ste. Chapelle Winery
When you think of agriculture in Idaho, the potato obviously springs to mind. But Idaho's Snake River Valley has proven to be a suitable place to grow grapes and produce wine. Drive west from Boise and you'll find dozens of wineries to choose from.
Vermont
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While the cold climate can pose a challenge, Vermont is home to many local vintners. Its wineries are spread throughout the Green Mountain State, but the Grape and Wine Council has put together a helpful "passport" to help you hit up the most notable ones.