Who says you have to leave the country to go on an unforgettable, wine-soaked getaway? As much as we’d all love to jet off to Tuscany for a long weekend, most of us just can’t afford that kind of luxury. Thankfully, we live in a country that’s brimming with breathtaking wine regions; more likely than not, there’s one closer to you than you think! We’ve rounded up 10 of the most gorgeous wine getaways right here in our own backyards. Simply hop a train, grab a glass, and get to sipping locally in your region’s most beautiful wine destinations.
Willamette Valley, Oregon
Hop over to the West Coast’s fastest up-and-coming region, the Willamette Valley. Sip on savory Pinot Noir and crisp Pinot Gris for nearly 150 miles. Head north to Portland for artisanal breweries, craft shops, and an unforgettable long weekend.
Finger Lakes, New York
The Finger Lakes is one of the country’s hottest wine destination spots, especially in autumn when the leaves are changing colors. Grab an Airbnb along Keuka Lake and discover various wineries, breweries, and all the Riesling you can drink.
Yakima Valley, Washington
Part of the larger Columbia Valley AVA, Yakima Valley claims the impressive title as the first AVA for Washington State. Yakima provides the state with 40 percent of its annual wine grapes, mostly Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Traveling with a beer lover? Nearly 80 percent of the country’s hops come from this famed valley, too!
Middleburg, Virginia
Located only 50 miles west of Washington, D.C., Virginia provides an ideal wine-fueled getaway for those living in the D.C. metro area. With 24 wineries and eight vineyards, you’ll be sure to have a packed weekend. Check out the region ASAP while it’s still one of our nation’s best-kept wine secrets.
Texas Hill Country, Texas
Despite recently gaining traction, Texas’s winemaking history runs deep, starting with the Spanish missionaries in the mid-17th century. Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are the dominant plantings, though winemakers have recently began experimenting with Viognier, Tempranillo, and Sangiovese.
Santa Barbara, California
While everyone else is spending time in northern California, head farther south and experience all that Santa Barbara has to offer. Check out the smaller appellations of Santa Rita Hills, Ballard Canyon, and Happy Canyon for an unforgettable experience. (And yes, this region is where the famous wine film Sideways took place!)
Old Mission Peninsula, Michigan
Head down the WOMP (Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula) trail, made up of nine different wineries set against the gorgeous backdrop of the peninsula. The wine, scenery, and food scene make a gorgeous day trip or quick weekend getaway for those located in the northern part of the U.S.
Sonoma County, California
Because any list of breathtaking U.S. wine destinations wouldn’t be complete without the addition of Sonoma. From novices to experts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Sonoma County, especially Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
North Fork, New York
For those who are N.Y.C.-based, there’s no need to trek all the way to the Finger Lakes (though we do recommend doing so at some point). For a quick weekend getaway, hop a train to Long Island’s North Fork, brimming with gorgeous wineries, cider stands, and quaint bakeries, all set along a saltwater backdrop.
Middle Rio Grande Valley, New Mexico
Yes, there is indeed a winemaking scene in New Mexico. In fact, over 60 wineries produce wine in this sun-soaked state. Be sure to hit Gruet, known for their méthode champenoise sparklings. We promise your thirst will be quenched.
