Since the 1970s, the rolling hills of vineyards — particularly those on the West Coast — have been hotspots for wine tourism. Now, wine country outings remain popular, but they’re beginning to look a bit different. What was once the most alluring aspect of tasting rooms — the vineyards themselves — appears to now be the least important component of visiting a winery. Instead, visitors prioritize spending time at wineries’ facilities over the actual farms.
Take, for example, Chateau Ste. Michelle. Each year, the warmer seasons draw swarms of tourists to its property in Woodinville, Wash., but if any of the visitors were to look around the land, no vines would be in sight. That’s because the winery sources fruit from vineyards miles away.
Today on the “VinePair Podcast,” Adam, Joanna, and Zach discuss whether wine tourists actually care about being able to see vineyards. Do drinkers prefer winemaking facilities with easy access over less accessible vineyards? If so, should producers invest more in urban tasting rooms?
Zach is reading: Happy Hour Isn’t Dead, But It Could Be Going Late-Night
Joanna is reading: We Asked 14 Bartenders: What’s the Most Overrated Bourbon Cocktail?
Adam is reading: The 15 Beers That Defined American Craft Brewing — and Where They Are Now
