With the fall season slowly approaching, there's nothing more appetizing when the weather drops than to indulge in a glass of vino. These U.S. cities not only have some of the best vineyards but spectacular scenery as well. Dip in and discover where to go for some primo wine.
Cheers!
10. Augusta, Missouri
Situated on the bluffs above the Missouri River, visitors can sip on vinter’s wine while taking in the beautiful countryside. Known for its' beautiful rolling hills and quaint bed and breakfasts, Augusta is home to some of the best wineries in the Midwest. If you enjoy the country, grab a picnic basket and head out to Augusta.
9. Napa Valley, California
Home to approximately four hundred wineries and tasting rooms, it’s safe to say that Napa is the wine capital of the United States. Miles of illustrious vineyards cover the slopes of the valley, creating a breathtaking setting for any wine connoisseur. But wine is only the beginning. Napa is home to lavish resorts, world renowned chefs, and a celebrated music culture. There are spas to experience, forests to explore, and several small towns, each with their own unique charm. A wine country paradise!
8. Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara County is a winemaker’s oasis; its' multitude of microclimates and soils produce top quality grapes that yield unique and distinguished wine. The city hugs the beautiful Pacific coastline and has many wineries walking distance from the beach, while others are situated inland amongst the hillsides. Enjoy five star cuisine, head to the beach, go shopping on State Street, or relax at a resort. There are no limits in Santa Barbara!
7. Finger Lakes County, New York
Finger Lakes County is situated upon long, slender lakes, that resemble (you guessed it) fingers. Bordering these lakes are wineries galore, putting Finger Lakes as one of our most coveted destinations for wine lovers. The city boasts itself as New York’s largest wine producing region, with over one hundred wineries in the area. Finger Lakes is home to three distinct wine trails, where one can travel along breathtaking views from one winery to the next and explore the varietals that each location has to offer. Between wine trails, visitors can hike along waterfalls, experience the culture at world-famous museums or take time to stroll through downtown. Quaint, secluded, and abundant in wineries, what’s not to love?
6. Santa Fe, New Mexico
The Spaniards who traveled to New Mexico knew a thing or two about wine. Known for its' rich history and arts, Santa Fe attracts tourists and artists from all over the world year-round. Founded in 1608, Santa Fe is America’s oldest state capitol, and is ONE of the oldest wine countries in the United States. Over 400 years ago, Spanish Monks smuggled grapevines in and have been producing grapes for over 400 years. Today, New Mexico’s wine industry is expanding rapidly.
5. Portland, Oregon
Portland sits just minute’s away from more than 500 wineries. Known as Willamette Valley, this winemaking region is known for their amazing Pinot noir. Portland is surrounded by views of the beautiful Cascade Mountains and was ranked in 2015 as one of the Best Places to Live in the United States. The community is a huge supporter of local and sustainable family farms, wineries, and breweries. There’s something for everyone in Portland.
4. Loudoun, Virginia
Just 25 minutes outside of D.C are more than 40 wineries and tasting rooms. Somewhat surprisingly, Virginia ranks fifth in the nation in the number of wineries and is the nation's 5th largest wine grape producer. Loudoun itself is a historic city. 18th century buildings, quaint shops and Dutch bakeries can be found throughout the city. Loudoun is rich in history and has a wide array of European inspired farm-to-table cuisine. The Loudoun region produces vinifera and new world grape wines.
3. Woodinville, Washington
Home to some award-winning wines, Woodinville has been recently recognized for their wine growing, ciders and farm-to- table cuisine in the beautiful Sammamish River Valley. Woodinville bears vines that are primarily pinor noir (80%) and chardonnay (20%). The area also offers bike trails, award-winning restaurants, summer festivals and boutique spas. There’s something for every wine lover to enjoy here.
2. Temecula, California
Just a short distance from Orange County, Los Angeles and San Diego is the Temecula valley in which winemaking revived in the 1960s. Dubbed recently as Southern California’s wine region, Temecula offers an array of wineries that encompass great award-winning restaurants and wineries that can easily allow a few days to explore. The wineries of Temecula offer an inviting and non-pretentious atmosphere in a picturesque setting.
1. Healdsburg, California 
World-acclaimed wine growing appellations make Healdsburg in Sonoma County the most ideal base for foodies and wine enthusiasts. Nestled along the Russian River, this small-town boasts more than 100 world class wineries and fantastic chef-driven restaurants. Healdsburg is at the juncture of three main wine growing regions – the Dry Creek Valley, Alexander Valley and Russian River Valley.
Which of these cities are you interested in visiting first for a wine tour? Let us know in the comments!
