The Best Places For Wine In The USA (Other Than California)
We all think of California when we think of the top producer of wine, vineyards, and of course, wine tours. In fact, it may be hard to think of any other regions that rival California for wine other than European “old world” regions.
We’re here to set the record straight that there are other US areas ripe for sipping.
So where else across America can you visit to taste award-winning wines you ask? Including California, we have chosen 7 other regions that produce great-tasting white and red wine to add to your wine tasting list!
1. Washington
Did you know that Washington state is actually the second largest producer of wine in the US? Washington’s Wine Country is comprised of three major vineyard regions, including Tri-Cities, Yakima Valley and Walla Walla at the heart. Known for its small-town charm, and farm-to-table restaurants this region is home to over 100 wineries!
2. Oregon
Just a short drive from Portland, Willamette Valley is known for its family-owned, small production wineries and Award-winning Pinot Noir. With over 300 wineries, Oregon is the third largest wine producer in the US; there’s a lot of ground to cover!
3. Idaho
With 52 wineries and counting, Idaho is fresh, new, and America’s next “must visit” wine destination in the country. Though most of their grapes are imported from their Washinton neighbours, the soil is what should be noted! In the Boise and specifically Snake Valley areas the soil is rich with volcanic sediment, making it fertile for grape growing.
4. New Mexico
Spaniards who settled in New Mexico knew a thing or two about wine. They brought the perfect seeds to be planted in Albuquerque in 1629. That’s 140 years before California put down their roots, making this the birthplace of grape cultivation in America. Who knew?! The New Mexico Wine offers an array of stunning and respected grape varietals ranging from Cab-Savs, to Sangiovese to Sparkling wine.
5. Texas
The small town of Fredericksburg marks the center of the Texas wine scene. From San Antonio to West of Austin, EVERYTHING is bigger in Texas! Texas Hill and Wine Trail road 290 are home to over 50 wineries! With over one-million acres, this is the largest AVA (American Viticulture Area).
6. Missouri
Still a young industry, winemakers in Missouri aren’t afraid to experiment, making this one of the most interesting and thought-provoking wine scenes. With 50 wineries located near Kansas, there are upwards of 125 wineries along the state’s lush hills.
7. New York
If you love all things white wine or light reds, Finger Lakes, NY is the spot for you. The chilly climate allows for the production of high-quality, delicious Pinot Noir, Riesling, sparkling and ice wines!
And there you have it, Wine Nots list of its heavenly 7 wine regions to visit, other than California!
With so many top-notch wineries popping up, and so many new destinations emerging across the US, it might be worth exploring with your taste buds in these amazing areas.
While exploring these unchartered wine regions pack your Wine Nots in your purse or wallet and bring it with you. There is no doubt in my mind you’ll need Wine Nots to whiten your teeth and eliminate red wine stains after all the delicious wine you’ll be sampling.
