Sip your way around the country
Nearly every state in the U.S. grows grapes and, of course, with grapes come wine. With hundreds of wine-producing regions throughout the country to consider, we tasked a panel of experts to select their top picks, considering the collections of wineries and vineyards within each region, as well as the climates and terroirs that lend themselves to distinctive flavors.
Then, readers voted to decide the winners. Here are the 10 best wine regions across the country.
No. 10: Santa Barbara County, California
Santa Barbara County benefits from the cool, maritime influences of the Pacific Ocean, which create an extended growing season. This allows for the development of grapes with deep flavors and balanced acidity, particularly for pinot noir and chardonnay. Santa Barbara's natural beauty and cultural appeal make this one of California's most interesting wine regions.
No. 9: Texas Hill Country, Texas
The scenic Texas Hill Country surrounding the communities of Austin, Fredericksburg, Stonewall, Lampasas, and New Braunfels is home to more than 60 wineries. This American Viticultural Area is one of the largest in the country, growing varietals like tempranillo, viognier, cabernet sauvignon, and an increasing acreage of warm-weather grapes.
No. 8: Lubbock, Texas
Flat land, rich soil, and low humidity combine to put the Texas High Plains wine at the country's wine region forefront. Set in the higher altitude Panhandle, the High Plains American Viticultural Area features robust red and white Texas wine grapes, and is home to tempranillo, grenache, albariño, mataro, viognier, and shiraz varieties. You can sign up for a Texas High Plains Wine Trail interactive mobile pass to get discounts, and set up vineyard visits and tastings of all of the best Lubbock-area offerings.
No. 7: Anderson Valley, California
Located in Mendocino County two hours north of San Francisco, Anderson Valley extends for 15 miles, where vineyards and wineries produce award-winning pinot noir. It’s one of the coolest California wine regions — a climate well-suited to chardonnay, riesling, and gewürztraminer grapes as well.
No. 6: West Elks, Colorado
West Elks American Viticultural Area contains some of the highest vineyards in North America, resulting in wine that's fresh, smooth, aromatic, high in acidity, and particularly flavorful. Two major annual events include the North Fork Uncorked, highlighting all the best new wine releases, and the West Elks Wine Trail, which features the best of Colorado wine and cuisine. Wineries like Alfred Eames Cellars and 5680' Vineyards head a selection of outstanding high altitude wineries from this Rocky Mountain wine-growing paradise.
No. 5: Paso Robles, California
For gorgeous views, intricate diversity, and five-star hospitality on California's Central Coast, head to Paso Robles. This region offers everything from small batch tasting in the vineyard with tiny family wineries to some of the most breathtaking vistas with the capacity to welcome a crowd. Plus, there's a grape for every style preference growing in Paso Robles vineyards. In other words, no one leaves this place unsatisfied.
No. 4: Yakima Valley, Washington
Yakima Valley, Washington, is revered for its role as a pioneer in the state's wine industry. Its vineyards, graced with over 300 days of sunshine a year, are nestled between rolling hills and fertile lands, creating a stunning travel destination packed with natural beauty. Combine that with a number of high-quality wineries and you've got an essential destination within the Pacific Northwest's wine corridor.
No. 3: Walla Walla Valley, Washington
The Walla Walla Valley is at once a slice of the pioneering spirit of the Old West and a vision of the future of one of the country's most impactful growing regions. This spot is home to some of Washington’s oldest wineries, highly treasured vineyards, and a long history of agricultural value. With over 135 wineries and tasting rooms scattered through distinct parts of the valley, visitors can keep busy while discovering new favorites.
No. 2: Rogue Valley, Oregon
Rogue Valley, Oregon, with its diverse microclimates and varying elevation, allows for the cultivation of a wide range of grape varieties. This diversity results in the production of distinct wines, marking the region as a versatile player in the North American wine scene. Fans love to visit this part of the Pacific Northwest, where outdoor activities add to the appeal of the wine region.
No. 1: Suisun Valley, California
Rustic Suisun Valley, California, is gaining recognition for its quality wines at more accessible price points. Its warm days and cool nights are ideal for growing a variety of grapes, leading to the production of robust, flavorful wines. Suisun Valley's charm and commitment to community positions it as a rising destination within the California wine scene.
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