Must-Visit US Cities For Wine Tasting
By SERA PARRIS
Napa Valley,
California
With incredible weather year-round, Napa Valley is the wine capital of California and an ideal wine getaway for couples, families, friends, or even solo travelers.
The area boasts an abundance of wineries, the Napa Valley Wine Train, vineyard tours, a plethora of world-class restaurants, and mid-range to lavish accommodations.
From wine-making workshops, winery crawls, fantastic spa packages, magical balloon rides, and marathons, this quaint little West Coast wine town has a wealth of fun activities.
Finger Lakes,
New York
Perfect for an impromptu getaway in upstate New York, Finger Lakes has over 100 vineyards and is an award-winning U.S. wine, beer, and agritourism destination.
In addition to Seneca Lake Wine Trail and Keuka Wine Trail, visitors enjoy spots like Belhurst Castle, Finger Lakes National Park, and the spectacular Watkins Glen State Park.
Sonoma,
California
Not too far from Napa Valley, Sonoma is also known for its excellent wines, over 60,000 acres of lush vineyards, and more wineries than ever imagined.
With more than 18 distinct wines produced, including Bordeaux, Rhode, and Zinfandel, plus an impressive farm-to-table food scene, booking a getaway in Sonoma is beyond delightful.
Sonoma has one-of-a-kind attractions like the Jack London State Historic Park, Sonoma Coast State Park, an African-inspired safari and nature preserve, and the Sonoma Raceway.
Sonoma also has first-rate spa hotels, posh resorts, boutique stays, and other unique lodging options that are pet-friendly, perfect for families, and great for weddings.
Santa Barbara,
California
Called the American Riviera, Santa Barbara is full of phenomenal wineries, Spanish-inspired architecture, personalized wine tours, and a gourmet food scene.
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay fans can delight in rich tasting experiences in every tasting room style, from modern and eclectic to traditional and prestigious.
Santa Barbara has a lively nightlife, relaxing spa resort stays, the Danish village of Solvang, an amphitheater with star-studded performances, and near Santa Ynez Valley.
Walla Walla,
Washington
For the highest quality wine tastings in gorgeous Pacific Northwest scenery, vino fans should head to Walla Walla, WA, especially Bordeaux and Cabernet Sauvignon lovers.
Due to a longer-than-normal growing season, Walla Walla is the country's second-largest producer of wine and brimming with vineyards, tasting rooms, and outdoorsy fun.
Walla Walla is an excellent spot for hiking, golfing, and biking; it has four riverways, many historical sites, museums, and local theaters.