California’s wine country is famous for its stunning landscapes and delicious wines. However, plenty of other fantastic wine regions in the States don’t get as much buzz. If you want to plan a trip to wine country without flying cross-country, you absolutely can. Here are the best American wine regions outside of California.
Northeastern Ohio
It may surprise you to learn that Ohio was once a prominent figure in the U.S. wine trade. Before prohibition, Ohio’s wine production outpaced every other state.
While Ohio’s wine country produces high volumes of wine each year—more than 1.1 million gallons, to be exact—traditional wine isn’t what it’s famous for. Ohio is known for its delectable ice wine—wine produced from grapes left to freeze on the vine. The process of freezing and thawing creates a delicate wine that showcases summer’s sweetest, fruitiest flavors.
Texas Hill Country
The Texas Hill Country is the second most highly visited wine region in the States, just after Napa Valley. The area boasts more than 55 wineries overflowing with delicious wine.
While there, be sure to visit the town of Fredericksburg for authentic German food, beer, and culture!
The Niagara Escarpment, New York
Don’t miss out on this beautiful wine region. The Niagara Escarpment boasts more than 100 wineries. Because of its cool climate, the area specializes in white wines, especially Riesling. New York’s chilly climate is usually too cold for red wine grapes to ripen fully. However, this is yet another region that has become notable for its ice wine.
Since 1981, the region has produced top-quality ice wine that tastes like the bright last days of summer poured in a glass. While most of the season’s grapes get harvested before the cold snap hits, the ice wine grapes get left to freeze on the vine. The harsh climate produces some of the most delicious wine you’ll ever taste!
Willamette Valley
Oregon’s wine country sits snug in the lush Willamette Valley. With beautiful scenery and quaint small towns, there are few things not to love about this area. There are many reasons why you should visit Oregon’s wine country. Oregon is the third-largest producer of wine in the U.S.—these vineyards know their wine.
There are also plenty of lovely vineyards that offer tours and wine tastings. If you’re looking for the perfect romantic getaway, you just found it.
Sedona, Arizona
Despite the desert air, Arizona has plenty of vineyards to brag about. With 110 vineyards to visit, you’re sure to find a new favorite. They’re well known for their elegant, high-quality white wines.
You can’t go wrong with these options if you’re looking for the perfect wine-tasting vacation destination. Napa Valley is incredible, but sometimes you need a little bit of something new. These American wine regions located outside of California won’t lead you astray.
Speaking of new things, check out these wine facts you may not know. Wine may be better for you than we thought!
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