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Bucket List U.S. Wine Regions
25
items I’ve spent years traveling around the U.S. in search of great wine, and even more importantly, great wine experiences. These are the regions that have impressed me the most (plus a few still on my list!). From iconic spots to hidden gems, they all of...
Sections
5
California
Pacific Northwest
South
Northeast
Midwest
California
Such a fun little town to go wine tasting in. You can walk from tasting room to tasting room, and they pour wines from all over Santa Barbara County. Don't miss heading out of town to wineries like Demetria and Zaca Mesa in the surrounding area.
Los Olivos, Santa Barbara County, California
Adorable Danish-themed town in Santa Barbara County. Lots of tasting rooms and don't miss grabbing a pastry at the many bakeries.
Solvang, Santa Barbara County, California
Sonoma feels a bit more relaxed than Napa, and the wines are just as amazing (if not better IMO). Dry Creek Valley is a warmer part, known for Zinfandel. I also love Russian River Valley, Carneros, and the coast for cooler-climate Pinot and Chardonna...
Sonoma County, California
Iconic but pricey. If you love bold reds and are looking for a high-end experience, this is the place.
Napa Valley, California
Still on my list, but I’ve heard amazing things about the creative winemakers. Mainly Bordeaux and Rhone-style wines. Would love to check out Tin City!
Paso Robles, California
This one’s high on my list for its bubbles and cool-climate Pinot. I've heard it’s peaceful, scenic, and full of hidden tasting room gems.
Anderson Valley | Wineries, Vineyards, Restaurants & Lodging
Coastal wine and ocean views. Great combo of tasting rooms and seaside towns.
Monterey, California
Mountain vineyards and coastal influence. It's a great spot for elegant Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot, and Chardonnay.
Santa Cruz Mountains, California
Pacific Northwest
I found some of my favorite wines in this small AVA of Oregon. Perfect if you're a Pinot Noir lover.
Ribbon Ridge, Willamette Valley, Oregon
One of the best spots in Willamette Valley to taste Pinot. I also like that many wineries are close together, so it’s easy to plan a tasting day.
Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon
A little off the radar, which makes it even better. You get a mix of varieties, fewer crowds, and a relaxing vibe.
Southern Oregon
I’m super intrigued by the range of grapes they grow here, with a focus on Chardonnay and Riesling. It’s one of the oldest wine regions in Washington.
Yakima Valley, Washington
This one's been recommended to me more times than I can count. Love the Syrah's I've had from here, and can't wait for when I get the chance to visit.
Walla Walla Valley, Washington
South
The wine scene is growing fast around the German-themed town of Fredericksburg, and the tasting rooms are beautiful. Loved the Tempranillos and Italian varieties.
Texas Hill Country
If you’re into wine and history, this is your spot. Thomas Jefferson tried to make wine here. The current wineries are making some really nice bottles, especially Barboursville, Pollak, and Afton.
Monticello, Virginia
So close to DC but feels a world away. I’ve had some great Petit Manseng and Cab Franc here. Linden Vineyards is one of my favorites.
Northern Virginia
An up-and-coming region at high elevation, this has the largest concentration of wineries and vineyards in Arizona. Love the dessert views!
Sonoita, Arizona
Northeast
My intro to Finger Lakes wine country. The lake views are gorgeous, and the Rieslings are top-notch. Tons of variety on the tasting menus too.
Seneca Lake, Finger Lakes, New York
Smaller and quieter than Seneca, which I love. You can visit a few spots in a day without feeling rushed. Dr. Frank’s and Weis are a must.
Keuka Lake, Finger Lakes, New York
Next to Seneca, with most of the wineries on the west side. Sheldrake Point has great wines and views. Heart & Hands is worth the trip to the east side.
Cayuga Lake Wine Trail
The smallest of the Finger Lakes, but it's worth exploring. Heron Hill's original location is here. And the New York Kitchen has wines from throughout the state.
Canandaigua Lake, Finger Lakes, New York
Great if you’re based in NYC or you can take a ferry from New England. Best known for Merlot and Cab Franc, plus great seafood!
North Fork, Long Island, New York
Hudson Valley makes for an easy weekend escape from NYC or New England. I love how you can mix wine tasting with small towns, farm stands, and outdoor activities.
Hudson Valley, New York
Midwest
Michigan wine doesn’t get enough credit. This region has some really promising producers, and it's easy to get to from Chicago or Detroit.
Lake Michigan Shore
A bit of a drive to get to but it's worth it for the lake views, cute towns, and plenty of good pours, especially if you like aromatic whites.
Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan