Wine Lovers Guide to the USA
As the fourth largest wine
producer in the world, the United States of America sits only behind France,
Italy and Spain in the global rankings, making it an excellent destination for
wine enthusiasts. Boasting beautiful fertile regions across the country and unique
varietals to impress any palate, the USA should be the next destination on any
wine lovers list. So let USA Travel Experts, Journeyscape, tell you what’s on offer.
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Credit: Les Collines Vineyard, Walla Walla County, Washington State | Mark VanDonage / Courtesy of Visit Walla Walla
Where to visit
Start
with California – the state is responsible for 90% of the USA’s wine production, with
the special climates of Napa Valley, Sonoma County and Mendocino the secret to
why the state has so many great wines. California boasts around 800 wineries
and tasting rooms offering fascinating wine tours, leisurely bike rides between
vineyards, and gourmet picnics and tastings in idyllic outdoor settings. Some
95% of wineries are also proudly family-owned, including renowned vineyards
like Baldacci, Kistler, Monticello, Ramey and Trefethen.
Next, head north into Oregon’s breath taking Willamette Valley, renowned for its
world-class Pinot Noir and sustainable practices, and Washington state’s burgeoning Tri-Cities region in the Columbia Valley, making a
name for its Syrah, Riesling and Merlot.
Then cross
the country to Loudoun County, Virginia to explore what is widely known as DC’s
Wine Country being just 50km from the capital. Set against a scenic backdrop of
vine-covered hills, sun-kissed valleys and charming small towns, like Leesburg,
Middleburg, Lovettsville and Purcellville, the region specialises in varietals
such as Cab Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Viognier and the distinctive Norton
grape.
Lastly, don’t miss out on one of
the best kept secrets in the wine world: Fredericksburg, the heart of the Texas Wine Country and the
second largest certified Viticultural Area in America with more than nine
million acres. Picturesque with lush scenery and home to one of the USA’s most
beautiful historic Main Streets, the city’s award-winning wineries have earned
honours around the world.
Credit: Napa Valley Wine Train, California | Visit Napa Valley
When to Visit
The best times to visit the USA’s
wine regions are late summer to early autumn with spring coming in a close
second. August to October is the main grape harvest season or ‘crush’ and is
widely celebrated – including during major events like California Wine Month –
offering visitors a more immersive wine tasting experience. Spring, by contrast,
has fewer crowds and newly green vineyards—just be mindful that while
March/April is a good time to visit California or Texas, April/May will be
better for visiting Oregon, Virginia and Washington state.
Credit: Das Peach Haus, Fredericksburg | Travel Texas
Plan your wine adventure in 2026!
Journeyscape
offers curated itineraries and tailor-made holidays to every major wine
destination in America.
Indulge in Napa and Sonoma with curated tastings, boutique
stays and unforgettable vineyard experiences in California’s wine country.
Journey from San Francisco to Portland via Mendocino and Willamette Valley,
savouring world-class wines and coastal beauty. Discover pioneer heritage and
award-winning wineries in the prettiest town in Texas: Fredericksburg. And
experience the vine-covered hills and unique varietals of Loudoun County, while
witnessing the spectacular scenery of the Appalachians right next door.
To start
planning your trip, visit Journeyscape.