At the Vineyard | Weekends Spent in Wine Country

From the bold flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon to the sweet undertones of Riesling, there is a wine for every palate. Find out which one suits you best this summer in a weekend trip to wine country.

Napa Valley, California

When you think of wine country in the United States, Napa Valley is at the top of the list. Situated just north of the hustle and bustle of San Francisco, peak tourist season in Napa is during the harvest which runs August through October. But with a mild climate year round that only California can boast, there’s never a bad time to visit.

Willamette Valley, Oregon

About a day’s drive north from Napa Valley is its equally as impressive but maybe lesser known cousin, Willamette Valley. Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, the valley is home to vineyards that produce varieties of Pinot Noir to rival only that of the Burgundy region in France. With nearby accommodations that run the gamut from the quaint B&B to the luxury resort and spa, it’s easy to find a place that feels just right for your visit.

Finger Lakes, New York

Named for the 11 glacier-fed lakes that stretch across the region, Finger Lakes in upstate New York is characterized by lush rolling hills, dramatic waterfall hikes, and nearly 100 wineries. The lakes produce a microclimate of warm summers and cool winters, making the area ideal for producing aromatic whites like Riesling and Gewurztraminer.

Texas Hill Country

Deep in the heart of Texas lies a trail of wineries worth exploring. No longer the land simply known for barbecue and bull riding, vintners in the Texas Hill Country have been producing award-winning wine for years. Choosing which wineries to visit may be difficult, there's more than 50 scattered throughout the area, but Becker Vineyards with its adjacent lavender fields is not to be missed.

photos courtesy of Boudewijn Boer, Rui Marinho, redcharlie, Kym Ellis, and Raphael Cruz on Unsplash