Wine Destinations in the United States

I'm a HUGE fan of wine. 

A personal favorite form our local winery, Arrington Vineyards.

Although red wine was an "acquired taste" for many, I started drinking it almost immediately. I'm guessing it has something to do with my grandfather sneaking me sips as a kid. We're Italian - what did you expect?

Anyway, one of my favorite things to do is go WINE TASTING! It's such a fun way to explore an area and enjoy a beverage at the same time :)

We are traveling to Italy in a few weeks and I can hardly contain myself thinking about all of the new, delicious, local wine I'm going to consume -- especially in Tuscany!

Can't get to Tuscany? No problem. These are so many amazing wine destinations in the good ol' USA. Here are four:

Ithaca/Finger Lakes, NY

The view from Ventosa Vineyards back patio where you can have lunch. I suggest the 2010 Pinot Noir.

I was in the Ithaca area for work in June & August, and it's just gorgeous; there are several huge, long lakes (which is where they get their name, Finger Lakes) with wineries scattered around them. They also happen to have wonderful dairy farms.... can you say wine & cheese party?

Napa Valley, CA

enjoying the lawn outside of V. Sattui Winery

This might be a given, but you'd be surprised how many people think good wine only comes from Italy. You can make this a day trip from San Francisco or Sacramento.... and I'd highly suggest it! It's beautiful and there are so many wineries to choose from. I am dying to go back to Napa, it's been years. I remember loving V. Sattui & the Coppola Winery, but here is a comprehensive list from Food & Wine on the best wineries in Napa since it's been a while for me :)

Lake Chelan, WA

view from Benson Winery

If you missed my post about how much I loved Chelan (OR what to pack for a weekend there), check them out. If you don't feel like clicking more things, just take my word for it - you'll love Chelan. A quick 3hr jaunt from Seattle, this unassuming wine country is about as idyllic as it comes; hillside vineyards with sweeping views of the cozy lake town. Personal favorites were Karma & Benson.

Traverse City, MI

I've been told by several friends that I need to visit Michigan. Confession: I've never been in the state, with the exception of the Detroit airport. I'd really like to remedy that by visiting the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. It looks amazing! While I can't personally vouch for this area, I am confident it won't disappoint. After all, people from Michigan are obsessed with it, so I'm sure I'll love it, too! More on the LP Wine Trail here.

There are also many stand alone wineries across the USA that are really awesome, like Arrington Vineyards in the Nashville area :) 

Have you ever been to these areas? Do you like wine tasting? Is there another wino location I need to know about?! Share below!

xo