Top Wine Touring Destinations for a Romantic Getaway

Need inspiration for your next romantic getaway? Look no further than your wine glass.

Wine touring is more than just tastings in a vineyard; it allows you to discover the stunning landscapes where the grapes are grown, deepening your appreciation for both red and white wines. Below are seven remarkable regions in the USA that produce outstanding wines and create lasting memories.

1. Finger Lakes, New York State

Best for rieslings, pinot noirs, and gorgeous lakeside views

The Finger Lakes region of New York State features harsh winters, yet it has become a fertile ground for winemaking. European vinifera grapes were introduced here in the 1960s, cultivating a variety of wines along the shores of its 11 deep lakes, such as Seneca and Cayuga.

Riesling and pinot noir thrive in this terroir, but an array of other grape varieties also flourish due to various methods of cultivation. Consider staying in Watkins Glen or Ithaca to dive deep into tasting the local wines.

2. Walla Walla, Washington

Best for spectacular scenery, outstanding dining, and world-class syrahs

Located beneath the Blue Mountains in eastern Washington State, Walla Walla Valley has transformed from a purely agricultural area into a premier wine destination. Renowned for its syrah, this region offers a delightful mix of tasting rooms, charming restaurants, and luxurious accommodations.

Take some time to explore Walla Walla itself, where you’ll find an abundance of excellent dining options featuring local chefs.

3. The Atlantic Upland, Pennsylvania

Best for a sense of history, weekend festivals, and premium dry wines

Pennsylvania is rich with historical sites, yet its winemaking tradition dates back only to 1968. Approximately 300 wineries now operate statewide, taking advantage of the diverse topography created by rolling terrain from the Allegheny and Pocono Mountains.

This diversity allows for a variety of wines, from vinifera like chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon to innovative hybrids. The highest improvements in quality are seen in premium dry wines.

4. Willamette Valley, Oregon

Best for Burgundian expats, Portland hipsters, and sublime pinot noirs

Oregon’s Willamette Valley stands out as a leading region for pinot noir. Established by Burgundian winemakers, the valley produces red wines that echo the elegance of wines from their homeland. Additionally, varieties like pinot gris and chardonnay also thrive here.

With 930 wineries, it’s an excellent base for exploring diverse culinary offerings, including exceptional restaurants and local artisanal foods.

5. Grand Valley, Colorado

Best for mountain vistas, unique terroirs, and eager hospitality

Colorado features high-elevation vineyards that offer breathtaking views of the mountains and Colorado River. This unique terroir, characterized by alkaline soils and thin mountain air, fosters distinctive wine styles.

Visitors will experience the warm hospitality of local winemakers as they explore the Grand Valley AVA, known for its successful Bordeaux, Rhône, and Italian varieties.

6. Sonoma Valley, California

Best for a variety of microclimates, outstanding restaurants, and bold, exciting blends

Sonoma Valley’s diverse microclimates contribute to the production of exceptional pinot noirs and chardonnays. This region boasts many historic vineyards, some of them over a century old.

The combination of various climates—from hot inland areas to cooler coastal zones—creates a rich wine and food culture, particularly visible in Healdsburg, where top-notch tasting rooms and dining options await visitors.

7. Santa Ynez Valley, California

Best for gorgeous road trips, endless sunshine, and (naturally) pinot noirs.

Stretching west of Santa Barbara, the Santa Ynez Valley is a unique winegrowing region characterized by its exposure to Pacific fog and cool temperatures. This creates the longest growing season in California, particularly beneficial for pinot noir production.

Although pinot noirs stand out, the area also produces other excellent varietals. With varying temperatures, it’s advisable to bring layers for your adventure.