California’s Wine Country is legendary for having some of the most beautiful scenery, the best restaurants, and the best wine in the world – but where should you go if you want to visit Wine Country but don’t have time to visit all of its popular destinations? These 10 under-the-radar places will be sure to impress even the most discerning traveler! Plus, these places aren’t as crowded as other Wine Country locations, so you can enjoy some peace and quiet while you enjoy your wine.
Mendocino County Wineries
Think California and most people picture sun-kissed beaches and Hollywood stars. While Mendocino County is about as far away from Hollywood as you can get, it’s one of those less visited places that has its own charm, history, and small-town feel. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean on one side and Lake Mendocino to its south, tourists flock to Mendocino County Wineries for its pristine coastal views and small-town vibe.
Columbia Valley, Washington
One of our favorite lesser-known wine regions is Columbia Valley, located in eastern Washington. The region boasts some of America’s highest vineyards and offers a wide variety of grapes. Plus, it’s just two hours north of Seattle. What more do you need to know? If you are in the area we highly recommend you make the trip to Columbia Valley, Washington for some vino.
Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley is one of California’s top wine destinations. Featuring an abundance of wineries with tasting rooms, world-class restaurants, luxury hotels, and opulent spas, there’s no shortage of things to do while visiting Napa Valley. A lot of people take group trips or plan wedding events in the region of Napa Valley, California. This is your Disney Land for vino.
Lake Erie North Shore, Ohio
The Lake Erie North Shore region (sometimes referred to as Northern Ohio) is home to eight Ohio wineries and one vineyard, which are located within about a 50-mile stretch. Take a tour of North Coast Winery, where you can enjoy wine tastings out on their patio overlooking Lake Erie. A variety of wines are produced at Northern Coast Winery, including rose, red and white blends, fruit wines, and dessert wines.
Anderson Valley, California Wineries
Nestled in California’s Mendocino County, Anderson Valley is a must for wine country getaways. It’s also one of Northern California’s most serene destinations, with wineries and tasting rooms surrounded by oak woodlands and emerald grassland hillsides. For more information on visiting Anderson Valley, California wineries contact Lake County Tourism Bureau.
South Fork of Long Island, New York
The South Fork of Long Island, NY may be less than 90 minutes from Manhattan by train, but it feels a world away. The beaches and town of Southampton are buzzing with visitors every summer weekend. But if you make your way up Route 27 through Bridgehampton, you’ll find yourself in an area of winding country roads and historic towns—and several wine destinations worth exploring.
Finger Lakes Region, New York Wine Country Destinations
New York’s Finger Lakes region is a classic, upstate for Wine Country destinations. Most people flock to Niagara or Long Island’s North Fork for wine-country vacations in New York, but that doesn’t mean you have to. On Lake Seneca, at its northern end, is Keuka Lake: less developed than its glitzy neighbor to the south. Here you’ll find smaller wineries with top grapes like Chambourcin and Vignoles that make delicious white wines.
Monterey County, California
Monterey County is a gorgeous wine country destination that’s also home to some of California’s most historic and charming seaside towns. From Monterey to Carmel, there are plenty of cozy B&Bs, inns, and resorts along its coast—as well as delicious wineries in nearby Salinas Valley. If you prefer a more active vacation, Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of those rare attractions where your kids will actually want to come with you.
Australia’s Barossa Valley Vineyard Tours
The Barossa Valley is best known for its Shiraz (shir-ahz), a deep red varietal that thrives in these hot, dry conditions. The valley has been producing vino since 1847, and now produces close to 75% of all Australian wine. Don’t miss Seppeltsfield, one of Australia’s oldest wineries and producers of some of Barossa’s finest wines. This beautiful site is also home to several restaurants and vineyard tours.
Elqui Valley, Chile
If you’re looking for a remote adventure that’s still accessible from Santiago, then Elqui Valley will deliver. Once you leave bustling La Serena behind, you’ll drive through stark desert landscapes dotted with cacti and small villages.
