California
California is well known for its acres and acres of vineyards and production of wine. California wines placed well in the 1976 Judgment of Paris, which sent shockwaves across the wine world. About forty percent of the wineries in the United States are located in California. The state has 90 AVA's from the northern to the southern part.
A variety of wineries large and small, old and new have tasting rooms open to the public. Each winery has a special, unique wine perspective. Plan your visit to wineries in advance. With over two thousand wineries to visit, and some requiring reservations, it is easier to plan ahead. If you are not able to visit California at the height of the season, a visit in February can be a delightful experience. Napa's February showcases rolling hills filled with grapevines and bright yellow mustard, it is a picturesque sight.
Although smaller in area and numbers of wineries, the Temecula Wine Region in Southern California offers fantastic weather, rolling hills, and the friendliest winemakers and owners in the world. The wine region is a 60 - 90 minute drive from San Diego and Los Angeles. Not only is the region easily accessible to over twenty million people, it is also easily accessible to people throughout the United States with several airports close by. Several of the wineries have on-site restaurants with outdoor seating. We visited this region in late February and having lunch outdoors was very enjoyable. Adding to photogenic opportunities are the many hot air balloons you may observe. Some of the wineries have their own hot air balloons.
With forty percent of the nation's wineries, California is a state that you can visit over and over. Many of the regions offer accommodations close to and even on vineyards.
Visit these California organizations and wineries that partner with Wine Trail Traveler.
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