When you think “wine” your mind may naturally gravitate to the lush California vineyards thick with grapes just waiting to be harvested — especially in the renowned Napa Valley. But entrepreneur and philanthropist David Hoffmann, who is helping to transform Augusta, Missouri into “the Napa Valley of the Midwest,” says cities like Augusta are giving California a serious run for its money. In fact, Augusta was the first federally recognized wine-growing region in the United States, predating Napa and Sonoma.
Here are 11 other wine regions to keep in mind the next time you think wine:
- Finger Lakes, NY. The Finger Lakes is known for farm-to-table dining, boating, and wine tasting. Did you know there are more than 100 wineries in this area, specializing in producing white wines such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer? The Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Chardonnay are all worth a sampling, too.
- Snake River, Idaho. Idaho is known for potatoes. Who would think of this state as a premier wine-growing region? Any outdoor enthusiast who knows the area’s standout varietals, such as Viognier or Riesling. And what pairs better with a hearty hike or a twice-baked potato than a cool glass of the best white wine, once you’ve traded the muddy sneakers for comfy evening slippers.
- Central Virginia. It was hard work settling the colonies, so naturally a nice glass of wine helped the newcomers relax. We’ve heard even Thomas Jefferson turned his hand to grape growing for a time. Even with climate challenges, Central Virginia continues to rank fifth for U.S. wine production, with hundreds of wineries to choose from.
- Wallingford, CT. Connecticut is known for exclusive homes and genteel residents, but it’s also an up-and-comer in the wine-producing industry. Many red varietals emerge from the St. Croix grape, which flourishes in this region.
- Walla Walla, Washington. Yes, Walla Walla is known for its namesake onions, but you’ll need something delicious to sip as you sauté, or with the meal. Walla Walla boasts a host of bold local reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.
- Texas Hill Country. Texans don’t do anything small, including winemaking. A bit west of Austin but north of San Antone, the Hill Country area offers charming towns with good local wine, such as Tempranillo, Mourvedre, Marsanne and a large number of other varieties.
- Traverse City, Michigan. When you think Michigan, you might think cars, or football, but wine? You better believe it. The town sits smack dab in the middle of two notable wine regions, Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula, and produces many varieties of wine, including cherry wine and Riesling.
- North Georgia Mountains. The Blue Ridge Mountains are some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country — John Denver immortalized them in his classic, “Country Roads.” And, turns out the Blue Ridge Mountains in northern Georgia are famous for their vineyards as well.
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- Grand Valley, Colorado. Colorado has glorious vistas, challenging mountains for hiking or skiing, and the wines to top off this physical exertion. Cliffs and mesas make a breathtaking backdrop as you sip Viognier, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and other local vintages.
- Southern Arizona. It’s got the Grand Canyon, desert landscapes, starry night skies, and … wine? Yes. Known as the “Napa-zona,” the Tucson area is home to some delicious Sauvignon Blanc and Malbec.
- Vermont. Skiing, of course, but the Green Mountain state is also home to many local vintners. Maybe that’s why so many cars have those “Lovermont” stickers.
Fine wine is a part of our national heritage, and wherever you travel in the U.S., you’re likely to find some excellent vintage to round out your visit.