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Articles Wine Trails: New Wine Travel Options
Articles Wine Trails: New Wine Travel Options | Wine Trails: New Wine Travel Options |
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| Written by Jim Hofman | |
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With over 6000 wineries, the U.S. has a wide array of choices for wine lovers. While most people think of traditional wine producing states like California when making their choice, more people are discovering award winning wines from other states not typically associated with wine production. If you've ever visited a small independent winery, chances are you've tasted a wine that you'd like to enjoy again. Now, with wine shipping laws loosening somewhat, the consumer has more choice than ever.
With over 6000 wineries, the U.S. has a wide array of choices for wine lovers. While most people think of traditional wine producing states like California when making their choice, more people are discovering award winning wines from other states not typically associated with wine production. If you've ever visited a small independent winery, chances are you've tasted a wine that you'd like to enjoy again. Now, with wine shipping laws loosening somewhat, the consumer has more choice than ever. All of this is very good news for the wine industry, and wine lovers. Wine travel has become a passionate hobby, growing in popularity with each passing year. It used to be that wine travel revolved around California or France or Australia. And while those journeys are educational and rewarding, wine lovers are discovering equally rewarding wine destinations much closer to home. As of 2008, each of the 50 states have at least one winery, and most states have dozens. Ideal climate conditions for growing grapes vary across the country, largely dependent on the type of grape being grown. Certain hardy varieties grow very well in the short growing seasons of the northeast and upper Midwest, while muscadines, among others, are plentiful in the south. The wide varieties of grapes result in an ever expanding availability of new, flavorful wines. Many states have certain geographical areas with regional subclimates that are perfect for grapes. As a result, wineries tend to establish their operations in these areas. These clusters of wineries are known as wine trails. From Connecticut to Michigan and from Georgia to Idaho, these wine trails are waiting to be visited and savored by weekend travelers and wine lovers alike. Currently, 31 states have officially designated wine trails, and many of these states offer multiple wine trails. These clusters of wineries are almost always within short driving distance of one another and offer lodging and other attractions of interest along the way. Most offer beautiful scenery and an environment perfect for lingering. Wine tasting abounds, along with opportunities to learn about food and wine pairings. Some of the states with wine trails might surprise you. For example, designated wine trails can be found in such diverse states as North Carolina, Indiana, and Arizona. Cold climate or warm climate - it matters not! Great wine is being produced from Connecticut to Tennessee to Idaho and just about everywhere in between. There's a whole world of wine waiting to be discovered, right in your backyard. One of the most interesting aspects of discovering new wine areas is the subtle taste differences in similar styles. For example, a port wine produced with Ohio grapes will have a different taste and feel than a port from Arizona. Each offer subtle differences that will open your palate to greater wine knowledge and exploration. Finally, discovering a wine trail is an activity the whole family can enjoy. Many wineries have U-Pick fruit orchards and offer family oriented entertainment on the premises. Young children and teens will enjoy the scenery and the shopping experience at winery tasting rooms and gift shops. The fresh air, local attractions, and relaxing pace will create memories that will last a lifetime! About the Author: Jim Hofman is an author specializing in wine travel and is the owner of several websites dedicated to the enjoyment of wine. Would you like to learn more about great wines being made in all 50 states? Visit Jim's resource site dedicated to wine trails and the pleasure of U.S. wine travel. Click here to get your own unique version of this article with free reprint rights. |
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