Here are three destinations that do not usually appear on the best-known wine routes -such as those in California, for example-, but that have varietals that have won medals in international competitions.
Vineyards in a 19th century village
Since its founding in 1821, Galena, located in the state of Illinois, has awed travelers looking for a bucolic destination. Modern visitors still enjoy its small downtown's 19th-century architecture, unique shops, and restaurants. Located 18 kilometers from this city, Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery offers lodging and experiences that revolve around wine. It's an ideal day trip for couples where you can tour the estate, learn about 22 types of grapes, and taste samples of 40 wines.
The farm house has been converted into a tasting room and there you can have a drink while appreciating the panorama on the terrace. Time your visit to coincide with one of the wine-related events held on the property each year. Stay in the winery suite or in the house itself to extend your visit to this award-winning vineyard that already has three generations of vintners.
Grapes and peaches in Colorado
Grand Junction is located in the scenic Grand Valley, surrounded by cliffs to the west and the Rocky Mountains to the east, with vines near the Colorado River. This area has been the state's fruit production center since the late 1800s. Currently, it produces wine, cider, beer, spirits, and lavender in agrotourism and gastronomy ventures.
Golden-hued peaches take center stage in Palisade, whose orchards produce these sweet, juicy berries that are famous the world over. Meanwhile, its vineyards offer strains such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec.
To get to Grand Junction, you can take a flight to Denver (Colorado), or Salt Lake City (Utah). From this second city you can drive four hours to get to Grand Junction. If you are departing from Denver, another option is to take a direct flight that takes 50 minutes. If you like to go by train, choose the California Zephyr route, which runs from Chicago to San Francisco and includes a stop in Grand Junction.
Burgundy in Oregon
If your idea of outdoor living is simply sipping wine with a good view, Willamette Valley wineries offer front-row seats. This valley is a world renowned wine region for its Pinot Noir. There are two airports that allow easy access through Eugene, a small Oregon city where 21 wineries are concentrated: Portland International Airport (PDX) and Eugene's Airport (EUG), the latter with connections to Portland, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Las Vegas and Denver, among others.
Once in Eugene, your first stop will be King Estate Winery, in the southern Willamette Valley. In that winery you will find vineyards, lavender fields, a tasting room and a sustainable garden that supplies the restaurant on site. Then, visit the historic city of Dayton, which is surrounded by a welcoming group of vintners. At Stoller Family Estate, you can sit in the sun in the tasting room and relax with views of the vineyards below. Located on the hillside, Domaine Drouhin is the ideal place to find burgundy. Complete your tour at Sokol Blosser, a LEED-certified winery housed in a modern farmhouse and where you can find some of the best whites and reds. Try the chardonnay aged in French oak barrels.