• Introduction
• 1. Andalucía
• 2. Cape Winelands
• 3. California
• 4. Hunter Valley
• 5. Loire Valley
• 6. Mendoza
• 7. Niagara
• 8. Oregon
• 9. Porto
• 10. Tuscany

California

Northern California’s neighboring Napa and Sonoma valleys, situated just north of San Francisco, have astounded in-the-know grape tasters the world over with the consistent quality and diverse appellations turned out by the more than 200 wineries that operate in each of these two wine country regions. The largest wine-producing area in the U.S., wine-tasting tourism in Napa and Sonoma has exploded in recent years, having been particularly bolstered by the release of the popular film Sideways (2004), which showcased California's Santa Barbara Wine Country. The appeal is obvious – small, family-owned, boutique wineries are neatly tucked away in the scenic rolling vineyards – discovered only by curious visitors who come for sampling of their sublimely flavored vintages. A series of quaint towns feature eclectic shops, haute-cuisine restaurants, superb spas, and charming inns, providing welcomed diversions for travelers in between grape tastes. Don’t miss out on the quintessential local activity of hot-air ballooning – offering an opportunity to appreciate the valleys’ fresh country air, romantic lifestyle, and extraordinary scenery in all of its glory.

See Boston Travel Guide | See New Orleans Travel Guide | See San Juan Travel Guide | See Quebec City Travel Guide | See Santiago Travel Guide | See San Miguel de Allende Travel Guide