When thinking of wineries and wine tours, most American travelers think of California. However, almost every state has a wine producing culture. Wherever there is a picturesque, rolling terrain with rich soil and great sunshine, there vineyards. In addition to California, some great western wines come from Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Wyoming, Kansas, Oklahoma,and Colorado.

Also there are wineries and wine tours in South Dakota, North Dakota, Tennessee, Alabama, Florida, and Arizona.

Imagine eating some delicious cheeses while sipping a rich local wine and viewing the sunset over the Rocky Mountains in the middle of a vineyard. Because the various types of grapes thrive in different climates, wine aficionados and tourist can find southern wines in Texas, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Steaming crawfish go well with local Louisiana wines. Michigan, a northern state, is becoming famous for its wines, wine tours, and wine tastings at any season; however, mixing a wine tour with an autumn leaf tour is especially pleasant. Other northern states, which have interesting wines, are Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. Indiana in the central region, and Illinois around the historic city of Galena, also have locally produced wine. The states of Virginia, Delaware, and Maryland have climates very conducive to wine producing.

Before planning a trip to most states, think about visiting their vineyards and tasting the wines for a pleasant interlude.