MNN - Mother Nature Network

A trip to Napa or Sonoma can prove exciting and interesting, but there are many lesser-known winemaking regions in the U.S. outside of California. The best of these viticulture areas boast high quality wines and beautiful natural landscapes. Tourists often find that the rural setting of winemaking regions is as attractive as visiting the wineries themselves.

 

Top-notch wineries can be found in most regions of the U.S. Many of these operations, often family run, welcome tourists who want to wander the vineyards, browse through the cellars and taste the final products of the winemaker's efforts. 

 

Here are seven lesser-known American winemaking regions where visitors can enjoy some wine, witness the winemaking process and appreciate the beauty of rural America.