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By: Joan Tupponce
As you wind your way through the countryside this fall, take a flavorful detour and slip into one of the region's many wineries. The popularity of wine-focused travel is rising as more and more people opt for wine and culinary experiences that can be savored and enjoyed. Wine-related adventures are intimate and educational. Cozy tasting rooms allow you to sample different varieties of wine and choose the one that suits your palate. Winery tours give you the opportunity to uncork the mystique that surrounds wine as you learn the process of winemaking. While it may be a new adventure for some vacationers, the art of winemaking in states along the East Coast dates back centuries. New York's Hudson Valley is touted as being the oldest wine-producing region in the country. Wineries in the eastern sector of the country produce a variety of award winning vintages, from Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays to Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots. When you combine award-winning wines with fall's spectacular scenery, you have the makings of a great weekend getaway. Many of Pennsylvania's 100-plus wineries are located off of the state's scenic highways and byways. If you're planning a wine-related vacation, do your research before you start your journey. Several states have wine trails that offer days of exploration and hours of wine tastings. The Seneca Lake Wine Trail in New York, for example, is New York's largest wine trail. The states of Virginia and North Carolina have been singled out as favorite wine travel destinations. Wine tastings aren't the only events hosted by wineries. Some wineries provide a hands-on approach to learning by offering a make-your-own-wine class. Other activities include harvest celebrations, classes, tours, educational seminars and festivals. Each year the state of Maryland salutes its wine industry with the annual Maryland Wine Festival. Wineries also offer culinary experiences. So look for a winery that also has a restaurant. Great food and great wine. What could be better? |