For over 300 years, America has been producing wine. Nowadays, wine is produced in all 50 states, but it's California, Washington, Oregon and New York that are leading the way.



Touring wineries is a wonderful way to spend a lazy weekend afternoon. Not only will you discover local wines that please your palate, but you'll also learn how to swirl and sniff like a pro.

And what's more? These days, even if you don't live in a top wine-producing state, you can still find a decent bottle of vino just about anywhere in the country. Here are some of the best local wineries and vineyards coast to coast:

Castle Creek Winery in Moab, Utah
Castle Creek is Utah's first and largest commercial winery. The Outlaw Red took home a silver medal and the chardonnay and merlot wines have received the bronze in international wine competitions held in New York and California.

Unionville Vineyards in Ringoes, N.J.
Hailed as the Best New Jersey Winery, Unionville Vineyard produces some excellent award-winning vintages. The picturesque facility features a tasting area with a glass wall that gives visitors a glimpse into the wine-making operation.

Tarara Winery in Leesburg, Va.
Voted Best Winery in Loudoun County for the 12th consecutive year and named 2009's Best Northern Virginia Winery by Northern Virginia Magazine, Tarara Winery is a main attraction in Virginia wine country. Located about 45 minutes outside of D.C., Tarara is a favorite escape among Washingtonians.

Bella Vista Cellars in Wimberley, Tex.
Bella Vista Cellars is reminiscent of a true Tuscan winery. Italian varieties are a specialty as is their famous blackberry wine. While you're there, you can also visit The First Texas Olive Oil Company where fresh-pressed Texas Extra Virgin olive oil is pressed, milled and bottled right on the ranch.

Habersham Winery in Helen, Ga.
Habersham is one of Georgia's oldest and largest wineries. The award-winning vinos have been pleasing southern belles and the most discerning oenophiles for years.

Chateau Chantal in Traverse City, Mich.
Just the views at Chateau Chantal are enough to take your breath away. You'll feel like you're in the French countryside as you sip on full-bodied reds and crisp, refreshing whites. Go ahead and have a few too many glasses – you only have to stumble a couple of feet to your room at the Chateau's magnificent French-style B&B.

St. James Winery in St. James, Mo.
St. James Winery produces more than 200,000 cases of wine each year, which are distributed in 14 states. One of the most modern and well-equipped facilities in the state, the family-owned winery is consistently ranked among the best in the Midwest and has won numerous awards for nearly every blend.

More Grape Escapes
- Bike France's Loire Valley
- Put Your Name on a Bottle
- Rent a Vine, Drink the Wine
- Become a Barrel Owner