The USA has produced some fantastic wines over the years. Reflecting the diversity and scale of the country, the USA has a multitude of different wine regions. Practically all of the US states now produce wine although production is centred around the western states.

California is one of the top wine producing regions in the world. The weather in California is highly conducive to good quality wine which means it is hardly surprising that California makes up 90% of the US's wine production. This has been a wine producing region for over 100 years, giving it plenty of time to find the wine making techniques that best suit the environment. The main varieties of wine planted in California are Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. These varieties flourish in the Californian climate and soil type.

Many sparkling wine styles are also made in California. Indeed, California, in itself, is an extremely diverse state in terms of wine making. The climate and soil type within the region varies widely, resulting in some very different wines. Regions close to the coast that have a cooler micro climate are better suited to grapes such as Pinot Noir whilst areas further inland tend to produce quality Cabernet Sauvignon.

California is also extremely big on wine tasting tourism. Thousands organise their USA travel insurance and flock to California to enjoy the summer sun, unique lifestyle and taste the superb selection of wines. California wine is not typically mass produced. Rather, the state is home to many small wineries that are often family owned which adds further appeal for the wine tourist. Many wineries are happy to give you a tour around the vineyards and let you sample their best wines. If you are going on a wine tasting trip, make sure you have suitable USA travel insurance as not all policies will cover the States.

Washington is another top wine region in the USA. It is a relative newcomer to the business of wine, having begun production in the 1970's. Grapes are only grown in certain areas of the state and there are very few vineyards in western areas. Vineyards are mostly found to the east where they are protected from precipitation by the Cascade mountain range which acts as a barrier and rain shield. The latitude of the state also means that it receives 17 hours of sunshine a day in the growing season which is conducive to quality wine making. The region produces a wide range of grape varieties, including Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Reisling.

Oregon is another state of note, known for producing top quality wine. Much like Washington, the state's wine industry is still fairly young, planting having first begun in the 1960's. Wineries are relatively traditional here; they are mostly small and family-run making them appealing to wine tourists. The climate is relatively cool and the growing season long. In particular, this makes the state ideal for growing Pinot Noir. Although this is the most planted grape, others do get a look in. Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Blanc are all grown in Oregon amongst other grape varieties that thrive in cooler conditions.

When thinking of top wine regions in the USA, New York does not automatically come to mind. Yet New York is actually one of the top five wine producers in the country. NY is home to many small family run wineries that are extremely popular both in the local community and further afield. Most of the grapes grown in New York are native, the majority being Concord. However, in recent years, grapes such as Chardonnay and Reisling have become increasingly popular here. Many people incorporate a trip to the city of New York with some wine tourism. This provides a contrast with the hustle and bustle of city life and is a great way in which to extend your trip by a couple of days and experience the diversity of the state. Make sure you remember to organise USA travel insurance as crowds in the city itself pose the risk of pickpockets.

The USA is a diverse country which is reflected in the wine it produces. Although many parts of the USA are not traditionally known for their wines, the country is now producing some of the best in the world. With so many vineyards in the US being small and family owned, this makes them ideal for wine tourism. Many more people are now incorporating some wine tasting in a traditional vineyard into their trip to America. So book your flights, organise your USA travel insurance and get ready for an adventure!