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🍂 Sip smarter: off-season wine trips

Published 2 months ago • 2 min read

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Hi Reader,

Here’s a little secret: Some of the best wine trips happen after the crowds head home.

Instead of being rushed through flights or competing for a patio table, you can actually take your time, chat with winemakers, and soak it all in.

✨ Honestly, that’s when wine country feels most special. ✨

Here are five destinations that shine when you skip the peak season.

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🍇 Dry Creek Valley, California​
Sonoma is a magnet for summer crowds. Come in the shoulder season for tastings that feel more personal and Zinfandel that still shines.
👉 Dry Creek Valley Wineries Guide​

🏛️ Florence, Italy​
Florence in July can feel like standing in a pizza oven. Travel outside peak and you’ll find cooler weather and shorter lines at this city’s famous wine windows.
👉 Florence Wine Windows Guide​

🤠 Fredericksburg, Texas​
This Hill Country favorite is scorching in summer and slammed on weekends. But winter brings more relaxed tastings and plenty of room to explore Main Street.
👉 Fredericksburg Wineries Guide​
👉 Texas Hill Country Itinerary​

🏝️ Santorini, Greece​
In summer, Santorini is wall-to-wall tourists. Visit in the shoulder season, and you’ll have space to actually enjoy those caldera views with a glass of Assyrtiko in hand.
👉 Santorini Wineries Guide​

🌻 Solvang, California​
This Danish-style town is packed with tourists in summer. Visit during quieter months and you’ll find calmer tasting rooms and pleasant weather for biking between nearby vineyards.
👉 Solvang Wineries Guide​
👉 Solvang Itinerary​

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Skipping the busiest months means more time for what really matters: good wine, great views, and a little breathing room.

Cheers,

Laura

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🎟️

Events I'm Eyeing

Texas Hill Country Christmas wine affair passport​

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Stays I'm Loving

​This wine-themed boutique hotel in Solvang

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Wine Finds I'm Eyeing

Water & Wines hand-drawn Italy wine puzzle​

Recommendations may be affiliate links on which I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I love and think you’ll love too!

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P.O. Box 44, Pinehurst, MA 01866
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Wine Travelista

Laura Danforth - WSET Level 3, American Wine Expert

Hi! I'm Laura, your go-to source for all things wine and wanderlust. Whether you're a wine newbie or a seasoned pro, I'm here to help you experience the same joy and education that wine country travel has brought me. From wine travel basics to wine region guides to done-for-you itineraries, I make planning a wine tasting trip simple…and fun!

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