Hi Reader, I finally made it back to Sonoma this summer. And it felt so good to return to one of the regions that made me fall in love with wine travel. I was there with a great group of fellow wine writers for a deep-dive tour focused on all things Sonoma (aka wine nerd heaven 🤓). Between panel tastings with legendary winemakers and talks on everything from subregions to soil types, let’s just say I learned a lot. And I came home with a whole new appreciation for the region. Let’s Talk Dry...

Hi Reader, Let’s be real. Wine country trips can add up fast. Between tasting fees, bottles you just have to bring home, and maybe a cheese plate (or three), your budget can disappear faster than a chilled rosé on a hot day. You might know the usual money-savers like tasting passports or case discounts. But today, I'm spilling some of the lesser-known ones I’ve learned after years of visiting wine regions. 🏨 Check Hotel Perks FirstBefore you even start mapping out tastings, ask your hotel if...

Hi Reader, I don’t know about you, but I’ve definitely felt the pinch of higher travel costs lately. 💸 The good news is that a wine vacation doesn’t have to be expensive. I’ve found plenty of destinations where the pours are generous, the tasting fees don’t make you cringe, and the vibe is refreshingly down-to-earth. These spots may not have the same name recognition as Napa or Bordeaux, but they’re proof you can sip well without overspending. 🌊 New Buffalo, MichiganThe Lake Michigan Shore...