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, 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. 🍇 Dry Creek Valley, CaliforniaSonoma is a magnet for summer crowds. Come in the shoulder season for tastings that feel more...

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...