🗓️ When should you visit wine country?


Hi Reader,

Quick story: I once planned a wine trip for late October thinking, “Perfect timing. Fall vibes…harvest energy…a little wine-fueled exploring!” 🍁🍷

Except…I got there and it was basically a ghost town. Tours weren’t running. Finding an open restaurant was a whole adventure.

And all but ONE winery was closed. A few even told me they had run out of wine for the year. I’m sorry… what?? 🤯

That’s why timing matters almost as much as where you go.

So, I’m breaking down what each season offers (plus a few insider tips) to help you plan the kind of wine trip you actually want. ✨


🌸 Spring

Spring is often a quieter time in wine country, which means tastings can feel more relaxed and less rushed.

Pros: Fewer crowds, better availability for reservations, and more time with tasting room staff.
Cons: Weather can be unpredictable. And early spring can look a little bare, so you may not get those green vineyard views.
Insider tip: Wineries may still be on limited schedules, so double-check days/hours before you build your itinerary.


☀️ Summer

Summer is peak outdoor sipping season, especially if you love pairing tastings with warm-weather activities.

Pros: Reliable weather in many regions, long days, winery events, and easy add-ons like hiking, lake days, or beach time.
Cons: Peak pricing + peak crowds, making reservations a must. Mid-day tastings can also be uncomfortably warm.
Insider tip: If you’re visiting in summer, booking the first tasting of the day is the ultimate cheat code for less heat and fewer people.


🍂 Fall

Fall is the iconic wine season and the best time to get that classic wine country experience.

Pros: Gorgeous scenery, harvest buzz, and the chance to see winemaking in action.
Cons: Harvest means staff can be stretched thin. It’s also one of the busiest (and most expensive) times to visit.
Insider tip: If your goal is grapes-on-the-vine photos, late summer into early fall is usually your best window.


❄️ Winter

Winter can be a surprisingly great time for wine country, especially if you want value and a more personal experience.

Pros: Fewer crowds, better deals, and tastings that can feel almost private.
Cons: Some regions reduce hours significantly or shut down for the season. Weather can also limit outdoor plans.
Insider tip: Choose regions with a strong town hub. Think walkable tasting rooms, restaurants, and maybe even a spa.


One last tip: Seasons flip between hemispheres, and harvest timing varies a lot by region. So “fall in wine country” can mean totally different things depending on where you go.

Hope this helps you pick the perfect season for your next wine trip.

Cheers,

Laura

🌎

Destinations I'm Loving

This wine region for spring wildflowers.

⚙️

Travel Tools I'm Testing

A weather tool to check temps by month.

📈

Trends I'm Following

Google Maps tools to avoid peak times.

P.O. Box 44, Pinehurst, MA 01866
Unsubscribe · Preferences

Wine Travelista

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!

Read more from Wine Travelista

Hi Reader, Did you know Europe’s sunniest island is also a wine destination? It’s called Hvar, and it sits off the coast of Croatia in the Adriatic Sea. It’s super easy to reach from the city of Split. Just a quick ferry ride and you can be soaking in this view. 🤩 If you’ve heard of Hvar, you might know it best for beaches, boating, and blooming lavender…but I’m here to report that the wineries are worth the trip too. The island is best known for indigenous grapes like Plavac Mali. A...

Hi Reader, Happy New Year! 🍾✨ There’s something about a fresh calendar that makes everything feel possible again. New goals. 🎯New ideas. 💡New places to explore. ✈️ And if you’re already dreaming about where your next wine trip might take you, I’ve got some inspiration to get the year started. These are the wine destinations that feel a little larger than life. The ones you see in books, movies, and travel reels. The ones you say you’ll get to someday. If 2026 is finally that day, here are...

Hi Reader, This is the time of year when I start dreaming about next year’s travels. And if you’re anything like me, wine country is probably high on your list.🍷✈️ But with so many amazing regions around the world, how do you choose where to go next? I pulled together a few easy ways to narrow it down (no spreadsheet required!). Here’s how to find the wine region that fits your vibe. ☀️ Start with when you want to travel.Seasons flip between hemispheres, which means your travel month can be...