September and October mark harvest season in the USA, which means vineyards across the country are alive with grape picking, wine festivals, and even grape stomping traditions that feel straight out of a movie.
Beyond the tastings, you’ll get to enjoy rolling hills glowing with autumn colors and cozy vineyard dinners.
Did you know that more than 30 million people visit American wine regions every year, and fall is the busiest season of all? That makes September and October the perfect time to plan your wine escape.
If you’re planning a wine tour this season, here are the 8 best wine tasting destinations in the USA that truly shine in September and October.
Table of Contents
West Coast Favorites
1. Napa Valley, California
When people say “wine country,” Napa Valley is usually the first place that comes to mind. And fall is the best time to see why.
September and October bring the famous crush season, when grapes are harvested and winemakers are hard at work.
Visitors can take part in grape stomping, guided vineyard tours, or even enjoy the scenic Napa Valley Wine Train, which pairs luxury dining with endless vineyard views.
Cabernet Sauvignon is the star grape here during harvest, and tasting it fresh from barrel samples is a treat.
🍇 Why Visit in Fall: Perfect mix of world-class wines, harvest activities, and golden vineyard landscapes.
📍 Insider Tip: Book tastings well in advance — fall weekends here get sold out quickly.
2. Sonoma County, California
Right next to Napa, Sonoma offers a slightly more laid-back vibe but with equally impressive wines.
Known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this region also celebrates harvest with food and wine festivals like the Sonoma Harvest Fair, which combines grape stomps, wine tastings, and local cuisine.
🍇 Why Visit in Fall: Harvest festivals and fewer crowds than Napa.
3. Paso Robles, California
Paso Robles is one of California’s most exciting wine regions, especially in fall. This Central Coast gem is known for bold reds like Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon.
October is particularly special because the region hosts Harvest Wine Month, a series of events including winemaker dinners, vineyard tours, and live music.
Unlike Napa and Sonoma, Paso offers a more intimate wine tasting experience with fewer tourists and a cozy small-town charm.
Visitors can also explore nearby hot springs and olive oil farms, adding a rustic touch to their trip.
🍇 Why Visit in Fall: Harvest Wine Month makes October unforgettable.
📍 Insider Tip: Pair your wine tour with a dip in the local hot springs — a unique way to relax after tastings.
Pacific Northwest Gems
4. Willamette Valley, Oregon
Oregon’s Willamette Valley is Pinot Noir paradise, and fall is the season when the region truly shines.
September and October bring harvest dinners, scenic drives through colorful vineyards, and cozy tasting rooms where you can sip world-class Pinot while looking out at the Cascade Mountains.
The crisp autumn air and vibrant foliage make this one of the most photogenic wine regions in the country.
Beyond wine, you can combine your trip with a scenic drive to the Oregon Coast or waterfalls in Silver Falls State Park for a fuller experience.
🍇 Why Visit in Fall: Fall colors and Pinot Noir tastings in their prime.
🥂 Insider Tip: Many smaller wineries are family-run — don’t skip them, as they often offer personal stories along with tastings.
5. Walla Walla Valley, Washington
Walla Walla may not be as famous as Napa, but it’s a rising star in the wine world. Fall brings Fall Release Weekend, when wineries unveil their newest vintages.
The rolling wheat fields turning golden against vineyard backdrops create a picture-perfect setting.
Known for Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, this region is ideal for those who love boutique wineries and a slower pace.
Travelers can also spend time in the historic downtown filled with art galleries, restaurants, and local shops to round out their trip.
🍇 Why Visit in Fall: Taste wines at their debut during Fall Release Weekend.
📍 Insider Tip: Downtown Walla Walla has tasting rooms within walking distance, perfect for a no-driving tasting day.
East Coast Classics
6. Finger Lakes, New York
If Riesling is your wine of choice, the Finger Lakes region is your dream destination. The cool climate here produces some of the best Rieslings in the world.
September and October also bring wine trails and harvest festivals, making it the perfect blend of nature and flavor.
Many festivals, such as the Finger Lakes Wine Festival, feature local food pairings like artisanal cheeses and farm-fresh produce that elevate the experience.
🍇 Why Visit in Fall: Riesling tastings with lakeside fall foliage views.
🥂 Insider Tip: Don’t miss a boat cruise on Seneca Lake to see the vineyards from the water.
7. Texas Hill Country, Texas
Texas may not be the first place you think of for wine, but the Hill Country has become a serious player.
September and October are warm but comfortable, and vineyards here celebrate with wine festivals and tastings of unique blends.
The rolling hills dotted with wineries create a rustic but elegant wine country vibe.
Beyond wine, visitors can enjoy local BBQ joints, German heritage towns like Fredericksburg, and scenic wildflower drives, making it a well-rounded getaway.
🍇 Why Visit in Fall: Wine festivals paired with Texas charm.
📍 Insider Tip: Try the Tempranillo — it has become Texas’ signature grape.
8. Hudson Valley, New York
The Hudson Valley is one of America’s oldest wine regions, and it feels especially magical in fall. Vineyards stretch along the Hudson River, framed by fiery autumn colors.
Beyond wine, the valley is known for its farm-to-table scene, so you can pair tastings with local cheeses, breads, and seasonal dishes.
It’s an easy escape from New York City but feels worlds away. With October comes the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival, making it an even more flavorful trip.
🍇 Why Visit in Fall: Rich history, autumn foliage, and local food pairings.
🥂 Insider Tip: Many wineries here have live music events during fall weekends — check schedules before you go.
Conclusion
Wine tasting in the USA reaches its peak charm in September and October. From Napa’s luxury vineyards to Oregon’s cozy valleys and New York’s lakeside wineries, each destination offers something unique.
Read More: 10 Best Berry Picking Spots in the USA This Fall
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