The Best Wineries in North America

Napa Valley

Opus One in Oakville makes Bordeaux-style blends, Opus One and Overture, both from Cabernet-based grapes. Its visits pair a seated tasting of several vintages with a tour of the cellars and vineyards. Caymus Vineyards in Rutherford grows its Cabernet Sauvignon on valley floor and mountain vineyards, and pours in shaded gardens, the barrel room or on the veranda. Davis Estates in Calistoga sits on a mountainside and makes Cabernet Sauvignon and blends, with caves to tour. HALL St. Helena stands on the Bergfeld vineyard at the foot of the Mayacamas Mountains, and V. Sattui in St. Helena has Tuscan-style grounds with picnic areas under oak and walnut trees.

Virginia

Barboursville Vineyards occupies a 900-acre estate near Barboursville in the Piedmont, making Octagon, Viognier and Riesling, along with some Italian varietals. Chateau Morrisette in Floyd lies on the Blue Ridge Parkway and makes Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and fruit wines. Pearmund Cellars in Broad Run makes Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Viognier. King Family Vineyards near Crozet has its own vineyards and a polo field, and its tasting room has a fireplace.

Wineries on lakes

Silver Springs Winery sits on Route 414 in Burdett, near Seneca Lake, and is known for its Rieslings. Johnson Estate Winery in Westfield, in Western New York, grows its own grapes for dry and sweet wines. Atlantis Niagara Winery in Lincoln lies on the Niagara Peninsula by Lake Ontario and makes ice wines without added sugar. Pillitteri Estates in Niagara-on-the-Lake is known for its ice wines. Quails' Gate Winery stands on a slope above Okanagan Lake in West Kelowna, with vineyards running down toward the water.