California wine country expands beyond Napa as new regions attract visitors

Travelers seeking a different side of California wine country are finding new destinations beyond the well-known Napa Valley. Across the state, several lesser-known regions are drawing attention for their unique wines, scenic landscapes, and more intimate tasting experiences. These areas offer visitors a chance to explore California’s diverse wine culture without the crowds often found in more famous locales.

In Lodi, located about 90 miles east of San Francisco, cool winds from the bay create ideal conditions for grape growing. Historically known for its Flame Tokay table grapes, Lodi shifted focus in the 1980s to wine grape production as market demands changed. Today, Lodi produces around 20 percent of California’s wine grapes, surpassing both Napa and Sonoma. The town’s downtown area features landmarks like the Lodi Arch and murals such as “Cycles of Suffrage,” which honors the 19th Amendment. Visitors can join free walking tours led by local docent Alane Dashner to learn about Lodi’s history before boarding the Lodi Wine Trolley for tastings at local wineries. At Calivines Winery & Olive Mill, guests can enjoy olive oil and wine pairings on a shaded patio.

The Livermore Valley, just 45 minutes east of San Francisco, is one of America’s oldest wine regions, with roots dating back to 1883. Founders Carl H. Wente and James Concannon established the area’s first commercial wineries, setting a tradition that continues today. Livermore Valley is recognized for its community of female winery owners and winemakers who foster innovation and collaboration. The region is also focused on sustainability, with vineyards reducing chemical use and employing water-saving techniques like drip irrigation. Sheep graze in off-seasons to minimize tractor use. Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc have been designated as signature varietals due to their resilience and historical significance in the area.

Southern California’s Temecula Valley sits between Los Angeles and San Diego. Despite its southern location, the region experiences cool mornings and nights that help grapes retain freshness while developing flavor. Temecula wineries are known for their experimental approach; at Bottaia Winery, visitors can blend their own bottles in a hands-on lab. Many producers make small batches available only onsite, such as Wilson Creek Winery’s award-winning Viognier or their popular almond sparkling wine. For a unique perspective on the vineyards, sunrise hot air balloon rides are available.

The Santa Ynez Valley on California’s Central Coast gained fame from the film “Sideways.” The valley’s east-west mountain orientation channels cool Pacific air inland, creating favorable conditions for chardonnay and pinot noir grapes. The region is made up of six small towns with a relaxed farming atmosphere. At Fess Parker Winery, guests can ride horseback through vineyards before sampling wines on an outdoor patio with panoramic views. Nearby Solvang offers Danish pastries at Olsen’s Danish Village Bakery and horse-drawn trolley rides through town. Clairmont Farms invites visitors to stroll through lavender fields and shop for lavender-infused products.

In the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA, nearly 300 small growers operate between ocean and forest. Most wineries here are family-owned with limited distribution, offering a personal touch in their tasting rooms. At Burrell School Vineyards in Los Gatos, guests can sip chardonnay or cabernet franc on a veranda overlooking the vines—dogs are welcome too. Cooper-Garrod Vineyards in Saratoga features resident horses and live music on its garden patio alongside wine tastings. For those seeking a coastal experience, Chardonnay Sailing Charters offers wine cruises on Monterey Bay featuring local wines, pizza, and sunset views over the Pacific.

These regions provide alternatives to California’s most famous wine destinations by offering tailored experiences rooted in local history and innovation. Visitors can expect fewer crowds, direct interaction with winemakers, and opportunities to discover wines that rarely leave their home regions.