On this National Drink Wine Day, escape to Lehigh Valley where you can enjoy delicious offerings from over 30 local wineries and vineyards. This premiere wine destination in Pennsylvania is a must-visit for wine lovers everywhere. Here are a few reasons why Lehigh Valley is the perfect place to pour a glass and relax.
Lehigh Valley is a American Viticultural Area (AVA)
The soil in Lehigh Valley makes it a special place to grow wine grapes. There are only about 230 AVAs in the nation, and all must adhere to strict regulations. In order for a winery to label itself as a member of an American Viticultural Area, at least 85% of the grapes used must be grown within the demographic region laid out by the AVA. What does that mean? You’re truly getting local products when you visit the wineries of Lehigh Valley. Comprised of 10 wineries, the Lehigh Valley AVA was established in 2008, with over 1.2 million acres (230+ planted acres). Just a few of the wineries of the AVA are: Black River Farms WInery, Clover Hill Vineyards & WInery, Folino Estate, Franklin Hill Vineyards, Galen Glen Winery, M&M Vineyards, Setter Ridge Vineyard, Tolino Vineyards, Vyncrest Vineyards, and many more.
Fun Fact: Between 15–20% of the wine produced in Pennsylvania is made from grapes grown in the Lehigh Valley AVA.
Chambourcin
The official grape of the LVWT, the Chambourcin (pronounced ‘SHAM-boar-sin) grape is primarily grown in cooler climates in North America. In Lehigh Valley alone, there are more than 40 acres of Chambourcin grapes which ferment into approximately 150,000 bottles of wine. The wineries celebrate this grape during the annual Chambourcin weekend in October.
Stunning views.
With some of the best scenery around, an onsite visit to a Lehigh Valley vineyard is a must. Take in the rows of grape vines on a warm spring day while you sample varieties of wine. Many locations even host live music and other events on the weekends.
Award-winning wine
The wines of Lehigh Valley have won a slew of Pennsylvania Governor’s Cups and other awards under the belts, these wines are truly some of the best around.
Beautiful accommodations
There is more than just wine to be enjoyed during your visit to Lehigh Valley. Book a stay at one of the region's charming B&Bs where you'll be able to cozy up by the fireplace, enjoy breakfast in bed or even relax with a massage.
Things to do along the way
While making your way between wineries, why not incorporate stops along the Lehigh Valley Covered Bridge Tour? This self-guided, fifty mile tour offers stunning views of the seven remaining covered bridges in the region.
And if wine isn't your thing, you'll still find plenty of opportunities to quench your thirst. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails at local distilleries including the Social Still, Triple Sun Spirits, and the grain-to-glass Eight Oaks Farm Distillery. For hopheads, sample your way through the Lehigh Valley Ale Trail. From Weyerbacher's Blithering Idiot to Funk Brewing Company's Citrus IPA - you're sure to find something to satisfy.
