America has a fantastic wine scene, which may come as a surprise to some. But not to Kayla Widmer, who we welcome to RealFoodTraveler.com with her recommendations for the best US food and wine tours in an RV.
What’s better than food and wine tours? Food and wine tours in an RV!
Did you know that throughout the United States there are beautiful wine countries? From California to New York, there are some amazing wineries and vineyards nestled in parts unknown! And there’s no better way to get from one winery to another than by taking an RV.
Renting an RV allows you to visit one winery or many! You get all the comforts of home and renting an RV costs a fraction of the price of staying in a hotel or resort! Now let’s dive in.
Best US Food & Wine Tours You Can Take In An RV
While there are so many wine countries to visit, here is a list of my favorites. Many are off the beaten path and not as well known as Napa Valley and Sonoma in California.
Temecula’s De Portola Wine Trail nestled away in Temecula Valley is in the more rural, equestrian side. This particular stretch was picked because one of my favorite wineries is actually located along this route.
Get a jump on your journey at the Cougar Vineyard & Winery. The family that owns this winery really cares about their wine and is very knowledgeable. They specialize in Estate Italian varietals and you can sample their Primitivo, Pinot Grigio, and The Full Monte (pulciano).
Down the road is Danza del Sol Winery. This Italian-countryside inspired winery is both dog and horse friendly. You can delight in a glass of Chardonnay Reserve, Viognier, Tres Rose, Tempranillo, and Merlot inside or on the patio.
My personal favorite—Fazeli Cellars—is next. From anywhere in the winery, you can see a spectacular view of the valley. The Fazeli family started this winery in 2001. They specialize in Hafez, Saadi, and grape Shiraz. The Shiraz is absolutely amazing!
When you are ready to wrap up your day, set up camp at the Pala Casino RV Resort. It’s a short drive away and with it being connected to a casino, you can gamble or take advantage of their buffet.
2. Augusta, Missouri
When people think “wine country,” they might not think of the Midwest. A gorgeous area that offers outstanding wine is Augusta, Missouri. Tucked away in the trees, this hidden gem is perfect for a relaxing RV wine tour.
Our first stop is Chandler Hill Vineyards. Recommended by renowned sommeliers, it is sure to exceed your expectations! Their wine list changes from time to time depending on their available selection, but they offer Rosé, Norton Port, Chardonnay, Cask, and more.
Next up on our list, Montelle Winery. When visiting Montelle, you can sample up to five wines of your choice in the tasting room or you can reserve a sunset dinner and set up your own pairing. This award-winning winery is well worth the trip.
Wrap up your day at Augusta Winery. Like Montelle, you can taste up to five wines in the tasting room and get a souvenir glass. Another perk? You can enjoy live music, a drink, and some food in the wine and beer garden!
Ready to relax? Stay at Pin Oak Creek RV Park for some much-needed rest.
3. Texas Hill Country
When you think of wine country, does the Texas Hill Country come to mind? For most, it doesn’t! But there are plenty of amazing places for your inner wine lover to visit.
One of the most recommended spots to visit is Becker Vineyards. The estate has 56 acres of vineyards and so much more. There are two tasting rooms where you can sample up to six different wines.
Make a stop at 1851 Vineyards. This place is great because it offers different tours that take you behind the scenes and include a tasting, rom production to the estate and all-inclusive tours. After a tour, don’t forget to stop by their shop and grab a bottle of wine. They have a large selection to choose from!
Our final destination in the Hill Country is Chisholm Trail Winery. Chisholm offers its own signature wines that can be sampled in the tasting room. You can sample three or five choices. When you are done with your tasting, they have their own pizzeria so you can have dinner after all that wine!
Ready to catch some shut-eye? Why not stay at Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park Campground?
4. Finger Lakes, New York
Let’s take a trip to the Northeast for some great wine choices!
Ready to start your northern wine adventure? Let’s start with Glenora Wine Cellars. They are currently offering a food and wine pairing experience a cellar tour and a food and wine pairing. They even throw in a souvenir glass.
Swing by Fulkerson Winery for your next wine experience. One of my favorite parts about visiting here is they offer a vineyard tour and tasting. You get to learn about the vineyards, how they grow the grapes, and the different methods they use in winemaking.
Where to next? Head on over to Pleasant Valley Wine Company. A huge perk is that wine tasting is free and they offer guided tours. They offer a large selection and I love the try before you buy idea.
Tired from a long day of drinking? Get a good night’s rest at Tamarack Campground.
5. Willamette Valley, Oregon
Let’s travel to the other end of the country and explore the Pacific Northwest.
When I hear Argyle Winery, I automatically think “sophisticated.” With its modern interior and large outdoor area, this winery doesn’t disappoint. They offer three different tasting flights: the POP flight, the Red Diamond flight, and the Tasting House flight. My personal favorite is the POP, a selection of sparkling wines.
Second, on our Oregon must-sees is Soter Vineyards. Their philosophy of sustainability and farming their wine make them unique. They place so much care into the work that they create. They offer a classic wine tasting and a provisions tasting (fancy way of saying “pairings”).
End your day at Ruby Vineyard. This amazing vineyard is family owned and operated, with their story beginning as early as 1843. While visiting, they offer a flight of six wines for you to try. Be sure to bring your kids and your dog because they are child and pet-friendly!
Need to sleep off your buzz? Book a spot at Willamette Wine Country RV Park.
How to Find An RV Rental For Your Wine Tour
Now that you know about my favorite wine tours, you’ll need an RV to visit them!
If you don’t own an RV, don’t worry—you can easily rent one online. Just pick an RV rental company (we recommend Outdoorsy due to their excellent customer service and a great variety of options) and start browsing their rentals. (Note: Some of the links in that article are affiliate links, which means we receive a small commission if you book a rental from them. This doesn’t cost you anything extra.)
Here’s how it’s done:
- Enter the date range and location for your rental.
- Set the Rating to 5-Stars (see screenshot below). Refine your search based on price, vehicle type, specific amenities, etc..
The cost of renting an RV varies depending on which type you get, age, and rental location. I recommend either a Class C if you’re looking for a decent amount of space or a Class B or camper van if you prefer better MPG and don’t mind a smaller living area.
Parting Advice On United States RV Wine Tours
When renting an RV, look for those with the best reviews that are closest to the area you want to stay in it (to avoid having to drive these gas guzzlers longer than you need to). Don’t forget you can always fly to whichever wine country you’re planning on attending, then get an RV rental in that area!
I also recommend getting Damage Protection on your rental. It just takes one bump of a wine glass to stain the carpet and cost you extra! Damage Protection is roughly 6.5% extra, but it’s worth it.
For more RV rental tips, check out our guide on what you should know before renting an RV. And if you’re going on an RV adventure, let us know in the comments! — Story by Kayla Widmer
Bonus: Get some more RV Travel Road Trip advice from the experts in this article by US Auto Authority.
Hungry for more? Take your RV’ing to the resort level at this New Mexico spot, or this one just outside of Savannah. And don’t forget to take the Superbag, made especially for RV’s.
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