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So,
What's the Best Time of Year to Visit the Wine
Country?
California
wine country offers visitors stunning views and a
great wine experiences year-round. As a visitor,
you should pick the best time to visit depending on
how you feel about crowds or how much activity you
want to see.
December
and January
Winery activities are at a minimum and the
vineyards are dormant. The winter months are
usually very quiet and uncrowded, and are therefore
a good time to take in the wine country at a
leisurely pace. This is the best time to avoid the
crowds of the more popular wine regions.
February
through April
The vineyards begin to show signs of life,
beginning with wildflowers and culminating with new
growth on the vines. Temperatures tend to be
moderate and the clouds and occasional rain offers
the visitor a picturesque canvas.
May
through August
This is the season for the vineyards and
grapevines to be at their most magnificent. By the
end of August, grapevines are full of fruit and the
wineries are gearing up for the coming harvest.
During the summer months, wine country is usually
hot and dry, and crowds (especially during
weekends) are to be expected, especially in the
most popular regions.
September
and October
September through mid-October is grape harvest time
in California wine country and the wineries are at
their busiest time with the new harvest. The
activities draw large crowds hoping for a
first-hand look at the grape crush, however some
wineries may limit their winery tours due to the
increased activity and safety concerns.
November
Following the harvest, the grapevine leaves turn
fall colors before the vines become dormant for the
winter. Gone are the crowds of the harvest, however
weekends can still get quite busy.
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