While most people turn to France and Italy when they think of incredible wine regions, there are plenty right here in the US.
And we don't mean Napa and Sonoma.
While those are great, ditch the crowds they draw and check out the many other incredible wine growing regions dispersed throughout the country.
James Tidwell, Master Sommelier at the Four Seasons Resort in Dallas, Texas, revealed some of the most underhyped, up-and-coming wine regions in the country.
From the sparkling wines of New Mexico to the signature Rieslings made in upstate New York, here are Tidwell's favorite US wine regions.
Texas Hill Country, Texas
While Texas officially has eight recognized wine growing regions, Tidwell believes there are two standout areas — one of which is Texas Hill Country.
As a Texas resident himself, Tidwell is proud of the world-class wines the area produces. "[The state] is making great wine, mostly from grape varieties you would find in places like Spain, southern France, and Italy," he said.
In fact, Texas Hill Country sits on nine million acres, stretching across 25 counties. The Lone Star state is said to be one of the fastest-growing wine regions in the country, and the area itself has become one of the fastest growing tourist destinations.
Texas High Plains, Texas
Mostly below the Panhandle area of the state, this region has a lofty elevation and low annual precipitation, making it the ideal climate to grow sweeter grapes.
Local varietals include Merlot, Malbec, and Montepulciano.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
According to Tidwell, New Mexico produces "some amazing sparkling wines that are very well known among sommeliers."
One winery he loves in particular is the Gruet Winery, a family-owned winery that specializes in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay-based sparkling wines, as well as a number of non-carbonated wines.
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