"Tonight's forecast? 

A 99% Chance of Wine."

SUMMER COCKTAIL OF THE WEEK: 
Tequila Sangria

Tequila Sangria

Take a little sip of sunshine with this sweet, fruity ensemble courtesy of the Cooking Channel!

There are hundreds of vineyards covering the vast country that is the United States of America and wouldn't it be nice if we could visit every single one of them?

Unfortunately, many of our busy schedules (and pocketbooks) don't really allow for this option.  But rather than "wine" about it, we are here to provide you with the top 5 vineyards that pop out as ones you simply must hit to make your summer "grape!" (sorry, we couldn't resist!)

1. JUSTIN Vineyards in Paso Robles, California

If you dabble in knowledge about the fine wineries and vineyards of our fine country, you may just be aware that JUSTIN Winery was just named Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast!

Although there are dozens of varieties featured and available here, JUSTIN Winery's collection of signature wines focuses mostly on the reds and includes most notably (and deliciously) Isosceles, Justification, and Savant!

Starting back in 1981 and situated between Los Angeles and San Francisco, this vineyard is not only easy to get to but it provides wines that can compete against the best of the best- with a much more pleasing price tag! 

2. Early Mountain Vineyards in Madison, Virginia

This vineyard can be found laying in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and its first owner was Revolutionary War veteran Lieutenant Joseph Early who served under George Washington at Valley Forge!  But history won't be the only thing you get when you pay a visit to this beautiful vineyard, rated number one tasting room in America by USA Today last year.  You will also get a collection of their top, award-winning Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Rose, and Eluvium!

At Early Mountain Vineyards, wine lovers everywhere can unite in the beautiful tasting rooms to try some of the top options on the market. Plus, the vineyard provides comfortable seating and board games to keep you and your palette entertained!

3. Gervasi Vineyard in Canton, Ohio

The beauty of this vineyard alone makes it a necessary addition to this list. The rustic atmosphere and beautiful scenery will have you feeling like you are sipping wine in a Tuscan villa!

In addition to the beauty of this vineyard, Gervasi features only wines bottled and cellared on the premises. During your visit, you can take a tour of the depths of the cellars and the site and then enjoy a tasting featuring a large collection of Gervasi's signature selections including everything from the sweetest of sweets in the Sognata Ice Wine to the drier varieties in the Bellina Chardonnay.

4. Brooks Vineyards in Amity, Oregon

Known especially for their expressive Pinot Noirs and Rieslings grown and raised in the Wilamette Valley, Brooks Vineyards is home to ten acres of countryside in Amity, Oregon.  The vineyard has also been featured on a Fox program called Strange Inheritance and on a documentary called American Wine Stories. 

With a great scenic background, a family atmosphere, a variety of events and experiences, and a dedication to each and every selection of wine, Brooks Vineyard is a must-visit vineyard!  

5. Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard in Dundee, New York

Since 1979, this vineyard has been a leader in wine-making in the Finger Lake region of New York and today their vineyard stretches over a vast 80-acre plot of land on the western side of Seneca Lake.  While all of the varieties of wine produced here are great options, the New York Times called them one of the top Riesling producers in the United States for good reason!

The critically-acclaimed wine makes the vineyard a necessary addition to this list.  And while the wine alone would be a good enough reason to visit, the beautiful scenery will make it hard to ever leave!