Top 5 secret wine country escapes

Experience wine country without the crowds in these under-the-radar spots for sipping.

Moab, UT

If you haven’t been here since your dude days, you’re in for a pleasant, even refined, surprise. Lately Moab has sprouted more mellow pursuits that you don’t have to catch air or defy gravity to enjoy. Don’t mistake mellow for monotonous, though. We’re talking stellar wineries tucked among sandstone canyons, locally sourced eats, scenic bike trails that won’t chew up and spit out beginners, and suites along the Colorado River. It’s the same great outdoor playground, with a new sophisticated side.

Boonville / Philo, CA

This wine region located 90 miles north of Sonoma is perfectly suited for nature lovers, as it's a stone throw from the Mendocino redwoods. It's known for its small-production Pinot Noirs, but its Alsatian varietals—Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Riesling—are worth exploring, too. Sip at Handley, Londer, and Navarro wineries and then soak up the scenery. Come summer, don't miss splashing around in the swimming hole at the Navarro River.

Newberg / Dundee, OR

Art-minded wine lovers will enjoy this corner of the Willamette Valley, 25 miles south of Portland. French-leaning Pinot Noirs regin supreme here, but you can also discover new-wave Chardonnay and exhibits by local artists. Don't miss tastings at Anam Cara, Colene Clemens, Longplay wineries. Another must? Kayaking on the Willamette River in June. For the ultimate wine country sleep, check in at Le Puy.

South San Luis Obispo County, CA

Beachgoer oenophiles will want to hit up this scenic region 90 miles north of Santa Barbara in Arroyo Grande and Edna Valleys. Beautifully balanced Chardonnays are the big draw, but then there are the Spanish and Rhône varietals, followed by oyster slurping on the coast. Favorite spots to sip include Baileyana.

Prosser, WA

This town tucked 190 miles southeast of Seattle will wow you with its deep-fruited reds like Cabernet and Syrah, as well as Merlot with serious muscle. Go tasting room-hopping at Bunnell Family, Chinook, and Milbrandt, followed by squeezing your own apple cider at Bill’s Berry Farm in the fall (billsberryfarm.com).