Chapter 24 Vineyards

AmericanWineryGuide.com was created to help the overwhelmed wine-drinker find and learn about America 's best wineries. With over six thousand wineries in the U.S., finding wineries that consistently produce quality wines at affordable prices can be a challenge.

For most people, it's not because there's not enough information, it's because there's so much information and just not enough time to learn about, or keep up with, each new producer and each new vintage.AmericanWineryGuide.com incorporates information from hundreds of sources to help you find wineries based on the criteria that is important to you, whether its viticulture practices, winery amenities, or visitor opinions.

A lifetime ago, when I was a community college professor who knew nothing about wine, I was contemplating a move to New York. Bob and Sandy Comstock, who have been vintners since 2002, recently decided to live the dream of owning a small, family winery. I am sure that during my commutes around the city of Napa, I have passed the Ackerman Heritage House at 608 Randolph Street before.

For most regions, peak wine touring season is from late spring to early fall, and the busiest days are Saturday and Sunday. If you are planning on going to a popular destination such as Napa during the summer, try to visit wineries on a weekday or schedule an appointment. Appointments range from wine bar atmospheres to a personal tasting with the owner or wine maker.