Pennsylvania, a state known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, has also become a haven for wine and beer enthusiasts. With over 300 wineries and more than 500 craft breweries, the Keystone State offers a plethora of options for those looking to indulge in locally crafted beverages. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the best wineries and breweries that Pennsylvania has to offer, taking you on a journey through rolling vineyards and hop-filled taprooms.
Wineries: Sipping Through Pennsylvania’s Grape Regions
Pennsylvania’s wine industry has been growing steadily, with the state now ranking as the fourth-largest grape producer in the country. From the Lake Erie region to the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania’s diverse terroir produces a wide variety of wines that are sure to please any palate.
Crossing Vineyards and Winery
Nestled in the picturesque Bucks County, Crossing Vineyards and Winery has become a staple of Pennsylvania’s wine scene. This family-owned winery combines old-world traditions with modern winemaking techniques to produce award-winning wines.
What to Try:
- Chardonnay: A crisp, oak-aged white with notes of apple and vanilla
- Cabernet Franc: A medium-bodied red with hints of blackberry and pepper
- Wild Berry: A sweet dessert wine perfect for summer sipping
The winery offers daily tastings and tours, allowing visitors to explore the vineyard and learn about the winemaking process. Don’t miss their summer concert series, where you can enjoy live music while sipping on your favorite vintage.
Mount Hope Estate & Winery
Located in Lancaster County, Mount Hope Estate & Winery is more than just a place to taste wine—it’s a destination. Housed in a 19th-century Victorian mansion, this winery offers a unique blend of history and viticulture.
What to Try:
- Riesling: A semi-sweet white with floral aromas and a crisp finish
- Merlot: A smooth red with notes of cherry and plum
- Spiced Apple: A seasonal favorite perfect for autumn evenings
Mount Hope is also home to the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, making it a perfect spot for those who want to combine their love of wine with a bit of historical reenactment.
Blue Ridge Estate Winery
Situated in the Pocono Mountains, Blue Ridge Estate Winery offers breathtaking views along with its impressive selection of wines. This family-owned winery prides itself on sustainable farming practices and innovative winemaking techniques.
What to Try:
- Chambourcin: A full-bodied red with notes of black cherry and spice
- Vidal Blanc: A crisp white with hints of citrus and green apple
- Blueberry Wine: A sweet dessert wine made from locally sourced blueberries
Blue Ridge Estate Winery also features a tasting room with panoramic mountain views, making it the perfect spot for a romantic date or a relaxing afternoon with friends.
Breweries: Hopping Through Pennsylvania’s Craft Beer Scene
Pennsylvania’s brewing tradition dates back to the 1600s, and today, the state is at the forefront of the craft beer revolution. From historic breweries to innovative microbreweries, Pennsylvania offers something for every beer lover.
D.G. Yuengling and Son Brewery
No discussion of Pennsylvania breweries would be complete without mentioning D.G. Yuengling and Son. Founded in 1829 in Pottsville, Yuengling is America’s oldest operating brewing company.
What to Try:
- Yuengling Traditional Lager: The flagship beer, known for its rich amber color and medium-bodied flavor
- Black & Tan: A unique blend of Porter and Premium Beer
- Golden Pilsner: A crisp, clean pilsner perfect for summer days
Visitors can take a tour of the historic brewery, exploring the hand-dug fermentation caves and learning about the company’s nearly 200-year history.
Tröegs Brewing Company
Located in Hershey, Tröegs Brewing Company has become one of Pennsylvania’s most beloved craft breweries. Known for their innovative beers and commitment to quality, Tröegs offers a wide range of styles to suit any taste.
What to Try:
- Perpetual IPA: A bold, citrusy IPA that’s become a fan favorite
- Troegenator Double Bock: A strong, malty lager with caramel notes
- Nugget Nectar: A seasonal Imperial Amber Ale bursting with hop flavor
Tröegs offers guided tours of their brewery, as well as a spacious tasting room where visitors can sample their latest creations.
Yards Brewing Company
Based in Philadelphia, Yards Brewing Company has been a pioneer in the city’s craft beer scene since 1994. With a focus on English-inspired ales and a commitment to sustainability, Yards has become a staple for beer lovers in the City of Brotherly Love.
What to Try:
- Philadelphia Pale Ale: A crisp, hoppy pale ale that embodies the city’s spirit
- Brawler: A malt-forward English mild ale perfect for session drinking
- Love Stout: A rich, creamy oatmeal stout with notes of coffee and chocolate
Yards’ taproom in Northern Liberties offers a full menu of pub fare to complement their beers, making it a great spot for a casual dinner or a weekend hangout.
Wine Trails: Exploring Pennsylvania’s Viticultural Regions
For those looking to make a weekend out of their wine tasting adventures, Pennsylvania offers 14 self-guided wine trails that showcase the state’s diverse wine regions.
Lehigh Valley Wine Trail
The Lehigh Valley Wine Trail features nine family-owned wineries nestled in the rolling hills of eastern Pennsylvania. This region is known for its Chambourcin, a French-American hybrid grape that thrives in the local climate.
Highlights:
- Galen Glen Winery: Known for their award-winning Grüner Veltliner
- Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery: Offers stunning views and a wide variety of wines
- Vynecrest Winery: One of the oldest wineries in the region, known for their Lemberger
Lake Erie Wine Country
Stretching along the shores of Lake Erie, this wine trail includes over 20 wineries that benefit from the lake’s moderating effect on the climate. The region is famous for its Concord grapes but also produces excellent European varietals.
Highlights:
- Presque Isle Wine Cellars: One of the pioneers of Pennsylvania’s modern wine industry
- Mazza Vineyards: Known for their ice wines and innovative fruit wines
- Penn Shore Winery: Offers beautiful lakeside views and a diverse selection of wines
Brewery Tours: Craft Beer Adventures
For beer enthusiasts looking to dive deeper into Pennsylvania’s brewing culture, several cities offer guided brewery tours that combine history, tasting, and behind-the-scenes looks at the brewing process.
Philadelphia Brewery Tour
Philadelphia’s rich brewing history and thriving craft beer scene make it a perfect destination for beer lovers. Several companies offer guided tours of the city’s best breweries.
Highlights:
- Philly Brew Tours: Offers both walking and bus tours of the city’s top breweries
- City Brew Tours: Combines brewery visits with beer history and food pairings
- Philly on Tap: A walking tour that explores the city’s beer scene and pub culture
Pittsburgh Craft Beer Tour
Pittsburgh’s craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with dozens of new breweries opening across the city. A brewery tour is a great way to explore this burgeoning beer culture.
Highlights:
- City Brew Tours Pittsburgh: Offers both public and private tours of the city’s best breweries
- Porter Tours: Combines brewery visits with Pittsburgh history and culture
- Burgh Bits and Bites: Offers food and beer pairing tours in different Pittsburgh neighborhoods
Seasonal Offerings: Embracing Pennsylvania’s Changing Seasons
One of the joys of Pennsylvania’s wine and beer scene is how it changes with the seasons. Many wineries and breweries offer special seasonal releases that capture the flavors of each time of year.
Fall Harvest Wines
As autumn approaches, many Pennsylvania wineries release special harvest wines that celebrate the bounty of the season.
What to Look For:
- Spiced Apple Wines: Perfect for cool autumn evenings
- Pumpkin Wines: A unique twist on a fall favorite
- Late Harvest Rieslings: Sweet dessert wines made from grapes left on the vine until the first frost
Winter Warmers
When the temperature drops, Pennsylvania’s breweries roll out rich, warming beers perfect for the cold weather.
What to Look For:
- Imperial Stouts: Dark, strong beers often aged in bourbon barrels
- Winter Ales: Spiced ales that capture the flavors of the holiday season
- Barleywines: High-alcohol beers with complex malt flavors
Spring and Summer Refreshers
As the weather warms up, look for lighter, more refreshing options at both wineries and breweries.
What to Look For:
- Rosé Wines: Crisp, dry wines perfect for summer sipping
- Fruit Beers: Light ales infused with seasonal fruits
- Saisons: Farmhouse-style ales with spicy, fruity notes
Pairing Pennsylvania: Combining Local Wines and Beers with Regional Cuisine
No discussion of Pennsylvania’s wine and beer scene would be complete without mentioning the state’s rich culinary traditions. Many wineries and breweries have embraced food pairings, offering visitors a chance to experience how their beverages complement local dishes.
Wine Pairings
Pennsylvania wines pair beautifully with a variety of local foods:
- Dry Riesling with Pennsylvania Dutch chicken pot pie
- Chambourcin with Philadelphia cheesesteak
- Cabernet Franc with Lancaster County smoked meats
Beer Pairings
The state’s diverse beer styles offer endless pairing possibilities:
- IPA with spicy Pittsburgh-style pierogies
- Porter with Philly soft pretzels
- Pilsner with Hanover tomatoes
Many wineries and breweries now offer on-site restaurants or partner with local food trucks to provide visitors with perfect pairings.
The Future of Pennsylvania Wine and Beer
As Pennsylvania’s wine and beer industries continue to grow, we’re seeing exciting trends that promise an even brighter future for beverage enthusiasts.
Sustainable Practices
Many wineries and breweries are embracing sustainable practices, from organic farming methods to solar-powered facilities. This focus on sustainability not only benefits the environment but often results in higher quality products.
Experimental Flavors
Both winemakers and brewers are pushing the boundaries of traditional flavors. Look for wines made from lesser-known grape varieties and beers infused with unexpected ingredients like herbs, spices, and even vegetables.
Agritourism
As interest in local food and drink continues to grow, many wineries and breweries are expanding their offerings to include farm stays, harvest experiences, and educational programs. This trend allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the wine making and brewing processes.
Conclusion: Cheers to Pennsylvania!
From the rolling vineyards of the Lehigh Valley to the historic breweries of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania offers a wealth of options for wine and beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, the state’s diverse beverage scene has something for everyone.
As you explore Pennsylvania’s wineries and breweries, remember to drink responsibly and always have a designated driver. Many tours offer transportation options, allowing you to fully enjoy your tasting experiences without worry.
So raise a glass to Pennsylvania’s rich tradition of wine making and brewing. With its combination of history, innovation, and dedication to quality, the Keystone State is truly a destination worth toasting. Whether you prefer a crisp Riesling, a hoppy IPA, or anything in between, you’re sure to find your perfect pour in Pennsylvania. Cheers!
