Sadly, few people think of Pennsylvania as wine country. Even many Pennsylvanians make trips to wineries in the Finger Lakes, Maryland or Virginia before exploring what their own state has to offer.
But not only does Pennsylvania produce world-class wines, it also holds a place of distinction in American wine history.
The Pennsylvania Limited Winery Act of 1967 paved the way for craft winemaking in the state. It also served as a model for the New York Farm Winery Act and, eventually, similar laws across the eastern United States. In many ways, Pennsylvania helped lay the foundation for today’s American wine industry.
With hundreds of wineries across the state, of course, there are bound to be a few that miss the mark. But many are doing exceptional work — and by visiting and supporting them, you’re boosting Pennsylvania’s economy and culture.
One standout is Galen Glen Vineyard & Winery in Andreas, Schuylkill County. Years ago, intrigued by Austria’s grüner veltliner grape, the winemaker managed to import vines and planted what may be the first commercial grüner vineyard in North America (though there is at least one other possible contender).
Galen Glen’s Stone Cellars 2023 Grüner Veltliner shows far more flavor and character than most versions of this grape. It opens with aromas of white peach and chalk, followed by star fruit and a streak of minerality, all wrapped in a rich texture with subtle spice. At the winery: $24. Four and a half stars.
While Galen Glen is best known for its white wines — its riesling is among the best anywhere — some of its reds are excellent, too.
Red wine grapes are harder to grow in Pennsylvania’s climate, but it’s far from impossible. Waltz Vineyards in Manheim has proven this again and again.
The Waltz Vineyards Red Baron (a cabernet sauvignon/merlot blend) channels classic Bordeaux with a garnet hue and medium body. After nearly two years in French oak, the wine offers flavors of cassis and herbs with perfectly balanced tannins. At the winery: $27. Four and a half stars.
French-American hybrid grapes are often overlooked — dismissed in Europe and overshadowed by vinifera varieties in the U.S. But one hybrid, chambourcin, produces not only a solid red wine in regions like the Lehigh Valley, but also a remarkable rosé.
Erie’s Mazza Vineyards made history when its Perfect Rosé 2022 — crafted from chambourcin — earned a 90-plus score from Decanter, a prestigious UK wine magazine. It was the first hybrid-based wine to earn such high praise. The Perfect Rosé 2023 offers a minty, herbal aroma, with hints of watermelon and tangerine and a vibrant, mouth-watering acidity. At the winery: $14. Four and a half stars.
Mazza Vineyards Perfect Rosé 2023 (SUBMITTED)
Galen Glen Stone Cellars 2023 Grüner Veltliner (SUBMITTED)
Originally Published: May 4, 2025 at 12:00 AM EDT