United States
Wine production in the United States has a long and diverse history, dating back to the 1500s, with the first successful commercial vineyards established in the 17th century in what is now New Mexico. The industry faced a major setback during Prohibition (1920–1933), when the production and sale of alcoholic beverages were banned nationwide. After repeal, the American wine industry gradually rebuilt itself, and by the late 20th century it had become one of the largest and most influential wine producers in the world.
Today, the United States is among the top global wine-producing countries, with all fifty states making wine commercially. However, production is heavily concentrated in California, which accounts for roughly 80% of total U.S. output. Within California, regions such as Napa Valley and Sonoma County are internationally renowned for high-quality wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel. Other major wine-producing states include Washington, known for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Chardonnay; Oregon, celebrated for its world-class Pinot Noir; and New York, especially the Finger Lakes and Long Island regions, which are noted for Riesling and other cool-climate varieties.
The American wine system is organized around officially designated American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), which are federally recognized grape-growing regions defined by specific geographic and climatic characteristics. There are more than 270 AVAs across the country, reflecting the remarkable diversity of American terroir—from the Pacific Coast to high-altitude vineyards in states like Colorado and Texas.
Common grape varieties grown in the United States include Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Zinfandel, and Syrah, primarily from the species Vitis vinifera. Styles range from dry table wines to sparkling wines, rosés, and some sweet or late-harvest selections. In addition to large, internationally distributed brands, the country also has thousands of small, family-owned wineries producing boutique and estate wines.
Economically, the United States is not only one of the largest producers but also one of the largest consumers of wine in the world. The industry contributes billions of dollars annually to the national economy through agriculture, tourism, retail, and exports. In recent years, however, the sector has faced challenges including shifting consumer preferences toward spirits and ready-to-drink beverages, oversupply of grapes in some regions, climate change impacts such as droughts and wildfires, and changing demographics among wine drinkers.