This Stunning California Wine Region Was Ranked The Best In America

Step aside, Napa Valley. A lesser-known swath of Northern California, smack dab between San Francisco and Sacramento, has been crowned the best wine region in America by USA Today. The Suisun Valley wine region is small, just 3 miles wide and 8 miles long. But the quality of the wine, more affordable prices, and local charm is what jettisoned it to the top of USA Today's 10Best list in 2025, voted on by readers.

If you're not familiar with Suisun Valley, you likely aren't alone. This home of flavorful wines is typically less crowded than California's famous Napa Valley, one of the best winter destinations in California for a weekend getaway. But in the summer and fall months, Suisun Valley's 3,000 acres of grapes are a vibrant backdrop for tours, nature excursions, and long drives on yet-to-be-discovered backroads.

According to USA Today, the valley has an ongoing commitment to community, all while embracing its rising stardom as a premier wine destination in California. Since it was officially designated an American Viticultural Area in 1982, Suisun Valley's rolling hills and comfortable climate of warm days and cool nights have served as the perfect environment for producing a robust variety of wines.

Suisun Valley isn't exactly packed with wineries, but there are nearly a dozen that provide tasting experiences and tours on the Suisun Valley Wine Trail. More than 20 different types of grapes are harvested in this part of California, meaning there is no shortage of varieties to try. Many of the wineries are family owned, which often allows for a more personalized experience.

Even if wine isn't your thing, there is plenty to enjoy in Suisun Valley. The area is known for its fresh fruit and vegetables, grown locally at family farms and sold at roadside stands. Also available are a variety of nuts, grains, and world-class olive oils. There's even a car museum featuring vintage automobiles and tractors. The Bally Keal Estate, home to a winery, distillery, and brewery, also has vehicles dating back to 1900 in its impressive collection.

Getting to Suisun Valley is easy for those flying in, with Sacramento International Airport to the north and San Francisco International Airport – the most beautiful airport in the world — to the south. Both airports are less than an hour's drive from the vineyards of Suisun Valley. While you're in the area, be sure to spend some time in Sacramento, California's unique capital city full of Gold Rush history and farm fresh food. Both larger cities have plenty of accommodations, but you will also find hotels in nearby Fairfield and Suisun City.