We independently research every club that we review. Although we may receive free samples or commissions on some sales, our opinions are always our own.
Wine Clubs That Ship To Kentucky
Do you want to ship wine to Kentucky? Looking for a wine club that ships to Kentucky? We found some great wine clubs that ship to Kentucky and have listed them below.
You are in luck! As of 2007, Kentucky has made provisions for limited direct shipping from wineries. Any winery with an annual production of 50,000 gallons or less may apply for a permit that will allow them to ship directly to consumers who live in wet zip codes. To ensure this provision is enforced, common carriers, such as FedEx and UPS, are not allowed to deliver to residents of Kentucky. What really matters here, is that there are plenty of good wine clubs that ship to Kentucky — and we've listed them below. In fact, we've also rated them and have our favorite wine clubs that ship to Kentucky featured below. Here are our top wine clubs that ship to Kentucky!
The Best Wine Clubs That Ship To Kentucky
The California Wine Club Premier Series
We reviewed this club many times over, and have enjoyed every delivery. In this review post, we'll share our unboxing videos, photos of the shipments we've received as well as our thoughts on sending this as a gift - and tons more. If you're looking for a great wine club at a great price, this could be your answer.
Most Popular Wine Club
The Premier Series from The California Wine Club always impresses both as a gift and a personal wine club membership. Wines are hand-selected from artisanal wineries.
PROS:
- Super popular
- Excellent wine
- Value priced
- Nice "extras" in the membership
CONS:
- Price does not include shipping and handling
The International Wine of The Month Club – Premier Series
Multiple options to customize the club plus availability of ecards make it a great gift option. Wines chosen from around the world plus a newsletter that includes tasting notes, recipes, suggested pairings, and more.
International Wine Premier Series
Multiple options to customize the club plus the availability of ecards make it a great gift option. Wines chosen from around the world plus a newsletter that includes tasting notes, recipes, suggested pairings, and more.
PROS:
- Available in 2-12 month terms or ongoing
- Mix and match with other clubs including cheese, beer, chocolate, cigars, and flowers
- Email or print a gift announcement
- All Red, All White, and Mixed Packs Available
CONS:
- No option for one delivery
- Shipping and Handling not included in price
Gold Medal Wine Club – Gold Series
A very popular wine club as a gift, this premium wine club features delicious highly-rated wines each month and includes a high quality newsletter that details the wines, winery, and winemaker plus suggests recipes to pair with the wines. "Superb, medal-winning wines from California’s best boutique wineries"
Only Award Winners
We really love this wine club from Gold Medal Wine Clubs. Of all their "accolade-driven" wine club choices, this is their MOST POPULAR for its accessibility, its price and the amazing material that comes with the delicious wines!
PROS:
- Red, White, and Mixed Packs Available
- Monthly Shipments
- Upgrade from 2 to 4 Bottles
- Includes Newsletter Featuring Wineries
CONS:
- Red, White, and Mixed Packs Available
- Monthly Shipments
- Upgrade from 2 to 4 Bottles
- Includes Newsletter Featuring Wineries
Chardonnay Wine Club (by Vinesse)
The Chardonnay Wine Club from Vinesse Wines is one of the only wine clubs that features all chardonnay, all the time! (And these are some GOOOOD bottles of chardonnay!)
Delicious Chardonnay Only!
If you love buttery, oaky, light and refreshing Chardonnay -- then you're going to love this wine of the month club! Nothing but Chardonnay! (Good Chardonnay!)
PROS:
- Diverse Selection: The club offers Chardonnays from both renowned and emerging wine regions globally, ensuring a varied tasting experience.
- Competitive Pricing: With bottles priced between $16.50–$18.50, the club provides an accessible entry point for those keen to explore the world of Chardonnay.
- Customization: Members can tailor their subscription based on the number of bottles and frequency of shipments, offering flexibility to suit individual preferences.
- Informative Tasting Notes: Each shipment includes detailed notes that enhance the wine-drinking experience, providing insights, pairing suggestions, and background information.
CONS:
- Potential Duplicates: For larger orders, such as 12 bottles per shipment, there might be duplicates of the same wine, which may not cater to those seeking 12 unique selections.
- Limited Varietal Focus: The club exclusively focuses on Chardonnay, which might not appeal to those who desire a broader range of white wine varietals in their subscription.
- Pricing excludes shipping and taxes. You'll have to pay a little more.
Before Prohibition, Kentucky was actually the third largest producer of wine in the country. In fact, the first large-scale commercial viticulture venture in the United States occurred in Kentucky. In 1799, the Kentucky Vineyard Society’s extensive planting proved that Kentucky’s mild climate was an ideal location for wine production. The momentum the state gained from this start of early American winemaking was completely destroyed by the onset of Prohibition, as the grape vineyards were completely pulled out.
If you're not looking to visit local wineries in Kentucky, but rather you'd prefer to have some great wine delivered through a wine of the month club, then continue reviewing our list of all of these great wine clubs that ship to Kentucky!
More great wine clubs that ship to Kentucky
The California Wine Club Pacific Northwest Series
The Pacific Northwest is known for its excellent wine from artisan wineries. This wine of "every other month" club delivers 2 bottles of delicious wine from Oregon and Washington.
Unique Wines!
Great way to experience wines from Oregon and Washington's small family wineries. PROS:
- Hand-picked from Artisan Wineries
- Includes Uncorked, Guide to Winery and Wines
- Gift subscriptions available
CONS:
- Not available monthly
The California Wine Club Premier Series
We reviewed this club many times over, and have enjoyed every delivery. In this review post, we'll share our unboxing videos, photos of the shipments we've received as well as our thoughts on sending this as a gift - and tons more. If you're looking for a great wine club at a great price, this could be your answer.
Most Popular Wine Club
The Premier Series from The California Wine Club always impresses both as a gift and a personal wine club membership. Wines are hand-selected from artisanal wineries.
PROS:
- Super popular
- Excellent wine
- Value priced
- Nice "extras" in the membership
CONS:
- Price does not include shipping and handling
The International Wine of The Month Club – Premier Series
Multiple options to customize the club plus availability of ecards make it a great gift option. Wines chosen from around the world plus a newsletter that includes tasting notes, recipes, suggested pairings, and more.
International Wine Premier Series
Multiple options to customize the club plus the availability of ecards make it a great gift option. Wines chosen from around the world plus a newsletter that includes tasting notes, recipes, suggested pairings, and more.
PROS:
- Available in 2-12 month terms or ongoing
- Mix and match with other clubs including cheese, beer, chocolate, cigars, and flowers
- Email or print a gift announcement
- All Red, All White, and Mixed Packs Available
CONS:
- No option for one delivery
- Shipping and Handling not included in price
The California Wine Club Aged Cabernet Club
I don't want to say this is a wine club for wine snobs. But, if you know a wine snob and want to impress them, this could be an excellent choice. 🙂 These are the finest of wines chosen especially for those who love a rich, bold, delicious Cabernet Sauvignon.
The California Wine Club International Series
An exceptionally high-value, high-end wine of the month club that delivers delicious wines from artisan wineries from countries like France, Germany, Australia, Argentina, and South Africa to name a few.
The California Wine Club Signature Series
If you love high end wines, this wine of the month club can satisfy the high-end wine connoisseur. Most deliveries feature delicious red wines, but an ultra premium white wine is occasionally included in a delivery.
High End Club
The Signature Series from The California Wine Club is one of their top clubs, featuring award-winning, 90+ point rated wines that are rarely seen elsewhere.
The International Wine of The Month Club – Collectors Series
The Collectors Series Club by MonthlyClubs.com is one of the most highly rated, most premium wine of the month clubs available. When you want the best, you can't go wrong with the Collectors Series to deliver the best of the best!
Collectors Series!
The International Wine of The Month Club - Collectors Series 
The International Wine of The Month Club – Masters Series
The "Master's Series" Wine Club by MonthlyClubs.com is a step up from their very popular "Premiere Series" Wine Club. It costs a little more, but the higher quality wine speaks for itself!
Masters Series!
The International Wine of The Month Club - Masters Series
Gold Medal Wine Club – Gold Series
A very popular wine club as a gift, this premium wine club features delicious highly-rated wines each month and includes a high quality newsletter that details the wines, winery, and winemaker plus suggests recipes to pair with the wines. "Superb, medal-winning wines from California’s best boutique wineries"
Only Award Winners
We really love this wine club from Gold Medal Wine Clubs. Of all their "accolade-driven" wine club choices, this is their MOST POPULAR for its accessibility, its price and the amazing material that comes with the delicious wines!
PROS:
- Red, White, and Mixed Packs Available
- Monthly Shipments
- Upgrade from 2 to 4 Bottles
- Includes Newsletter Featuring Wineries
CONS:
- Red, White, and Mixed Packs Available
- Monthly Shipments
- Upgrade from 2 to 4 Bottles
- Includes Newsletter Featuring Wineries
Gold Medal Wine Club – Pinot Noir Club
Pinot Noir lovers rejoice! This excellent wine of the month clubs exclusively delivers amazing Pinot Noir from all over the world!
Each delivery brings 2 different bottles per month (or double up for an extra fee) and includes a high quality newsletter that informs about the wines and the wineries they're from.
Pinot Noir Club Editor Review
One of only a few Pinor Noir focused clubs, this one features wines from all over the world and includes information about the wines and the wineries.
PROS:
- Member Discounts on Reorders
- No Minimum Shipment Amount
- Focus on Pinot Noir
CONS:
- Bi-Monthly Option Only
- Shipping Not Included in Price of Club
Gold Medal Wine Club – Garagiste Club
Garagiste Series from Gold Medal Wine Club features undiscovered, undervalued unbelievable wines. Wine Club selections are mostly from California but occasionally from Oregon and Washington.
Enjoy 2 or 4 bottles each delivery and you can choose monthly, every other month, or quarterly deliveries. Selections are mostly Red Wine (with an option for Red-Only.)
Artisan & Unique!
Garagiste Series from Gold Medal Wine Club features undiscovered, undervalued unbelievable wines.
PROS:
- High quality, small batch wines
- Informative and educational newsletters
- Able to reorder specific bottles
- Beautiful gift packaging (with coupon code)
CONS:
- Pricey (but you get what you pay for)
- Shipping extra
Gold Medal Wine Club – Platinum Club
This upper-level Platinum Wine Club features rare, collectable wines from California and the West's top winemakers. These premium wine of the month club selections are highly allocated with 90+ ratings, including some pre-releases and exclusives. The Platinum Wine Club is a special and unforgettable monthly wine tasting experience. The perfect wine club gift for friends that enjoy fine wines!
Platinum Club Editors Review
One of only a few Pinor Noir-focused clubs, this one features wines from all over the world and includes information about the wines and the wineries.
PROS:
- Member Discounts on Reorders
- No Minimum Shipment Amount
- Focus on Pinot Noir
CONS:
- Bi-Monthly Option Only
- Shipping Not Included in Price of Club
Gold Medal Wine Club – Diamond Club
One of the BEST, and most top of the line wine clubs we have ever reviewed. This one is for the true wine connoisseur. Luxury-premium wines for the ultimate wine tasting experience. The best of the best.
Top of the Line!
One of the most top of the line wine clubs we have ever seen for the true wine connoisseur. PROS:
- 93+ Rated Wines
- Discounts on Reordering
- Monthly Newsletter with Tasting Notes
- No Minimum Obligation
CONS:
- Generally California Wines Only
- Quarterly Shipping Only
- Cost of Club Does Not Include Shipping
Winc (formerly ClubW)
Winc (formerly ClubW) customizes monthly wine deliveries to your tastes. Starting at $13 bottle. This customized Wine Club takes your personal tastes to create the ideal monthly delivery of wine direct to your door!
WSJ (Wall Street Journal) Wine Club
WSJ's case of wine club has been a consistent high quality, high value wine of the month club.
The introductory price is only $69.99 (plus $19.99 shipping & applicable tax) and they even include 2 extra bottles of wine, plus 2 wine glasses! Future deliveries will be at the regular price.
The wine is top notch and although you'll love your quarterly delivery, you can cancel at any time.
WSJ Brand!
WSJWine from The Wall Street Journal helps you get started in a quarterly case wine club and makes a great gift.
PROS:
- Select reds, whites, or mixed
- Low initial price ($69.99)
- Reorder wines anytime
- Nice gifts with purchase
- Discovery Club is great for those new to wine clubs
CONS:
- The only option is a quarterly case club
- Additional $19.99 shipping charge
Laithwaite's Wine Club
Try six favorites for only $49.99 (plus $9.99 shipping & applicable tax)—the perfect way to show you what the Laithwaite's Wine Club is all about. Every quarter you'll get another case of delicious wines of your preference: Red Wine Only, White Wine Only, or Mixed (both red wine and white wine).
4 Seasons from Laithwaites.
4 Seasons Wine Club from Laithwaites Wine delivers a case of award-winning wines to you every three months.
PROS:
- Low introductory price
- Choose reds, whites, or mixed
- Reorder specified wines that you like
- Cancel anytime - no commitment
- Free gift with order
CONS:
- Extra $19.99 for shipping
- Only option is a quarterly case club
Naked Wines Review
The Naked Wines Wine Club is a unique club that supports small wine makers by "investing" your subscription fees to provide you with small batch, family owned wine makers! It's a really unique concept and is a lot of fun! Start with 6 great wines and free shipping for a very low price!
PROS:
- Unique wines
- Support the winemaking industry
- Free shipping on orders over $100 (otherwise, $9.99 shipping)
CONS:
- Must order half or full case at a time (mixed)
- Difficult availability
Plonk Wine Club
The Wine Club Options from Plonk brings you 4, 6, or 12 bottles of artisan, hard to find wines that have been hand selected by their founder and owner. You can choose all red, all white wine or a "mix" of both.
Delicious, Unique Wines!
Discover New Wines, Expand Your Wine Knowledge, Uncover Hidden Gems and Take a Wine Tasting Adventure With This Unique 12 Bottle (full case) Wine Club
PROS:
- 4 Unique Bottles
- FREE SHIPPING
- Interesting Selections
- Select Red, White or Mixed
- Video Education
- Eco-Friendly Packaging
CONS:
- Standard shipments are monthly. (Customized delivery schedule available via customer service.)
- Gift packaging is sufficient, but not extraordinary
The International Wine of The Month Club – Bold Reds
If you love robust, bold red wines, you'll love this wine club! Multiple options to customize the club plus availability of ecards make it a great gift option. Wines chosen from around the world plus a newsletter that includes tasting notes, recipes, suggested pairings, and more.
For the Bold Red Wine Lover
An outstanding wine of the month club, featuring my personal favorite wines. Deep, rich, robust red wines from all around the world.
PROS:
- Only the best bold red wines
- 2 Delicious bottles per delivery
CONS:
- Not cheap
Vinesse Wines Sparkling Wine Club
The Sparkling Wine club from Vinesse Wines is a unique club as you will only receive sparkling wines.
Light & Sweet Wine Club (by Vinesse)
The Light & Sweet Wine Club from Vinesse Wines is one of the only wine clubs that features all sweet wines in every shipment.
Delightfully Curated: A Sweet Symphony of Light Wines from Around the Globe
The Light & Sweet Wine Club by Vinesse offers wine enthusiasts a carefully selected range of light and sweet wines from diverse regions. Each bottle provides an educational journey into the nuances of this wine profile, ensuring consumers receive both value and variety. It's an ideal choice for those who want to expand their palate and knowledge in the realm of light and sweet wines. PROS:
- Diverse Selection: Curated wines from various global regions ensure a rich tasting experience.
- Educational Value: Detailed tasting notes and wine information enhance understanding and appreciation.
- Affordable Pricing: Competitive price range for wines that are both unique and high-quality.
- Customization: Flexibility in choosing bottle quantity and shipment frequency caters to individual preferences.
- Exclusivity: Offers wines that aren't easily found elsewhere, adding to the allure.
- Consistent Profile: Regular delivery of wines that fit the light and sweet theme.
CONS:
- Limited Varietal Range: Focus on light and sweet wines might not cater to those seeking broader wine profiles.
- Frequency: Maximum shipment frequency is 4x per year, which might not be enough for regular wine drinkers.
- Exclusivity vs. Variety: While the wines are exclusive, there might be limited variety in popular or mainstream wine varietals.
Elevant Society Wine Club (by Vinesse)
If you love quality red wine, or your gift recipient is a red wine lover, then the Elevant Wine Club from Vinesse Wines could be just the club for you. It is super premium, some may consider elegant! ("Elegant", with a "v"!)
A premier wine club for red wine lovers
The Élevant Society Wine Club by Vinesse offers premium red wines from renowned regions, tailored for discerning enthusiasts. While it boasts bold, robust, mature selections of red wine only -- its exclusivity is reflected in its higher price point. (Highly recommended!) PROS:
- Premium Selection: The club offers wines from renowned regions such as Napa Valley and Bordeaux, ensuring subscribers receive top-tier red wines.
- Mature Wines: Wines arrive mature and ready for immediate enjoyment, eliminating the wait that often comes with cellaring.
- Customization: Subscribers have the flexibility to choose the number of bottles, frequency of shipments, and can even benefit from seasonal bonus shipments.
- Detailed Tasting Notes: Each shipment includes comprehensive tasting notes, providing insights into each wine's characteristics, pairing suggestions, and background information.
CONS:
- Price Point: With bottles priced between $43–$48.50, excluding tax and delivery, the club is positioned at a higher price range, which might not be accessible to all wine enthusiasts.
- Priced before tax and delivery. Tax and shipping is extra.
- Limited to Reds: The club focuses exclusively on red wines, which might not cater to those who enjoy a broader or more varied wine palette.
American Cellars Wine Club (by Vinesse)
The American Cellars Wine club is an excellent wine of the month club, delivering excellent quality (delicious!) wines, at a very reasonable price! With plenty of options for any budget and taste, this wine club is highly rated and suited for most wine lovers. (Highly rated)
Exceptional Value on Delicious Wines
The American Cellars Wine Club by Vinesse delivers exceptional value, curating boutique U.S. wines that are both unique and affordably priced. This club masterfully balances quality and cost, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts eager to explore premium wines without the premium price tag
PROS:
- Value for Money: Offers a curated selection of boutique wines at an affordable price range.
- Unique Selection: Features wines from small, lesser-known wineries, ensuring exclusivity.
- Customization: Provides flexibility in choosing the number of bottles, type of wines, and shipment frequency.
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. They'll replace any wine you don't like.
- Buy more: You can also purchase specific wines to be delivered from their wine store!
CONS:
- Limited International Flavors: While the club does offer some international wines, the primary focus is on U.S. wines, which might limit the global tasting experience for some.
- Exclusivity vs. Variety: The emphasis on boutique and hard-to-find wines might mean less variety in popular or mainstream wine varietals.
- Shipping isn't included. Tax and shipping aren't included in the published price.
Chardonnay Wine Club (by Vinesse)
The Chardonnay Wine Club from Vinesse Wines is one of the only wine clubs that features all chardonnay, all the time! (And these are some GOOOOD bottles of chardonnay!)
Delicious Chardonnay Only!
If you love buttery, oaky, light and refreshing Chardonnay -- then you're going to love this wine of the month club! Nothing but Chardonnay! (Good Chardonnay!)
PROS:
- Diverse Selection: The club offers Chardonnays from both renowned and emerging wine regions globally, ensuring a varied tasting experience.
- Competitive Pricing: With bottles priced between $16.50–$18.50, the club provides an accessible entry point for those keen to explore the world of Chardonnay.
- Customization: Members can tailor their subscription based on the number of bottles and frequency of shipments, offering flexibility to suit individual preferences.
- Informative Tasting Notes: Each shipment includes detailed notes that enhance the wine-drinking experience, providing insights, pairing suggestions, and background information.
CONS:
- Potential Duplicates: For larger orders, such as 12 bottles per shipment, there might be duplicates of the same wine, which may not cater to those seeking 12 unique selections.
- Limited Varietal Focus: The club exclusively focuses on Chardonnay, which might not appeal to those who desire a broader range of white wine varietals in their subscription.
- Pricing excludes shipping and taxes. You'll have to pay a little more.
Firstleaf Wine Club Review
Firstleaf Wine Club is one of the best wine of the month clubs we've reviewed, at a very reasonable priced. With a great introductory offer that delivers 6 bottles of great wine for only $44.95, it's hard to pass up! Subsequent deliveries cost a bit more, but the wines are excellent and you can cancel at any time!
Customized for you!
Firstleaf Wine Club's shipments are matched to your taste and delivered on your schedule. PROS:
- introductory offer: 6 bottles for just $40
- Wines are customized just for you
- Flexible shipping schedule and specific delivery dates
- Sparkling wine option
CONS:
- No easy gift-giving option
Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Club (by Vinesse)
The Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Club from Vinesse Wines is one of the only wine clubs that features all Cabernet Sauvignon all the time!
Delicious Cabernet Only!
If you love the bold, rich and deep flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon -- then you're going to love this wine of the month club! Nothing but Cabernet in each delivery! (Good Cabernet!)
PROS:
- Diverse Selection: The club offers Cabernet from both renowned and emerging wine regions globally, ensuring a varied tasting experience.
- Competitive Pricing: With bottles priced between $16.50–$18.50, the club provides an accessible entry point for those keen to explore the world of Chardonnay.
- Customization: Members can tailor their subscription based on the number of bottles and frequency of shipments, offering flexibility to suit individual preferences.
- Informative Tasting Notes: Each shipment includes detailed notes that enhance the wine-drinking experience, providing insights, pairing suggestions, and background information.
CONS:
- Potential Duplicates: For larger orders, such as 12 bottles per shipment, there might be duplicates of the same wine, which may not cater to those seeking 12 unique selections.
- Limited Varietal Focus: The club exclusively focuses on Cabernet Sauvignon only, which might not appeal to those who desire a broader range of white wine varietals in their subscription.
- Pricing excludes shipping and taxes. You'll have to pay a little more.
The World of Wine (Wine Club by Vinesse)
"The World of Wine" Wine Club from Vinesse Wines is one of the best value in wine clubs that features delicious wines from the best wine growing regions from around the globe! Your taste buds will not be disaapointed with the delicious international selections delivered each month with this wine club.
A Wine Trip Around the Word!
If you love wines from France, Italy, Spain, Chile, Argentina, South Africa and more -- then you're going to want to check this wine of the month club out!
PROS:
- Diverse Selection: The club offers Red and White wines from both renowned and emerging wine regions globally, ensuring a varied tasting experience.
- Competitive Pricing: With bottles priced between $21–$23 the club provides an accessible entry point for wine enthusiasts to explore wines from around the world.
- Customization: Members can tailor their subscription based on the number of bottles and frequency of shipments, offering flexibility to suit individual preferences.
- Informative Tasting Notes: Each shipment includes detailed notes that enhance the wine-drinking experience, providing insights, pairing suggestions, and background information.
CONS:
- Potential Duplicates: For larger orders, such as 12 bottles per shipment, there might be duplicates of the same wine, which may not cater to those seeking 12 unique selections.
- Pricing excludes shipping and taxes. You'll have to pay a little more.
California Treasures Wine Club (by Vinesse)
California's Finest at Your Doorstep: Dive into the Diverse and Rich Wine Heritage of the Golden State with the California Treasures Wine Club
For All The California Wine Lovers!
If you love wines from Napa, Sonoma and the other top wine producing areas of California -- then you will to want to check this wine of the month club out!
PROS:
- Diverse Selection: Offers wines from both iconic and hidden vineyards of California.
- Educational Value: Detailed tasting notes with each shipment enhance understanding and appreciation.
- Customization: Flexibility in choosing bottle quantity, wine type, and shipment frequency.
- Affordable Pricing: Competitive price range for high-quality Californian wines.
- Discover Hidden Gems: Features wines from lesser-known regions, offering a unique tasting experience.
- Consistent Quality: Showcases award-winning wineries throughout California.
CONS:
- Limited Geographic Focus: Exclusively Californian wines, which might not cater to those seeking international varieties.
- Frequency: Maximum shipment frequency is 4x per year, which might not be enough for regular wine drinkers.
Bright Cellars Wine Club
Try six bottles of wine for only $55 (free shipping!)—the perfect way to get an assortment based on your tastes. Take the quiz and let them determine the best wines for you. Red Wine Only, White Wine Only, or Mixed (both red wine and white wine).
Bright Cellars Wine Club
Bright Cellars Wine Club customizes shipments to your specific tastes with flexibility and a great introductory offer.
PROS:
- Low introductory price
- Choose reds, whites, or mixed
- Customized selections based on quiz results
- Ability to pause or skip shipments
- Free shipping on 6 and 12 bottles
CONS:
- Only wine club "gift" option is a gift card
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Now, here is some local Kentucky wine industry scoop: Kentucky’s wine industry made a comeback in 1976 when a new state law allowed local farms to grow wine grapes once again. Consequently, many vineyards and wineries began to open, and by 1982, the Kentucky Vineyard Society was revived. Notably, the state established a program that encourages viticulture initiatives by funding half of the startup costs associated with opening a new vineyard. The wine industry has continued to grow, with grape acreage quadrupling from 1998 to 2002.
Currently, Kentucky has 583 acres of grapevines, maintained by over 113 grape producers. Typically, the state produces around two million gallons of wine each year. The majority of the state’s fifty-five licensed wineries produce wines from European, French-American hybrids, and American varietals. Vidal Blanc is the most prevalent, closely followed by Cabernet Sauvignon and Chambourcin. Most of Kentucky’s wineries are located in the central and northern regions of the state and are encompassed by the Ohio River Valley AVA, a region including areas of Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia. This particular AVA is the largest viticultural area in the country, covering an impressive 16,640,000 acres, though it is important to note that only a small percentage of this land is used for grape production.
Kentucky’s wine industry is supported by several key associations, all of which are great resources for learning more about wine in Kentucky:
Kentucky Vineyards Society
Kentucky Wine Growers Alliance
Western Kentucky Grape Growers Association
Northern Kentucky Vineyard and Winery Association
Be sure to check out vineyards and wineries in all four regions of the state:
Got Grapes? Sponsored by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Got Grapes? is an innovative program designed to match grape growers with those looking to purchase grapes for wine production. Winemakers can specify certain parameters for grape growers to follow, and both parties maintain a close partnership throughout the growing season, ensuring that no grape is left is behind!