Nestled in the center of Pennsylvania, State College is renowned for its vibrant culture, scenic beauty, and thriving university community. While it’s widely known as the home of Penn State and the Nittany Lions, its wine scene is also worth knowing. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or a casual enthusiast, exploring the wineries near State College is a great experience. Here are five wineries that stand out for their quality, ambiance and hospitality.

Seven Mountains Wine Cellars

Located just a short drive from State College, Seven Mountains Wine Cellars is a family-owned winery known for its variety of interesting wines and picturesque surroundings. Seven Mountains does not grow their own grapes, rather brings them in from vineyards around Pennsylvania and the United States. Visitors can enjoy a diverse selection of varietals, from crisp whites to bold reds, all while taking in stunning views of the Seven Mountains region. Be sure to try their award-winning Riesling, made from a blend of Lake Erie PA and Finger Lakes NY grapes..

Happy Valley Vineyard and Winery

For a taste of local history and charm, look no further than Happy Valley Winery. Situated on a historic farm dating back to the 1800s, this winery combines old-world craftsmanship with modern winemaking techniques. Their expansive vineyards yield a range of grape varietals, including vinifera like Chardonnay and Riesling, and hybrids such as Cayuga, Vidal Blanc and Noiret. The portfolio also includes some American wines with grapes imported from the west coast. Visitors can sample their wines in the rustic tasting room or take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards. Don’t miss their popular events, such as live music nights and harvest festivals.

Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery

Perched atop the majestic Mount Nittany, this winery offers not only tasty wines but also breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery is probably best known for their off dry Tailgate White and Tailgate Red wines, but they produce a variety of wines from dry to sweet (although most of the dry wines use grapes from outside the local area). Be sure to visit their charming tasting room, where friendly staff are always on hand to offer recommendations and insights.

Brookmere Winery & Vineyard Inn

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life at Brookmere Winery, a hidden gem nestled in the lush valleys of Central Pennsylvania. Family-owned and operated, this winery’s iconic feature is a restored 1866 barn. Their wines, crafted from locally sourced grapes, range from dry to sweet. Visitors can unwind on the spacious outdoor patio or explore the tranquil grounds dotted with century-old oak trees.

University Wine Co.

True to its name, University Wine Co. was founded by Penn State Alumni and incorporates a theme worthy of the most hardcore Nittany Lions fans. This is a hospitality-first winery, who mostly uses grapes from other places, but offers a fun wine tasting experience at several area locations. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings led by knowledgeable staff or participate in educational seminars on wine appreciation and production.