Elaine Schoch Founder & Editor
Hi, I’m Elaine Schoch (pronounced the German way – Shock). I’m an award-winning travel writer, wine judge, certified by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 2 and certified American Wine Expert. I’m also married to The Husband and have two kids, Princess One and Two – who’s interest and knowledge in wine is quite extensive. Not to mention the stamps in their passports.
I started Carpe Travel as a place to share our family travel adventures – many moons ago! As my kids have gotten older, and wanting less to be “shared online” Carpe Travel has morphed. Pairing my passions of wine and travel Carpe Travel has become a travel resource for wine lovers. Since I’m regularly traveling with my Princesses, I still do share tips and resources for things to do beyond the vines.
With every 50 states in the United States producing wine, combining a vacation with a visit to wine country has never been easier. (Even with kids!)
I’m personally fascinated with the American wine industry – even those beyond California. I plan to visit wine regions in EACH of the 50 United States. Along the way, I’ll be making a lot of stops, usually with the Princesses.
When Prohibition killed wine making in the United States in the 1920’s, it killed an industry that was booming in places such as Missouri, Tennessee, New York, Idaho and Texas. These are not places one typically thinks about as producing good, quality wine. Today, every state in the country produces wine – even Alaska! When you think about it, we’re still in the infancy of American wine – it’s the perfect time to get out to explore and watch it grow.
It’s soooo easy to combine any vacation into a wine country visit, and so that’s what I do.

What Wines to Pair with Chocolate?
When it comes to pairing wine with chocolate there are some things to think about to enhance the flavors and bring out the little subtle notes in each.

The Perfect Smoked Salmon Wine Pairing
This smoked salmon wine pairing is an easy and delicious appetizer with dill, capers, sour cream and smoked salmon. Pairs perfectly with Chardonnay or Sauv Blanc.

Getting to know the Riboli Family of San Antonio Winery
Having produced wine for over a century in the US, the Riboli Family of San Antonio Winery has a story worth sipping in. This interview uncorks the story.

Interview with a Winemaker: Ashley Trout of Brook & Bull
Carpe Travel sits down with Ashley Trout of Brook and Bull Cellars to chat about her journey into the wine industry and the Walla Walla wine region.

Virtual Wine Tastings that Bring Wine Country to You
Our favoriate wineries, winemakers and wine pros who are bringing the tasting rooms straight to your living rooms with virtual wine tastings.

Winter Wineries to Sip In
There’s no better way to keep the cold winds of winter at bay than winter wine tasting with friends. Carpe Travel brings you our list of the best winter wineries to sip in this year.