Professional Documents
Culture Documents
SpRING/SUMMER 2012
A Publication of
37
TRIpS
Getting to Ventura
san Francisco san Jose monterey Paso robles santa Barbara los angeles 353 307 265 149 27 75 5hrs 45min 5hrs 4hrs 30min 2hrs 30min 30min 1hr 13min
Not to Scale
DAY TRIPS
7 12 22 27 36 40 47 52 Wine Country Events 4-5 Heading to the Tasting Room 6 Paso Robles Wineries Map 32-33 San Luis Obispo Wineries Map 34 N. Santa Barbara County Wineries Map 35 Do the Math 59 Dining Recommendations 60-61 Wineries by Varietals 62-63
A Publication of
SpRING/SUMMER 2012
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PUBLISHER Mike Giangreco Direct 707-938-3734 mike@winecountrythisweek.com Chandra Grant P.O. Box 92, El Verano, CA 95433 Phone 707-938-1783 / Fax 707-938-3674 chandra@winecountrythisweek.com Rebecca Arnn Cathy Gore Phone 707-938-3494 / Fax 707-938-3674 Email cathy@winecountrythisweek.com Whitney Brem, San Luis Obispo County Phone 805-252-5440 whitney@winecountrythisweek.com Jenn Jones, Santa Barbara County Phone 805-895-7378 jenn@winecountrythisweek.com EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Michael Cervin, Sarah Doyle, Ronda Giangreco, Lisa Pretty, Kim Murphy-Rodrigues, Brandi Stansbury, Carolyn Turner, Brette Ann Womack
MANAGING EDITOR
ADVERSTISING REPRESENTATIVES
Hospice du Rhne
APRIL 14-15
a palate provoking weekend embracing the enchantment, history and tastes of the twenty-two rhne varieties. Throughout the weekend, tip your glass with worldly rhne wine producers, journey through the largest international collection of rhne variety wines and savor exceptional cuisine all while taking in the inspiring and spirited rhne community. www.hospicedurhone.org MAY 18-20
ATASCADERO
JUNE 23
PASO ROBLES
MARCH 16-18
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JUNE 30
SLO Wine & Grill Affair: A Benefit for Transitions Mental Health Association
Celebrate summer with a friendly winemaker cook-off! 10 Wineries will be featured at the event and each will pair a grilled treat with their wines. Guests vote for favorites. Pairings are also judged by a local celebrity judging panel. There will be live music and local olive oil, cheese and chocolate vendors. 1-4pm, $35, 805-787-0485, www.perbaccocellars.com SEPTEMBER 12
SANTA YNEZ
JULY TBD
SOLVANG
MARCH 14-18
VENTURA COUNTY
JUNE 10
SANTA BARBARA
MARCH 2-3
A Taste of Camarillo
Wine auction gala, wine and food festival. www.meadowlarkserviceleague.com
Find more Wine-Related Events at www.WineCountryThisMonth.com or scan the QR Code with your smart phone application!
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The Westside of Paso robles has become one of the fastest growing wine regions in the world. Wine spectator recently named a wine from the Westside the number one wine of the year. The unique terroir makes this area extremely desirable for viticuluralists from around the world. The Westside of Paso robles is home to winemakers from France, south africa, australia and New Zealand to name a few. While historically known for the old vine Zinfandel, rhne and Bordeaux varieties grown in the area have become world renowned. Guests will quickly become familiar with the famed Templeton Gap and how it positively affects the fantastic wines in this region. ATTRACTIONS Dale Evers Design Studio A cutting edge artist, specializing in centerpiece art, Dales work is featured all over the country. 1000 Park street, Paso robles 805-434-9237, www.daleeversstudio.com Hearst Castle William Hearst developed what is now the Central Coasts most renowned attraction from 1919-1947, after inheriting the land from his father, George Hearst. Several different tours are offered year round. 750 Hearst Castle road, san simeon 800-444-4445, www.hearstcastle.com Vineyard Antique Mall Greg and Jeanine Cantrell have an incredible selection of indoor and outdoor collectables. The 10,000-square-foot mall is open daily. 2320 ramada Drive # a,Paso robles 805-237-4012
Driving Time: 17 minutes From opolo vineyards to rotta Winery 5+ miles to Castoro Cellars 3 miles to Peachy Canyon >1 mile Total 8+ miles
Not to scale
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Visiting the mountain top where Opolos highest-elevation vineyard grows explains why co-owner Rick Quinn envisioned building his estate here. Pinot Noir, Sangiovese and Zinfandel excelled here, proven by the vintners who began planting those varieties 14 years ago. Still, Quinn and his partner David Nichols know it takes more than spectacular views to attract wine connoisseurs. The friendly, tasting room staff takes the intimidation away from wine tasting, making the experience enjoyable for everyone. With enticing aromas wafting in from the winerys barbeque to the laughter and frivolity of the tasting room, you know you are in for a good time. There is perhaps no more entertaining or relaxed winery experience to be had on the Central Coast. This is serious wine combined with serious fun! The wines are mostly estate grown, which sets them apart from many other Central Coast wineries. In 1999, Opolos first vintage, they made Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Zinfandel and Muscat Canelli. Theyre respected for classic reds, yet theyre equally passionate about their whites, including: Viognier, Roussanne, Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay. Their exceptional blends include: Rhapsody, a Meritage; Montagna-Mare, Barbera and Sangiovese; Fusion, Cabernet Franc and Merlot; and several others. Opolos latest addition is a romantic bed and breakfast among the grapevines where guests can enjoy the idyllic dream of living in wine country. By Ronda Giangreco
OVERALL pHILOSOpHY People and award-winning wines, its a happy combination. pLAN AHEAD FOR During harvest you can cast o your shoes and stomp grapes barefoot, I Love Lucy style! WHERE IT ALL STARTED The name Opolo, from Quinns Yugoslavian heritage, is in reference to a ros-style wine made on the Dalmatian Coast. Every weekend youll nd the barbecue red-up with Ricks cevapcici, a Serbian beef and lamb dish, or their gourmet pizzas from the wood-burning pizza oven, all paired with one of their fabulous wines. THEIR UNIqUE AppROACH With the very best in fruit available to them, Opolo has chosen an interesting path to winemaking. Curiously, Opolo does not employ a winemaker as such. Its a group eort. Everyone, from owners to cellar rats have a say in the wine production. The belief at Opolo is that this approach makes for consumer-friendly wines that appeal to many people.
Opolo Vineyards
open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 7110 Vineyard Drive, Paso Robles (805) 238-9593 www.opolo.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/OpoloWine Twitter: @OpoloWines
1969 The original vineyard and winery were started in 1856 by a Frenchman named Aldolf Siot, who later sold the successful winery to Joe Rotta in 1908. In the 1920s, Joe Rotta then sold it to his brother, Clement Rotta, who bonded the winery after Prohibition. This forged the name Rotta into wine-making history as one the best known wineries on the Central Coast for its hearty Zinfandel. Today, the Rotta label and winery are being revived by one of their grandsons, Michael Giubbini, who remembers working in the vineyards as a child, driving a tractor and tending the vineyards. In 1990, Giubbini undertook the task of replanting some of the forsaken vines in the old family vineyard to Zinfandel. The short, stocky vines, with gnarled arms extending outward, show their age and years of stressed growth. Mike remembers pruning the vineyards (head pruned) and has continued this viticultural technique for the Zinfandel to date. Dry Farming, is the only way to go out here, describes Mikes belief on irrigation. He feels stressing the vine produces the best quality, and obviously reduces the yield. The 20 acres of the Estate vineyard are planted with 15 acres to Zinfandel and five acres to Cabernet Sauvignon. Until 2002, the grapes were sold (but the label was vineyard designated as Giubbini Vineyards) to Castoro Cellars. The vineyard designation for Giubbini Vineyards is a well known name, and will remain so for many years.
VARIETALS Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Trinity (Bordeaux Blend), Ros, Muscat, Port & Black Monukka (dessert wines) FUN FACT Rotta Winery is the oldest and still family-owned winery on the Central Coast! Also, it is the only winery that makes wine with Black Monukka grapes! It tastes like crme brle in a bottle! ABOUT THE VINES The Zinfandel vines are a mixture of vines which range in age from 30 to 60 years old. They are dry land which means they only get water from Mother Nature. The roots of these old vines go down 20 to 30 feet pulling moisture and nutrients out of the shale and limestone soil. The vines are also head pruned, which produces a much fruitier berry but at a very reduced yield. When you combine these characteristics together, you get a glass of wine that you will never forget. Ask about Rotta Winerys wine club, its always a great deal!
Rotta Winery
open Daily 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 250 Winery Road, Templeton (805) 237-0510 www.rottawinery.com
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FUN FACT Niels life-long nickname is Beaver, and while he worked in Italy it evolved further to Il Castoro, which is beaver in Italian. The name and the motto stuck. Castoro Cellars Dam Fine Wines sport a picture of a beaver on each label. THE GROUNDS The 150-foot grape arbor at the tasting room entrance leads to gardens featuring lush native plants and specimen cork oaks. The beautifully landscaped grounds with grand views are the perfect place for a picnic. CONCERTS Throughout the year, Castoro Cellars hosts concerts for musicians from around the world. During the summer the shows are held outside with the vineyard and sunset as the backdrop. Winter concerts are held in the cozy bistro atmosphere of the event gallery. FAMILY FRIENDLY With families and designated drivers in mind Castoro oers an alcohol-free grape juice.
Castoro Cellars
open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 1315 North Bethel Road, Templeton (805) 238-0725 1-888-DAM-FINE www.castorocellars.com
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Sustainability is one of the key ingredients at Peachy Canyon Winery on the west side of Paso Robles, where owners Doug and Nancy Beckett have been producing wine since 1988. In addition to sourcing top quality fruit from a number of growers in the area, the Becketts manage 100 acres of their own vineyards, which participate in the Sustainability in Practice (SIP) Vineyard Certification Program. This highly-respected accreditation requires growers to farm in a way that protects both natural and human resources. Habitat conservation, energy efficiency, and water conservation are all integral parts of the program. At Peachy Canyon, the vineyard team grows cover crops in between their vine rows to help prevent erosion during the winter months. They also compost all of the byproducts from the winery and reintroduce them to their soils every other year. Throughout the growing season, each vineyard block is strategically watered to maximize the quality of the fruit while minimizing water waste and runoff. Rather than spray pesticides, they introduce beneficial insects to the vineyard, such as ladybugs, lacewings and praying mantis, which feast upon enemy pests. A visit to the Peachy Canyon tasting room on Highway 46 West will treat you to a number of award-winning Zinfandels, Bordeaux blends, Malbec and Viognier. Grab a glass of the 2011 Chardonnay and settle beneath the idyllic gazebo, or pack a picnic and sit amongst the undulating vineyards and canopy of ancient oaks. Peachy Canyon is a place not to be missed! By Sarah Doyle
VARIETALS pRODUCED Zinfandel, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Bordeaux blends, Petite Sirah, Viognier, Chardonnay, Port-style Zinfandel INTERESTING FACT The Peachy Canyon tasting room is located in the historic Old Bethel School House, which was built in 1886. RECENT AWARDS 2012 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 2009 Vortex Zinfandel - Double Gold 2009 Ms Behave Malbec - Gold 2009 Para Siempre Bordeaux Blend - Silver 2009 Old Baily Zinfandel Silver
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The eastside of Paso robles is easily accessible from Highway 101, and 46 east by way of i-5 and Highway 41. Dozens of wineries line the way into Paso robles, and while each has unique wines, they all have warm and friendly hospitality to welcome guests to the beautiful wine country. Guests can immediately feel the microclimate of the eastside. summer days can reach unbearably hot temperatures, but inevitably each evening cools down to a perfect crisp 50-60 degrees. These extreme swings in temperature during the growing season are ideal for the rhne and Bordeaux varieties grown in the region. Hunter Ranch Golf Course Located in the heart of the Eastside wine country, this course is perfect for a casual game while youre visiting. Rated 4.5 stars by Golf Digest. 4041 Highway 46 east, Paso robles (805) 237-7444, www.hunterranchgolf.com Ravine Water park Perfect attraction for kids and adults during the hot summer days. Open all summer long. 2301 airport road, Paso robles 805-237-8500, www.ravinewaterpark.com Vineyard Antique Mall Greg and Jeanine Cantrell have an incredible selection of indoor and outdoor collectables. The 10,000 square foot mall is open daily. 2320 ramada Drive, # a,Paso robles (805) 237-4012
Not to scale
Driving Time: 41 minutes From Pretty smith to silver Horse Winery 5+ miles to levigne Winery 5+ miles to Derby Wine estates 6 miles to eberle Winery 1+ miles to eos estate Winery 1+ miles to robert Hall >1 mile to Penman springs 3+ miles to Pear valley >1 mile Total 25+ miles
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Winery owner/winemaker, Lisa Pretty, creates 100% estate-grown Bordeaux varietals and blends under the Pretty-Smith label. The red wines are aged in oak for 3.5 years and then in bottle an additional year prior to release to produce a SOFT, SMOOTH and SILKY style. Each vintage the entire label series changes to feature original works of art by the winemaker, typically reproductions of rock art or pretty glyphs. The winery was built in 1980 and was the thirteenth bonded winery in the Paso Robles AVA. At that time it was named Mission View Estate since the Mission San Miguel can be viewed from many points in the vineyards. Although the name was changed to Pretty-Smith in 2000 when the property was sold to Lisa Pretty and Victor Smith, the winery has continued to produce wines under the Mission View brand all these years. The Mission View brand has a fruit-forward style and is priced at just $17/bottle. Previously Mission View was only available through distribution on the east coast; however, it may once again be sampled and purchased in the tasting room, offering customers a great value wine. Take the drive through the gates adorned with Kokopelli, up the oak studded hill to the rustic winery. The tasting room, located inside the estate winery, offers views of the vineyard and a picnic area with the hills of San Miguel for a backdrop.
VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. FUN FACT The winerys Standard Poodle was named after the icon in the logo. Kokopelli was known as the God of Fertility and viewed by many as a trickster Koko was xed as a puppy and that was Lisas trick on him. THE pRETTY CAF The old tasting room has been transformed into a private event room known as the Pretty Caf. Groups of six or more can book the room for a food and wine pairing experience. Custom menus are created to suit the tastes and budget of the event with many menus created from Lisas Eat This With Paso Robles Wine recipe book published November 2011.
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VARIETALS pRODUCED Albarino, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Syrah and Tempranillo SpECIAL EVENTS! During the summer months, Silver Horse celebrates a Friday Fete once per month. These events feature house-made traditional winery fare, wines by the taste, glass or bottle, and live music. Think concert in the park but in the middle of beautiful vineyards accompanied by delicious wines. Silver Horse is also available for private events. The expansive surroundings have been touted as the best view on the Central Coast and the facilities ensure that each occasion on the property is spectacular and awless.
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Le Vigne Winery is located just two miles off of Highway 46 East in Paso Robles. The bright spacious tasting room is located at the winery surrounded by estate vineyards. This is a perfect mid-day stop with several options available for picnicking including a covered patio, a large outdoor wine park and even a set of Pullman Train cars. The tasting rooms gift shop is well known for its incredible selection of gourmet foods including international cheeses, freshly baked baguettes, panini sandwiches and sliced meats. Whether you pack your own or purchase from the gourmet gift area, the picnic can be enjoyed with Le Vigne wines by the glass or bottle. The tasting experience at Le Vigne should not be missed. The tasting room staff offer a warm welcome along with a range of different wine tasting experiences. Tastings are available daily of the limited production wines on the Le Vigne label and the Kiara Reserve wines. The ultimate way to taste wine is with food. Two different gourmet offerings are available: one is a wine & cheese pairing while the other is a wine & chocolate pairing. The selection of wine and gourmet items changes often and are always expertly matched. The winery offers three different brands (the limited production Le Vigne, the premium Kiara and the reasonably priced Sylvester) with an array of diverse wines. They offer several blends, a non-vintage sparkling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Tannat, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Syrah and Moscato. With so many options you will have to visit often to try them all. By Lisa pretty
FUN FACT The name Le Vigne is Italian and means The Vineyard. With his Italian heritage, winery owner Walter Filippini takes tradition and old world processes very much to heart. CONCERTS & EVENTS Le Vignes park-like setting, surrounded by vines, is the perfect place to relax while listening to music. Check the event listings on the winerys website and plan a fun evening out. The winery often has a BBQ or other gourmet food oered as part of the event. VIp TOUR Private VIP tours can be booked with two weeks advance notice and include a full facility tour, private barrel tasting and gourmet cheese pairing aboard the 1947 Pullman train cars. $25/person or $10/member.
Le Vigne Winery
open Daily sunday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday & saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 5115 Buena Vista Drive, Paso Robles (805) 227-4000 1-800-891-6055 info@levignewinery.com www.levignewinery.com Follow them on Facebook & Twitter.
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VARIETALS Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Sparkling Brut Ros, Grenache, Syrah, Counoise, Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Port, Rhone blends, Bordeaux blends FUN FACT Winery owners, Ray and Pam Derby are classic car collectors and happen to love their Convertible Woody! SAMpLE DERBY WINES AT THESE GREAT EVENTS! March 3, 2012 World of Pinot Noir, Shell Beach March 16, 2012 Zinfandel Festival, Paso Robles April 21, 2012 6th Annual Earth Day Food & Wine Festival, Paso Robles April 26, 2012 20th Annual Hospice du Rhone, Paso Robles June 3, 2012 Pinot and Paella, Templeton June 16, 2012 Pinot Days, San Francisco August 18, 2012 Olive Festival, Paso Robles
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Perched on a hilltop surrounded by 60-acres of estate vineyard land, Eberle Winery is one of the most popular stops during a wine tasting adventure in Paso Robles. In addition to the spacious tasting room with a large gift shop and complimentary wine tasting, the facility also includes underground caves, an expansive vineyard deck, bocce ball courts, the Wild Boar event room with commercial kitchen and plenty of places to have a picnic lunch while enjoying the vineyard views. Inside the tasting room guests have the opportunity to taste the Eberle wines that continue to be top award winners. Made from the estate grapes, Gary Eberle and winemaker Ben Mayo handcraft each of the wines for the 27,000 case production. On the tasting list you will find Chardonnay, Viognier, Muscat Canelli, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Zinfandel, Sangiovese and Barbera. There are also a few delicious blends including Cotes-du-Robles Blanc, Full Boar Red and Cotes-du-Robles. Gary is known to be a Cabernet man so when he and his wife Marcy got together to make a limited production Cabernet named Love & Kisses you know you are in for a treat. A small amount of the 2007 Love & Kisses is still available. Although Eberle has grown in production over the years, the winery still has a warmth and family feel. On most visits to the tasting room you will find the Eberle standard poodles, Cabernet and Roussanne, wandering the tasting room for a little well deserved attention. Eberle welcomes families and four-legged friends for an enjoyable experience.
FUN FACTS The German name Eberle translates to small boar. (Gary is half Polish, half German.) All of the wines except Muscat Canelli are aged in oak in the caves. Gary Eberle created the Paso AVA and is known as the godfather of the Paso Robles wine appellation. Gary Eberle created the first 100% Syrah in the USA and is called the Johnny Appleseed of Syrah by the Wine Spectator. Ebere Winery is the longest continuously owned family winery in Paso Robles. Eberle has been delivering award-winning wines for 33 years. When he rst started there were only a handful of wineries, today there are more than 200. TOUR THE CAVE Complimentary tours are oered each day so you can explore the 16,000 square feet of underground caves located below the winery. Take the tour and see why it was rated as one of the best tours by Wine Spectator.
Eberle Winery
open Daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (5 p.m. winter) 3810 East Highway 46, Paso Robles (805) 238-9607 Email: tastingroom@eberlewinery.com www.eberlewinery.com Follow on Eberle Winery on Facebook & Twitter.
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WINES Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Rousanne, Muscat Canelli, White Cabernet, Rukus, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Merlot, French Connection Red, Mischief, Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc, Late Harvest Moscato and Zinfandel Port FUN FACT Eos namesake was the ancient Greek Goddess of Dawn yet the winery uses state-of-the-art equipment. Serving Food: DCS Catering is providing an appetizer menu Friday-Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Items such as assorted crostinis, panzanella salad and several pasta dishes may be ordered and enjoyed in the picnic area. The menu is seasonal and will be updated based on available ingredients. VALUE WINE In addition to the Eos brand, the tasting room oers the Lost Angel line with seven wines priced at just $10 a bottle.
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WINES Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Orange Muscat, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Meritage, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Rhone de Robles, Pape de Robles and Vintage Port FUN FACT The large golden bear on display in the tasting room is a trophy from when Robert Hall Winery was named the 2010 Golden State Winery by the California State Fair Competition a rst for a California Central Coast Winery. EVENTS Robert Hall Winery was designed as a hospitality center to host a wide range of events. In addition to the many weddings, private parties and corporate retreats, the winery hosts public events such as the New Years Eve Party, Valentines Day Dinner, Port & Cigar Tasting, Lobster Festival, 4th of July Celebration and Wine Cavern Extravaganzas. Check the website for details or just stop by for a picnic and a round of bocce ball.
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ESTATE WINES Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Canelli, Our Daily White, Ros, Orange Muscat, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Frizzante, Distraction, Inspiration and Belle Fin. With more than 24 varieties planted on the estate vineyards, this list will soon grow. EVENTS With settings both indoors and outdoors, the winery hosts several events throughout the year including concert series, winemaker dinners, a 4th of July Celebration, club pick-up parties and fund raising events. With the hilltop featuring Toms Oak, Pear Valley offers the perfect wedding site to say I do. FUN FACT The winery was named Pear Valley after the vineyard Tom & Kathleen purchased on the west side of Highway 101 as a retirement plan. Growing grapes was not enough for Tom and today Pear Valley Estate Wine includes three vineyards, a winery and a gorgeous tasting room ideally suited for weddings and other events.
pear Valley
open Daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 4900 Union Road, Paso Robles (805) 237-2861 | Email: info@pearvalley.com PearValley.com Social Media: Facebook
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Visitors can feel the warmth of Penman Springs Vineyards as soon as they pull into the parking lot. The rural landscape, covered with vineyards and oak trees, offers a sense of country peacefulness that makes it hard to believe downtown Paso Robles is just three short miles away. The propertys elevation offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wine country, encouraging guests to enjoy the welcoming picnic area located just outside the tasting room doors. The rustic tasting room offers a true sense of country charm. Owners Carl and Beth McCasland opened their tasting room in 2000, a time when Paso Robles was home to just 40-45 wineries. Back then the area was known as a premium grape growing area with unpretentious wineries. Wine lovers flocked to the area to discover the wonderful wines and learn the story of the winery from the owners themselves. The McCaslands have maintained that same atmosphere even as the area around them became populated with a plethora of new wineries large and small. The entire line of 100% estate-grown wine is available for tasting and tasters can visit at the bar where they will hear stories of days gone by and receive a little wine education, or peruse the Penman Pantry loaded with locally made gourmet items. With the outstanding wines priced for every day drinking, the warm hospitality and the idyllic setting, it is no wonder Penman Springs draws visitors back time and time again. By Lisa pretty
WINES Each vintage just 2,000-2,400 cases of estate wines are produced including a dry Muscat Blanc, a French-style Syrah Ros, an intense Merlot, an elegant Cabernet Sauvignon, a dark ruby Syrah, a robust Petite Sirah, and a complex Meritage blend in addition to the Yahoosh and Trembler Deux dessert wines. VINEYARDS Carl believes wine is made in the vineyard and uses a variety of trellis systems the Smart-Dyson, the ballerina, the open lyre and the Geneva Double Curtain to create deeply colored, full-bodied wines with rich, balanced avors. FUN FACT The logo and wine label features a reproduction of a stained glass color wheel that Beth claims to have stolen from her brother. WINE CLUB Pen Pal club members save 20%, receive two 4-bottle shipments a year and get to attend fun club events and pick-up parties.
penman Springs
open Thursday-monday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 1985 Penman Springs Road, Paso Robles (805) 237-7959 | PenmanSprings.com Become a Fan on Facebook
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quality Commitment
SIP Certification goes beyond the organic wines you typically see in the marketplace it speaks to the farmers commitment to protecting both natural and human resources. Growers and winemakers recognize that mindful fruit production and care for workers well-being are important components of quality wine.
management, water conservation, economic stability, and human resources are some of the key elements of the program. The Standards look at the farm in its entirety: the worker, soil fertility, cover crops, wildlife, native plants, irrigation and more.
SIp Certification
It took four years to develop the Standards. More than 30 environmental, regulatory, and academic representatives independently reviewed our work. In order to qualify for certification, growers must have their practices verified through in-depth records and on-site audits by accredited independent inspectors. A separate Certification Advisory Committee then determines eligibility based on reports from auditors. During the evaluation process, the name of the vineyard remains anonymous.
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Castoro Cellars Mediterranean-style tasting room is located in the heart of Paso Robles with easy access from scenic Highway 46 West. The picturesque setting is the perfect place to enjoy wine tasting. The courteous, knowledgeable staff is eager to assist in making the experience memorable. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic to relax while taking in the spectacular views. Since their first release in the fall of 1983, Castoro Cellars has produced award-winning premium varietals. Winemaker Tom Myers, Assistant Winemaker Mikel Olsten and owners Niels and Bimmer Udsen have concentrated on producing the best wines the Paso Robles appellation has to offer selecting fruit from more than 700 acres of vineyards a hundred acres of which are certified organic and the rest in the SIP (Sustainability in Practice) program. On the tasting list you will find a wide range of wines starting with a number of whites including Fum Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Pinot Grigio and blends in addition to a red selection of Cabernet Sauvignon, single vineyard Zinfandels, Rhne varietals, blends and more. When you taste through the line you will see how they got the reputation for producing Dam Fine Wine. The Castoro Cellars event gallery and gardens provide a beautiful location for special events such as weddings, receptions, parties and meetings. The facilities offer an elegant site for any occasion, from casual to formal, and are competitively priced. The courteous and helpful Castoro Cellars event staff provides excellent service and attention to detail in order to make every special event unforgettable. By Lisa pretty
FUN FACT Niels life-long nickname is Beaver, and while he worked in Italy it evolved further to Il Castoro, which is beaver in Italian. The name and the motto stuck. Castoro Cellars Dam Fine Wines sport a picture of a beaver on each label. THE GROUNDS The 150-foot grape arbor at the tasting room entrance leads to gardens featuring lush native plants and specimen cork oaks. The beautifully landscaped grounds with grand views are the perfect place for a picnic. CONCERTS Throughout the year, Castoro Cellars hosts concerts for musicians from around the world. During the summer the shows are held outside with the vineyard and sunset as the backdrop. Winter concerts are held in the cozy bistro atmosphere of the event gallery. FAMILY FRIENDLY With families and designated drivers in mind Castoro oers an alcohol-free grape juice.
Castoro Cellars
open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 1315 North Bethel Road, Templeton (805) 238-0725 1-888-DAM-FINE www.castorocellars.com
Bring in Day Trips for a free tasting for two and 10% o wine purchases.
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Sustainability is one of the key ingredients at Peachy Canyon Winery on the west side of Paso Robles, where owners Doug and Nancy Beckett have been producing wine since 1988. In addition to sourcing top quality fruit from a number of growers in the area, the Becketts manage 100 acres of their own vineyards, which participate in the Sustainability in Practice (SIP) Vineyard Certification Program. This highly-respected accreditation requires growers to farm in a way that protects both natural and human resources. Habitat conservation, energy efficiency, and water conservation are all integral parts of the program. At Peachy Canyon, the vineyard team grows cover crops in between their vine rows to help prevent erosion during the winter months. They also compost all of the byproducts from the winery and reintroduce them to their soils every other year. Throughout the growing season, each vineyard block is strategically watered to maximize the quality of the fruit while minimizing water waste and runoff. Rather than spray pesticides, they introduce beneficial insects to the vineyard, such as ladybugs, lacewings and praying mantis, which feast upon enemy pests. A visit to the Peachy Canyon tasting room on Highway 46 West will treat you to a number of award-winning Zinfandels, Bordeaux blends, Malbec and Viognier. Grab a glass of the 2011 Chardonnay and settle beneath the idyllic gazebo, or pack a picnic and sit amongst the undulating vineyards and canopy of ancient oaks. Peachy Canyon is a place not to be missed! By Sarah Doyle
VARIETALS pRODUCED Zinfandel, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Bordeaux blends, Petite Sirah, Viognier, Chardonnay, Port-style Zinfandel INTERESTING FACT The Peachy Canyon tasting room is located in the historic Old Bethel School House, which was built in 1886. RECENT AWARDS 2012 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition 2009 Vortex Zinfandel - Double Gold 2009 Ms Behave Malbec - Gold 2009 Para Siempre Bordeaux Blend - Silver 2009 Old Baily Zinfandel Silver
WINES Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Orange Muscat, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Meritage, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Rhone de Robles, Pape de Robles and Vintage Port. FUN FACT The large golden bear on display in the tasting room is a trophy from when Robert Hall Winery was named the 2010 Golden State Winery by the California State Fair Competition a rst for a California Central Coast Winery. EVENTS Robert Hall Winery was designed as a hospitality center to host a wide range of events. In addition to the many weddings, private parties and corporate retreats, the winery hosts public events such as the New Years Eve Party, Valentines Day Dinner, Port & Cigar Tasting, Lobster Festival, 4th of July Celebration and Wine Cavern Extravaganzas. Check the website for details or just stop by for a picnic and a round of bocce ball.
Bring in Day Trips for two tastings for the price of one.
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Pomar Junction Vineyard & Winery is a family run winery featuring wines from their estate vineyard. The vineyard and tasting room are located at the junction of El Pomar Drive and South El Pomar Road, in the El Pomar District of Paso Robles. The rustic, country tasting room, surrounded by the wellcared-for vines, takes you back in time. The welcoming picnic area beckons with colorful flowers and trees. It is easy to see why, generation after generation, the family has stayed in the area. The Merrill Familys agricultural heritage and grape-growing history dates back at least eight generations on Californias Central Coast. After nearly 30 years of growing grapes for many of the finest wineries in California, ranging from ultra premium small producers to the largest international brands, the Merrills decided to produce their own wines. Today, Dana and Marsha Merrill and son, Matthew farm the vineyards, while Matthews winemaking is complemented by winemaker, Jim Shumate. In addition to harvesting fruit from the family vineyards, blocks of grapes from Santa Barbara and Monterey counties are selected from vineyards managed by a sister firm, Mesa Vineyard Management, Inc. All wines produced are exclusively farmed by the Merrills who believe that control from planting and pruning through harvest, fermentation and cellaring is critical for success. Taste through the offering with their friendly staff to experience the familys commitment to producing high-quality wines. By Lisa pretty
VARIETALS The winery produces Viognier, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Pinot Nior, Syrah in addition to a number of lively blends and their delicious agship wine, Train Wreck. FUN FACT Marsha Merrills grandfather, George Grigg, was a longtime Southern Pacic Engineer. To honor that heritage, the Merrills have relocated a boxcar and cupola Caboose adjacent to the tasting room. SIp CERTIFICATION The family is very committed to sustainable farming. Dana Merrill was among the founding members of the Central Coast Vineyard Team who created the Sustainability in Practice (SIP) certication program. They are very proud to have SIP Certication for not only the vineyards but also the wines. TRAIN WRECk FRIDAYS The Merrills know how to throw a party join them for Train Wreck Fridays each month to enjoy BBQ, live music and wine. Be sure to visit the website to nd other exciting events oered throughout the year.
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A lighter bodied Pinot is charming accompaniment to grilled salmon or roasted chicken. Medium bodied Pinot, known for being extremely versatile, is quite delicious with pork, duck and charcuterie. Finally, heavier bodied Pinot Noir can be perfectly suited for wild mushroom dishes, lamb and certain cuts of beef. There is no shortage of fabulous SLO Pinot Noir and it is available to taste daily at the wineries in the Edna and Arroyo Grande valleys.
Driving Time: 28 minutes From Per Bacco Cellars to stephen ross 2 miles to Chamisal vineyards 8 miles to Talley vineyards 3+ miles Total 13+ miles
Not to scale
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WHAT TO TASTE The winery oers an impressive collection of artisan wines, including Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, a dry ros, the Arroyo Grande Pinot Noir and the barrel select Dionysus Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, two tasting room exclusive blends the Bianchetto and Rosseto, and a late-harvest Zinfandel. LA FAMIGLIA Per Bacco Cellars invites you to be part of their family! Known for their phenomenal parties, La Famiglia club members receive an added treat with the pairing of Per Bacco Cellars wines with the delicious Caf Roma recipes from the Rizzo family. Club shipments are twice yearly, with La Famiglia members receiving allocation privileges to Dionysus oerings, in addition to picnic and event hosting priority at the winery. GETTING THERE See page 42 or use Google maps for a quick reference for the short drive through the historic Filiponni Ranch on Calle Joaquin o of Los Osos Valley Road / Hwy 101 South in San Luis Obispo.
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2-for-1 tasting purchase one tasting and the second tasting is complimentary.
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Winemaker Stephen Dooley is no newcomer when it comes to the wine industry. A U.C. Davis graduate, Stephen got his start at Louis M. Martini Winery in the Napa Valley and spent 10 years there before becoming president and winemaker at Edna Valley Vineyard for seven years. In 1994, he launched his own label, Stephen Ross (his first and middle names), and has been producing award-winning Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah and Zinfandel for nearly two decades. Approximately half of the production at Stephen Ross is Pinot Noir, bottled under five different vineyard designations or appellations, including the Central Coast and Edna Valley, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Chorro Creek Vineyard and their estate Stone Corral Vineyard. Located in the southeastern region of the Edna Valley, Stone Corral Vineyard produces rich, concentrated wines with ample, polished tannins. All Stephen Ross wines are fruit forward and exhibit trademark soft, yet voluptuous mouthfeel, mild acidity and silky, lingering tannins. Stephen Ross produces a wealth of Chardonnay, made in the traditional Burgundian style: barrel fermented in French oak, full malolactic fermentation, aged sur lies, and lightly fined or filtered for clarity. Other varietals include Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris. A visit to the Stephen Ross tasting room will allow you to enjoy these exemplary wines amongst the warm, informative staff that is ready to guide you on an educational tour of the winery and to tell you about the winemakers philosophy and distinct winemaking style. By Sarah Doyle
VARIETALS pRODUCED The tasting menu changes every calendar month and includes a variety of ve wines from the twelve or so current releases. Current releases include six Pinot Noirs, three Chardonnays, Zinfandel, Pinot Gris and Petite Sirah, most of which are small, barrel select, single vineyard wines. FUN FACTS 2009 Stephen Ross Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido scored 91 points in the Wine Spectator Three additional current release wines have 90+ scores from the Wine Enthusiast Winemaker Stephen Dooley rst became intrigued with winemaking while still a high school student, after reading an article in Time Magazine about the emerging U.S. wine industry. After two years of study at Mankato State University in Minnesota, Stephen transferred to U.C. Davis for his junior year, embarking on the study of enology and his subsequent career. Stephen Ross Wine Cellars was started in 1994, making 2011 its 17th vintage! Annual case production 4,000
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VARIETALS Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Grenache, Syrah, Pinot Gris STYLE My Pinot is bigger than your Pinot, is a phrase coined by winemaker Fin, playfully referencing the uniquely bold style of Chamisal Pinot Noir. EVENTS Chamisal has wonderful events throughout the year, such as Blending Seminars, Pigs N Pinot, Concert in the Vineyard, and LobsterFest, which requires an RSVP six months in advance to ensure you get a seat!
Chamisal Vineyards
open Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last tasting at 4:45 p.m.) reservations are required for groups of 7 or more. 7525 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo 1-866-808-9463 or (805) 541-9463 chamisalvineyards.com Email tastingroom@chamisalvineyards.com Chamisal loves to Facebook and Twitter! Follow them @ChamisalVyd or Facebook.com/Chamisal.Vineyards
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Bring in Day Trips for 10% o any purchase during your visit.
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Talley Vineyards may be celebrating 26 years in business, but they are still younger than Talley Farms, started in the 1940s. Though the farm is an integral part of the family-run business, producing specialty and organic vegetables, its wine that has taken centerstage. Today, Talley has four estate vineyards in the Arroyo Grande and Edna Valleys. Their Mediterranean-styled tasting room rests in the middle of their Rincon Vineyard in Arroyo Grande, where cropland surrounds the vines. The comfortable tasting room has floor to ceiling windows, a horseshoe tasting bar and vaulted ceilings. The expansive property also features three diverse picnic areas offering beautiful views of the serene landscape. Talley has always strived for a personal approach to the wine tasting experience, therefore they offer a variety of special tours and tastings. These tours are fun and informative and can be customized to the size and interests of any group. Guests are educated about what happens in all aspects of the winemaking process and can focus on the winery, vineyards and barrel room. For example, during May visitors can learn about shoot thinning and Spring pruning or have a Chardonnay Experience and learn about Chardonnay while tasting a flight of vineyard designated wines. In September, learn about harvest techniques and fermentation or taste through new releases of their Pinot Noirs. Talley is open daily for tasting of their Talley Vineyards and Bishops Peak wines. Visit Talley Vineyards today and experience all the unique and special offerings of almost three decades in the Arroyo Grande Valley.
VARIETALS Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Riesling BUzz Killer scores from Wine Enthusiast Robert Parker who wrote, The one superstar for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in the Edna Valley is Talley Vineyards. OUTDOORS Their scenic grounds feature three unique picnic areas in a serene rural setting. NOTE Local art shows which feature new artists rotate every two months and Talley oers a complimentary concierge service providing information on local restaurants, lodgings and attractions. FUN FACT They sponsor an annual 5K run through their vineyards, which raises funds for student athletes at Arroyo Grande High School.
Mention Day Trips for 10% o wine purchases and a two-for-one tasting experience.
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Wine Tasting in
PASO ROBLES
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Justin
Carmody McKnight
Dubost
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Tolo Cellars
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TN
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Harmony Cellars
Cayucos
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Bassetti Vineyards
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Aron Hill Vineyards
OLD MO
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Locatelli
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PRETTY SMITH
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Domaine Degher
San Miguel
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RiverStar
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Chronic Cellars
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Oceano
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Alexander & Wayne Artiste Arthur Earl Bernat Blair Fox Byron Carhartt Carina Cellars Consilience Daniel Gehrs Dragonette Cellars E&T Fontes & Phillips Kaena Longoria Los Olivos Tasting Room Pacific Ridge Presquile Saarloos & Sons Stolpman Tensley Tercero Tre Anelli Brander
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ROBLAR AVE Ballard FOLEY Dieberg, Huber WINE GHETTO Star Lane 1 Ampelos Beckmen Roblar Cellers 2ND Cold Heaven BASELINE Winery Arcadian BASELINE /Prodigal 246 Blackjack Casa Lompoc Evening Land VnydsFiddlehead Buellton Cassara Santa Flying Goat HitchingShoestring LINCOURT Figueroa Mtn Brewing Co Jalama Post BALLARD CYN Ynez Rideau Joseph Blair Avant Imagine Wine Ken Wandering Dog Lavie Central Lafond Buttonwood Brown Wine Bar Longoria California ARMOUR 246 Valley Vino DAlfonso-Curran Loring Wines Sanford Alma Rosa Mosby Presidio Tastes Of The Valleys Gainey New Vineland/Piedrasassi PA 154 Kalyra RK Carivintas Palmina COP LUCAS & LEWELLEN PEN Samsara Sevtap HAG EN Royal Oaks 1 Stolpman Vineyards East Valley/Dascomb Sort This Out MOLLIE Taste of Sta. Rita Hills LIONS PEAK/Mission Meadow Cellars OA Transcendence K Toccata Wines (Mandolina) Zotovich Sunstone Solvang
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Horseback Riding Take a tour of the breathtaking Fess Parker property by horseback. Tours last 90 minutes and participants can decide to include lunch and wine tasting. www.vinovaqueros.com Chumash Casino Polish o a day of wine tasting with Blackjack, Roulette or Texas Hold Em! Big name acts perform. 3400 east Highway 246, santa Ynez 800-CHUmasH, www.chumashcasino.com Rancho San Marcos Golf Course Golfers can play year round on Ranch San Marcos 300 acres with views of Lake Cachuma. The course is named one of Golf Digests Places to Play. 4600 Highway 154, santa Barbara 805-683-6334, www.rsm1804.com
CANYON RD
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The Victorian Mansion Six themed suites fill the mansion, located just off Highway 101. Unique and mysterious embellishments, including a hidden bathroom and spiral staircases, give the 1864 home its charm. 326 Bell street, los alamos 805-344-1300, www.thevick.com zaca Lake Retreat 19 unique cabins are available for families to rent. Many include full kitchens and lake views. Private and tranquil setting conveniently located just east of the Foxen Canyon Trail. 8000 Foxen Canyon road, los olivos 805-688-5699, www.zacalakeretreat.com
Driving Time: 27 minutes From Zaca mesa to Firestone 5+ miles to Bridlewood 8+ miles Total 14 miles
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Santa Ynez Inn This Victorian-style Inn offers luxury accommodations just 3 miles outside of Los Olivos. Full gourmet breakfast and evening wine tasting and hors doeuvres are included with your stay. 3627 sagunto street, santa Ynez 805-688-5588, www.santaynezinn.com
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Since 1973 Zaca Mesa Winery has been dedicated to producing wines that truly capture the unique spirit of their land. Their very name comes from the Chumash word, Zaca, meaning restful and peaceful place, a sentiment that permeates every aspect of the 750-acre estate. Located in the northern-most region of the Santa Ynez Valley AVA, Zaca Mesa Winery planted close to one third of their land to Rhne varieties along the mesas scattered throughout the property. This combination of prolonged sun exposure, rich and well-drained soils and mostly organic farming practices leads to the creation of 100% estate grown and bottled wines that are unparalleled. As their website states: We have embraced the code [of Sustainable Winegrowing] in our winegrowing to ensure the health and sustainability of our vineyards, our employees, our neighbors and our environment. Visitors have the opportunity to taste these distinctive wines in a rustic yet chic tasting room that was built in the 1970s, located in the original winery. Our goal at Zaca Mesa is to be approachable, have fun and educate, said president Brook Williams. Our wines are not pretentious or trying to be something theyre not, which is why I like to call them Popeye wines, as if theyre saying I am what I am. For visitors interested in tasting these wines amidst the peaceful spirit of the land, Zaca Mesa Winery offers additional picnic areas near the tasting room, as well as on a hill overlooking the vineyards. From time to time winemaker, Eric Mohseni, offers hikes through the vineyards, and on the weekends visitors are often treated to food trucks. For a complete list of upcoming events, be sure to check the events section of the website. By Carolyn Turner
VARIETALS Chardonnay, Roussane, Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache ACCLAIM Zaca Mesa was the rst Central Coast winery to appear in Wine Spectator Magazines Top 10 list in 1995. Within the following year, the Estate Syrah was served by then-President Clinton to French President Jaque Chirac at a White House State dinner. FUN FACT Since its inception in 1973, many of the winemakers and wine professionals who have worked at Zaca Mesa Winery have given it name Zaca Mesa University, as its been the training ground for many of the Santa Barbara County wine industry pioneers including: Ken Brown (Wild Horse, Byron, Ken Brown Wines), Adam Tolmach (Ojai Vineyard), Jim Clendenen (Au Bon Climat) and Bob Lindquist (Qup). DONT MISS Zaca Mesa boasts that 100% of their wines are estate-grown and bottled. They are especially known for their Rhne wines as well as their award-winning Syrahs, including the Mesa Reserve Syrah, Black Bear Block Syrah, Estate Syrah and the 8 Barrel Syrah.
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VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Reisling, Gewrtztraminer ACCLAIM The Lineage Chairman Series is a blend created by handpicking the best fruit from each block of vines throughout the vineyard. Every year the blend changes depending on the fruit picked, creating a wine with rich, fruit avors and a long, velvety nish. FUN FACT Winemaker Paul Warson lives on the property with his family and often frequents the winery and tasting room sharing his enthusiasm and knowledge with guests. DONT MISS The free concert in the vineyard series takes place on the rst Friday of every month from June through October, 6 to 9 p.m. Bring the entire family (pets are welcome, too!) for free local live music, local food for sale and Firestone wines for sale by the glass and bottle.
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Large group private tour and tasting packages are available with a reservation: tastingroom@restonewine.com.
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There is something for everyone on the gorgeous grounds of Bridlewood Estate Winery. From an array of varietals to try to multiple tasting options and venues, guests will find something to their liking. Bridlewoods grounds are spectacular with sweeping views of the vineyard speckled hillsides and a building that is reminiscent of an old world mission. The winery was formerly a world renowned horse facility and retains an amazing amount of rustic charm. There are various options for visitors in terms of tasting Bridlewood wines. One can do a traditional style sampling in the tasting room or enjoy an outdoor experience in the courtyard. Also available on pleasant weekend days are horsedrawn carriage rides around the estate, a feature completely exclusive to Bridlewood. For those looking for a first-hand look at the winemaking process, cellar tours can be arranged by appointment and local food pairings accompany your tour. Winemaker David Hopkins (who has made wine for more than thirty years) is fortunate to have access to choice Central Coast vineyards in which to source fruit from including Monterey County, Paso Robles, as well as Bridlewoods Santa Ynez area Estate. Its this variety and Hopkins blending talents that make Bridlewood wines distinctive, approachable and enjoyable. Bridlewood embodies the California wine experience with its stunning mission-style pastoral setting and grounds, myriad of varietals and experiential tours offered. By Brandi Stansbury
VARIETALS Syrah, Chardonnay, Viognier, Pinot Noir, Grenache, Zinfandel CELLAR TOURS Bridlewood offers cellar tours as a more intimate way to understand their wines and become acquainted with the winery. This activity is highly recommended for those interested in learning more about the winemaking process. Call (805) 688-9000 ext. 211 to set up a tour. BARREL ROOM TOURS Go beyond the tasting room counter and learn how winemaker David Hopkins crafts his artisan wines. Youll begin your tour overlooking the Bridlewood Lake and the stunning estate vineyard. Then, youll get an intimate look at the barrel room, where you can taste wine straight from the barrel. Youll learn about Central Coast winemaking and enjoy a wine and food pairing with local cuisine. Call the tasting room in advance to reserve your tour, 1-800-467-4100, ext. 216.
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Los Olivos
DINING petros Located within the beautiful Fess Parker Wine Country Inn, Petros offers a California-Hellenic cuisine with menu selections such as Moussaka and Fish of the Day a la Grecque. Even after a long day of wine tasting, your palate will be quite entertained. 2860 Grand ave, los olivos 805-686-5455, www.fessparker.com/restaurant Los Olivos Caf A Wine Spectator Best Restaurant Wines winner since 2007, Los Olivos Caf offers a local, organic and sustainable taste of the Central Coast. Outdoor patio seating available. 2879 Grand avenue, los olivos 805-688-7265, www.losolivoscafe.com
santa Ynez is home to several of the most renowned santa Barbara County wineries. its ideal viticultural microclimate, with warm days and cooler nights, produces an extensive variety of wines. These bottlings include representation from wine origins around the world such as the rhne valley, Bordeaux and central italy. Nestled in the heart of the santa Ynez valley is the tiny town of los olivos. There are more than 20 tasting rooms within walking distance on and around Grand avenue, each unique and delicious. in between these tasting rooms are world-class restaurants and artisan gift shops. The climate is moderate year round and there is not an off season in this area. However, in autumn, the santa Ynez valley offers near perfect weather and breathtaking views of multi-colored vineyards.
LODGING Fess parker Wine Country Inn & Spa Located in the heart of downtown Los Olivos, this resort offers world-class dining and spa services. 2860 Grand ave, los olivos 800-446-2455, www.fessparker.com The Ballard Inn The township of Ballard is home to this quaint 15room inn. Only a few minutes drive to the wineries of Santa Ynez, this is a lovely private residence to call home while youre visiting the area. 2436 Baseline avenue, Ballard 805-688-7770, www.ballardinn.com Santa Ynez Inn This Victorian-style Inn offers luxury accommodations just 3 miles outside of Los Olivos. Full gourmet breakfast and evening wine tasting and hors doeuvres are included with your stay. 3627 sagunto street, santa Ynez 805-688-5588, www.santaynezinn.com ACTIVITIES Clairmont Farms - Lavendar Farm A family owned Grosso lavender farm which offers essential lavender oils, soaps and other lavender products for sale. 2480 roblar avenue, los olivos 805-688-7505, www.clairmontfarms.com Windhaven Glider Rides A glider ride is an incredible way to view the vineyards and rolling hills of the Santa Ynez Valley. Available on weekends. santa Ynez airport 805-688-2517, www.gliderrides.com Chumash Casino Polish off a day of wine tasting with Blackjack, Roulette or Texas Hold Em! Big name acts perform in the Samala showroom year round. 3400 east Highway 246, santa Ynez 800-CHUmasH, www.chumashcasino.com Rancho San Marcos Golf Course Golfers can play year round on Ranch San Marcos 300 acres with views of Lake Cachuma. The course is named one of Golf Digests Places to Play. 4600 Highway 154, santa Barbara 805-683-6334, www.rsm1804.com
The Ballard Inn & Restaurant The quaint restaurant inside the historic inn, has only 12 tables ensuring an intimate dining experience. Chef Budi Kazali uses farm fresh ingredients in his French-Asian cuisine. 2436 Baseline avenue, Ballard 805-688-7770 www.ballardinn.com/restaurant Trattoria Grappolo Supporting local farmers with their authentic Italian cuisine, the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner most days. A large outdoor dining area is perfect for the warm summer nights. 3687 sagunto st # C, santa Ynez 805-688-6899, www.trattoriagrappolo.com
Driving Time: 5 minutes From lincourt to Coghlan vineyards 2+ miles to andrew murray >1 mile to Tessa marie >1 mile to alta maria >1 mile to Qup >1 mile Total 3 miles
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LOS OLIVOS
When businessman and financier Bill Foley moved his family to Santa Barbara in 1994, he saw the realization of his life-long dream: to become a vintner of premier Burgundianstyle wines. Foley founded Lincourt in 1996 and named it for his two daughters, Lindsay and Courtney. Under the watchful eye of renowned winemaker Leslie Mead Renaud, the 50-acres of estate Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are farmed vine by vine, with Renaud taking the best blocks (or rows) of grapes to create each wine. Renaud also uses some of the best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes from Foley Vineyards to create wines that are both approachable and affordable. Both Lincourt and Foley Vineyards practice sustainable farming techniques in order to ensure the highest quality of wine from grape to glass. Drawing from years of experience working for wineries throughout California, Renaud shares Foleys commitment to quality winemaking. Each wine is aged in French Oak barrels for nine to twelve months, with the focus on creating wines that exemplify the unique terroir and varietal-rich flavors. As you arrive at Lincourt, the iconic windmill that also graces each of their wine labels will greet you as you enter the old farmhouse, now their tasting room. The relaxing atmosphere and beautiful property offers something for the whole family, whether wine tasting, picnicking or enjoying a bottle as you bask in the beauty of the Santa Ynez Valley. By Carolyn Turner
VARIETALS Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay ACCLAIM The Lincourt Pinot Noir from Rancho Santa Rosa is a truly tangible example of the unique terroir of Santa Barbara County and Foleys love of Pinot Noir. FUN FACT The yellow Craftsman-style house (currently housing the tasting room) was originally ordered out of a Sears and Roebuck catalogue in 1926. At that time the railroad ran along Alamo Pintado Road, and the home was delivered in pieces then carried up the hill by teams of donkeys and assembled. Now, nearly 100 years later, the home remains in much the same condition! DONT MISS Lincourt is the perfect place to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the serenity of the Santa Ynez Valley out on the veranda overlooking the vineyard. I suggest grabbing a sandwich at nearby Paninos or Los Olivos Grocery to pair with your tasting.
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LOS OLIVOS
The term, one of a kind comes to mind when describing Coghlan. With its tasting room in a refurbished Victorian home in Los Olivos, hand-crafted jewelry made by the owners and an array of wines to enjoy, one cannot help but to be inspired in the surroundings. Husband and wife team Eric and Samantha Coghlan, met while studying at Gemological Institute of America. Eric, a third-generation jeweler, and Samantha, a tremendously talented craftswoman (she started her first jewelry line at sixteen), see the wine and jewelry industries as very similar. Samantha explains, My husband is a huge fan of minerals and gemstone specimens, we look at the wine industry as a type of a parallel to the jewelry industry. You take something the earth gives you and then you facet it into a desirable finished product. We do this with wine grapes as well as with the gemstones that the earth provides us with. Visitors can taste wine, browse jewelry, play bocce ball in the yard and enjoy the nostalgic nature of the home, which boasts a rich history. The Coghlans were happy to maintain the integrity of the Sears kit home built in the late 1890s, formerly owned by the Whitmore family, long-time influencers in the Los Olivos art community. Eric and Samantha are constantly creating unique pieces on display in the house. At Coghlan, wines and jewelry will continue to proliferate the arts in the area. By Brandi Stansbury
CURRENT VINTAGES 2009 Grenache Blanc 2009 Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir 2009 La Encantada Pinot Noir 2009 Fusion 50/50 Cab Merlot Blend 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon THE VINEYARD Coghlans estate vineyard in the Happy Canyon area of the Santa Ynez Valley is in the midst of being certied organic. They began to farm organically this year to respect the environment as well as provide a toxic free landscape for their children and dogs. INSpIRED ACTIVITY Sip wine and see your own custom jewelry ideas come to life.
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LOS OLIVOS
Most young people who graduate from high school think about college. For Tessa Parker, she started her winemaking career by working in her familys tasting room, not exactly college curriculum. At the tender age of 18, still too young to taste the wines, she would smell them and describe their aromatics using the descriptive words she had frequently heard from her family. Curious about the process of crafting wine she enrolled in the Enology and Viticulture program at Allan Hancock College. During her first semester attending school and working harvest at a local winery, she discovered what would become her signature wine Sangiovese. This variety captured her imagination because of its food-friendly character, lots of ripe fruit and ageablity. I like to make New World-style wines with bold, stand-out flavors that still demonstrate balance, she says. She crafts her wines in a small, unassuming industrial warehouse, a stark contrast to her sleek modern tasting room. For me, making wine is really about making art. I dont mean that I take it all too seriously; its just that I like to take my time when Im making wine. I rely much more upon my intuition and sense of taste, when Im in the cellar, than on analysis. I guess my approach is intuitive, more than anything else. Today, with multiple harvests behind her, Tessa continues to hone her winemaking techniques, which is clearly achieving success. From her first vintage she has received 90 point scores By Michael Cervin from major wine magazines.
VARIETALS Vermentino, Sangiovese and Coquette a blend of Sangiovese and Syrah TASTING ROOM Tessa decided to open up a tasting room in downtown Los Olivos, shared with E&T Wines, a winery partnership between her father Eli (E) and herself (T). Visitors have the opportunity to taste both Tessa Marie wines as well as E&T wines in a modern Italian-styled tasting room. FUN FACT At age 18, Tessa began working in her familys tasting room pouring wine, even though she herself was not legally able to drink the wine she poured for others! NOTE Tessas grandfather is the late, great Fess Parker, Santa Barbara Wine Country pioneer, and well-known TV actor of Daniel Boone fame, and her father, Eli Parker (Fess son) established his own winery called Epiphany
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LOS OLIVOS
Andrew Murray fell in love with the emerging Rhne varietals, Syrah and Viognier, in the late 1980s while traveling through Frances Rhne Valley. Leaving his UC Berkeley paleontology studies behind, he pursued his new mistress, Syrah, with an internship in Australia. His three-month tryst evolved into a 15-month romance with the famed Australian Shiraz. Returning to the states, he earned a bachelors degree in viticulture and enology from UC Davis renowned wine program, then founded his eponymous Santa Ynez winery and vineyard. He sought out growers who shared his passion for excellence and who dared to farm their vines to perilously low yields with the most advanced viticultural methods in the industry. This uncompromising winemakers lucid philosophy is summarized succinctly in three words: Passion Wisdom Courage; the Passion of an unflagging love affair with Rhne varietals; the Wisdom gained with 20 years of winemaking; and the Courage to seek even the most subtle nuance out of each vintage. Andrews focus and dedication to his craft have culminated in what Robert Parker, Jr. calls, one of the shining stars in the Santa Barbara firmament. This youthful perfectionist has been named Tastemaker of the Year by Food and Wine Magazine, as well as, One of the most fearsome talents in food and wine. Still, despite myriad accolades, Andrew remains the same modest, approachable, contemplative man he was when he first embarked to Australia back in 1992. Its well worth the visit to Andrew Murray Vineyards sleek tasting room in the center of Los Olivos, or the trek to Area 51 to visit the winery on the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. You will surely delight in sampling the fruits of Andrews passionate labors and will often catch him at his work in the winery.
BUzz Andrew Murray Vineyards had 10 wines score a 91 or higher in the October 2011 edition of The Wine Advocate. This set of wines from Andrew Murray is remarkable for its breadth of quality and sheer value. FUN FACT Aside from wine, Andrew is a cycling and photography acionado. Often at the winery on weekends, hes as apt to talk carbon ber frames and apertures, as de-stemming and screw caps. DONT MISS Andrew launched a new label, This is E11even Wines last September. The name is a nod to the rockumentary Spinal Tap and Murray plans to turn it up to 11 by breaking away from Rhne varietals, and blending to achieve just the right melody and bust out a solo.
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Though the Alta Maria Vineyards tasting room only recently opened, they have been making wine for more than a decade. Co-owners Paul Wilkins and James Ontiveros chose to set up shop in Los Olivos, which is fast developing a reputation as a destination in the heart of the acclaimed Santa Barbara County Wine Country. Decorated with what the duo calls a Central Coast Heritage theme, the tasting room is clearly influenced by the old stagecoach and Pacific Coast Railroad days of Los Olivos. It is at once Western yet with a nod to the contemporary; historic but classy. And the tasting room is a stones throw from Matteis Tavern, the still standing historic railroad stop. Like that of our home town, the Santa Maria Valley, Los Olivos and the Santa Ynez Valley are deep with history that few people realize, says Paul Wilkins. It is rich with potential and its past and the people that surround it bolster its odds of becoming something very special. We want to be here with our wines to help tell the stories of our past and this communitys heritage and to also to be a part of Los Olivos future, he adds. And thats a fitting comment since co-owner James Ontiveros has family roots going back to 1781. Paul and James were college buddies who both share a love of farming and a love of wine. James works as viculturalist and Paul as the winemaker, but they are both equally excited to share their personal and professional histories through their wines. By Michael Cervin
VARIETALS Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon OUTDOORS A small casual patio, which fronts Grand Avenue, the main drag in Los Olivos, allows you sit and watch the world go by. You can purchase wine by the glass, too. FUN FACT The tasting room walls have 1860 and 1861 maps which show the recording of 411 privately held Spanish and Mexican land grants including Rancho Tepusquet, which was originally owned by the Ontiveros family starting in 1837. NOTE The label artwork for Alta Maria Vineyards features images of hand-hewn iron nails used by homesteaders before the Industrial Revolution introduced mass produced machine cut nails.
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Over the last 30 years, Qup owner Bob Lindquist has achieved a sort of legendary status in the wine world. Lindquist has been involved in the Santa Barbara County wine industry since its beginnings as a modern wine region in the mid 1970s and was an early advocate of growing Rhne grapes in the region, focusing specifically on Syrah. In 1982, Lindquist started Qup winery and today, he continues to help increase recognition of the region world-wide through production of his Rhne-style wines. The name Qup comes from the local Chumash Indian word for poppy, as it seemed only fitting to pay homage to the original cultivators of the land. Lindquist wanted to convey his dedication to growing and producing local wines, and so chose the iconic California poppy to represent his brand. Each Qup label is graced by yet another poppy. One of which was originally a quilt design by the craftsman-era artist Gustav Stickley. The focus of the Qup wines has always been on producing wines that exhibit the unique flavors of both the terroir and the grape varieties, which is why he chose to source from the world-renowned Bien Nacido Vineyard. In 2002, Lindquist and his wife Louisa purchased an 80-acre property in Edna Valley near San Luis Obispo, and are growing both French and Spanish-style grapes biodynamically. A visit to the Qup tasting room in Los Olivos will quickly reveal that winemaking runs in the Lindquist family. Visitors will often be greeted by Bobs daughter Paige, who manages the tasting room, or taste the Verdad and Ethan wines, made by Bobs wife and son, respectively. Youre sure to feel like one of the family too before you leave! By Carolyn Turner
VARIETALS: Chardonnay, Viognier, Marsanne, Roussanne, Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah ACCLAIM: Qup is known for accomplishing quite a few rsts in Santa Barbara County, including the rst producer of Syrah in 1982, Viognier in 1989, as well as the rst Rhnestyle blend called Los Olivos Cuve in 1988. Qup also lays claim to producing the rst Marsanne in California in 1987. Qup was also named one of the top 100 wineries in America for eight of the last nine years. FUN FACT: When visiting Qup, you will also have the opportunity to taste Verdad and Ethan wines. Verdad is owned by Bobs wife Louisa Sawyer Lindquist, and her focus is on creating Spanish-style wines, while Ethan Wines are made by Bobs son Ethan Lindquist, who focuses on creating Sangiovese and Rhne-style wines. DONT MISS: The Qup winery is located on the famed Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria and is not open to the public except for the day after the Vintners Festival in the spring and the day after the Harvest Festival in the fall.
qup
open Daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2963 Grand Avenue, Suite B, Los Olivos (805) 686-4200 www.qupe.com tastingroom@qupe.com Follow Qup and Verdad Wines
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Driving Time: 30 minutes From Transcendence to Foley 10+ miles to lucas & lewellen 10+ miles to lions Peak >1 mile Total 21 miles
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VARIETALS Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah ACCLAIM Transcendence Winery currently boasts a very hand-crafted integrity to their annual production of around 1,000 cases. They strive to create limited quantities of cool-climate wines with grapes from highly acclaimed vineyards including Syrah from Ballard Canyon, and Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from several vineyards in the Santa Rita Hills including Lafond, Zotovich and La Encantada. FUN FACT As winemaker, one of Joeys favorite pastimes is pouring wine for visitors to the tasting room. Since the tasting room is connected to the winery, wine tasters are often treated to a tour of the facility with Joey, including an opportunity to taste whatever vintage is currently in barrel. I think its really cool to turn people on to wine, and I always love to show o the winery, said Joey. DONT MISS Soon to be released this fall will be a blend of Syrah and Grenache created with grapes from Larner Vineyard.
Transcendence Winery
open Friday-sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. monday-Thursday by appointment 313 North F Street, Lompoc (805) 689-5258 www.transcendwines.com Follow Transcendence on Facebook
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Over the past fifteen years, Bill Foley has worked hard to make his name synonymous with unique and quality wines from Santa Barbara County. After the successful creation of Lincourt Winery in 1996, Foley went on to found Foley Wines in 2002, adding both Rancho Las Hermanas and Rancho Santa Rosa vineyards to his growing portfolio of high quality vineyards. Located in the heart of the famed Santa Rita Hills AVA, the temperate coastal climate, south-facing hills and limestone soils amount to the holy grail of elements for producing world-class Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. Foley knew he needed a winemaker who could exemplify this fruit and create wines in their likeness, and so Leslie Mead Renaud joined the team. As Chairperson for World of Pinot, Renaud is completely in her element as she farms both vineyards cluster by cluster, picking the best bunches of fruit to create each Foley wine. Foley focuses on creating wines that embody the uniqueness of the Santa Rita Hills, and hes also taken great care in creating a tasting room and event center that allows guests to enjoy being surrounded by the spectacular mountain ranges, coastal oaks and contoured hillside vines. In less than twenty years, Foley has watched his love of wine become a dream that hes been able to share with visitors from around the world. Wine Enthusiast magazines Man of the Year in 2010is an honor that only further fuels Foleys commitment to creating quality wines worth sharing. By Carolyn Turner
VARIETALS Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Syrah ACCLAIM Created from the very best blocks of Chardonnay from Courtneys Vineyard and Pinot Noir from Lindsays Vineyard, the Two Sisters wines are made in honor of Foleys two daughters Lindsay and Courtney. Each bottle seeks to embody their combined strength, intelligence and femininity, with wines that exemplify elegant bouquets and avorful palates. FUN FACT Foleys Brand Series features six dierent high-end Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, created in recognition of Bill Foleys Texas Ranger and Cattlemen relatives. Each brand represents a dierent trail taken to create these unique wines. Be the rst to taste and purchase your bottles at the Pinot Release Party on August 13. This is the only time youll be able to taste and purchase all six wines. Reservations are available online. DONT MISS Wine and cheese pairings are available every day, with prior notice only. Make your reservation online at least 48-hours in advance.
Foley Wines
open Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 6121 E Highway 246, Lompoc (805) 737-6222 www.foleywines.com tastingroom@foleywines.com Follow Foley Wines on Facebook
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VARIETALS Over 24 dierent varietals including: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and so much more. AWARDS The 2008 Lucas & Lewellen Goodchild High 9 Pinot Noir won the Gold, Best of Class and Best of Show at the Central Coast Wine Competition, as well as three additional gold medals in national competitions! FUN FACT In the Lucas & Lewellen Tasting Room, they have a table area set apart for kids to play and your canine friends are welcome too. NOTE They oer a fun list where guests enjoy only fun wines starting out with a sparkling wine, then sampling ros, and decadent late harvest wines, then ending with a tasting of their award-winning Silver King Port in an edible dark chocolate shot glass.
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When Jennifer Arant first moved to Paso Robles in 1992, she started Lions Peak with the goal of producing exceptionally fine Bordeaux, Rhne and specialty wines in small, handcrafted lots. Located in the heart of Paso Robles, the 120-acres of Lions Peak Estate Vineyard is one of the oldest vineyards in the area, with 40-year-old Cabernet Sauvignon vines. In addition to using their highly lauded estate fruit, Arant also sources from several esteemed vineyards throughout the Central Coast. Drawing experience from her travels to many of the great wine regions around the world, Arant was also mentored by Robert Lawrence Balzer (35-year food and wine critic for the L.A. Times), and attended UC Davis and Cal Poly; the result is a portfolio of wines with unusual depth, range and character. Originally a professional interior designer, Arant translated her passion for the arts into the artistic label design, where every wine is personified with its own graphics and unique story. The mantra of Lions Peak is the synergy between the vineyards and Mother Nature, along with the coupling of fine wine and artistic packaging. Yet the true story is the one that is told by all who come to drink and share these unique wines with their friends and family. Each bottle shared, exemplifies the story of how, from grape to glass, wine is truly a work By Carolyn Turner of art.
VARIETALS Bordeaux/Rhne blends, Port, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Mourvedre, Petit Verdot, Barbera, Merlot, Grenache, Viognier, Chardonnay, Marsanne, Late Harvest Viognier ACCLAIM The Bordeaux wines in the Lions Peak collection, especially the Estate Grown Cabernet Sauvignon, have received numerous recognitions including Gold Medal and Best-of-Class accolades from competitions such as the San Francisco International Wine Competition, California State Fair, LA County Fair, New World International WineFestival and Long Beach Grand Cru. FUN FACT This summer, the Lions Peak Vineyard House will be available to rent for vacations or events! DONT MISS Theres music Friday and Saturday nights in the tasting room featuring live bands and special DJs. Lions Peak Vineyards will also be participating in the California Wine Festival as well as holding Open Houses throughout the summer.
Enjoy 15% o all regular-priced purchases and 2 complimentary tastings for the price of 1.
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Ventura County
DINING Bella Victorian Vineyard Winery & Bistro French Chef Gael Lecolley pairs the cuisine with Bella Victorian luxury wines. 2135 e. ventura Blvd, Camarillo (805) 383-8800 www.bellavictorianvineyard.com Tierra Sur Restaurant, at Herzog Wine Cellars Chef Aarons specializes in Mediterranean cuisine. A prix fixe menu including wine is available. 3201 Camino Del sol, oxnard (805) 983-1560, www.tierrasuratherzog.com La Dolce Vita Celebrating the sweet life with Italian cuisine. 740 south B street, oxnard (805) 486-6878, www.theldv.com Sugar Beets California fusion cuisine, open for lunch, dinner and brunch on Sundays. 455 south a street, oxnard (805) 240-7777, www.sugarbeetsrestaurant.com LODGING Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort Enjoy the beach and the comfort of your own suite after your day of wine tasting. 2101 mandalay Beach road, oxnard (805) 984-2500, www.embassymandalay.com Ventura Beach Marriott Right on the beach; in addition to your wine tasting trip, enjoy whale watching tours and other water activities. 2055 east Harbor Boulevard, ventura (805) 643-6000, www.marriott.com/ventura Crowne plaza Hotel Ventura Beach Stroll down the historic pier and watch the sunset after exploring the Ventura Wine Trail. 450 e Harbor Blvd, ventura (805) 648-2100, www.crowneplaza.com Courtyard Marriott Conveniently located off Hwy. 101 near historic Old Town and the Camarillo Airport. The Bistro offers healthy choices, an evening bar, Starbucks coffee drinks. 4994 verdugo Way, Camarillo, 805-388-1020
No need to travel hours by train or plane to escape to wine country; residents of southern California can get in the car and drive (often less than an hour) to ventura County which more than 10 wineries call home. Grapes are grown locally in Camarillo, malibu and oxnard - in addition to being brought in from top wine growing regions all over California. The winery personnel are exceptionally friendly and welcoming. Take a day off to enjoy the cool ocean breezes and valley warmth with the wines produced in your backyard. ATTRACTIONS Heritage Square In the heart of downtown Oxnard, the square offers gardens, tours, live entertainment and wine tasting. 715 south a street, oxnard, (805) 483-7960 www.heritagesquareoxnard.com San Buenaventura Mission This is the 9th and last California mission. Self-guided tours available daily. 211 east main st, ventura, (805) 643-4318 www.sanbuenaventuramission.org Island packers Venture to Channel Islands for hiking, whale watching, kayaking or just relaxing with a beautiful view. 1691 spinnaker Drive, ventura (805) 642-1393, www.islandpackers.com Golf Courses 10 golf courses in a 20-mile radius! With so many choices, every level golfer is sure to have a wonderful time. www.venturatoday.net/golfcourses.html
Driving Time: 40 minutes From Four Brix to rancho ventavo 7+ miles to magnavino 3+ miles to Herzog Cellars 1+ miles to Cantara Cellars 4.75 miles to Bella victorian 4.65 miles Total 22 miles
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VENTURA COUNTY
It was once believed that wine had to be made in vineyard surroundings, but the idea of the urban winery, a production facility not surrounded by vines but by offices, is just as valid and often times easier. Four Brix Winery specializes in internationally-inspired wine blends, producing wines based upon the owners four favorite grape growing regions: Italy, France, Spain and California. The word brix is the measurement of sugar in grapes; therefore Four Brix equals four sweets spots for great wine. With a total production of just 1,000 cases, these wines are very limited and in high demand. Because we make blends, we found it best to give names to our wines, says co-owner Karen Stewart. Our wines have interesting names like: Smitten, Zeductive (Zinfandel and Petite Sirah), Temptress, Rhondezvous (Grenache, Mourvdre and Syrah) and Scosso (Sangiovese, Cabernet and Merlot). Once you taste the wines, you realize how apropos the names are. Though small, Four Brix is constantly offering plenty of activities at the winery. On March 24th, its Around the World in Three Hours which is five food and wine pairings with Command Performance Catering. Guests virtually travel to several international food stations and sample some amazing fare, of course paired with Four Brix wines. April 14th its a winemaker dinner with Chef Adrien Nieto of Master Chef, preparing a colorful culinary meal for winery guests. Four Brix also offers their monthly Foodie Friday which features a chef or restaurant with a mini wine pairing for $15. Keep checking By Michael Cervin their website for an up-to-date calendar.
VARIETALS Blends include Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Grenache, Petite Sirah, Viognier and more! INDOORS Located in an industrial area the 1,200-square-foot tasting room is inviting with rich, deep colors, high ceilings, a comfortable couch area, and table and chair arrangements which invites guests to relax and stay, and maybe get a glass of wine or a bottle to share with friends. FUN FACT Four Brix has appeared on several radio shows including Tom Leykis show, Tasting with Tom, and KADY radios Tom & Sandy Show. NOTE At least one owner is always at the tasting room to greet you and take you on a tour of the barrel room and production facility.
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VENTURA COUNTY
Rancho Ventavo Cellars is one of those hidden jewels which is situated a short distance from Highway 101 in downtown Oxnards Heritage Square. Here you will find yourself stepping back in time in this beautiful city block of a dozen historic homes in a park-like setting. The quaint and charming tasting room is inside a fully restored 1902 Victorian residence and from the moment you enter you will be surrounded by old-time craftsmanship and warmth that only an old home can express. The hardwood floors, leaded glass doors and windows, stamped tin ceilings, fireplace and oak paneled walls all complement the exquisite red wines. Winemaker and owners George and Faye Gilpatrick can almost always be found in the tasting room sharing their passion and hospitality. Different than most, George isnt one who believes in releasing his wines too quickly. Starting with grapes from exceptional California vineyards the red wines are typically barrel aged two years before bottling, then bottle-aged another six to 18 months before they are released. In this way you will actually taste the Rancho Ventavo Cellars philosophy: wines aged to perfection. With the intimate setting, you are invited to come relax in their tasting room, on their porch, by the fireplace or in the cozy pub room. A great place for locals and visitors alike to meet friends for a tasting, a glass of wine, or to share a bottle. George and Fayes motto is, Come for the wine, stay for the hospitality. As you will quickly find out, they are dedicated to making your visit a memorable one. Enjoy!
CURRENT RELEASES Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet/Syrah, Majecc, Merlot, Mourvedre, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Tempranillo, Zinfandel and Late Harvest Zinfandel ACCLAIM Received Oxnards 2010/11 Downtown Business of the Year Award and the 2010 State of California Tourisms Excellence Award. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Let RVC host your next event or function in their home, not yours. Visit the website for more information on their wines or for information on their wine club. Tasting fee $10, includes 16-oz Italian crystal logo glass. Wine tasting, sales & gift boutique Group tastings of 8 or more, call for an appointment. No limos without an appointment. Heritage Square also oers visitors, docent tours, a live 50-seat playhouse, shopping and an Italian restaurant. FUN FACT Rancho Ventavo creates a unique red blend called Majecc, sonamed for their six grandchildren (Michael, Alex, Jillian, Erin, Caitlen, Conner).
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VENTURA COUNTY
Looks can be deceiving. If you picture most winery tasting rooms you are apt to imagine lush hillsides with trees and vines on them, maybe cattle wandering by. But at Magnavino, the first thing you see is the industrial surroundings of this hidden spot. However, behind the closed doors is a slice of Italy. Once you enter you are transported into a different world, and thats by design. There are 24 foot ceilings with skylights that make it look like as if you were outdoors in a courtyard area with a wood pergola over the tasting bar. Glass doors on the right side of the tasting room look out into the barrel room and production area so you can see the goings-on. Wrought iron candelabras dangle overhead. You stop and think you might be in the wrong place, but youre not. This warehouse that has been transformed into Tuscany and though intimate, they have ample room to accommodate barrel tastings, corporate events and large parties. Our tasting room is probably the single-most thing that differentiates us from the others in the area, says owner and winemaker Robert Wagner. They only started making wine commercially in 2008, yet they have quickly built a loyal following of fans. They source their grapes from Lodi, a grape growing region with more than 120 years of producing quality grapes. They were offering ten wines to choose from comprised of four whites and six reds. Recently, a Tempranillo and a Grenache were released to round out the line up. We had visited some other wineries that opened in Camarillo and realized that Ventura County was a great area to expand the wine trail, Robert says. Its clear that Ventura County is a force to be reckoned with and Magnavino is helping to change perceptions. By Michael Cervin
VARIETALS Pinot Grigio, Viognier, Petite Sirah, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Tempranillo, Grenache BUzz Locals in Ventura County are thrilled to have a wine tasting room in their own backyard. FUN FACT Their rst vintage, from 2008, is featured on the current season of the Celebrity Apprentice TV show. The winning celebrities get to enjoy Magnavino wines while they relax and celebrate their victories!
Magnavino
open saturday and sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and by appointment 961 N. Rice Avenue, Cellar 5, Oxnard (805) 983-2500 www.magnavino.com Follow along with Magnavino on Facebook and Twitter
55
VENTURA COUNTY
Nestled within the strawberry fields and farm rows of Oxnard, California lies Herzog Wine Cellars. Here, under the watchful eye of head winemaker Joe Hurliman, the winery combines the artisan craft of premium California winemaking with the Herzog familys unyielding commitment to excellence. Select grapes, produced specifically for Herzog wines, are chosen from vineyards in Californias most regarded appellations. Grown under careful watch, only the best fruits are harvested and brought to the winery. From here, Joe Hurliman searches out inspiring blends of aroma, flavors and colors, refined by the winery into masterful creations to be enjoyed across the globe. Guests of Herzog Wine Cellars experience a winemaking legacy spanning nine generations, in a stylish and modern winery that is nothing less than au courant. The grounds feature a lavish granite tasting bar, private tasting rooms, boutique and outdoor terrace. Situated within the winery, Tierra Sur Restaurant boasts Mediterranean influenced seasonal cuisine, utilizing California produce fresh from local farmers. The menu is rustic, unpretentious, and ingredient driven, offering such items as aged rib-eye steak and wild king salmon cooked outdoors over an open flame. Guests may enjoy a special wine tasters menu which pairs Tierra Surs refined cuisine with Herzogs award-winning wines. Discover the finer things here at Herzog Wine Cellars.
VARIETALS Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Merlot, Syrah, Zinfandel BUzz Herzog Wine Cellars features Tierra Sur, their ne dining restaurant which was recently named Best Restaurant in Ventura County by Zagat. COOL THINGS More than just wine, Herzog oers one of the largest displays of gifts and gourmet food items of any winery in Ventura. Several vintages are exclusively available through the tasting room. FUN FACT Chef Todd Aarons of Tierra Sur Restaurant was asked by President Barack Obama to provide his thoughts, menus and recipes for a healthy and satisfying Seder. He was one of just eight chefs from around the country invited to participate.
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25 Tasting Redeem this for a tasting ight of premium wines at the Tasting Bar.
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VENTURA COUNTY
Cantara Cellars has always been a family run winery. Winemaker Mike Brown, his wife Chris and their son Jesse, make it their goal to create a day to remember for each guest. Located in Camarillo, in the heart of Ventura County, you can sample wine tastes, flights, wines by the glass or bottle and small plates of food at their facility. Cantara produces a broad selection of award-winning red and white wines, specializing in wines made from grapes sourced from the Lodi Appellation in Northern California. Each wine they create expresses both the passion for making fine wines and their enjoyment of the distinctive flavors found only in Lodi grapes. When you visit for a tasting or tour at Cantara, you will meet Mike, perhaps taste a barrel sample or two and have an up-close day of wine tasting. Our winery has been growing steadily, each year since opening to the public four years ago, Mike says. We have been fortunate to grow rapidly because we offer great wines that are a good value for our guests. And ultimately, thats what keeps people coming back. The tasting room is welcoming with warm ochre colored walls and an obvious camaraderie thats irresistible, and its located just one minute off of Highway 101. Their wine club is free to join and members receive 20 percent off all purchases at the winery, and they can choose exactly which wines they want to be in their wine club selection. The commitment is a mere four bottles three times a year. The event space is available for rent and can seat 125 comfortably more if guests are just mingling. They know how to throw a party! To inquire about the facilities, call Chris Brown at (805) 484-9600. If needed, leave a message and hell return your call. By Michael Cervin
VARIETALS Chardonnay, Albarino, Old Vine Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Barbera, Tempranillo, Grenache, Sangiovese, Mouvedre and other red blends BUzz Their wines have won gold and silver medals from wine competitions and all of their wines sell out three to nine months after release. BY THE NUMBERS Cantara makes 12 to 14 dierent wines in lots ranging from 40 to 600 cases, yielding a maximum of 3,500 cases each year. FUN FACT All wine club pick up parties consist of wine, food and live music which keeps Cantara fans dedicated.
Cantara Cellars
open Thursday-sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 126 N. Wood Road, Suite 104, Camarillo (805) 484-9600 www.cantaracellars.com Follow along on Facebook, Twitter and You Tube.
57
VENTURA COUNTY
Any winery is really a journey, and Jerry and Kimberly Monahan began to fulfill their journey when they constructed their very own winery and vineyard in Camarillo in 2004. Bella Victorian was created out of their love for their vineyard (yes, they are growing grapes in Ventura County) and their passion for wine and food. Owning a family winery and crafting luxury wines has been a dream come true for me and my wife, says Jerry. Beginning with their estate vineyards, the wines are handcrafted by both Jerry and Kimberly from the vine all the way into the bottle. They specialize in small releases of estate wines which are well balanced and cuisine compatible. We take a jewelers approach to winemaking, says Jerry. Tiny acreage, small batches and minimalist winemaking without a lot of mechanical equipment. They planted their estate with Syrah, Grenache, Counoise and Viognier grapes and have been carefully engineered and designed to produce world-class luxury wine. All of the clones were hand selected for intensity of flavor and true varietal character. Bella Victorian also sources fruit from some of the best vineyards on the Central Coast. Having this diversity of grapes to work with allows for a confluence of flavors from a diversity of growing sites. Their tasting room, located right off Highway 101 in Camarillo, includes a bistro, since they love to share food with their wines. And their tasting room is unusual in that the tasting bar is actually the top portions of stainless steel fermentation tanks. This spring, Bella Victorian will launch a two-barrel micro-brewery that specializes in small batches of artisan ales in a variety of styles. Jerry and Kimberly are dedicated to crafing artisan ales the defy styles or categories. Bella Victorian microbrews are full-flavored and food-friendly.
VARIETALS Pinot Noir, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, Chardonnay, Grenache, Dornfelder FUN FACT This spring, Bella Victorian will be launching a microbrewery producing small batches of artisan ales. BUzz In March, 2011 the national wine magazine Wine Enthusiast gave the 2007The Garage Syrah a 91 point rating. OUTDOORS The tasting room has an outdoor patio with wrought iron furniture to enjoy lunch and dinner.
2135 Ventura Blvd., Camarillo (805) 383-8800 www.bellavictorianvineyard.com Follow them on Facebook
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Do the Math
one of the most asked questions asked when it comes to wine is how much of this does it take to make that, and so on. We wont pretend that is simple, but here are some industry statistics that will give a pretty good answer to that query. as with anything agricultural, of course, they are all based on countless variables when it comes to acre yields, but this is a good starting point. The rest of the information varies little if at all.
XYZ Winery
RESERVE
Edna Valley San Luis Obispo
The U.s. Department of alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms regulates wine labels and requires that information be given in a straightforward way. Basically, you will want to look for the types of grapes grown, where the grapes are grown and when the grapes were picked. Brand name Designation for a special wine Vineyard or appellation known for its grapes might be designated Location where the grapes used were grown Grape Variety used Vintage year in which the grapes were picked Location where the wine was made and/or bottled (Not to be confused with the area the grapes are grown.) Alcohol content may be stated or the the label may simply say "Table Wine WWW.LEGENDARYNAPAVALLEY.COM
PINOT NOIR
2002
Produced and Bottled by XYZ winery, San Luis Obispo, California
ALCOHOL 13.6% BY VOLUME
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pASO ROBLES Thomas Hill Organics 1305 Park st, Paso robles; 805.226.5888 Villa Creek 1144 Pine st, Paso robles; 805.238.3000 Enoteca 206 alexa Ct, Paso robles; 805.238.2834 Bistro Laurent 1202 Pine st, Paso robles; 805.226.8191 Artisan 1401 Park st, Paso robles; 805.237.8084 paso Inn and Steakhouse 1103 spring st, Paso robles; 805.238.2660 il Cortile 608 12th st, Paso robles; 805.226.0300 Buona Tavola 943 spring st, Paso robles; 805.237.0600 Mcphees 416 s. main st, Templeton; 805.434.3204 SAN LUIS OBISpO Novo 726 Higuera st, san luis obispo; 805.543.3986 Firestone Grill 1001 Higuera, san luis obispo; 805.783.1001 Cafe Roma 1020 railroad ave, san luis obispo; 805.541.6800 Mamas Meatball 570 Higuera st, san luis obispo; 805.544.0861 palazzo Giuseppes 1010 Court st, san luis obispo; 805.541.9922 Luna Red 1009 monterey st, san luis obispo; 805.540.5243 MORRO BAY Dorns 801 market ave, morro Bay; 805.772.4415 pISMO BEACH Steamers 1601 Price st, Pismo Beach; 805.773.4711 Giuseppes 891 Price st, Pismo Beach; 805.773.2870 SANTA YNEz TO BUELLTON Hitching post 3325 Point sal rd, Casmalia (santa maria); 805.937.6151 Hitching post II 406 e Highway 246, Buellton; 805.688.0676
fine dining
Contemporary american Cuisine spanish Cuisine seafood French Cuisine american Bistro steakhouse
italian Cuisine and some seafood Dishes ' Northern italian Cuisine Grill: Burgers, seafood, pasta, steak, etc
international Cuisine BBQ and Burgers italian Cuisine Fine italian Cuisine Fine italian Cuisine international Cuisine '
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steakhouse steakhouse
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fine dining
Full of Life Flatbread 225 Bell st, los alamos; 805.344.4400 Brothers Restaurant at Matteis Tavern 2350 railway ave, los olivos; 805.688.4820 Los Olivos Cafe petros 2860 Grand ave, los olivos; 805.688.7788 The Ballard Inn Restaurant 2436 Baseline ave, Ballard; 805.688.7770 Trattoria Grappolo 3687 sagunto st # C, santa Ynez; 805.688.6899 Root 246 420 alisal road, solvang; 805.686. 8681 Avant Tapas & Wine 35 industrial Way, Buellton; 805.686.4742 Sissys Uptown Cafe 112 south i street, lompoc; 805.735.4877 SANTA BARBARA Julienne 138 e Canon Perdido st, santa Barbara; 805.845.6488 The Shellsh Company 230 stearns Wharf, santa Barbara; 805.966.6676 The Wine Cask 813 anacapa st, santa Barbara; 805.966.9463 Olio pizzeria 11 W victoria st. ste. 21, santa Barbara; 805.899.2699 Bouchon 9 West victoria st, santa Barbara; 805.730.1160 CaDario 37 east victoria st, santa Barbara; 805.884.9419 Arigato 1225 state st, santa Barbara; 805.965.6074 The Stonehouse 900 san Ysidro ln, montecito; 805.565.1724 VENTURA COUNTY Le petit Cafe Bakery 1591 spinnaker Dr #112, ventura; 805.642.1191 Sugar Beets 455 south a st, oxnard; 805.240.7777 La Dolce Vita 740 south B st, oxnard; 805.486-6878 Tierra Sur Restaurant 3201 Camino Del sol, oxnard; 805.983.1560 Bella Victorian Bistro 2135 ventura Blvd, Camarillo; 805.383.8800 French New american Cuisine italian and mediterranean Cuisine mediterranean Contemporary american Cuisine seafood Contemporary american italian Cuisine Wine Country Cuisine italian Cuisine Japanese Cuisine Contemporary american american and Pizza New american Greek american Cuisine French/asian Fusion italian Contemporary american Cuisine
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bre akf ast bru nch lun ch din ner win e/b eer full bar out doo r se atin ent g ert ain me nt org ani c/lo cal pet goo frie ds ndl y cas ual ups cal e res erv atio ns
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Riesling
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Alta Maria Vineyards Daily 11am-5pm, Los Olivos, (805) 686-1144 Andrew Murray Tasting Room Daily 11am-5pm, Los Olivos, (805) 693-9644 Bella Victorian Wed-Thu 11:30am-7pm, Fri-Sat til 8pm, Sun 12-5pm, Camarillo, (805) 383-8800 Bridlewood Estate Daily 10am-5pm, Santa Ynez, 1-800-467-4100 Cantara Cellars Open Thu-Sun 11am-5pm, Camarillo, (805) 484-9600 Castoro Cellars Daily 10am-5:30pm, Templeton, 1-888-DAM-FINE Chamisal Vineyards Daily 10am-5pm, San Luis Obispo, 1-866-808-9463 Coghlan Vineyard Daily 11am-5pm, Los Olivos, 805-686-2395 Derby Wine Estates Fri-Mon 11am-5pm, Paso Robles, (805) 238-6300 Eberle Winery Daily 10am-6pm (5pm winter), Paso Robles, (805) 238-9607 Eos Estate Winery Daily 10am-5pm, Paso Robles, (805) 591-8050 Firestone Winery Daily 10am-5pm; Tours 11:15am, 1:15 & 3:15pm, Los Olivos, (805) 688-3940 Foley Wines Daily 10am-5pm, Lompoc, (805) 737-6222 Four Brix Winery Fri 4-8pm, Sat-Sun 12-5pm, Ventura, (805) 256-6006 Herzog Cellars Sun-Thu 10:30am-9pm/Fri 10:30am-5pm, Oxnard, (805) 983-1560 Le Vigne Winery Sun-Thu 11am-5pm, Fri-Sat- 11am-6pm, Paso Robles, (805) 227-4000 Lincourt Daily 10am-5pm, Solvang, (805) 688-8554 Lions Peak Mon-Thu 11am-7pm, open later Fri-Sun, Solvang, (805) 693-5466 Lucas & Lewellen Daily 11am-6pm, Solvang, (805) 686-9336 Magnavino Sat-Sun 11am-6pm, Oxnard, (805) 983-2500 Opolo Vineyards Daily 10am-5pm, Templeton, (805) 238-9593 Peachy Canyon Winery Daily 11am-5pm, Paso Robles, (805) 239-1918 Pear Valley Daily 11am-5pm, Paso Robles, (805) 237-2861 Penman Springs Thu-Sun 11am-5pm, Paso Robles, (805) 237-7959 Per Bacco Cellars Fri-Sun 11am-5pm, San Luis Obispo, (805) 787-0485 Pomar Junction Daily 11am-5pm, Templeton, (805) 238-9940 Pretty Smith Fri-Sun 11am-5pm, San Miguel, (805) 467-3104 Qup Daily 11am-5pm, Los Olivos, (805) 686-4200 Rancho Ventavo Fri-Sun 11am-6pm, Oxnard, (805) 483-8084 Robert Hall Winery Daily 10am-6pm, Paso Robles, (805) 239-1616 Rotta Winery Daily 10:30am-5:30pm, Templeton, (805) 237-0510 Silver Horse Winery Fri-Sun 11am-5pm, San Miguel, (805) 467-WINE Stephen Ross Thu-Sun 11am-5pm, San Luis Obispo, (805) 594-1318 Talley Vineyards Daily 10:30am-4:30pm, Arroyo Grande, (805) 489-0446 Tessa Marie Thu-Mon 11:30am-5pm, Los Olivos, (805) 688-6081
P45 P44 P58 P39 P57 P10/23 P30 P42 P16 P17 P18 P38 P49 P53 P56 P15 P41 P51 P50 P55 P8 P11/24 P20 P21 P28 P26 P13 P46 P54 P19/25 P9 P14 P29 P31 P43 P48 P37
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Transcendeance Fri-Sun 11am-4 pm, Lompoc, (805) 689-5258 Zaca Mesa Daily 10am-4pm, Los Olivos, (805) 688-9339 x308
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Other
Sauvign on Blan c
miner
Cabern et Fran c
vignon
Tempra primotinillo/ vo
Mourve dre
Barbera
C ab S au
zinfand
Other
Sparkli ng
Grenach e
Malbec
Ros
8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
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port
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Dessert Wines
petite S irah
ot
petit Ve rd
pinot N oir
Sangiov ese
Merlot
Syrah
el