Eve's Wine 101

Perlises Pick ForFriends Inn And Village

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Very early in our wine journey, Santa Barbara Country was a focal point of our interest. Back in the 1980s and early 1990s, there weren’t too many tasting options there yet. Memories can be hazy, but we have very fond ones, such as visiting The Brander Vineyard and tasting wines in the barn before the tasting room was even built.

As years went by, we expanded our domestic wine tasting horizons, venturing farther north to Paso Robles, Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino and up to Washington. But, we had grown nostalgic for Santa Barbara County. Although we would visit occasionally, we recently decided that it was high time to pay more attention to the area.

When visiting a new wine region, or revisiting one after an extended hiatus, checking out the local vintners’ association is a good idea. The Santa Barbara Country Vintners’ Association (www.sbcountywines.com) is a great resource for member winery suggestions as well as lodging and dining. We really appreciate all of the help that SBCVA’s Director of Operations Philip Carpenter provided to us.

Our first order of business was deciding on lodging. We were looking for a place to stay a little removed from the bustle of Solvang and Los Olivos, but still with easy access to them as well as the surrounding wine regions. Close [but not too close] to the roundabout where Highways 154 and 246 meet, ForFriends Inn & Village fit this requirement perfectly, with the added benefit of being easy to get to the city of Santa Barbara if we wanted to explore the tasting rooms there.

But location was far from the only benefit of staying at FFI&V.

In 2012, two couples – Dave and Katie Pollock along with Jim and Debbie Campbell acquired the Edison Street Inn in Santa Ynez and turned it into the ForFriends Inn. The Campbells have since moved on, but the Pollocks have turned FFI into what felt to us like a home away from home; actually even better since we didn’t have to lift a finger. (By the way, Dave answered my unspoken question that the name was always For[not Four]Friends Inn, as the property was intended for all friends, new and old, to enjoy.)

But the Pollocks weren’t done.

Ten years later in 2022, ForFriends Village came online. Just a very short walk around the corner from the original Inn, the Village is made up of six “tiny inns” in their own little community. Greatly expanding capacity from the eight rooms at the Inn, these rooms can hold up to four occupants each, include a kitchenette and are ideal for those wanting additional privacy or for a larger traveling party. Indeed, all or parts of the entire property are available for large groups and even corporate retreats.

Your day can revolve around what FFI&V has to offer. Starting with a delicious breakfast, guests have an option of scrambled eggs with perfectly cooked bacon or a daily special, also served with bacon. On our visit, our choices included banana pancakes with homemade coffee whipped cream, tomato quiche and chorizo breakfast tacos. In addition to the main course, breakfast includes a fruit cup with yogurt and granola as a starter, along with coffee and an assortment of juices.  Rosemary popovers were also served.  For the record, one day it was sausage instead of bacon, but since the sausage was some of the best we’ve had, there were no complaints from us.  

But FFI&V doesn’t stop there. A Friendship Pass is provided to all guests, which enables them to take advantage of some great winery, shopping and dining discounts throughout the area. After a day of enjoying Santa Barbara County, don’t forget to come back to the Inn for the daily happy hour of charcuterie and local wine; if you’re lucky, you may even get to be entertained by Dave on his guitar.  Depending on the weather, you can enjoy your wine and hors d’oeuvres in the gardens at the front and back of the inn.  The front porch is convenient too. Your day with ForFriends isn’t done though – don’t forget to bring the Friendship Pass with you to dinner as some local restaurants participate in it as well. If you need something sweet before going to bed, FFI&V has cookies and dessert wine to enjoy. Then, you can finally retire to your luxurious room after a day well spent.  

The above all sounds pretty terrific, doesn’t it? But do you know what the best part of all this is? It’s the amazing team that the Pollocks have put together. We want to thank Dave and Katie, along with Kalin, Sandra, Vanessa, Ben and Spencer [who we didn’t meet but feel like we did] for making us feel like we were part of the ForFriends family.

ForFriends Inn & Village

www.forfriendsinn.com

1121 Edison Street, Santa Ynez, CA 93460

Michael and Karen Perlis have been pursuing their passion for wine for more than 30 years. They have had the good fortune of having numerous mentors to show them the way and after a couple of decades of learning about wine, attending events, visiting wineries and vineyards, and tasting as much wine as they possibly could, they had the amazing luck to meet Eve Bushman. Michael and Karen do their best to bring as much information as possible about wine to Eve’s Wine 101 faithful readers.

Taste of Santa Barbara Returns

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SBCE Taste of Santa Barbara 2023 press release

The Santa Barbara Culinary Experience, in partnership with The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, presents a week-long celebration featuring signature events, specials at restaurants and bars, farm tours, pop-ups, panel discussions, and more

Santa Barbara, CA – As the Santa Barbara region continues to gain notoriety as a world-class culinary and cultural destination, the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience, (SBCE) in partnership with The Julia Child Foundation for Gastronomy and the Culinary Arts, is pleased to announce the much-anticipated return of Taste of Santa Barbara, May 15 – 21, 2023. The Taste of Santa Barbara is a county-wide celebration of all things food and drink across Santa Barbara County. Tickets for all events are on sale now and can be purchased online here. The full lineup of events can be found online here. Through the SBCE’s partnership with the Foundation, a portion of the proceeds from the Taste of Santa Barbara is used to make grants to local organizations making a difference in Santa Barbara County’s food system.

After a successful inaugural year in 2022, the Taste of Santa Barbara has established itself as one of the region’s favorite signature food and wine celebrations, featuring a broad array of events and special happenings at restaurants, bars, farms, and wineries, as well as pop-ups, workshops, speaker panels, and more. Signature events include Lights, Camera, Julia, a screening of some of Julia Child’s most iconic television shows; Cherry Bombe x Taste of Santa Barbara, an afternoon of inspiring discussions with local female winemakers, chefs, and producers making Santa Barbara County’s food and drink scene thrive; and the popular Taste of Santa Barbara Wines event featuring wine tastings and conversations with winemakers at the historic El Presidio in downtown Santa Barbara. Many of the region’s restaurants and bars will participate in “Dine Around Town with Julia Child” and “Pub Crawl with Paul” when the public can enjoy tribute dishes or specials, as well as cocktails inspired by Julia and Paul Child’s own recipes. As part of the SBCE and the Foundation’s commitment to education, this year guests can get in the kitchen with Apples to Zucchini Cooking School for a week of hands-on classes with some of Santa Barbara’s culinary stars!

The complete Taste of Santa Barbara Calendar of Events can be found online here.

“The Taste of Santa Barbara is a unique opportunity to explore the diverse culinary offerings of the region, and brings together the best chefs, winemakers, producers, and more to showcase their talents and create an unforgettable experience for all,” shared Donna Yen, Executive Director of the Santa Barbara Culinary Experience. “It’s really important to us that the Taste of Santa Barbara is accessible to our entire community, so this year we’ve expanded our programming to offer a variety of events that appeal to all our audiences. We’re also committed to providing an educational platform for important conversations about our region’s food and wine businesses to help deepen connections between the community and these industries. We’re excited about this year’s program, and look forward to welcoming everyone back!”

The Taste of Santa Barbara Signature Events: Friday, May 19

● Lights, Camera, Julia! Enjoy a special screening of some of Julia Child’s most iconic television shows, including classic episodes of The French Chef, Cooking with Master Chefs, and Baking with Julia, at the Ensemble Theatre Company’s The New Vic theater. Hosted by Chef Antonia Lofaso, the evening will feature special guests Chefs Nancy Silverton and Susan Feniger, sharing what it was like to work with Julia Child on and off the screen. (7 p.m. – 9 p.m., at the New Vic Theatre, 33 W Victoria St, Santa Barbara).

Saturday, May 20

● Cherry Bombe x Taste of Santa Barbara – Celebrate the women that make Santa Barbara County’s food and drink scene thrive! Join Cherry Bombe for an afternoon of inspiring discussions with local winemakers, chefs, and producers at Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos. Enjoy wine tasting with the county’s leading female winemakers, followed by conversations moderated by Cherry Bombe’s founder and Radio Cherry Bombe host Kerry Diamond. The day will end with networking and delicious bites provided by Mattei’s Tavern’s Executive Chef Rhoda Magbitang. (3 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. at Mattei’s Tavern, 2350 Railway Ave, Los Olivos,).

Sunday, May 21

● Taste of Santa Barbara Wines Come discover what makes Santa Barbara County’s wine scene unique. Enjoy tastings from some of Santa Barbara County’s celebrated wineries, restaurants, and food artisans in the Presidio Orchard. Meet and hear directly from growers, chefs, and makers. Head inside the historic El Presidio Chapel for interactive conversations and panel discussions with winemakers throughout the day. (1 pm – 4 pm at El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park).

Additional events & ongoing throughout the week: Monday, May 15 – Sunday, May 21

Apples to Zucchini Cooking School Classes Get in the kitchen with Apples to Zucchini Cooking School for a week of hands-on classes with some of Santa Barbara’s culinary stars! (Class dates + times coming soon!)

Tuesday, May 16

● The Farmer & The Cook Experience Santa Barbara County’s entire food system in action, and learn about the relationship between the region’s farms and finest restaurants. Enjoy a four-course dinner at bouchon highlighting Santa Barbara’s farm-to-table wine country cuisine, and a conversation between Executive Chef Nate Van Etten and local Santa Barbara County producers moderated by Todd Schulkin, host of the Inside Julia’s Kitchen podcast on Heritage Radio Network. *Limited tickets will be sold for the following add-on experience: Prior to dinner, join bouchon’s chef for an interactive shopping experience at the Santa Barbara’s Certified Farmers Market. Meet local farmers, as chef buys provisions for the evening’s meal and shares his approach to crafting wine country cuisine. (6 pm – 9 pm, bouchon, 9 W Victoria St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101)

Wednesday, May 17

● Sous Chefs’ Night Out Tonight the sous chefs take the lead! Enjoy a 5-course dinner featuring some of Santa Barbara’s rising culinary talent. Each course will be paired with Margerum Wine Company and Barden wines. (6 pm – 9 pm, Margerum Tasting Room, 19 E. Mason St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101)

Thursday, May 18

● Celebrate Alex Prud’homme’s new book, Dinner with the President Enjoy reverse martinis, local wines, and presidential bites at Field + Fort as we toast Julia’s great-nephew Alex Prud’homme’s new book, Dinner with the President.

Friday, May 19

● Pastries with Phila: Remembrances of Julia Child in Santa Barbara Join Julia Child’s niece, Phila Cousins, for fresh baked Bree’Osh pastries and a stroll down memory lane about her time with “Aunt Ju-Ju ” in Santa Barbara, hosted by author, editor, and co-producer of the Inside Julia’s Kitchen podcast, Lauren Salkeld. (10 am – 11 am, Bree’Osh Bakery Café, 2700 De La Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105)

Saturday, May 20

● Saturday Farmers Market Program at the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market, featuring a live taping of Heritage Radio Network’s Inside Julia’s Kitchen podcast with local farmers, in partnership with Edible Santa Barbara. ( 9 am – 12 pm at the Santa Barbara Certified Farmers Market on the corner of Cota and Santa Barbara streets).

● Taste of Santa Barbara Wine Tours Visit local vineyards and wine tasting rooms and experience the wine-making process first-hand! Learn directly from the vintners as you tour the grounds and cellars of working vineyards and wineries before enjoying a wine tasting. These tours are one-of-a-kind and created especially for the Taste of Santa Barbara. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with the winemakers of Santa Barbara County!

Sunday, May 21

● Taste of Santa Barbara Farm Tours Visit local producers and land stewards to see first-hand what Santa Barbara County produces. These tours are one-of-a-kind and created especially for the Taste of Santa Barbara. Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with the local landscape and the people who nurture it.

The Taste of Santa Barbara is made possible by the generous support of its 2023 sponsors: Visit Santa Barbara, PBS Distribution, Montecito Bank & Trust, Santa Barbara County Office of Arts & Culture, Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort, Chumash Foundation, bouchon, Margerum Wine Company, Acme Hospitality, Apples to Zucchini Cooking School, Ensemble Theatre Company at the New Vic Theatre, Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation, Cherry Bombe, Edible Santa Barbara, and WA Event Management. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, for more information please click here or email Donna Yen, donna@sbce.events.

HITCHING POST 2 HOSTS JIM CLENDENEN TRIBUTE DINNER FOR 110 BENEFITING SANTA BARBARA CHARITIES

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Winemakers, Chefs, Vineyard Owners and Friends Gather to Honor the Legacy of Santa Barbara County Wines First Ambassador Raising $100,000 for Direct Relief and the Community Health Centers of the Central Coast

BUELLTON, California – On February 4, 2023, Jami and Frank Ostini of the Hitching Post 2 in Buellton, California, hosted the Jim Clendenen Tribute Dinner benefiting Direct Relief and the Community Health Centers of the Central Coast. One hundred ten guests came from distances as far away as Boston, Atlanta and Hawaii to honor Jim Clendenen, the founder and “Mind Behind” the highly acclaimed Au Bon Climat Winery located near Santa Maria, California. The event raised $100,000 at the Santa Barbara Wine Auction sponsored by the Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation, with proceeds from the dinner benefiting the two charities.

Jim Clendenen started his winery in 1982, rising in prominence locally and internationally as he aspired to emulate Burgundy’s culture and wine styles by creating unique Santa Barbara wines from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. He became an international ambassador for Santa Barbara Wines while traveling the world and returning to California to mentor the first and second-generation winemakers in Santa Barbara County. Jim befriended the best chefs and winemakers worldwide and built a wine business that sells across America and the globe – England, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Canada, Japan and Korea.  

Jim’s children have taken up the torch. Daughter Isabelle is traveling to represent Au Bon Climat at the Triangle Wine and Food Experience in North Carolina, and Knox is selling wine in Japan. Like father, like daughter, like son. The rest of Jim’s Au Bon Climat team was in the room – long-time winemaker Jim Adelman, first ABC employee cellar master Enrique Rodriguez, assistant winemaker Mark Piro, Michael Meluskey, James Sanders and Randi Chavoya. Surrounded with pictures of Jim’s life, the dinner featured a slideshow of 300 photos. Endless storytelling filled every table as Jim’s spirit lit up the room.

Stories of Jim’s 40-plus year career and how he touched thousands of lives were shared by local grape growers, winemakers and friends, including Bob and Louisa Lindquist, Doug Margarum, Paul Lato, Brian and Lisa Babcock, Chad Melville, Andrew Murray, Katy Grassini, Matt Murphy, Justin Willett, James Ontiveros, Matt Turrentine, Gary and Jeanne Newman, Chuck and Kathleen Carlson, Chris Brown, Pierre LaBarge, Coby Parker-Garcia, Gary and Teresa Burk, Jessica Gasca, Debra Eagle, Drake Whitcraft, Jessica Stolpman and Gray, Charlotte and Weston Hartley.

Other attendees of note came to pay tribute to Jim:  David & Judy Breitstein, David Fink, Bill Shea, Jay Mcinerney, Keith Pitts, Tom Black, Jimmy Davis, Blake Brown, Michael and Kathy Gordon, Bhupi Singh, Gurinder Kaur, Drs. Mark Goodman and Greg Hallert, and Jim and Jody Rea. The traveling contingent was led by Roy Yamaguchi, Chuck Furuya and Warren Shon from Hawaii, Chip Coen from Boston, Scott and Margret Dozier from Atlanta, and many others.

A spectacular five-course feast was prepared and served by the Hitching Post staff of 20 led by George Alvarado, Brad Lettau and Angel Carmona with the help of chef friends. Clark Staub of Full of Life Flatbread Los Alamos had a strikingly colorful Chicory and Citrus Salad; Roy Yamaguchi of Roy’s Restaurants of Hawaii served the pinnacle plate of Sea Bass enhanced with fresh-caught uni from Santa Barbara’s renowned fish-monger Stephanie Mutz.  Budi Kazali, formerly of the Ballard Inn, followed with a wonderfully earthy Smoked Duck Breast with Turnips and Tempura Chanterelles. 

The Hitching Post served their signature Oak-Grilled New York with Black Truffled Mashed Potatoes and finished the evening with an assortment of cheeses and small bites of sweets.

The menu was paired with ten outstanding wines poured from five-liter bottles of Au Bon Climat vintages that spanned four decades – 2020 to 1986. A team of eleven sommeliers meticulously served the wines under the leadership of fellow winemakers Bob Lindquist, Doug Margarum and Paul Lato.

The evening was a wonderful and memorable tribute to a great friend, Jim Clendenen.  And as Jim would have done himself, a generous sum was raised for charity while enjoying fine food and wine.

ABOUT HITCHING POST 2 and HITCHING POST WINES:

The Hitching Post 2 Restaurant and Hitching Post Wines offer a quintessential Santa Barbara Wine Country food and wine experience in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley. One can enjoy traditionally made Pinot Noirs in a nearly 100-year-old wine-tasting room along with a casual high-quality BBQ lunch out back, set in a glorious outdoor setting with a mountain backdrop. In the evening, you can visit the iconic Hitching Post 2 steak house that has been a Santa Ynez Valley institution since 1986 – a restaurant where you can enjoy Central Coast oak wood BBQ’d steaks and seafood matched with Hitching Post and fine local wines from Santa Barbara County. 

This endeavor is directed by owners Frank and Jami Ostini, whose family has been central Coast oak wood BBQ leaders since 1952 with the original Hitching Post Restaurant in Casmalia. Grilling over an oak wood fire is a Central Coast tradition that goes back over 200 years to the Spanish Rancheros, a practice perfected by parents Frank and Natalie Ostini, which continues to be refined by sons Bill and Frank. Originally a beef-only restaurant, over the years, the Hitching Post cuisine has been expanded to include other proteins like quail, duck, lamb and fresh seafood items, as well as oak-grilled vegetables, including mushrooms and the signature grilled artichokes. The Hitching Post 2 buys from and supports many local farmers and fishermen and secures prime beef sourced from the heart of America’s Midwest.

Frank Ostini is a singular figure in the food and wine business as he leads both the cheffing and winemaking for Hitching Post. For Frank, the food came first, and he subsequently made wines to pair with his food. Starting in 1984, Frank began making Pinot Noir from the Santa Maria Valley and the Sta. Rita Hills to match with Hitching Post cuisine. Winemaking became an obsession and inspiration that continues to this day. Frank mentors the experienced kitchen and dining room staff, many of whom have more than 25 years with the Hitching Post. This long-standing team brings a family atmosphere that is essential to the success of the Hitching Post.

Hitching Post 2 has a long-established reputation, having received high acclaim from the Los Angeles Times, New York Times, Sunset, USA Today, and Forbes and has been showcased with Frank’s appearances on Food Network with celebrity chefs Wolfgang Puck and Bobby Flay. None of this was as consequential as Hitching Post 2 and Hitching Post Wines being featured in the 2004 Academy Award-winning film Sideways. Regardless of this international fame, the Hitching Post continues to provide high-quality, uniquely flavored foods and honest customer service in a casual, friendly atmosphere that is home to so many of its customers.  

Taste Hitching Post wines from some of the region’s best vineyards. Enjoy lunch behind the tasting room on the bank of the Santa Ynez River overlooking the glorious Santa Ynez Mountains. It is casual and easy, with high-quality food and ideal for kids and dogs. Spend the evening dining at the Hitching Post 2 for simply one of the best food and wine experiences in the Santa Ynez Valley. The Hitching Post has something special for everyone.

HITCHING POST 2

406 East Highway 246, Buellton, CA 93427

follow Hitching Post:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/HitchingPost2

Twitter: @HitchingPost2

Instagram: @hitchingpost2

For information on the Hitching Post 2 restaurant, visit:

 www.hitchingpost2.com 

Garagiste Wine Festival Returns to Santa Ynez Valley: February 10th and 11th

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PASO ROBLES, CALIF. (PRWEB) – America’s Best Wine Festival, The Garagiste Wine Festival, returns to Solvang in Santa Ynez Valley on February 10th – 11th, offering rare access to over 30 of the most exciting small-production winemakers from the Santa Barbara County area. Tickets are now on sale here. Following on the heels of another sold-out year of events, the festival also announced its line-up for 2023, which includes Sonoma, Los Angeles and Paso Robles.

Hosted in Solvang, one of America’s 10 Best Small Historic Towns, for the ninth time, ‘Southern Exposure’ will be held at the landmark Mission-style Veterans’ Memorial Hall on Solvang’s Mission Street, which was named one of the US’ Top Ten Best Looking Main Streets.

“This charming town has a special place in our hearts, not least because it is at the center of some of the best winemaking in the world, but also because it is a beautiful and walkable place to spend a weekend –all while tasting over 150 ultra-premium, handcrafted small-lot production wines, and meeting their winemakers, under one roof,” said Doug Minnick, Garagiste Festival Co-founder.

2023 ‘Southern Exposure’ includes Garagiste’s Friday night signature “Rare & Reserve” tasting with a traditional Santa Maria-style BBQ dinner buffet on February 10th and the Grand Tasting on Saturday February 11th, which includes a Silent Auction filled with first-rate wine packages that benefit The Garagiste Festival Scholarship Fund at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Weekend Pass holders have entry into both events, along with lunch and a special Valentine’s Day treat. Sunday, February 12th is the popular Garagiste Passport Day, during which several participating wineries – including some “Garagiste Graduate” wineries who have poured with Garagiste in past, but have grown larger in over the years – will be offering special treats and discounts for Garagiste Festival attendees.

“We love our Solvang event,” continued Minnick. “The Vet’s Hall is right in the heart of the village and makes for a fantastic casual weekend of walking the town, seeing the sights, and enjoying the many restaurants, shops, and all that Solvang has to offer. It’s a great way to get a jump on celebrating with your Valentine. And Sunday’s Passport Day is a perfect excuse to take an extra day and night in town. Call in sick if you have to – we always do!”

Southern Exposure starts the 2023 Garagiste Festival season which will bring hundreds of new wine discoveries from across California to wine lovers in Solvang, Paso Robles, Sonoma and Los Angeles. Of the nearly 200 wineries showcased by the festival in 2022, 45 were new to the festival. The 2023 line-up, in addition to Solvang, includes: Garagiste ‘Northern Exposure’ in Sonoma (April 29), Garagiste ‘Urban Exposure’ in Los Angeles (June 17) and the ‘OG’ Festival in Paso Robles (November 10-11).

The Garagiste Festival premiered in Paso Robles in 2011 and is the only wine festival that exclusively features high quality wines from commercial California ‘garagiste’ winemakers. Unlike other festivals, the wines are poured by the winemakers/owners themselves, offering a rare opportunity to interact with the creative forces behind the wines, while making brand new wine discoveries. The festival expanded to the Santa Ynez Valley in 2013 to highlight the wines of Santa Barbara County and surrounding AVAs, as well as small production wineries from across California.

The 30+ winemakers scheduled to pour at the Garagiste Festival Southern Exposure include: 
Camin’s 2 Dream, Costa Vinedo*, Cypher Winery, Diablo Paso, Dusty Nabor Wines, Entourage Wines, Fuil Wines*, Greyscale Wiines, Hayseed and Housdon, Herrmann York Wine*, Imagine Wines, Kendric Vineyards, Kimsey Vineyard, Lepiane Wines, LePoidevin Cellars, Lions Peak Winery, MCV Wines, Montagne Russe, Montemar Winery, Pine Moutain Vineyards, RF Fine Wines, Seven Oxen Estate, Silver Wines, Steinbeck Vineyards, Sycamore Ranch, Tercero Wines, Tomi Cellars, Trixon Wine Company.*

*New Wineries

For more information and full Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure schedule details, go to: http://www.garagistefestival.com/

Tickets are limited for Garagiste Festival Southern Exposure. Garagiste Festivals always sell out in advance. To buy tickets, go to: https://www.my805tix.com/e/garagiste-solvang

For breaking Garagiste Festival news and special discounts, sign-up for our free newsletter, The Dirt, at https://www.garagistefestival.com/garagiste-blog or follow us on Twitter (@GaragisteFest) or Facebook.

Sponsors include: 
Bank of Marin, Digital Dogma, ETS Laboratories, Farm Credit West, Fortis Solutions Group, G3, Glenn Burdette, Laffort, mWEBB Communications, Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang, TricorBraun winepak, Vinland Hotel & Lounge, WIVI.

About The Garagiste Wine Festival 
The Garagiste (pronounced garage-east)Wine Festival (http://www.garagistefestival.com), named “Best of the Fests” for 2019 by Fest Forums and the ‘Best Wine Festival in the US in 2018 in USA Today’s 10Best Readers Choice Awards, is the first and only wine festival dedicated to the undiscovered and under-recognized American artisan ‘garagiste’ micro-wineries who are making some of the best, most exciting, handcrafted small-lot production wines in the world. Founded by fellow garagistes Stewart McLennan and Douglas Minnick, the Garagiste Festivals are committed to discovering the best and most innovative limited-production winemakers and promoting and showcasing them to a broad audience of discerning wine consumers. In addition to its flagship annual festival in Paso Robles, CA, the Garagiste Festival line-up includes Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure, featuring Santa Ynez Valley garagistes; the Garagiste Festival: Urban Exposure, in Los Angeles; the Garagiste Festival, Northern Exposure, in Sonoma; winemaker dinners, a newsletter, garagiste profiles and more.

In addition to being named the US’ Best Wine Festival, the Garagiste Festival was named one of the ‘Top Nine Incredible Epicurean Vacations’ in the world by ABC News, “one of the premier wine events of the year,” by the LA Times and “Best Festival” by Sunset Magazine’s ‘Best of the West.’ The festivals are produced by Garagiste Events, a non-profit dedicated to furthering the education of future winemakers and those training for employment within the wine industry. Proceeds from the festivals support the Garagiste Festival Scholarship fund of the California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo Wine and Viticulture Department.

Garagiste (garage-east) is a term originally used in the Bordeaux region of France to denigrate renegade small-lot wine makers, sometimes working in their “garages” (anything considered not a chateau), who refused to follow the “rules,” and is now a full-fledged movement responsible for making some of the best wine in the world. The Garagiste Festivals were the first to shine a light on the American garagiste winemaker in 2011.

The 2023 Rhone Rangers Experience

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(Paso Robles) – The national Rhone Rangers will host the 15th “Rhone Rangers Experience” on Sunday, February 19, 2023, in Paso Robles, CA. A full day is planned during the annual Presidents’ Weekend event, including a “Rhone Essentials” seminar, Vintners’ Luncheon, Grand Tasting of 200+ wines, and a Silent Auction benefitting the Rhone Rangers Scholarship Fund. Rhone Rangers from throughout the organization will be represented, including wineries from Paso Robles, Santa Barbara County, Monterey County, Napa, Sonoma, Lodi, the Sierra Foothills, Oregon, and Texas.

The Rhone Rangers, who are dedicated to the education and the promotion of American Rhone varietal wines, will present a top example of each of the principal categories of Rhone wines during the seminar. The morning session will be moderated by Jess Lander, wine reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle and author, with a panel of winemakers and principals who have chosen the Rhone Ranger route. Rhone Rangers representing the nine essential categories include: Viognier –Eberle Winery-Paso Robles, Obscure White-Rhone Varietal (Picpoul) – Bonny Doon Vineyard,-Central Coast, White-Rhone Blend – Acquiesce-Lodi, Dry Rosé – Margerum Wine Company-Santa Barbara County, Grenache – Starfield Vineyards-El Dorado, Mourvèdre – J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines-Paso Robles, Syrah – Cline Family Cellars- Los Carneros, Sonoma County, Obscure Red Varietal (Counoise) – Adelaida Vineyards & Winery-Paso Robles, and Red-Rhone Blend – Stolpman- Ballard Canyon, Santa Barbara County.  Following the seminar, participants will enjoy an al fresco luncheon prepared by Chef Jeffery Scott.

The afternoon segment of the Rhone Rangers Experience will include a Grand Tasting of 200+ wines from Rhone Rangers members, including top single Rhone varietals and the best in Rhone blends. Throughout the tasting, guests are invited to bid on auction lots donated by Rhone Ranger member wineries, with proceeds benefitting the Rhone Rangers educational and scholarship fund.

An “All-Access” package is available, including the Welcoming Coffee Bar/Auction Preview, Seminar, Luncheon, and early-entry into the Grand Tasting and Silent Auction ($165 per person + tax/fees), or guests may select the Grand Tasting/Silent Auction afternoon segment ($75 per person + tax/fees). Trade and media inquiries may be sent to kim@rhonerangers.org. For additional information and to reserve tickets, visit the Rhone Rangers website, www.rhonerangers.org.  

About the Rhone Rangers

Founded in 1998, the Rhone Rangers are a group of 100+ wineries throughout the United States dedicated to making wines from the 22 grape varieties originally made famous in France’s Rhône Valley.  With a mission to educate and promote American Rhone varietal wines, the organization holds special events and fundraisers throughout the year to raise funds for the Rhone Rangers Scholarship Fund, which benefits students studying viticulture, enology and wine business.

Behind the Wine: Story of Soil By Dawn Abasta

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Jessica Gasca’s journey to winemaker started out in unfamiliar territory. She is a native Californian but had ventured out to New York to explore her options. She worked in a French restaurant there and learned from their onsite sommelier who offered regular classes on wine. Jessica fell in love with everything about wine but she did not love the New York weather so she came back to California and continued her education. She read everything she could get her hands on, did tons of research and when she felt she was ready she reached out to her uncle Gary Burk who founded Costa De Oro Winery. She interned for him at the winery during harvest. Jessica loved the magic around harvest. She continued to learn everything she could, hands on and in the dirt.

She began saving all her pennies to buy one ton of Pinot and two tons of Syrah and in 2012 she made her first wines: a Gold Coast Vineyard Pinot and Larner Vineyard Syrah. These were released in 2015 making her one of the only female Latina winemakers in Santa Barbara. She now sources most of her wines from all over Santa Barbara County including Ballard, Santa Rita Hills, Santa Maria and Happy Canyon. She believes that wine is about the place it’s grown and the land it’s grown on. Thus, her winery name Story of Soil.

When asked what skills a winemaker should cultivate, Jessica said flexibility and patience. She endeavors to keep her wine in its truest form possible without additives. The result is a beautiful and delicious wine.

I asked her who influenced her along her journey and she said her Uncle was her mentor. She was also inspired and influenced by Jim Clendenen who helped her with her initial process and Amy Christine who is a Master of Wine and a wealth of knowledge. She advises that if you would like to get into the wine business, that you should reach out to your known sources and ask questions, get involved, taste more and most importantly don’t be afraid to take the leap of faith and follow your gut. When asked what the most rewarding thing about being a winemaker was she said it was being outside in nature every day. “The vineyard is my church”!

Prior to our interview I had been reviewing the Story of Soil Facebook page and noted that the team at Story of Soil starts every day with a motivational quote. I asked her which one meant the most to her. She answered, “Having a kind smile can go a long way.” She honestly believes that to be graceful in all things is important. You do not know what someone else is going through so smile, you might just turn their day around.

Jessica’s second passion is the Santa Barbara Vintners Foundation. As current President she is trying to help get a healthcare program together for vineyard workers. In 2021 she and the foundation helped get 1,000 vineyard workers vaccinated. They have also helped open Los Alamos Health Centers. To find out more about the foundation go to: http://www.sbvf.org/home.html

I have been to Story of Soil numerous times and I make sure to keep their pinot in my wine fridge. If you haven’t gone out to the Los Olivos area, be sure to add it to your next wine tasting trip. Story of Soil is located at 2928 San Marcos Ave, Los Olivos, CA 93441.

New Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room Opens Seaside In Ventura Harbor Village

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VENTURA, Calif. – The new Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room in Ventura Harbor Village is giving wine lovers a reason to toast the coast. Owned and operated by the Conway family of Santa Barbara/Ventura County, this modern wine tasting room is sure to be a popular spot with 15 different wines of interesting and unusual blends of reds and whites, each produced in small batch production. Along with their friendly and knowledgeable tasting room hosts, daily tastings offer a selection of both Conway and Deep Sea wines offering something for all palates.  https://www.conwayfamilywines.com/Santa-Barbara-Tasting-Room/Ventura-Tasting-Room

Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room, along with the Conway siblings John, Tom, Gillian, and Sally, have created a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating in the picturesque Ventura Harbor setting. 

“We have been searching for the perfect location to open a second Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room (the original wine tasting room is at Stearns Wharf in Santa Barbara) for years and have spent a lot of time here in Ventura Harbor.  We truly felt Ventura Harbor Village would be the ideal spot with its relaxed vibe overlooking the ocean just steps away,” says Co-Owner John Conway.

The siblings, and their parents, Chris and Ann Conway, have always shared a love for California wine, the wilderness and especially the Pacific ocean. Some of them surf, some of them sail, and the entire family are certified open water scuba divers. 

“We are thrilled to have Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room join the vibrant mix of shops, eateries and attractions at Ventura Harbor Village to serve residents and visitors alike,” says Brian Pendleton, General Manager of the Ventura Port District.  “The Conway family’s passion for wine is evident, and the sea-themed details in the design of their new tasting room is a perfect complement to our waterfront Ventura Harbor community,“ Pendleton said.

Sourced from the highest quality grapes from sustainably farmed coastal vineyards in Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez Valley, Sta. Rita Hills and Los Alamos, the Conways strive to capture this special “sense of place” in all their wines. The maritime influence in their vineyard sources can be noted in the unique flavors of their wines. Most of their wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the natural and existing flavors of the varietals, and some are then aged in French oak barrels.  

Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room offers wine enthusiasts the chance to savor wine by the glass ($13-18), by the bottle (average of $32) and as part of Tasting Flights (Signature Flight $18 and Reserve Wine Tasting Flight $24). The winery’s most popular picks include their top sellers:  Deep Sea “Seastar,” Rose of Pinot Noir, Deep Sea” Seaturtle” Chardonnay and the winery’s red blends.  A fan favorite is the Deep Sea, “The Duel,” that offers a blend of two different varietals:  50 % Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Malbec.  New vintages such as the CONWAY Cabernet Sauvignon and CONWAY Pinot Noir have been recently released.

As part of the ultimate wine experience, Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room provides several Wine Club Options with membership benefits that include 20% off ALL wines and merchandise, $9 wine-by- the-glass anytime, and one complimentary Signature Tasting Flight per month. 

Along with tastings, Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room hosts fun and creative special events, such as Oceanic Flow Yoga Class ($25) followed by a glass of wine on the harbor side patio on the first Sunday of each month from 10-11 AM and Live Music on Sundays from 3 – 7 PM.  Seasonal events such as Pumpkin Carving on the patio and holiday wreath making will also be on the calendar of events. Plus, the wine tasting patio is dog-friendly!

Wine lovers can also partake in delicious food pairings to accompany the fine wine selection at Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room, such as a chocolate flight created by Top This Chocolate in the Ventura Harbor Village, a curated meat and cheese plate locally sourced in Ventura, or delicious flatbread pizza.  Visitors are also welcome to enjoy takeout from Ventura Harbor Village restaurants while sipping on a glass of wine at the tasting room. 

With its scenic views, the Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room and outdoor patio are perfect celebration spots to host private events, weddings, and intimate gatherings.  Stop in to shop “Deep Sea” themed merchandise, including hats, T-shirts, stickers, wine glasses, wine openers, wine chillers, and “Deep Sea” scented candles or purchase a bottle or case of wine to enjoy at home.  

Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room is located on the waterfront at 1591 Spinnaker Dr. Ventura, California, 93001 in Ventura Harbor Village near the Village lawn.  Open daily at 11 AM with hours Sunday through Thursday until 8 pm and Friday and Saturday until 9 PM.    

For more information about Deep Sea Wine Tasting Room call 805-321-9463 or visit https://www.conwayfamilywines.com/Santa-Barbara-Tasting-Room/Ventura-Tasting-Room, https://www.venturaharborvillage.com/directory/deep-sea-wine-tasting-room/. 

About Ventura Harbor Village:                                                                                

Situated along the picturesque California Central Coast, endowed with breathtaking views, Ventura Harbor Village also offers visitors an escape for coastal visitors and residents. This waterfront attraction boasts seaside dining, coastal shopping & boutiques, galleries, wine tasting, pampering services, on the water rentals, entertainment venues, live music, sweet treats, dog-friendly facilities, soft adventure, and spectacular beaches with sunset views of the Pacific coastline. Home to the Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center, (open daily with free admission, within walking distance to the Village), this stunning national park center features its own viewing tower, exhibits, movie theater, and bookstore. It is here that visitors can learn more about exploring the Channel Islands for world-class island diving, snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, sea cave exploration, photography, camping and wildlife viewing via Island Packers and a number of local outfitters.

Ventura Harbor is 20 miles from Santa Barbara and is 60 miles from Los Angeles International Airport. It is accessible in just minutes from scenic US Highway 101/Highway 1 and via the 126 from the 5 Freeway.  For additional visitor information, contact Ventura Harbor Village at 805-477-0470, or visit www.VenturaHarborVillage.com.  Ventura Harbor Village is located at 1583 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura.

It’s Back! Miracle at the Funk Zone Returns for a 2nd Year

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When the local speakeasy decides to step aside for a flamboyant limited engagement, you might want to have a look. Pearl Social is going on hiatus until January to bring you Miracle® at the Funk Zone! 

Experience the holidays in a whole new Christmas light, with over-the-top holiday decor, displays, and a cocktail menu like you’ve never sipped before. With merchandise—like kooky Christmas collectible ceramic cocktail vessels—and yuletide cheer aplenty, this scene is something everyone in Santa Barbara has to see to believe. Miracle’s reservation-recommended experience is a must for every tinsel-loving, nostalgic Christmas fan and the ideal venue for your social or work crew to ring in the holidays with extra pizzazz.

Concept/Background: 

Miracle is a Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar that serves holiday cocktails in a festive setting. With kitschy holiday décor, professionally-developed cocktails, and the nostalgic energy of the best office party you’ve ever been to, Miracle is sure to get even the grouchiest grinch in the holiday spirit.

The concept was born in 2014 when upon the advice of his mother, owner Greg Boehm decided to halt construction of what was to be his new East Village cocktail bar called Mace and transformed the unfinished space into a pop-up bar serving holiday-themed drinks among over-the-top Christmas decorations. As crowds swarmed the NYC location, Boehm’s friends throughout the bar industry asked how they could recreate the holiday magic on their own turf and expansion became inevitable. The following year, Miracle expanded to 4 locations and in 2016, it went worldwide with pop-ups in Greece, Montreal, and Paris. Currently, Boehm and manager Joann Spiegel are pleased to expand the concept to all corners of the US, plus pop-ups in Canada, Europe, Asia, and Central America.

Where: 

Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone

Inside Pearl Social (Pearl Social concept on hiatus until January 2023)

131 Anacapa, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

When: 

November 11 – December 31, 2022 (Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day)

Reservations go live on Resy.com on October 17, 2022. No reservations will be accepted prior.

Open Daily:

Monday to Thursday5 PM – 10 PMReservations available from 5 PM – 10 PM
Friday5 PM – 12 AMReservations available from 5 PM – 10 PM
Saturday2 PM – 12 AMReservations available from 2 PM – 10 PM
Sunday2 PM – 10 PMReservations available from 2 PM – 10 PM

Walk-ins are accepted at all times for patio and bar seating.

  • November 21:  Miracle’s worldwide official Grand Opening day
  • December 3:  Miracle’s worldwide Ugly Sweater Party

Need to Know:

  • 21 and over
  • Reservations highly recommended
  • Walk-ins accepted daily
  • Stay times are restricted depending on party size
  • Maximum party size is 10 for online reservations when available
  • Groups over 10 cannot be seated together
  • For private buy-out information please email events@pearlsocialsb.com 

2022 Programming + Event Schedule (subject to additions and changes):

NOV 15Xmas Drag Show featuring Vivian StormTicket Required5 – 10 PM
NOV 16Live Piano + Sing-Along7 – 9 PM
NOV 20Santa Meet-n-Greet + Cookie DecoratingTicket RequiredKid’s Event12 – 2 PM
NOV 27Santa Meet-n-Greet + Ornament MakingTicket RequiredKid’s Event12 – 2 PM
NOV 30Live Piano + Sing-Along7 – 9 PM
DEC 3Ugly Sweater Party Night2 – 12 AM
DEC 4Santa Meet-n-Greet + Cookie DecoratingTicket RequiredKid’s Event12 – 2 PM
DEC 6Xmas Drag Show featuring Vivian StormTicket Required5 – 10 PM
DEC 11Santa Meet-n-Greet + Stocking MakingTicket RequiredKid’s Event12 – 2 PM
DEC 14Live Piano + Sing-Along7 – 9 PM
DEC 18Santa Meet-n-Greet + Cookie DecoratingTicket RequiredKid’s Event12 – 2 PM
DEC 19Carolers6 PM
DEC 30Drag New Year’s PRE-Party w/ Vivian S.Ticket Required5 – 12 AM
DEC 31New Year’s Eve DJ PartyTicket Required5 – 12 AM

2022 Cocktail Menu:

Christmapolitan: A seasonal twist on a Cosmopolitan.

Santa’s Little Helper: A savory riff on a gin Gimlet.

Christmas Cricket: A minty Mexican hot chocolate, but for grown-ups.

Holiday Spiked Chai: Spicy, frothy, and delicious.

Snowball Old-Fashioned: Tried and true, an old familiar dressed up for Christmas.

Elfing Around: Season-able Christmas bubbly.

Grandma Got Run Over By A T-Rex: An over-the-top Bay Breeze

Yippie Ki Yay Mother F****r!: Purple Ube and coconut might be the best flavor combination of all time.

Mulled Wine (served HOT)

Jingle Balls Nog 

Nice Shot

Naughty Shot

Plus a range of festive, vintage seasonal snacks

Examples include: 

Soft Ginger Molasses Cookie

Salted Peanut Brittle

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark

Cranberry Chocolate Trifle

Old Fashioned Cheese Ball (serves 2-3) { sharp cheddar, scallion, toasted pecans, artisanal crackers }

Price:

$5 per person reservation fee (proceeds donated to a local charity)

Reservations highly recommended

$13 – $16 cocktails

$4 – $14 snacks

Booking Information:

RESY booking link launches on October 14 for all Miracle dates and special ticketed events. No individual reservations can be taken before October 17.

➤ MIRACLE RESERVATIONS 

More information:

www.pearlsocialsb.com/miracle/ 

Assets:

Click HERE for logo and photos

Stay in the Know:

Join the email list for upcoming Miracle and Pearl Social events: http://www.pearlsocialsb.com/contact

Behind the Wine by Dawn Abasta-Poulsen: Jamie Slone Wines

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When you talk to Jamie about wine, his passion for wine and his community shine through!  He loves the Santa Barbara region and the wine community there. Jamie, like many wine makers did not start out his adult life as a winemaker. He was an entrepreneur. Up until the early 2000s he ran five radio stations in the Tucson area of Arizona, then once he sold those stations he fulfilled his lifelong dream and became a racecar driver from 2005-2013. To say he is driven to succeed at everything he touches is an understatement. After having conquered the race world by coming in second at almost every one of his championship races.  Jamie decided he wanted to fulfill another dream of his, owning a winery. So thus began Jamie Slone Wines. He chose Santa Barbara, because in his and many others opinion, it is the best wine region to grow wine grapes. 

Santa Barbara is rich with a variety of soil types and this gives winemakers like Jamie the tools to really be creative with their wines and create one of a kind distinctive blend. In 2014 he released his first wines.  First his red blend called BoRific, which is Jamie’s nickname for his wife Kym. BoRific is a Bordeaux blend of Merlot, Cabernet, Malbec and Petit Verdot. It’s rich and delicious! He also released a Pinot Noir, a Sauvignon Blanc and a Chardonnay. 

Most of his wine is sourced from vineyards in Santa Rita Hills and Happy Canyon; these offer him the best of both worlds, one is lusher and cooler at night and the other is dryer and hotter.  He spends a lot of time analyzing and choosing the best possible process for that season’s harvest.  To quote Jamie “Each year is a fresh new painting, I use fruit to sculpt that year’s wine.” 

When asked what the inspiration behind his wine was, Jamie said he wanted flexibility and a creative outlet. Something he could be proud of.  In his words he wanted to create a “fabulous experience.”  

We then talked about his favorite over the years.  He said consistently his Super Tuscan, but every year there is a special one he likes most.  Right now, he says his 2019 Grenache is outstanding!

I then told him a firsthand story about his Super Tuscan. It was September 2017 and my wine group and I were on our summer excursion. My friend Jeff had told me I needed to go and check out Jamie Slone, so we made it one of our stops that day. It was late afternoon and we were just about done with our tasting. All of us had loved everything we tasted and three of us joined the winery club that very afternoon. Then when we were about to leave it started to rain pretty hard outside. So, we decided why walk around in the rain when we could just chill there and ride out the storm. We ordered a bottle of the Super Tuscan and road out the brief storm in the comfort of his beautiful tasting room. It was the highlight of that trip! Jamie shows passion in every wine he serves and he works hard to personally craft his wine so that every one of them gives his customers a truly “fabulous experience.” You can check out his winery at 23 E De La Guerra St in Santa Barbara CA 93101

Embrace California’s Newest Beverage Frontier With “Space For Savoring” Lompoc’s Wine Country

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Lompoc, CA – As the wine harvest approaches next month, what better time than now to escape to Lompoc, home to some of the industry’s most creative beverage makers. From estate wineries to regional brews, this Central California city in Santa Barbara County is bursting with refreshing wine and beer choices. Below are top picks to experience the destination’s wine bar scene and new and existing craft breweries.

https://explorelompoc.com/lompoc-wine-tasting/

https://explorelompoc.com/wine-bars-breweries-pubs/

Lompoc is located in a valley, which provides a consistent, ideal climate for grapes. As a result, several wineries and vineyards have popped up in and around the region. There are four main must experience wine-tasting areas: 

1. Lompoc Wine Ghetto

Lompoc possesses a hip industrial park area that transformed into a wine-lovers paradise, affectionately called the Lompoc Wine Ghetto. Inside, are 11 small, boutique wineries and tasting rooms that locals and visitors adore.

While visiting “the ghetto,” try: 

2. Midtown Wineries

Just a few blocks from Midtown Lompoc, visitors find a handful of wineries that are worth a stop. Brewer-Clifton, Longoria Wines, Turiya Wines and Camins 2 Dreams make up the Midtown Wineries. Here’s a list on these top spots: 

  • Brewer-Clifton
    Owner Greg Brewer was recently named Winemaker of the Year at this well-known winery, and is the man behind the flavorful wines on tap. Tastings are served by appointment only at this location, and when visitors set up a time to visit, they can try the 2015 Acin Pinot Noir.
  • Longoria Wines
    Established in 1982, Longoria is a small family-owned winery producing acclaimed artisanal wines. Travelers cannot miss this location, as it resembles a red barn. During a visit, taste the 2016 Chardonnay Cuvee Diana. The winery is open daily
  • Turiya Wines
    It is at this boutique winery that one can sample entirely hand-crafted red blends and Bordeaux-style wines. The tasting room is open on Friday and Saturday. If you swing by, try the 2016 Chardonnay Cuvee Diana.
  • Camins 2 Dreams
    Camins 2 Dreams makes their wine with grapes sourced from Sta. Rita Hills vineyards. The boutique winery looks forward to sharing their love of wine with each guest.

3. Sta. Rita Hills Wineries

A short drive outside of town takes visitors to the rolling landscape of Sta. Rita Hills. Here one will discover large estate vineyards and wineries, most of which are open daily. Here are a few suggestions for a countryside wine tour: 

  • Babcock Winery and Vineyards
    This winery has a hangar-sized tasting room with a retro rock-and-rock theme. It’s a great spot for a group of friends to visit. The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon “Block 15” is a must-try.
  • Dierberg Starlane
    With 40+ years of winemaking experience, the owners of Dierberg Starlane know what it takes to make good wine. Wine enthusiasts can stop in and enjoy a flight of five wines
  • for $25.
  • Sanford Winery & Vineyards
    The Sanford family was among the first to start vineyards in the Sta. Rita Hills regions and specialize in Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. For a truly distinctive experience, consider taking an ATV tour of the vineyard and follow it up with a tasting. 
  •  
  • Sta. Rita Hills Wine Center
  • At the Sta. Rita Hills Wine Center, grape lovers can experience three award-winning tasting rooms. Book a private tour or enjoy a tasting on the delightful patio area.

Lompoc’s craft brewery and wine bar scene

The region is known for its wines, but a number of bars serve handcrafted beers from the area too. For those in the mood for a draft or wish to relax at a wine bar, try these locations:

·         PCH Street Wine Lounge
Stop by the PCH Street Wine Lounge in historic old town Lompoc for a fun time and delicious wine. This Wine Lounge has a great selection of beer and wine on tap or by the bottle. Check their calendar for trivia and karaoke nights.

·         Cold Coast Brewing Company
Opened by four Lompoc locals, Cold Coast, which debuted this year, features great beers on tap like their Tropical IPA or the Happy Blonde.

·         Solvang Brewing Co. Hoptions Taproom & Eatery
Hoptions offers visitors a wide selection of craft beers at their on-site taproom. Enjoy a cold beer and delicious food.

·         Tap & Cork
Located in Old Town, the Tap & Cork is a local pub with a dozen local and regional beers on tap. Pool tables, karaoke, and poker nights add to the fun.

·         Jasper’s
The locals love Jasper’s and you will too. It has 20+ beers on tap and a pool table that’s ready for action. 

Travelers can spend an entire weekend enjoying the crafted drinks throughout the Lompoc area. Prior to a visit, book a hotel room, and use the recon above to plan their tasting itinerary.

ABOUT LOMPOC                                                                                                                                                                             Lompoc’s New Cold Coast Brewing Company

Located on scenic Pacific Coast Highway 1, just 155 miles northwest from Los Angeles with close proximity to Santa Barbara and Solvang, Lompoc takes on a world of its own. Its valley setting, surrounded

by spectacular rolling hills and vineyards, creates an invitation for visitors to detour off the main road, and explore what’s around the bend. Lompoc is a destination for wine tasting, golf, cycling, hiking, skydiving, birding, and surfing at nearby Jalama Beach. It is home to La Purisima Mission State Historic Park, the most fully restored and furnished of the 21 California missions, and adjacent to Vandenberg Air Force Base, where rockets are launched throughout the year by such entities as NASA, SpaceX, and ULA, to name a few.Lompoc has 12 hotels to welcome visitors. To discover more about the Lompoc Valley, and the range of things to see and do, visit: www.explorelompoc.com.