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C E N T R A L C O A S T : S E R V I N G S A N L U I S O B I S P OS A N T A B A R B A R A & V E N T U R APAGE 31Y O U R E S S E N T I A L G U I D E T O C A L I F O R N I A C E N T R A L C O A S T W I N E , G E T A W A Y S , T H I N G S T O D O & E V E N T Swinecountrythisweek.comE A S Y-T O - F O L LO W W I N E R Y M A P S D E C E M B E R 1 1 , 2 0 0 8PAGE 14TOLOSA WINERYPAGE 6TALLEY VINEYARDSPAGE 12ROBERT HALL WINERYPAGE 18CARINA CELLARSPAGE 33HOLIDAY TRAIN EXCURSIONSPAGE 35
HEARSTCASTLEMorroBayPasoRobles• San SimeonCambria YORK1MOUNTAIN46W•Cayucos•10141••1•Avila BeachPismoBeach•San MiguelTempleton22746E41San Luis Obispo•• •PASO ROBLESEDNA VALLEYArroyoGrande101166Santa•Maria•OrcuttARROYO GRANDEVALLEYSANTA MARIAVALLEY581665San Luis Obispo,Santa Barbara &Ventura CountiesMILEAGE:•Lompoc1SANTARITAHILLS246BuelltonLosOlivos•Solvang• • •SANTAYNEZVALLEYCHUMASHCASINOSanta Ynez1545P a c i f i c O c e a n101SantaBarbara•15033150Ventura•23126Camarillo 118ThousandOaks• •Oxnard •1
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KATTRACTIONSwww.winecountrythisweek.com3
TABLE OF CONTENTSW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KF E A T U R ES T O R Y 6O N T H EC O V E R 14W I N E M A K E RP R O F I L E 12P R E F E R R E DT A S T I N G R O O M 18B A C K R O A D SP A S O R O B L E S 264Tolosa <strong>Wine</strong>rySanta Maria <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong>Leslie Mead,Talley VineyardsRobert Hall <strong>Wine</strong>ryC E N T R A L C O A S T :P U B L I S H I N G E V E R Y O T H E R W E E K !D E C E M B E R 1 1 , 2 0 0 8 • I S S U E 2 0 – V O L U M E 2ON THE COVERSanta Maria <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14WINE COUNTRY NEWS<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Premier Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Premier Dining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13WINE TASTING IN DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21PASO ROBLES WINERIES MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22SAN LUIS OBISPO WINERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-30SANTA MARIA VALLEY WINERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30SOLVANG, LOS OLIVOS, SANTA YNEZ WINERIES MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32SANTA BARBARA WINERIES MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34VENTURA COUNTY WINERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35LISTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36-39ADVERSTISING/MARKETINGDIRECTORPUBLISHERMANAGING EDITORCALENDAR EDITOROFFICE MANAGEREDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORSS E R V I N G S A N L U I S O B I S P OS A N T A B A R B A R A & V E N T U R ASarah FlickingerSan Luis Obispo, CAPhone 805-252-5440centralcoast@winecountrythisweek.comDan ZimmermanDirect 707-938-3734dan@winecountrythisweek.comChandra GrantP.O. Box 92, El Verano, CA 95433Phone 707-938-1783 / Fax 707-938-3674chandra@winecountrythisweek.comMaria OlascoagaPhone 707-938-1783 / Fax707-938-3674maria@winecountrythisweek.comCathy GorePhone 707-938-3494 / Fax 707-938-3674Email cathy@winecountrythisweek.comMichael Cervin, Leah Kolt, Len Napolitano,Mark Storer, Janis Switzer, Dave WilcoxGoing to Northern California <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong>?Look for WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK at wineries, hotels, concierge desks,car rentals, restaurants, high-end grocery stores and more!www.winecountrythisweek.com
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KAT TRAC TIONSwww.winecountrythisweek.com 5
WINE COUNTRY NEWSW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KTOLOSA WINERYDedicated to Producing Quality <strong>Wine</strong>sby Dave WilcoxPerhaps it’s Bob Schiebelhut’s backgroundas a lawyer that influences theattention to detail at Tolosa <strong>Wine</strong>ry,which he co-founded ten years ago.From the estate-grown grapes picked toproduce Tolosa’s wines – only the top tenpercent grown in its Edna Valley vineyards areselected – to the design of its sleek tastingroom that echoes the shapes and materialsseen throughout the winery, it’s clear Tolosaembraces details from vineyard to bottle.Indeed, “from the vineyard to the cellar iskind of the theme here,” said John Shakley,who holds the job description of concierge atTolosa. Shakley is organizing guided educationaltours for Tolosa visitors that areexpected to begin during the holiday season.Started ten years ago by partnersSchiebelhut and Jim Efird – one, a corporatelawyer and self-taught winemaker, the other, apioneering viticulturist – Tolosa is now one ofthe premier wineries on the Central Coast.Schiebelhut and Efird both grew up onfarms outside Fresno and they both came tothe San Luis Obispo region in the 1970s.6Schiebelhut established a successful law practice,while Efird planted Paragon Vineyards,eventually planting most of the region’s vineyards.Schiebelhut, whose wines earned tophonors at the California State Fair and theMid-State Fair before launching Tolosa, partneredwith Efird in 1990.“Jim was very highly regarded as themanager of nearly all the vineyards in thevalley,” notes Schiebelhut, “so when wedecided to plant a vineyard we went to him.”In 2000, the partners hired Larry Brooks asa consulting winemaker. Brooks, who madehis name at Acacia and later founded EchelonVineyards while with The Chalone <strong>Wine</strong>Group.Tolosa maintains its niche as a small estatewinery – annual production tops out at about25,000 cases – although its productioncapacity is close to 250,000 cases.That’s not about to change.“We like to keep it at 25,000,” said TamiCarija, Tolosa’s marketing director.“We are dedicated to quality alone,” saysSchiebelhut. “We knew if we kept it small wecould make a very special brand over the longterm.”Tolosa is named for historic Mission Sanwww.winecountrythisweek.comLuis Obispo de Tolosa, which was founded in1772 and established the region’s first vineyards.The winery’s barrel-select and limitedproductionwines are bottled under the“1772” label.The winery cultivates five vineyardsencompassing approximately 720 acres in aregion that’s earned a reputation for producingworld-class Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.Collectively, the vineyards are known as EdnaRanch. Half of Tolosa’s vineyards are plantedto Chardonnay, while 40 percent grow PinotNoir. Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grismake up most of the remaining ten percent.Only five miles from the Pacific Ocean,Tolosa’s vineyards enjoy a longer growingseason than even other coastal regions. Typicallywarm days are cooled by a layer ofevening fog that creeps up the valley from thecoast. It is ideal climate conditions for growingChardonnay and Pinot Noir. Both Schiebelhutand Brooks, the winemaker, are Pinotphilesdetermined to craft exceptional wines usingthe finicky grape.One of Tolosa’s most intriguing wines,however, is its No-Oak Chardonnay. The2006 vintage earned 90 points from <strong>Wine</strong>Enthusiast magazine.
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KWINE COUNTRY NEWSTolosa opened its tasting room in2004 and it offers a relaxed atmospherethat’s rooted in providingguests information as they taste. Flatscreen monitors show videos aboutthe wines, while a glass wall on oneend overlooks the sparkling stainlesstanks storing both Tolosa’s estatewines and those produced fromcustom crushes for other wineries. <strong>As</strong>eries of small panels explain whatyou’re looking at and what occurs inthe winery.Extending the interactive educationaltheme, a small sensory evaluationstation is located in a corner ofthe tasting room. Visitors curiousabout the unusual descriptions oftenused for wine – leather, anyone? –can sniff samples of the substanceswhile tasting varietals with whichthey are commonly linked.<strong>As</strong> noted, the tasting room’sdesign takes its cues from the wineryitself, from the curved woodsuggesting oak barrels, to stainlesssteel accents, to the long, green glasstasting bar itself. There is also corkflooring.While the design is sophisticated,Tolosa is a winery that displays nopretension. It’s an atmosphere cultivatedthroughout the winery, saidShakely, the concierge.“The spirit of this company, fromBob Schiebelhut down, is that noone works for anyone. Everyone ispart of a team.”Just outside is an expansive patiowith views of the vineyards andanother tasting bar.Tolosa <strong>Wine</strong>ry is located 4910Edna Road off Highway 227 inSan Luis Obispo. Tasting roomhours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.Tasting fee is $5, which is waivedwhen a bottle is purchased. Thetasting room will be closedChristmas Day, but will be openChristmas Eve from 11 a.m. to2 p.m. More information is availableby visiting Tolosa’s website atwww.tolosawinery.com or calling(805) 782-0500.www.winecountrythisweek.com 7
CALENDAR OF EVENTSW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KSAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTYPASO ROBLESONGOING WEDNESDAYS<strong>Wine</strong> Tasting at Vinoteca <strong>Wine</strong> BarLocal winemaker featured each week.5:30-8pm, 805-227-7154, Paso Robleswww.vinotecawinebar.comONGOING FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTHGourmet Pairings at Meridian VineyardsTry gourmet food paired with fine wine12-5pm, $5, 805-226-7133, Paso Robleswww.meridianvineyards.comONGOING SATURDAYSTempleton Farmers’ MarketFresh fruit, flowers & vegetables9am-12:30pm, 805-239-6535, TempletonONGOING SATURDAYSPaso Robles Farmers’ Market<strong>Country</strong> farm arts and crafts market8am-12:30pm, 805-237-9254, Paso RoblesONGOINGPainting Exhibits at Villicana <strong>Wine</strong>ryEnjoy fine art work along with fine wines.11am-5pm, 805-239-9456, Paso RoblesONGOINGEstrella Warbird MuseumFascinating collection of military aircrafts10am-4pm, 805-227-0440, Paso Robleswww.ewarbirds.org★ ONGOING IN DECEMBERArt Exhibits at Castoro CellarsDeborah Veldkamp – landscape, portrait & figure painter10am-5:30pm, 888-DAM-FINE, Templetonwww.castorocellars.com★ ONGOING FRIDAYS15 Degrees C <strong>Wine</strong>s Beer TastingsFeatured beer every Friday night, 6pm, $10805-434-1554, Templeton, 15degreesCwines.comONGOINGSafe Haven Events805-238-SAFE, Paso Robles• Dec 11: Holiday Entertaining Tips by the Experts8★ DECEMBER 11<strong>Wine</strong> and Pizza at 15 Degrees C <strong>Wine</strong>s5-7pm, 805-434-1554, TempletonFor details visit www.15degreesCwines.comDECEMBER 11-15Holiday Open House atMaloy O’Neill VineyardsChristmas carols & family traditions will besprinkled in throughout your visit805-238-7320, Paso RoblesFor details visit www.maloyoneill.com.DECEMBER 12Friday Night <strong>Wine</strong> and Cheese EveningFifteen wineries pouring their outstanding winesin one location.6pm, $15, 805-227-1428, Eagle Castle <strong>Wine</strong>rywww.paso46westwineries.com★ DECEMBER 12-14Holiday Open House at Castoro CellarsHoliday wine tasting featuring sweat treats, mulledwine, great discounts and more!10am-5:30pm, 888-DAM-FINE, Templetonwww.castorocellars.com★ DECEMBER 13Indoor Concert at Castoro CellarsA Christmas concert featuring Moira Smiley7:30pm, 888-DAM-FINE, Paso Robleswww.castorocellars.comDECEMBER 13Holiday Open House and Santa Claws Event atChumeia VineyardsHoliday festivities featuring the Humane Societywith a selection of feline adoptees.12-4pm, 888-343-9445, Paso RoblesDECEMBER 13Meridian Holiday Open House & <strong>Wine</strong> ClubPick-Up Party at Meridian VineyardsLimited release wines, delicious French petit-fours,and make your holiday wreath with vines cut fromthe vineyards. 10am-5pm805-226-7133, Paso Robles★ DECEMBER 13Artisan Cheese at Adelaida$60/$50 Club, 12-3pm, 800-676-1232, Paso RoblesDECEMBER 13Martin & Weyrich's Holiday Open HouseHoliday cookies, mulled wine, hot cider, currentwine releases, barrel samples & more.10am-6pm, 805-238-2520, Paso Robles★ DECEMBER 13One Year Party at 15 Degrees C <strong>Wine</strong>sFood by Villa Creek, 6-9pm, Templeton805-434-1554, 15degreesCwines.com★ DECEMBER 13Annual Vine Street VictorianStep back in time & visit a festively decoratedVictorian neighborhood with choirs, storytellers,Scrooge & more. 6-9pm, Vine Street, Paso Robles805-238-4103, www.pasoroblesdowntown.orgDECEMBER 13Barrel Tasting in the <strong>Wine</strong>ry at HarmonySample wines straight from the barrel and nibble ongourmet hors d’oeuvres. Reservations required.10am-5pm, $22, 805-927-1625, Harmonywww.harmonycellars.com★ DECEMBER 14Visit with SantaBring a camera & tell Santa your wish list.2pm, 805-238-4103, Downtown Paso Robleswww.pasoroblesdowntown.org★ DECEMBER 17Holiday Happy Hour at 15 Degrees C <strong>Wine</strong>s5-7pm, 805-434-1554, Templetonwww.15degreesCwines.com★ DECEMBER 18A Feast of the 7 Mars in Tasting Format 15 Degrees C <strong>Wine</strong>s5-7pm, 805-434-1554, Templetonwww.15degreesCwines.com★ DECEMBER 2018th Annual Victorian Teddy Bear TeaDress up your teddy bear & visit with Santa2pm, 805-238-4103, Downtown Paso Robleswww.pasoroblesdowntown.org★ DECEMBER 31New Years Eve Celebrationat Robert Hall <strong>Wine</strong>ryCelebrate the good times of 2008 and welcome2009 with a very special evening with an exquisitedinner, followed by dancing to live music.8pm-12am, $120, 805-239-1616x24, Paso Robleswww.roberthallwinery.com★ JANUARY 16-19Celebrate Esprit du Vin, the “Spirit of <strong>Wine</strong>”<strong>Wine</strong>ries of Highway 46 East<strong>This</strong> exciting weekend consists of special events ateach participating winery Friday-Monday, a grandevent in the Eberle wine caves with all tenwineries. 800-838-3006, 805-238-9607Paso Robles, www.eberlewinery.comJANUARY 17-19Barrel <strong>Week</strong>end at Maloy O’NeilSample wine directly from the barrel!For details visit www.maloyneill.com.★ FEBRUARY 14Eberle <strong>Wine</strong>ry Black Tie Valentinesin the CavesFeaturing Chef Charles Paladin-Wayne. Bring yoursweetheart for a romantic dinner in the caves!805-238-9607, $150/$120/Cellar Club.sheri@eberlewinery.com, www.Eberle<strong>Wine</strong>ry.comwww.winecountrythisweek.com★ MARCH 20-22Paso Robles 17th Annual Zinfandel FestivalThree days of wine tasting bliss with 100 areawineries including auctions, grand tastings & more.805-239-8463, ext. 210, Paso RoblesFor details visit www.pasowine.comCAMBRIAJANUARY 23-25Annual Art & <strong>Wine</strong> FestivalThree days of shopping, wine tasting, food pairingand local artists demonstrating their work.805-927-3624, Cambriawww.seecambria.com/artwineCAYUCOS AND MORRO BAYONGOING FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTHArt in the Park at Dinosaur CavesArt, crafts, children’s activities, music & more10am-4pm, 805-704-8128, Pismo Beachwww.pismochamber.comONGOINGArt Demonstrations by Fine ArtistsNon-profit art gallery exhibit of local artists7pm, 805-772-2504, Morro Baywww.morrobayartassociation.orgONGOINGAdventures with Nature805-772-2694, www.ccnha.orgVarious hikes at various times including Fast Hike toCoon Creek, White’s Point Vistas, Black Hill Trail, SandSpit Walk and Ocean Lagoon.Morro Bay State Park MuseumONGOING SECOND FRIDAY OF THE MONTHMorro Bay Embarcadero Art WalkArt galleries’ open house receptions5-8pm, 805-772-1068, Morro BayONGOING SATURDAYSFishermen & Farmers’ Market in Morro BayFresh seasonal fruit, crafts & musicians3-6pm, 800-231-0592, Morro BayDECEMBER 31Gala New Years Eve PartyBring in the New Year with live music, entertainment,karaoke & more! 805-772-4467, Morro BayJANUARY 1Annual Polar Bear DipFor the brave or nutty and the people that love towatch the fun. www.cayucoschamber.com10am, 805-995-1200, CayucosJANUARY 19-21Morro Bay Winter Bird FestivalMajor winter birding festival, famous throughoutthe U.S. 805-772-4467, Morro Baywww.morro-bay.ca.usSAN LUIS OBISPOONGOING TUESDAYS2-oz. Tuesdays at Taste<strong>Week</strong>ly drink specials10am-9pm, 805-269-TASTESan Luis Obispo, www.taste-slo.comONGOING WEDNESDAYS<strong>Wine</strong> Down Wednesdays at TasteTastings with the winemaker10am-9pm, 805-269-TASTESan Luis Obispo, www.taste-slo.com
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KCALENDAR OF EVENTSONGOINGHearst Castle Holiday Decorated ToursEnjoy Hearst Castle as it is decorated for theholidays. 800-444-4445, San Luis ObispoVisit www.hearstcastle.org for details.ONGOING THROUGH DECEMBER 31Craft Art Market in San Luis ObispoFind a dazzling array of artful gifts11am-5pm, 805-541-6600, San Luis ObispoONGOINGChristopher Cohan CenterPerforming Arts Center – San Luis Obispo805-756-2787, www.pacslo.org• Dec 13–14: The Nutcracker Ballet• Dec 15-16: Winter Concert• Dec 20: Holiday Festival - Cuesta Master Chorale• Dec 21: Forbes Pipe Organ Holiday Concert• Jan 6: Jesus Christ SuperstarONGOINGThe San Luis Obispo Art CenterPermanent collection and constantly rotatingexhibits of works by local artists in all media –paintings, sculpture, photography and more.11am-5pm, 805-543-8562, San Luis Obispowww.sloartcenter.orgONGOING WEEKENDSLive Music at Mother’s TavernBeautiful upscale tavern with big band musicmost Sundays, too! Call for schedules.805-541-8733, San Luis Obispowww.motherstavern.comONGOING SECOND SUNDAYDallidet Adobe & GardensOldest house in the city of San Luis Obispo.Site of first commercial winery in the area.10am-1pm, 805-543-0638, San Luis Obispowww.slochs.org/dallidetONGOINGAutomobilia MuseumSpecialty cars, toy cars & airplanes along withmany other antiques relating to transportation.10am-5pm, 805-544-1900, San Luis ObispoONGOING FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTHArt Gallery Events “Art After Dark”Various art galleries stay open late & hostartist receptions with wine & cheese.5-9pm, 805-544-9251, San Luis Obispowww.sloartcouncil.orgONGOING FRIDAYS<strong>Wine</strong> Tasting at The Loading DockLive music, wine and food7-10pm, $5, 805-934-3471, San Luis ObispoONGOINGA Murder Mystery DinnerEnjoy a parody of The Pirates of the Caribbeanwith a delicious dinner, wine and laughter.5pm, 805-489-3875, Spyglass RestaurantShell Beach, www.murderinmind.com.ONGOING THROUGH DECEMBER 13Daughters of the Lone Star805-786-2440, SLO Little Theatre, San Luis ObispoDECEMBER 12Holiday in the Vineyard at Saucelito CanyonTasting of wines perfect for the holidays4pm, 805-543-2111, San Luis ObispoDECEMBER 13Habitat for Humanity for San Luis ObispoCounty’s Home Dedication EventPresentation of house keys to the four families,ribbon cutting ceremony, reflections from thefour families and refreshments. San Luis Obispo2pm, 805-782-0687, www.hfhsloco.orgATASCADEROONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 4Atascadero Ice Skating RinkJoin the fun as you skate outdoors in thebeautiful "Sunken Gardens"10:30am-9pm, 805-545-0101, AtascaderoDECEMBER 12Winter Wonderland & Street FaireTree lighting ceremony, holiday refreshments,gift booths, live music, & tons of snow!805-462-0177, 6pm, AtascaderoONGOING THROUGH DECEMBER 24Children’s Holiday Boutique at Paddock ZooA special place within the gift shop at the zoofor children to do their own holiday shopping.All gifts $5 under. 10:30am-3pm805-461-7602, AtascaderoAVILA BEACHONGOING SUNDAYSArt on the Beach at Avila BeachArtists paint & present their work10am, 805-238-4103, Avila Beach PierONGOING FRIDAYSFrist Friday at MorovinoDelicious food and wine pairings4-6pm, $12, 805-627-1443, Avila BeachARROYO GRANDEONGOINGVisit Historic Buildings in Arroyo GrandeSat 12-3pm, Sun 1-4pm, 805-473-5077Arroyo Grande, www.arroyograndevillage.orgONGOING SATURDAYSArroyo Grande Farmers’ MarketFarm fresh produce, music, arts & crafts12-2:30pm, 805-473-2250, Arroyo Grandewww.arroyograndevillage.orgONGOING WEDNESDAYSLearn How to Make Ice Cream30 minute skit about ice cream where you helpcreate new flavors. 7pm, Arroyo Grande805-474-4068 www.docburnsteins.comONGOINGClark Center for Performing Arts805-489-9444, Arroyo Grandewww.clarkcenter.org• Dec 20-21: The Nutcracker• Jan 17: Rhonda Vincent• Jan 22: The Peking Acrobats★ ONGOING FRIDAY’S<strong>Wine</strong> Down at Wood <strong>Wine</strong>ryReserve wines & gourmet cheese4-7pm, 805-489-9663, Arroyo Grandewww.wildwoodwine.comsheri@wildwoodwine.comONGOING THROUGH DECEMBERChristmas in the VillageEnjoy the shops of this historic villagedecked out for the holidays805-489-1488, Arroyo GrandeOCEANOONGOING THROUGH DECEMBER 31The Great American Melodrama805-489-2499, www.americanmelodrama.comPopular spoof show designed to bring a year'sworth of smiles to you and your loved ones in agreat musical theatrical experience! OceanoSANTA MARIA/FOXEN CANYONONGOINGSanta Maria Valley Railroad805-922-7941, Santa Maria, www.smvrr.comElegant excursions with five star gourmet mealsONGOING MONDAYS<strong>Wine</strong> Tasting at <strong>Wine</strong> Cottage BistroFeaturing regional & varietal tastings5-6pm, $20, 805-934-4546, Santa MariaONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYSSanta Maria Valley RailwayHistorical MuseumLots of fun including a train simulator exhibit1-4:30pm, 805-714-4927, Santa Mariawww.smvrhm.org/museum★ ONGOINGFriday Night <strong>Wine</strong> Down at Costa de OroGreat way to end your week or start yourweekend! 4:30pm, 805-922-1468, Santa Mariawww.costadeorowinery.com★ DECEMBER 10Ladies Night Out Shopping Eventat Costa De Oro<strong>Wine</strong>, food and shop ‘til you drop.805-922-1468, Santa Maria, www.cdowinery.com★ DECEMBER 20-21Santa Maria Valley <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong>'s"<strong>Wine</strong> Christmas" Passport <strong>Week</strong>end.Celebrate the holidays while tasting fine localwines. All tickets include a Riedel tasting glassand wine tasting at all eight participatingSanta Maria Valley wineries. Santa Maria11am, $30, 866-480-5194, info@smvwc.comwww.SantaMariaValley<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong>.com★ DECEMBER 20-21SMVWCA Christmas Passport Eventat Kenneth VolkEnjoy Christmas cheer including music,cookies & wine parings. Santa Maria10:30am, $30 includes all participating wineries★ DECEMBER 20 & 21SMVWCA White Christmas Passport Eventat Costa De OroSpecial library wines and holiday cheer.11am-6pm, 805-922-1468, Santa Mariawww.cdowinery.comLOS OLIVOSONGOING FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTHWildling Art Museum - Free Friday FlicksFree movie & snacks with discussion7pm, 805-688-1082, Los Olivoswww.wildlingmuseum.orgONGOING THURSDAYSUnderstanding Your Palate at Los Olivos Café<strong>Wine</strong> tasting & hors d’oeuvres5pm, $15, 805-688-7265, Los Olivoswww.losolivoscafe.com• Dec 18: Cabernet Sauvignons Tasting Journeywww.winecountrythisweek.com 9
WINE COUNTRY NEWSW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KONGOING WEDNESDAYSEvening with the <strong>Wine</strong>maker5-6pm, $15, 805-688-7265, Los Olivoswww.losolivodcafé.com• December 17: Great Oaks Ranch <strong>Wine</strong>s• January 7: Cottonwood Canyon <strong>Wine</strong>ry• January 21: Whitcraft <strong>Wine</strong>ry• February 4: Zaca Mesa <strong>Wine</strong>ry• February 11: Ken Brown <strong>Wine</strong>s• February 18: Imagine <strong>Wine</strong>ry• March 4: Martin & Weyrich <strong>Wine</strong>ryONGOING SATURDAYSGlobal Gardens Organic Food TastingEnjoy delicious organic tastings10am-2pm, $3, Los Olivos, 805-693-1600www.globalgardensgifts.comONGOING THURSDAYSFess Parker’s <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Sing AlongSing along with Fess & Marcy, 8:30-10:30pm805-688-7788, Los Olivos, www.syvva.comSANTA YNEZONGOING MONDAYSMaverick Saloon Blind Draw DartsSanta Barbara Darts <strong>As</strong>sociationBBQ and darts, 7pm, 805-686-4785Santa Ynez, www.mavericksaloon.orgONGOINGSanta Ynez Valley Historical Society Museumand Parks - Janeway Carriage HouseExhibits from Chumash period through early20th century ranch days.12-4pm, 805-688-7889, Santa Ynezwww.santaynezvalleymuseum.orgSECOND THURSDAY<strong>Wine</strong> Impressions at ArtisteJoin fellow wine lovers for a blind tasting,sensory evaluation & discussion by region.7-9pm, 805-686-2626, Santa Ynezwww.artiste.comONGOINGChumash Casino Concerts800-585-3737, Santa Ynezwww.chumashcasino.com• Dec 11: A Chumash <strong>Country</strong> Christmas• Dec 18: Dave Koz• Dec 31: New Year’s Eve Dance PartyONGOINGCachuma Lake Nature WalkNaturalists lead walk on the Oak Canyon Trail10-11:30am, $6, 805-688-4515, Santa Ynez Parkwww.cachuma.comONGOING WEDNESDAYSJazz on the Deck at Vineyard HouseLive music and fine food6:30pm, $2, 805-688-2886, Santa Ynezwww.thevineyardhouse.comONGOINGArt Exhibit at Artiste <strong>Wine</strong>ry11am-5pm, 805-686-2626, Santa Ynezwww.artiste.comDECEMBER 12Santa Ynez Valley Jewish Community EventSgt. Schlepper’s Purim Shpieller Band. They looklike the Beetles from Sgt. Pepper’s album andplay all the great rock tunes. 805-691-1166Santa Ynez, www.syvjc.com10LOMPOCONGOING SATURDAYSOlde Towne Market in LompocGreat food, wine & music, Lompoc805-736-4567, www.lompocrecord.comDECEMBER 12-13Santa Ynez Valley Chorale& Orchestra Winter Concert7:30pm, 805-350-4241, Buellton www.syvchorale.orgSOLVANGONGOINGQuicksilver Miniature Horse FarmVisit Solvang horse farm with beautiful views10am–3pm, 805-686-4002, SolvangONGOING WEDNESDAYSSolvang Farmers’ MarketFresh produce, flowers and foods2:30-6pm, 805-962-5354, www.solvangca.comONGOING FRIDAYS<strong>Wine</strong> Tasting on the PatioLive guitar music along with fine wines5:30-7pm, 800-624-5572, Solvangwww.royalscandinavianinn.comONGOING WEEKENDSCachuma Lake Wildlife CruiseGuided 2 hour cruise with wildlife and geology$15, 805-686-505, www.cachuma.comONGOINGElverhoj Museum of History & ArtOngoing exhibits of art & photogaphy805-686-1211, Solvang, www.elverhoj.orgONGOING THROUGH DECEMBER 31Winterfest CelebrationA month of events, pageantry & millions of lights805-688-6144, Solvang, www.solvangusa.comDECEMBER 13Solvang Annual Nativity Pageant5-7pm, Solvang Festival Theatre, Solvang805-688-6144, Solvang, www.solvangusa.comDECEMBER 13Wandering Dog <strong>Wine</strong> Bar presentsChampagne & Sparkling <strong>Wine</strong> TastingTaste a wide variety of Champagnes & sparklingwines. 11am-7pm, 805-686-9126Solvang, www.wanderingdogwinebar.comDECEMBER 13DJ Dance PartyDance in the Pub at the Royal Scandinavian Inn9:30pm, 805-688-9003, SolvangSANTA BARBARAONGOING SUNDAYSSanta Barbara Arts and Crafts ShowFeaturing all types of art, crafts & jewelry10am–6pm, 805-897-1982, East Beach Pierwww.sbaacs.comONGOING TUESDAYSDiscussions & Coffee TastingsGet insider info on up & coming books, music andmovies with coffee tasting too. Santa Barbara805-899-3659, 3pm, Borders Books & MusicONGOING FRIDAYS<strong>Wine</strong> Tasting with the <strong>Wine</strong>makers4-7pm, 805-691-1020, East Beach <strong>Wine</strong>Santa Barbara, www.eastbeachwine.comONGOING FRIDAYS<strong>Wine</strong> & Cheese Pairingsat East Beach <strong>Wine</strong>Enjoy delicious pairings & new selectionseach week. 4-7pm, $10, 805-899-1535Santa Barbara, www.eastbeachwine.comONGOINGBackstage Tours at Lobero TheaterGuided tours upon request, Santa Barbara805-996-4946, www.loberotheater.comONGOINGTrout Fishing & Wildlife Walksat Cachuma LakeEnjoy fishing (with trout brought in) & excellentwildlife viewing from bald eagles to mule deer.805-686-5055, Santa Barbara, www.sbparks.orgONGOINGHistoric Downtown Walking TourGuided stroll - experience Santa Barbara’s past10am-12pm, 805-965-6307, Santa BarbaraONGOING<strong>Wine</strong>maker Dinners at <strong>Wine</strong> CaskDelicious gourmet dinners paired with local wines6:30pm, 805-996-9463, www.winecask.comSanta Barbara• December 18: <strong>Wine</strong>maker Dinner Series – FoleyONGOINGTy Warner Sea CenterExplore creatures of the sea805-962-2526, Stearns Wharf, Santa BarbaraSanta Barbara Museum of Natural Historywww.sbnature.org/seacenterONGOINGLectures & Readings at theSanta Barbara Maritime Museum805-962-8404, Santa Barbara, www.sbmm.orgONGOING SATURDAYSCachuma Lake Nature Walk1 mile walk for all ages on the Oak Canyon Trail10-11:30am, 805-688-4515, Santa BarbaraCachuma Lake Nature Centerwww.cachuma.comONGOING SATURDAYSJunior Ranger ProgramKids learn about wildlife, ecosystems &caring for the environment.1-2pm, 805-688-4515, Santa BarbaraCachuma Lake Nature Centerwww.cachuma.comONGOING TUESDAYS THROUGH SATURDAYSArt Workshops for Children at Art from ScrapFun workshops where kids reuse all sorts ofmaterials to make works of art!10am-2pm, $6, 805-884-0459www.artfromscrap.orgwww.winecountrythisweek.comONGOING FIRST THURSDAYSFirst ThursdayArt, cultural events & fine wine tasting! 5-8pmvarious venues in downtown Santa Barbara,805-962-2098, www.santabarbaradowntown.comONGOINGSanta Barbara Museum of Art805-963-4364, www.sbma.net• Ongoing through Dec 21:Ten-Gifts of SBMA PhotoFutures• Ongoing through Dec 28: Of Life and Loss• Ongoing through Feb 28: Picasso on PaperONGOINGPlanetarium Shows at Santa BarbaraMuseum of Natural History805-682-4711, www.sbnature.com• Exploring the Spring Sky• Cosmic Safari• Secrets of the Cardboard RocketONGOING THURSDAYSAn Evening of Visual & Performing ArtsDowntown galleries keep their doors open lateallowing the public to enjoy local art5pm-8pm, 805-962-2098, Santa BarbaraONGOINGUniversity of California Santa BarbaraVarious speakers, 805-893-7221. Checkwww.artsandlectures.sa.ucsb.edu for details.DECEMBER 137th Annual <strong>Wine</strong> Cask Sparkling <strong>Wine</strong> FestTaste 16 sparkling wines from around the world.12-3pm, $65, 805-966-9463, Santa Barbarawww.winecask.comFEBRUARY 21-226th Annual Santa BarbaraBrazilian Carnaval3 days of the art, dance, music & gastronomyexperiences of Brazil at various locations inSanta Barbara, www.sbbraziliancarnaval.comVENTURA COUNTYONGOINGMuseum of Ventura CountyPhotographs, publications, documents andexhibits depicting Ventura County's history10am-5pm, 805-653-0323, Venturawww.venturamuseum.orgONGOINGTidepool TalkShow and tell about fascinating animals andplants at the exhibit. National Park Visitor Center805-658-5730, Ventura HarborCheck website for details www.nps.govONGOINGVentura County Maritime MuseumArt, ship models, and maritime exhibits11am-5pm, 805-984-6260, OxnardEmail your upcoming event information toMaria@<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.comFor best results, submit informationat least 6 weeks prior to your event.
W I N E C O U N T R Y T H I S W E E K ’ SP R E M I E R A C C O M M O D AT I O N SThe Casitas of Arroyo Grande – A Luxury Bed & BreakfastYou don’t have to go back east to see fallcolors. Come see fall in the vineyards of theArroyo Grande and Edna Valleys.Close to Los Angeles, San Francisco andthe Central Valley, the vineyards of the ArroyoGrande and Edna Valleys give visitors a spectaculartaste of fall color. Right after crush,when the crowds are low, the vines dazzlewith displays of yellow, gold and red leavesbefore resting for the winter. If you want morecolor than the vineyards provide, go to nearbySee Canyon and stop at one of the apple farmsand enjoy fresh cider and more varieties ofapples than you see at your local grocery.Owners Pat and Tony Goetz alwayspreferred staying at bed and breakfasts, farmstaysand boutique hotels where they couldmeet great people and learn about the localhaunts and happenings. Opening the Casitasof Arroyo Grande also allows them to sharetheir passion for wine, the hidden gems thatare often missed by travelers and love for lushgardens, yummy food and the nicest amenities.All of the rooms are very private, quiet, andwell appointed. Beautiful fixtures and customtile work make for an elegant and peacefulplace to rest.Each room has an adjoining patio thattakes full advantage of the outstanding beautyand climate of the California Central CoastThe “Little Houses” feature a full privatebath, patio with garden or valley views,DirecTV with HBO, Bose stereo with iPodport, complimentary Wi-Fi and featuressumptuous bedding with Ralph Laurenduvets and 400-thread Pima cotton sateensheets. All rooms also have their own woodburning fireplace.Come stay at The Casitas and see adifferent world that is close to home. Beginyour day with a gourmet breakfast and relaxand enjoy brisk fall mornings and evenings.Be prepared for a delicious combination ofhot and cold foods prepared by Tony. Breakfastis delivered to your room at the time thatworks best for you … they’ll make sure andfind out your preference when checking inand will work around your schedule.Fresh seasonal fruits, homemade breads oryogurt, freshly roasted and ground coffee(both in room as well as served), tea, juice,and a hot entrée are ready for your enjoyment.Some of Tony’s specialties are his crepes andegg soufflés.From the moment you arrive you knowyou’re in a special place! The courtyard of theCasitas invokes the style and pace of life ofanother place and time.The Casitas of Arroyo Grande is located at2655 Lopez Drive in Arroyo Grande. Formore information, call (805) 473-1123 or goto www.thecasitasofarroyogrande.com.P A S O R O B L E SA R R O Y O G R A N D ES A N T A Y N E ZS A N L U I S O B I S P Owww.slocountysitters.comA full-service babysittingand nanny agencyserving the Central Coast.Exceptional childcare servicesdelivered to your home,hotel or resort destination.(805) 541-9300www.winecountrythisweek.com 11
WINE COUNTRY NEWSW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KLeslie Mead withBrian Talley andVineyard Manager,Kevin Wilkinson<strong>Wine</strong>maker Profile: Talley VineyardsLESLIE MEADby Michael CervinIf you live in San Luis Obispo Countythe name Talley is instantly recognizable.The Talley family has been farmingland in the Arroyo Grande Valley for fourgenerations and their vegetables are wellknown. Talley Vineyards, of course, is alsowell known. But the name behind thewinemaking operations may not be asobvious. Leslie Mead heads the winemakingteam and she was appointed aswinemaker in January 2007, after servingat Talley as enologist since 2005. “We try tocapture the individual expression of eachof our vineyards in our wines,” she says.Mead studied natural resources at theUniversity of Michigan. She began herwinemaking career at Ironstone in CalaverasCounty. From there she worked atClos du Bois, Sonoma Creek, Hans Fahden<strong>Wine</strong>ry and Bonny Doon. Her backgroundalso includes working in the forestry12www.winecountrythisweek.comindustry and in a lab as a water qualityanalyst. Transitioning from water qualityanalyst into winemaker was “a completehappy accident” she says. “I just happenedto see a newspaper ad for a lab technicianat a winery in Calaveras County,” sheexplained. She jumped at the chance, laterpicking up production management experienceat another vineyard. But earning thejob as winemaker at Talley obviouslymeans a lot to her. “I totally lucked outbeing in the right place at the right time.”Having such a technical and analyticalmindset in her non-wine career it wouldseem a tough transition to embrace thetraditional techniques of Burgundian winemaking.“Not at all. In fact, it makes my jobeasier, since all the work is done in thevineyard but I get to take the credit,” shesays with sincere modesty. Mead broughtsome new changes to the Talley winemakingprocess as well. She instituted asecond sorting of the grapes before fermentationto further increase the uniformity ofthe fruit. Compartmentalization is anotherkey to quality and consistency with Talleywines. “We keep all lots separated right upuntil we make the final blending decisions.We even have lots as small as a barrel’sworth.”Mead has much on her plate. Hercurrent pet project is producing andmarketing a very special wine – ManoTinta, a wine made from donated grapesand packaged in donated materials. All ofthe proceeds from the sale of Mano Tintawines go to The Fund for Vineyard andFarm Workers. “My hope is to increase themoney raised for The Fund by encouragingother wineries to produce their own ManoTinta wines.”Talley Vineyards’ tasting room is located at3031 Lopez Drive in Arroyo Grande, just 10minutes from the 101 Freeway. They areopen from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. everyday.Phone (805) 489-0446 for more information.
W I N E C O U N T R Y T H I S W E E K ’ SP R E F E R R E D R E S TA U R A N T SHOPPE’SGARDEN BISTRO& W I N E S H O PYou have to wonder what Old Timers would say when they sawthe word “The Way Station” emblazoned on the outside of thishandsome restored building in the middle of Cayucos just acrossfrom the ocean. And then went inside and were confronted by oneof best wine (and wines by the glass) lists around. The food is alsoa long way above anything you might have found in this charmingseaside town at the turn-of-the-century. These are all some of thereasons that if you mention to people along the coast and inland (atleast those who know enough to appreciate and search out a finebottle of wine and first rate food) that you are headed to Cayucos,the first words out of their mouth are likely to be “Hoppe’s GardenBistro.”The menu chef and owner Wilhelm (‘Bill’) Hoppe has puttogether is inspired by the seasons and complimented by thatexceptional wine list (with wines also available for retail sale). Hefeatures organic meat and produce from the farmers markets in thearea and uses local lobster and shellfish, including abalone directfrom the famous Abalone Farm.Then add to that the wild game and venison and a selection ofboth vegetarian and vegan items and put the whole delightful anddelicious mix in a historic building just a short walk from thebeach. Mix in gardens that are nothing less than a delight – andoften a surprise – and toss in a good helping of their friendly,helpful and enthusiastic staff, and the result is Hoppe’s GardenBistro & <strong>Wine</strong> Shop.C A Y U C O SHoppe’s is open for lunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdaythru Sunday (with a seated multi-course Sunday Brunch); dinneron those days is served beginning at 5 p.m. They are located at 78North Ocean Avenue in Cayucos. You can reach them for reservationsor more information at (805) 995-1006, and they are on theweb at www.hoppesbistro.com.S A N L U I S O B I S P OMAMA'S MEATBALLFine Italian Restaurant and CateringMama's Meatball has specialized in creatingseasonal menus by using only the finest andfreshest ingredients.570 Higuera St. Suite 130-135www.mamasmeatball.com805-544-0861HOPPE’S GARDEN BISTRO & WINE SHOPThe most highly acclaimed restaurant and <strong>Wine</strong> Shop on the Central Coast.Recognized for Chef Wilhelm Hoppe’s seasonally inspired menu, handselectedwine list with a beautiful garden and historical setting. Offering awide range of menu items - from wild game to prime meats and vegetarian/veganitems.78 N. Ocean Avenue • Wednesday-Sunday 11am-10pmwww.hoppesbistro.com • 805.995.1006NOVO RESTAURANTNOVO’s international flavors are the leading ingredients in anexotic dining experience. Brazilian, Mediterranean and <strong>As</strong>ianflavors awaken the senses. In house roasted spices for curries,mixtures and marinades balanced with crisp, seasonal vegetablesand savory meats. Explore.726 Higuera Street • Open Daily from 11am805-543-3986 • www.novorestaurant.comS A N T A M A R I AC A M B R I ABring in this ad and receive 15% off Sunday Brunch for up to 4people. Not valid on holidays. Expires 12/28/08.VINTNER’S GRILLLocated in the Radisson Hotel, Santa Maria, the Vintner’sGrill offers a magnificent Champagne Sunday Brunchfrom 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.The brunch features a deluxe seafood station, chefcarved roasts, omelet bar, hot entrées, decadent dessertsand more!3455 Skyway Drive • Santa Maria(805) 928-8000 • Radisson.com/santamariacaROBIN'S RESTAURANTLocated in the historic east village of Cambria, in a charming vintagehome, Robin’s has been delighting locals & visitors with a fresh eclecticquality menu of international foods and gracious service for 24 years. Wealso have a beautiful garden for small weddings & special events.Open daily from 11am. Sunday Brunch specials &monthly Prix Fixe dinners. Mother’s Day Brunch.4095 Burton Dr. • www.robinsrestaurant.com • (805) 927-5007www.winecountrythisweek.com 13
WINE COUNTRY NEWSW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KSANTA MARIA WINE COUNTRY: A Winter WonderlandFine <strong>Wine</strong>s, Open Roads and Blue Skies Offer Seasonal Touring MagicStash the snow shovel, toss the mittensand grab a wine glass, because it’s wintertimein the Santa Maria Valley.Indeed, here on the northern perimeter ofthe famed Santa Barbara County <strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong>, there is perhaps no better season topartake in the pastime of wine touring. Thesummer crowds have waned, the newvintages are released and the weather is typicallyfabulous.The Santa Maria Valley’s reputation forgrowing remarkable Chardonnay, Pinot Noirand other varietals continues to grow. In fact,the <strong>Wine</strong> Spectator recently named two localwines among its prestigious Top 100 list for2008.The <strong>Wine</strong> Spectator’s Top 100 list identifiedthe best wines from more than 19,500international wines tasted by the magazinethroughout the year. The 2005 Chardonnayfrom Byron Vineyard & <strong>Wine</strong>ry was ranked30th on the list, while the 2005 Pinot Noirfrom Dierberg Vineyard was ranked 49th.These were the only two wines on the listfrom the Central Coast, inclusive of MontereyCounty through Santa Barbara County.Other local wineries include Addamo<strong>Wine</strong>ry, Costa de Oro <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Cambria<strong>Wine</strong>ry & Vineyard, Cottonwood CanyonVineyard & <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Foxen Vineyard, RanchoSisquoc <strong>Wine</strong>ry, William James Cellars, Riverbench<strong>Wine</strong>ry and Kenneth Volk Vineyards,among others. The Santa Maria Valley <strong>Wine</strong>Trail merges with the Foxen Canyon <strong>Wine</strong>Trail, which leads south to Fess Parker14SANTA MARIA HOLIDAY WINE EVENTSWINE CHRISTMAS PASSPORT WEEKEND – DECEMBER 20-21The Santa Maria Valley <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> <strong>As</strong>sociation presents this holidaypassport event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 20-21. Come out andenjoy some Christmas cheer along with wine tasting at participatingSanta Maria Valley tasting rooms. Tickets will be available in advance.Info: (866) 480-5194. Website: www.santamariavalleywinecountry.comPAIRING WINE WITH CHRISTMAS COOKIES – DECEMBER 20-24Discover the joy of pairing Riverbench wines with holiday cookies –gingerbread, oatmeal raisin spice and peanut butter.Come explore the unconventional pairing of Christmas cookies with winefrom 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost is $10 per person.The winery is located at 6020 Foxen Canyon Rd. in Santa Maria.Info: (805) 937-8340. Website: www.riverbench.comSAVE THE DATE – Coming in 2009!THE 18TH ANNUAL VINTNERS’ FESTIVAL – SATURDAY, APRIL 18At River Park in Lompoc, www.sbcountywines.comAUTUMN ARTS GRAPES & GRAINS FESTIVAL – SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3At the new Santa Maria Library at the corner of Cook and McClelland inSanta Maria. www.santamaria.comCELEBRATION OF HARVEST – SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10At Rancho Sisquoc <strong>Wine</strong>ry in Santa Maria, www.sbcountywines.com<strong>Wine</strong>ry and dozens of other wineries in theneighboring Santa Ynez Valley.The Santa Maria Valley boasts a rare “transverse”geography, an east-to-west orientationthat channels cool ocean air directly into thevalley. The result is one of California’s longestgrowing seasons, which in turn ensures thedevelopment of complex, flavorful andexquisitely balanced grapes. Pinot Noir, Syrahand Chardonnay are among the varietals thatexcel in the region.The Santa Maria Valley’s penchant forPinot Noir also played a starring role in thehit move Sideways, which featured severallocal wineries and attractions. Miles, themovie’s thoughtful and temperamentalprotagonist, comes to the area in search of hisfavorite wine, Pinot Noir. Along the way, hemakes the following observation about SantaBarbara County’s unique growing conditions:“Pinot Noir needs constant care and attention.It’s not a survivor like Cabernet, whichcan grow anywhere.”The Santa Maria Valley also boasts aregional cuisine to match its locally grownwines – Santa Maria Style Barbecue. <strong>This</strong>world-renowned regional culinary traditionwww.winecountrythisweek.comdates back to the 1800s, and is today enjoyedacross the region at restaurants, events andcelebrations, providing a perfect complementto the wines of the Santa Maria Valley.Establishments specializing in Santa MariaStyle Barbecue include the Far WesternTavern, Hitching Post, Jocko’s and Shaw’sSteakhouse.Museums, theater performances andbeach walks along the Guadalupe-Nipomodunes are some of the other attractions thatawait visitors to the area. Also, several localgolf courses have been praised by Golf Digestand Golf Magazine for their quality andaffordability.The Santa Maria Valley Chamber ofCommerce and Visitor & ConventionBureau offers visitors a complimentarybooklet called Santa Maria Valley <strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong>: A Guide to Local <strong>Wine</strong>ries andRestaurants, which includes profiles andcontact information for local wineries anddining establishments. An accompanyingmap reveals the layout of the Santa MariaValley wine country. The booklet is availablefor download at www.SantaMaria.com.A complimentary visitor’s informationpackage is also available. To obtain a package,call the Santa Maria Valley Chamber ofCommerce and Convention & Visitor Bureautoll-free at 1-800-331-3779.The Santa Maria Valley <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong><strong>As</strong>sociation also offers visitors extensivetouring information and a downloadable mapat www.santamariavalleywines.com.
Looking forSomething Specialin a <strong>Wine</strong> Club?Go online towww.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.comPremier <strong>Wine</strong> ClubsFind your perfect wine clubaccording to: varietalprice • color preferencewinery name • special eventsdiscounts • tours • and more!W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KWINE COUNTRY NEWSCelebrate Esprit du Vin, the ‘Spirit of <strong>Wine</strong>’With the <strong>Wine</strong>ries of Highway 46 EastCome gather for an amazing weekend celebrating the collective spirit and enthusiasm of the <strong>Wine</strong>riesof Highway 46 East in Paso Robles. The 7th annual Esprit du Vin event weekend is scheduled for January16-19, 2009.<strong>This</strong> exciting weekend consists of special events at each participating winery Friday through Monday,a grand event in the Eberle wine caves with all ten wineries Saturday evening, and a complementary“<strong>Wine</strong>ries of Highway 46 East” tasting passport to be used all weekend long. Completed passports willbe entered into a special drawing for fantastic prizes including a Paso Robles <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Tour withGrapeline Tours and other incredible prizes. Drawing to be held at the end of January.Saturday night, January 17, 2009 – Celebrate Esprit du Vin, the “Spirit of <strong>Wine</strong>” in the Eberle<strong>Wine</strong> Caves from 5 to 7 p.m. Ten wineries will gather in the caves at Eberle <strong>Wine</strong>ry for anexciting night of <strong>Wine</strong>, Cheese and Appetizers. <strong>Wine</strong>s will be expertly paired with different gourmetcheeses. Stroll around and savor each pairing! Gourmet olives, olive oils, breads and bites will also beserved. Tickets are $20 per person plus tax. For reservations and information, log ontowww.pasorobleswinerieseast.com or contact Brown Paper Tickets at 1-800-838-3006 or order online atwww.brownpapertickets.com. You can also purchase tickets online on the Eberle <strong>Wine</strong>ry website,www.eberlewinery.com, or call Sheri at Eberle <strong>Wine</strong>ry, (805) 238-9607.The <strong>Wine</strong>ries of Highway 46 East is a consortium of wineries located along Highway 46 on the eastside of Highway 101 in Paso Robles, California. Member wineries include: Bianchi, Chumeia Vineyards,Clautiere Vineyard, Eberle <strong>Wine</strong>ry, EOS Estate <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Firestone Vineyard, Martin & Weyrich, Meridian,Sylvester <strong>Wine</strong>ry and Tobin James Cellars.www.winecountrythisweek.com15
<strong>Wine</strong>ologyINTELLIGENCE FOR THE WINE CONSUMERby Len NapolitanoWhat is the proper way toserve sparkling wines?Len Napolitano lives in Central Coast<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> and is certified in wine bythe Society of <strong>Wine</strong> Educators,<strong>Wine</strong> & Spirits Education Trustand Chicago <strong>Wine</strong> Schooland continually gains knowledgefrom his frequent contactwith California winemakers.More information is on hiswebsite, www.wineology.com.Send your questions about wine to:wineologist@earthlink.net or by mail toLen Napolitano in care of<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> <strong>This</strong> <strong>Week</strong> magazine.<strong>Wine</strong>ology is a registered trademarkof Len Napolitano.Don’t let the extra effort involved with opening a bottle of Champagne keep you from experiencingone of life’s great pleasures. The secret to a safe and proper cork popping is all in the wrist.First make sure that the bottle of sparkling wine is properly chilled. <strong>As</strong>ide from losing its crisp,refreshing nature, a warm temperature will increase expansion of the gas inside the bottle, which willproduce foaming when opened and result in a loss of some of the wine. The best serving temperatureis around 45°F. If you need to chill a bottle quickly, fill a bucket with ice and water and stick thebottle inside for about 15 minutes.Once you have removed the foil on the top of the bottle and loosened the wire cage that surroundsthe cork, hold a kitchen towel in your palm facing up, and grasp the cork with the towel. (You couldremove the wire cage entirely or simply twist the hasp open enough times to loosen it.)The purpose of the towel is to help prevent the cork from flying away from the bottle as it isopened and to catch any champagne that may spill out immediately after.Here is where the wrist action comes in. Hold the fat part of the bottle in your free hand while stillgripping the cork with the other. You may want to place the thumb over the cork and, to be safe,apply just a little pressure downward on the cork. Now slowly turn the bottle, not the cork. Continueto hold onto the cork until it is completely removed.Here is where you may be tempted to pull the cork, which is normal because we all open bottles ofstill wine by pulling on the cork, not the bottle. The reasons for twisting the bottle instead are toreduce the chance of breaking the cork in two pieces and also to have greater control in the process ofpopping the cork. A cork can become a dangerous projectile if allowed to get loose from your hand.You’ll know if you opened the bottle properly if you hear a soft, muffled “pop” rather than a sharp,New Year’s Eve-type “crack.” The softer the “pop,” the more carbon dioxide gas you preserved, whichis what makes this wine special.Pour only about an ounce of the sparkling wine into the glass, preferably a tall flute or tulipshapedglass. Wait for the initial rise of bubbles to subside, then pour again until about two-thirds ofthe glass is full and keep the bottle in the ice bucket between pouring.Think about serving Champagne on any occasion, not only for special events and New Year celebrations.It’s perfect for the arrival of guests, as an apéritif, or even with fresh fruit for dessert. You canalso enjoy Champagne with so many different foods. Some of the favorite pairings are with oysters,mild cheeses and light hors d’oeuvres. It takes only a little more effort to get started with Champagne,but you and your guests will always appreciate it.16www.winecountrythisweek.com
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KWINE COUNTRY NEWSSafe Haven for Your <strong>Wine</strong> Storage and Shipping Needsby Dave WilcoxOn a recent autumn morning at the end of the harvest season,Corrine Appelbaum was busy organizing an event for tastingroom managers throughout the Paso Robles region hosted by SafeHaven <strong>Wine</strong> Services, a wine storage facility owned by Appelbaumand her husband, Daniel.The managers would gather that evening in Safe Haven’s plushprivate tasting lounge, which Corrine Appelbaum emphasized isas important to the business as the state-of-the-art storage lockersin the climate-controlled facility adjacent to the lounge.“Fostering that sense of community within the area’s wineindustry is a big part of our marketing plan,” explained Appelbaum,who personally designed the warmly decorated lounge,which features a full wet bar, a gaming table, a large conferencetable, plasma television, comfortable seating and gorgeous corkflooring.“It’s not just a storage facility.”Safe Haven <strong>Wine</strong> Services was born of personal necessity. TheAppelbaums had compiled a collection of fine wine while livingin Northern California for five years and they wanted to ensure itcould be stored properly when they returned to the Central Coast.They had lived in Arroyo Grande, where they raised their children,and had frequently returned to the area to visit.On their visits, the Appelbaums were struck by the transformationtaking place within the wine industry on the Central Coast,especially in Paso Robles.“You just couldn’t help noticing that something was happeningin Paso Robles,” said Corrine.With that in mind, they expected it wouldn’t be difficultfinding a facility dedicated to storing wine. Instead, they foundthemselves crafting a plan for a new business.There were climate-controlled units at El Camino Self Storagein Atascadero, a large, multi-use center, which is where the Appelbaumsstored their wine until opening Safe Haven in June.In the meantime, the couple traveled throughout California,visiting virtually every storage facility in the state. They returnedwith a list of lessons learned and ideas for how to improve onwhat they saw.Daniel Appelbaum has extensive experience in shipping andlogistics, while Corrine’s background is in sales. Together, theyhave created a business that caters not only to local wine collectors,but also travelers who rely on Safe Haven to store and shiptheir wine and boutique wineries without the space or staff toproperly keep their wine.Most wine collectors understand the importance of maintainingproper temperature and humidity for wine storage andrealize the value of a facility like Safe Haven.“It protects your investment,” said Corrine Appelbaum.Consumers who sign up for a winery’s wine club can have theirmonthly offerings shipped automatically to Safe Haven <strong>Wine</strong>Services for storage, said Appelbaum. Tourists, also, can use SafeHaven to ship their wine, instead of having it sit in a hot carduring their trip home. Because shipping wine can be complicateddue to various state restrictions, Safe Haven maintains adatabase of state-by-state shipping laws.“We’re a really good solution for that kind of scenario,” shesaid.The 4,300-square-foot facility near the intersection of Highway46 East and Golden Hill Road includes 292 secure lockers locatedin a temperature- and humidity-controlled room. The lockerslook like oversized school lockers and can each store up to 12cases. Custom-built racks are also available.A number of membership plans are offered, with the cost tostore wine starting at $25 a month for one locker.Safe Haven <strong>Wine</strong> Services is located at 2732 Danly Court, Suite104, in Paso Robles. You can reach the company at (805) 238-7233, or visit its website at www.safehavenwineservices.com.www.winecountrythisweek.com 17
WINE COUNTRY NEWSW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KPreferred Tasting Room:ROBERT HALL WINERYby Mark StorerRobert Hall winery has always placed anemphasis on combining premium andquality wines with top-notch customerservice. It’s no wonder then that visiting theirtasting room is always a new experience. <strong>As</strong>the seasons change, so does the tasting roomat Robert Hall <strong>Wine</strong>ry.“When fall comes, we start thinkingabout getting ready for the holidays,” saysJeanice Reyes, Robert Hall’s HospitalityManager. “We’ve always focused on foodand wine pairing and so, for example, for thefall, we have out cook books that deal withsoups and stews and braising and stuff youthink about when the weather gets cooler.”The tasting menus remain focused onRobert Hall’s Core list, which includes sixtastes for five dollars per person and theReserve list, which runs ten dollars perperson. “Joining the wine club or alreadybeing a member means you taste for free, ofcourse,” adds Reyes.The room itself is a large open space withlots of warm colors, soft blues, pale yellowand extraordinary artwork. Steve Kalar, aCentral Coast artist was responsible for the18art that you see and the first eye catcher asyou come into the room is the chandelier.Richard Raper, renowned ironwork artist, isresponsible for its creation. “The artworkreally enhances the tasting experience,” saysReyes.Robert Hall’s focus on creating vineyardselectedpremium wines is still at the heart ofthe tasting room. <strong>This</strong> year, the wineryproduced 100,000 cases of wine whileremaining intensely committed to makingcertain every bottle gets the same highquality,handcrafted attention.With the holidays coming on, RobertHall’s tasting room also becomes a buzz ofactivity of all kinds. “We’re very focused oncorporate gift giving and we provide a lot ofways for companies to provide unique,quality wine gifts to their clients oremployees or whoever,” Reyes says. Thewinery has a series of gift boxes, includingwood wine boxes engraved with personalinformation as well as the Robert Hall name.“We know that times are a little rocky andso, we’ve created a whole series of gift boxesthat go from the more personal to the moreprice friendly, while still containing ourwines,” says Reyes.www.winecountrythisweek.comOne of the most popular gifts created atRobert Hall <strong>Wine</strong>ry for the holidays is Portfilled chocolates. “We work with local candymakers and we ship our Port to them andthey fill chocolates with it and send it backhere. We sell out of those every year andwe’re already getting people asking us whenthey’re going to be in,” says Reyes.Along with the unique and seasonal gifts,Robert Hall will release its 2005 ReserveCabernet this fall as well as its 2006 100-percent Cabernet Franc. “Both of these aresuch special wines, they’re so delicious,”says Reyes. “They make great gifts themselves.”<strong>Wine</strong>maker Don Brady makes certainthat each of Robert Hall’s <strong>Wine</strong>s is uniquelymade based on the terroir of the estate itself.Focused on sustainable practices and institutinga water-saving irrigation plan, RobertHall <strong>Wine</strong>ry is not only at the cutting edgeof winemaking, but of wine tasting as well.Robert Hall <strong>Wine</strong>ry is located at 3443Mill Road/Highway 46 East in Paso Robles.Tours and tastings are availble from 10a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For more information,call (805) 239-1616 ext. 24 or visit thewebsite at www.roberthallwinery.com.
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KWINE COUNTRY NEWSPaso Robles Zinfandel Festival Offers New Event ComponentsTickets are on Sale for the 17th Annual Festival, March 20-22The Paso Robles <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Alliance announced tickets forthe 17th Annual Zinfandel Festival are now available atwww.pasowine.com. The weekend brings together a culmination ofthe region’s heritage wine grape in three distinct events – RESERVE, PasoRobles <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Auction and Grand Tasting. New in 2009 is theaddition of RESERVE, featuring the region’s best Zinfandels held on theeve of Zinfandel Festival. Attracting wine tourists from across thenation, Zinfandel Festival attendees will experience three days of winetasting bliss. In addition to the collective RESERVE, Auction and GrandTasting more than 100 area wineries will offer a compilation of individualevents such as winemaker dinners, barrel samples and musicalentertainment.RESERVE, the latest enhancement to the weekend celebration, actsas the all-access Paso Robles Zinfandel Festival Pass. RESERVE ticketholders are invited to this intimate event on Friday, March 20, 2009.<strong>This</strong> unique component will feature exclusive wines includingreserve and barrel samples and will be complemented by local <strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong> cuisine. Guests will also have the opportunity to previewauction lots in advance of Saturday’s live and silent auctions, a benefitthat is only offered to RESERVE ticket holders.“RESERVE gives attendees the opportunity to focus on distinctiveZinfandels of the Paso Robles region, as well as speak to the proprietoror winemaker on a one-on-one basis,” said Stacie Jacob, ExecutiveDirector of the Paso Robles <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Alliance. “<strong>Wine</strong> enthusiastswill be thrilled with the new elements we are bringing to theweekend, while also upholding the timeless tradition for which theZinfandel Festival is known.”The Saturday <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Auction includes one-of-a-kindlifestyle and wine auction lots up for bid. The <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Auctionis also the only opportunity to taste and purchase the 2009 collaborativeZinfandel blend. Directly following is the marquee GrandTasting where attendees will enjoy vast selections of Zinfandel andZinfandel blends from more than 40 Paso Robles producers.All Zinfandel Festival tasting ticket packages include unlimitedwine tasting and a commemorative glass made by Riedel.• RESERVE - $120 – Friday RESERVE event – 4 to 6 p.m.Saturday <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Auction – 4:30 to 7 p.m.Saturday Grand Tasting 7 to 9:30 p.m. – advance purchase only• <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Auction - $85Saturday <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Auction – 4:30 to 7 p.m.Saturday Grand Tasting 7 to 9:30 p.m.• Grand Tasting - $60 – Saturday Grand Tasting 7 to 9:30 p.m.Tickets may be purchased online at www.pasowine.com. Alimited amount of <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Auction and Grand Tasting ticketswill be available at the door, provided they are not sold out. Alltickets are limited and advance purchase is highly recommended.Must be 21 and older; photo identification verifying age will berequired at time of entry. For more information about the 17th AnnualZinfandel Festival, local hotel accommodations and restaurants, visitwww.pasowine.com.The Paso Robles <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Alliance represents wineries,growers and businesses in Paso Robles <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong>. Centrallylocated between San Francisco and Los Angeles, along California’sCentral Coast, Paso Robles <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> is California’s fastestgrowing wine region. It encompasses more than 26,000 vineyardacres and more than 200 wineries.For more information, visit www.pasowine.com.www.winecountrythisweek.com 19
DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLESW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KPaso Robles’ Main Street Christmas StoryDuring the holidays in Paso Robles, the Main Street festivities are astorybook way of celebrating the season. Major characters are Santaand Mrs. Claus, the elves, the Snow Queen & King, the Grinch, andof course – everyone’s favorite crabby old man – Scrooge.On Sunday, December 14, Santa will be in residence at the HolidayHouse in the afternoons until Christmas Eve. Many downtown shopsbegin their holiday hours that day and stay open until 7 p.m. throughChristmas.Children can bring St. Nick their Christmas wishes (Santa’s hoursare posted on the Holiday House). Main Street has a hotline to Santa,so parents can always call the office (805-238-4103) or check theHoliday House to learn his schedule.The town’s storybook characters turn out en masse the Saturdayafter the parade for a big reunion on Vine Street. On December 13,from 6 to 9 p.m., the Vine Street Victorian Showcase offers everyonethe chance to step back in time.With its many vintage Victorian homes, Vine Street was one of thefirst residential streets in Paso Robles. In this 22nd annual gift to thecommunity, the 13 blocks between 8th and 21st streets are closed toautomobile traffic, and the street’s homeowners, offices and schoolscelebrate the season with beautiful decorations, live entertainment,and free refreshments, with the Paso Robles High School BearcatMarching band opening the evening.Orchestras, carolers, dancers and Christmas characters entertainfrom the porches and lawns of gaily-lit homes, while local organizationsgive away hot cider, hot cocoa, cookies, roasted chestnuts andpopcorn. The showcase is sponsored by Vine Street homeowners,the city of Paso Robles and Main Street for the enjoyment of thetown.The entire storybook cast of characters will be there visiting withthe crowds. The lovely Snow Queen will offer her ear to the whisperedwishes of children. Santa and Mrs. Claus, with their impish elves, willbring smiles to young faces. And the antics of Ebenezer Scroogehimself will cause hoots of laughter for young and old alike.The final chapter in the Christmas storybook is the annual VictorianTeddy Bear Tea on December 20, devoted to small children andtheir Teddy bears. Mrs. Claus and the Snow Queen pay a visit whilechildren enjoy their tea and cookies.<strong>This</strong> year, only limited seating is available for the Teddy Bear Tea.It will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Paso Robles Golf Club, 1600<strong>Country</strong> Club Dr., Paso Robles. Tickets may be purchased in advanceat the Main Street office, 835 12th St., Suite D.DOWNTOWN 15TH STREET PASO ROBLES20OAK STREETBEAR CAVE CELLARSARROYO ROBLESOAK STREETwww.winecountrythisweek.comORTMANVIHUELA<strong>Wine</strong> AtticSPRING STREET14TH STREET13TH ST12TH STREETCITY PARK10TH STREETPARK STREET9TH STREET8TH STREET7TH STREETSILVER STONEClayhousePIANETTAEDWARDSELLERSPINE STREETORCHIDHILLHice CellarsRAILROAD STREETRIVERSIDE AVENUE101MIDLIFE CRISISWINERYPASO ROBLES STREETANGLIM WINERYD’ANBINO CELLARS
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KDOWNTOWN PASO ROBLESTASTEWHATDOWNTOWNH A S T O O F F E RArroyo RoblesOpen Daily 11-7739 12th St, Paso Robles877-759-WINE | www.arroyorobles.comDowntown Paso Robles is home to morethan 12 premium tastingrooms, all within walkingdistance of one another.Each of these boutiquewineries offers a uniqueexperience with individualflavor. Together theymake for an unforgettable<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> destination.13 Tasting Rooms in Walking DistanceOrchid HillDaily 11:30-6 or by appointment1140 Pine Street, Paso Robleswww.orchidhillwine.com | 805-237-7525Family owned and operated, it is our goal to enhance your wine tasting experienceand show you the true beauty of Paso Robles wines. Tasting bar features gifts, wineaccessories and picnic supplies.Fine premium estate wines are paired with cheese to complement your tastingexperience on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and by appointment. We also feature artwork by world-renowned artist Jean-Pierre de Rothschild.Bear Cave Cellars1227 Park Street, Suite B, Paso Robles805-238-4329www.bearcavecellars.comHand-crafted Paso Robles red wines.Come on by when you see the Bear Flag flyor give us a call and we will open.D’Anbino Vineyards & Cellars710 Pine Street, Paso Robles(in the historic train depot)Open Thursday-Monday 11-7805-227-6800 l www.danbino.comOwned & operated by a family of professional musicians,you’ll always be entertained in our modern & lively tasting room. Seeour gold records, Emmy statuettes, unique “piano bar” and taste ouraward-winning wines.Ortman Family Vineyards1317 Park Street, Paso RoblesDaily 12-6pm, Friday & Saturday until 7pm805.237.9009 | www.OrtmanVineyards.comCome experience the acclaimed "Ortman style" and taste what twogenerations have perfected at the Ortman family’s new tasting room indowntown Paso Robles. Varietals include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrahand Sangiovese.Pianetta <strong>Wine</strong>ry829 13th Street, Paso RoblesSunday, Monday, Thursday: 12-6Friday & Saturday: 11am-7pm805-226-4005 | www.pianettawinery.comPianetta<strong>Wine</strong>ry creates limited releases of premium red varietals and blends usingour own Estate Vineyards in Indian Valley. From growing to winemaking our techniquesfocus on balance and intense flavor. Join us at the Historic Granger’s UnionBuilding.Edward Sellers1220 Park Street, Paso RoblesOpen Thursday-Monday 11-6805-239-8915 | www.edwardsellers.comEdward Sellers Vineyards and <strong>Wine</strong>s specializes in small lots of handmadeAmerican Rhône-Style wines from some of the finest vineyards in Paso Robles.Come in a taste our award winning Viognier, Syrah, Grenache andSyrah/Grenache blends. Look for our tasting room in the Historic Clock TowerBuilding in the heart of Paso Robles.VihuelaSunday & Monday 11-4Thursday through Saturday 11-81307 Park St Alley, (behind Keller Williams))805-226-2010 | www.vihuelawinery.comVihuela (vee-way-la) is a boutique winery with a passion for old-world Spanish guitarand a taste for new world, artisan wine. Each wine is crafted to express an elegantbalance of art and science that we’d love to share with you!www.winecountrythisweek.com 21
CRESTONAIRPORTPENMANSPRINGSPASO ROBLESW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KDOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES15TH STREET101To Monterey (108 miles)/San Jose (150 miles)/San Francisco (195 miles)OAK STREETOAK STREETJustinTo Hearst Castle(36.6 miles)CarmodyMcKnightADELAIDACHIMNEY ROCKTablas CreekVineyard WhaleboneMoonstone CellarsMAIN STBURTONCambriaN. GREEN VALLEYHarmonyCellarsHOPPE’SGARDEN BISTRO& FINE WINESTolo CellarsRiverStarVineyards & Cellars1Ortman FamilyVineyardsVIHUELA<strong>Wine</strong> AtticBear Cave CellarsARROYO ROBLESSPRING STREET13TH ST12TH STREETCITY PARK10TH STREETTo Morro Bay/San Luis ObispoHALTERRANCHAron Hill VineyardsYORK MTNADELAIDAADELAIDANadeau Family CellarsVINEYARDWILLOW CREEKPEACHY CANYON RDNIDERERSAN MARCOSThunderboltJunctionTempleton41WSan MiguelVistadel ReyCaparoneWild CoyoteCalcareousLI VE OAKPACIFICKILER CANYONSANTA RITARAYMONDRabbitRidgeWELLSONAVillicanaPEACHYCANYONARBOR24THStacked StoneNorman VineyardsWindwardL’AventureOPOLODunningVINEYARDSPipestoneMidnight Eagle CellarsDennerJADA VINEYARDBrian BensonCastle& WINERYDonatoni AJB Dark StarHunt Cellars GREYDover Canyon Four Vines WOLF VinFuzionLone MadroneLinne CalodoJanYork Mountain <strong>Wine</strong>ry Zin AlleyVenteux KrisRotta TurleyDonatiFamilyVineyardBassetti Vineyards(by appt.)OLD CREEKPARK STREET9TH STREET8TH STREET7TH STREET46WCayucosCAYUCOS CELLARS14TH STREETSILVER STONEClayhousePianettaEdward SellarsPINE STREETORCHIDHILLHice CellarsRAILROAD STREETRockyCreekCellars101MIDLIFE CRISISWINERYRIVERSIDE AVENUEANGLIM WINERYD’Anbino CellarsPASO ROBLES STREETMinassian-YoungNACIMI ENTOVINEYARDWINERYLAKELASTABLASBETHELMAIN14th10thChristian Lazo6THSPRINGRIVERRIVER101CellarsTerry HoageFratelli PerataDoce RoblesSummerwoodZenaidaROSSIPEACHYCANYONCASTOROCELLARS15 DEGREES CWINE SHOP& BARSAN MARCOSCREEK6TMISSIONMartin-WeyrichTEMPLETONINDIAN VALLEY RDLocatelliPretty-SmithMISSION LANENORTH RIVERESTRELLARiverStarWELLSONANIBLICKBUENA VISTAUNIONUNEALEL POMARScott Aaron/ChangalaJ LOHRHug Cellars Garretson<strong>Wine</strong> CoPaso RoblesCROSS CANYONVIHUELABella Luna101Not to ScaleSylvesterCHAROLAISSPRINGSLUPINEFirestoneUNIONPLEASANTRIO SECOVINEYARDWILD HORSESILVERHORSESCULPTERRACRESTONHansenVineyardsDerby <strong>Wine</strong>EstatesJ. PAUL ROSILEZ46EEBERLEVINAROBLESEOSMILL ESTATEROBERTHALLLINNE RDPenmanSpringsMeridianBRANCHMaloy O’NeillChumeiaClautiereVineyardCass•Still WatersB & EVineyardsOLD GROVE41EFALCON NESTCREEKSanta Margarita58LINNEGENESEOBIANCHILA PANZATobinJamesVilla Valdemosa B&BChateauMargenePOZO VALLEYTo San Luis Obispo (26 miles, see page 28)/Santa Barbara (133 miles, see page 34)To I-522 www.winecountrythisweek.com
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KPASO ROBLESwww.winecountrythisweek.com 23
PASO ROBLES W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KHighway 46 West <strong>Wine</strong>ries Friday Night <strong>Wine</strong> and CheeseThe Highway 46 West <strong>Wine</strong>ries Group is gearing up for theHoliday Friday, December 12, Night <strong>Wine</strong> and Cheese Evening. Thegroup of 15 wineries will gather at Eagle Castle <strong>Wine</strong>ry Friday from 6to 8 p.m. The Uncommonne Carolers, one of the premier carolingquartets on the Central Coast, will be Caroling during the evening.The admission for the event is $15 per person or $25 a couple, ticketswill be sold at the door. All 15 wineries will be offering award-winningwines. A mixed case of superb Westside wines will be raffled off at theend of the evening. The <strong>Wine</strong> Wrangler will be taking reservations fortransportation to and from the event.About Highway 46 West <strong>Wine</strong>ries GroupIn 2004, thirteen wineries on Highway 46 West formed theHighway 46 West <strong>Wine</strong>ries Group. <strong>This</strong> group was formed to promotethe tasting rooms of the beautiful Westside and to make people awareof the uniqueness of 46 West and the wines produced there. PasoRobles <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> is as unique and inviting as the people who havededicated themselves to nurturing the vineyards and crafting finewines. Visitors to Highway 46 West find the road less traveled is oftenmarked by the thrill of discovery in this uncongested region. It’s anarea where hospitality is first among a long list of qualities…wherebeing friends and neighbors is as important as producing stellar wines.Highway 46 West is one thread that weaves among the vineyards andwineries connecting longtime estates with exciting new producers.Rolling hills, majestic oaks and lush vineyards await the wine lover atevery turn. The tasting rooms of Highway 46 West invite you to enjoythe neighborhood, relax under the spell of the friendly environmentand savor life while sipping spectacular wines.The participating wineries consist of Brian Benson Cellars, CastoroCellars, Dark Star Cellars, Doce Robles, Donati Family Vineyards,Eagle Castle, Fratelli Perata, Grey Wolf, Hunt Cellars, JanKris <strong>Wine</strong>ry,Midnight Cellars, Peachy Canyon, Rocky Creek Cellars, Rotta <strong>Wine</strong>ryand Windward Vineyard and are all included on the 46 West Passport.The passport is your map to the Westside, including descriptions andhours for each winery. Just like a travel passport you will get a uniquestamp from each winery. Once you get eight stamps you will receive abeautifully designed poster of all the participating wineries labels.When your passport is full with all 15 stamps, your gift is anotherposter signed by all of the winemakers and entry into a quarterlydrawing for prizes from a weekend stay at one of the group’s hotelsponsors to a guided tasting tour. Throughout the year the group putson other events such as Tax Revolt <strong>Week</strong>end and West Fest. West Festis the big event of the year. All 15 wineries come together to pour greatwines while guests listen to blues music and enjoy delicious food fromlocal caterers. For more information, check out the 46 West <strong>Wine</strong>rieswebsite at www.paso46westwineries.comFine <strong>Wine</strong>...Fine Art...Fine Food1307 Park St. Alley, Downtown Paso Robleswww.vihuelawinery.com805.226.201024www.winecountrythisweek.com
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KPASO ROBLESHoliday Open House atCastoro Cellars, Dec. 12-13What better way to celebrate the holidays than with a day of finelocal wine tasting! Castoro Cellars’ annual Holiday Open House willtake place at the tasting room on December 12th and 13th from 10a.m. to 5:30 p.m.Shop the tasting room boutique and purchase gift items at 10% off.Buy a case of wine or more and get free shipping within the US (statelaws apply). Special wine discounts will be offered all weekend long.Enjoy fine mulled wine and sweet treats to get in the spirit of theseason. Come join us and get the gifts that everyone will love!Join Castoro Cellars at 1315 N. Bethel Road in Templeton. Insidethe Mediterranean styled tasting room there is always a varied selectionof new releases, single vineyard and library wines to enjoy. Additionally,featured are local artisan products, interesting gifts andgourmet food items.Situated in the middle of Cobble Creek Vineyard, the walk throughthe long grape arbor to the gardens above is breathtaking. The gardensfeature lush native plants and specimen cork oaks.For more information about this event and other upcoming events,check out www.castorocellars.com or call 888.DAM.FINE.www.winecountrythisweek.com 25
C SR E TONA IRPOR TP EN MA NS PR I N G SPASO ROBLESW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KRio Seco Vineyard & <strong>Wine</strong>ryby Michael CervinVisit some of the newest and most excitingwineries on Califonia’s Central Coast!2 4T HT6 HS P RINGRIVERPaso Robles101NIB LIKNORTH RIVERCBUENA VISTAUNIONCHAROL AISNEALJ. PAULROSILEZ 46EEBERLEEOSVINAROBLESMILLROBERT HALLRIO SECOFALCON NESTSPRINGSUNIONLINNESCULPTERRAC NRESTOL INNEBRANCHESTATEBIANCHIGENESEOVILLA VALDEMOSA B&BOLD GROVE•Fine <strong>Wine</strong>…Friendl y P eo pleOpen Daily 11-54295 Union Road805-237-8884www.riosecowine.comFALCON NESTVINEYARD & WINERYFamily owned and operated vineyard and wineryspecializing in handcrafted wines with intensecolors and flavors. Join us in celebrating in thetrue Italian tradition with food and wine pairing,salami, prosciutto, provolone, sopres-sata, pâté,imported pasta, specialty items and the finestpasta sauces. Food available daily.Open Daily 10am-7:30pm5185 Union Road, Paso Robles805-226-0227 | www.falconnestwine.comFor most people, baseball is nothing like wine. But for Tom Hinkle, thetwo are interrelated. Tom was a former Major League Baseball scout,visiting high school, college and semi-pro games, searching for the bestyoung talent out there. “But I never really had time to taste wine,” Tom said.He was busy scouting, though occasionally he’d stop by wineries in Napa justto look around. He planted vineyards on his property in Paso Robles in 1997and began the wine game while still scouting across the U.S.Having since retired from 28 years of scouting, Tom and his wife Carolnow spend their time farming, making and selling wine and running thetasting room.The tasting room is a red barn with a trellised patio covered with grapesthat provide shade. The views from this covered porch are vintage PasoRobles; gentle rolling hills, punctuated with mature oak trees, brown grassand glimpses of nearby vineyards. Tom sprayed the interior walls with aprotective coating to help keep it cool inside and set up a functional, ifmodest, tasting area. The wood bar is all hand made, worn and full of character.In addition to the wines, Tom produces olive oil from trees on his 63-acre property. He just likes the challenge of something new. Rio Seco is ahands-on winery with Tom and Carol doing just about everything themselves.That includes Tom learning the art of winemaking. “Do I have formaltraining? No,” Tom grins. “Hours on the crush pad? Yes!” Tom’s a believerthat you learn by doing, something he picked up at college at Cal PolyPomona. “Making wine isn’t rocket science,” Tom says. Plus there’s theadvantage of having a supportive winemaking community near him. Andperhaps the toughest part of making wine? “You ruin a lot of clothes,” hesays.The wines run the gamut from a light Roussanne to a hefty white blendcalled VIO RIO, a blend of Orange Muscat and Viognier, which the Hinklesaffectionately call “mama’s moonshine” because of its 16.6 percent alcohol.Rio Seco is especially known for its Cabernet Franc as well as Syrah,Cabernet Sauvignon and their award-winning Zinfandels. Their reds are allmild tannin wines, meant to be consumed soon. Four times a year they offera Texas Hold ’em tournament where the grand prize is a free one-year wineclub membership.“Not only do we have Texas Hold ’em … we are best known for our FridayNight Concert Series,” Tom adds. “Live music, barbecue and wine for $8 – allsummer long. We’ve been doing this for six years now. It’s family friendly andreally great music!”The tasting fee is $5 and is applied towards any wine purchase. No winesare off limits, so if it’s open, the Hinkles will pour it. Rio Seco Vineyard islocated at 4295 Union Road in Paso Robles and they are open from 11 a.m.to 5 p.m. daily. Stop on by and see the dogs, Blaze and Rio, and CuriousGeorge, the cat. You’re sure to hot a home run if you do. For more information,visit the website at www.riosecowine.com or call (805) 237-8884.26www.winecountrythisweek.com
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KPASO ROBLESwww.winecountrythisweek.com 27
SAN LUIS OBISPOW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KHoliday Shopping at Zoey’s at Old Edna & Antiques from Memory LaneThere is a new resident at OldEdna, the 100-year-old historiccluster at the heart of San LuisObispo <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong>. ZoeySchrage and Nancy Elmore havebrought their exquisite taste andeye for the extraordinary to theirnewest venture, Zoey’s at OldEdna & Antiques from MemoryLane. The store, housed in thehistoric tin-sided building facingHighway 227, is far more thanantiques, with a complementarycollection of unique contemporaryand retro items, it is theperfect stop to complete yourholiday shopping list.Zoey’s offers the expected:antique furniture that runs thegamut from Victorian to ShabbyChic; bejeweled broaches, bothnew and old; rare and collectiblepottery and Bakelite pieces aswell as the unexpected: handmadesoaps infused with localolive oils, retro aprons and teatowels, fun and funky readingglasses and artisan products foraround the house. And for winelovers, there’s wine soap, winebubble bath and more.“We try to have a little ofeverything – the antiques, theretro stuff and the funky stuff,”explains Zoey. “You can’t walkthrough without seeing somethingthat grabs you or remindsyou of some piece of your life –a person, a moment – and that’swhat makes it so much fun.”Between now and the holidays,Zoey’s at Old Edna &Antiques from Memory Laneinvites shoppers to explore theirtruly unique gift collection.November 29 they are hosting aHoliday Open House to celebratethe 100-year anniversaryof the Old Edna Township with2820% off the entire store the day,with the other businesses sharingthe property hosting specialactivities as well. On December20, a “Wrap It Up” event offersLOS OSOS VALLEY RDSEE CANYON RDPERBACCOCELLARSKELSEY SEECANYONSANLUISBAYRDONTARIO RDAVILA BEACHAlapayMorovinoAvila BeachTo Paso Robles(26 miles, see page 22)Shadow CanyonCellarsCALLE JOAQUINSALISBURY VINEYARDS101VACHELL101S. HIGUERAwww.winecountrythisweek.comgifting guidance to finish up thatshopping list and December 26will launch the much anticipatedAfter Christmas Sale.“When you come out to thissite, you’re just transported,” saysZoey. “It’s the scenery, the greatfood, the ambiance of the valley,a special atmosphere here at theheart of wine country. That’s whyI fell in love with this site, andwhy everyone who visits does aswell.”Zoey’s is open daily from 10a.m. to 4 p.m. and is located at1653 Old Price Canyon Road inSan Luis Obispo, near the intersectionof Highway 227 andPrice Canyon Road, just a fewMARSH STSextant <strong>Wine</strong>ryBROAD STTANK FARMPismo BeachP a c i f i c O c e a nMONTEREY STOSOS STSANTA ROSABUCKLEY RDJOHNSON AVEJOHNSON AVEORCUTTHINDS AVEEDNA RDPRICE CANYON RDOAK PARKTANK FARMBIDDLE RANCHEdna Valley <strong>Wine</strong>ryPiedra CreekBY APPOINTMENT1Cerro Caliente Cellars101TOLOSAWINERYOAK PARKCAMINOSLODOWNPUBBRISCOPOZO VALLEYSan Luis ObispoGRAND AVE.RIGHETTI RDCARPENTER CANYONNOYESminutes east of the 101. You canreach the store by calling 805-543-2468 or find out moreonline at www.OldEdna.com.BAILEYANA AND TANGENT VINEYARDSSaucelito CanyonCLAIBORNE& CHRUCHILL227Wolff VineyardsDomaineAlfredKynsiVineyardsWOODWINERYTRAFFICORCUTTTIFFANY RANCHCORBETTRDBRIDGECANYON RDBRANCH RD•The CasitasHUASNA RDTALLEYVINEYARDSLOPEZ DRHUASNA RDLAETITIA VINEYARDBarnwood VineyardRanchoArroyoGrandeArroyo Grande
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SANTA MARIAW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KSANTA MARIA WINE COUNTRY - The Hidden Jewel of Santa Barbara CountyWith a New Year under way, everyoneis busy making resolutions, and figuringout how to reach their goals. Here’s aneasy resolution to realize: explore somethingnew with a visit to Santa MariaValley <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong>. Over the years thelandscape of the Santa Maria Valley hassteadily evolved, offering one of the mostunique <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> experiences on theCentral Coast, with an inviting, authenticgrower-producer atmosphere whereyou’re likely to meet the winemaker in the tasting room.The region encompasses more than 50 wineries, with an idealsetting for Rhône and Burgundian varietals. Proximity to the coast, anaverage temperature around 64 degrees, surrounding mountainranges and cool winds out of the northwest come together where theSanta Maria River winds through a myriad of elevated plateaus. SantaMaria Valley is the only region on the west coasts of North and SouthAmerica where two transverse mountain ranges are located, creating aunique funnel effect, pushing breezes into the valley. In fact, this oneof-a-kindlandscape makes Santa Maria home to one of the mostconstant temperatures of any city in California.And the wines – Kenneth Volk, Cambria, Foxen and RanchoSisquoc are among the set (for a complete listing of Santa Maria tastingrooms, please see the back section of this magazine). Volk, is perhapsbest known as the founder of Wild Horse <strong>Wine</strong>ry in the Paso RoblesAVA, and has worked with fruit from throughout the Central Coast,and earning a reputation for crafting world-class wines, particularlyPinot Noir and Chardonnay, and he is proud to call Santa Maria Valleyhis enological home.<strong>This</strong> esteemed coastal appellation has grown steadily, albeit slowlyover the years. The pace of growth is intentional; the winegrowingcommunity of Santa Maria Valley is protective of its history, characterand potential. Though some are larger in scope than others, all thevalley’s tasting rooms offer an intimate atmosphere for enjoying thefruits of their labor. The newest among them is Riverbench, havingopened its doors in April of this year.<strong>Wine</strong> tasters looking for a bite to eat on the wine trail can pick upa sandwich, snack or local gourmet food at the Garey Store and Deli,located on Foxen Canyon Road in the small town of Garey.To the west, the town of Santa Maria is full of surprises, with abroad range of top level accommodations and historic boutique hotelexperiences waiting to be discovered. And as with any top wineregion, Santa Maria Valley <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> is home to a growingcommunity of top chefs, each with a unique flavor.Chef Rick Manson of the eponymous Chef Rick’s Ultimately FineFood restaurant in Santa Maria was recognized in 2007 as the CentralCoast <strong>Wine</strong> Classic’s “<strong>Wine</strong> Classic Culinary Honoree.” His predecessorsinclude Gary Danko (chef/owner of Gary Danko, San Francisco),Jacques Pepin (French-born American chef and popular author and30television host) and Madeline Kamman(award-winning author, chef and televisionpersonality). His colleagues in the valleyinclude Martin & Debi Testa, caterers to manywineries in the valley, as well as throughoutother Central Coast wine regions. The Testasalso operate the always-hopping, top-notchTesta’s Bistro in the heart of Santa Maria. Witha scalable, family operation, the Testas offer arange that encompasses gourmet eventservice and simple platters and picnics to takeon the road for enjoyment during a day of tasting.For Santa Maria Style BBQ, the Hitching Post in Casmalia and theFar Western and Tavern in Guadalupe are also popular favorites for<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> palates.While many choose to stay in surrounding areas, Santa Maria offersfull service accommodations within the valley, including wine touringpackages through many of its hotels. Guests can save on travel time(and expense), and maximize their time in the vineyards and tastingrooms, exploring the quietly burgeoning Santa Maria Valley <strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong>. For details, visit www.santamariavalleywinecountry.com.www.winecountrythisweek.com11351McKeon-PhilipsSKYWAYAddamoVineyardsOrcuttTo San Luis Obispo(32 miles, see page 28)BLOSSER• Radisson Santa MariaCLARKLos AlamosMAINBROADWAY101STOWELLBETTERAVIATELEPHONEBedfordThompsonToLompoc(18 miles, see page 32)/Solvang (34 miles, see page 32)COSTA DE ORODOMINIONCottonwoodCanyonSANTA MARIA MESA RDRiver BenchVineyardsFOXEN CANYON RDALISOS CANYONCambriaSTAZACA135Santa MariaKENNETHVOLKVINEYARDSTEPUSQUETByronRancho SisquocFoxen VineyardsCurtisFirestoneTres HermanasZaca MesaFess ParkerKoehlerFOXENCANYON RD
Dreaming of a <strong>Wine</strong> Christmas inSanta Maria Valley <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong>Santa Maria Valley<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> will becelebrating the holidayseason with a <strong>Wine</strong>Christmas passportevent December 20 and21. For two full days,experience complimentarytasting at winerieslarge and small throughout the Santa Maria Valley. Each winery willfeature Christmas décor, music and a winning wine and cookiepairing recipe. And for those with a bit of last minute shopping yet tobe done, the eight <strong>Wine</strong> Christmas participating wineries will beoffering specials throughout the weekend.<strong>Wine</strong> Christmas passport tickets are $30 each and include theweekend of tasting at participating wineries, a Riedel glass (can bepicked up at two locations) and a passport program.Tickets are available online at www.smvwc.com/calendar, by emailat info@smvwc.com or by phone, 866-480-5194. And tickets to theDecember 20 and 21 event make great gifts as well.Santa Maria Valley is located in northern Santa Barbara County.The region is known for its world renowned producers as well as itspinot noir and chardonnay. Santa Maria Valley is an ideal setting forRhone and Burgundian varietals, with close proximity to the coast,surrounding mountain ranges and cool winds out of the northwest.The unique landscape of the valley makes Santa Maria home to oneof the most constant temperatures of any city in California, with anaverage around 64 degrees year round.<strong>Wine</strong> Christmas passport participating wineries include: Cambria,Costa de Oro, Cottonwood Canyon, Foxen, Kenneth Volk Vineyards,Riverbench, Tantara and Tres Hermanas. Join the winemakers of SantaMaria Valley in ringing in the season December 20 and 21 with a <strong>Wine</strong>Christmas. For more information, visit www.smvwc.com/calendar.W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KSANTA MARIAwww.winecountrythisweek.com31
5THSAN MARCOSSANTA BARBARA COUNTYW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KHighlights of the Solvang Winterfest CelebrationThe “Danish Capital of America” will transform into a European-styleChristmas village through January 9 during Solvang’sannual Winterfest Celebration. <strong>This</strong> year’s theme is “Village ofLights” and streets will twinkle with thousands of sparkling illuminations.All events are free and the public is welcome.More than 150 boutiques and specialty shops present everythingfrom clogs to Danish porcelain to handmade lace, leather, iron art,clothing, elegant antiques and collectibles, beautiful importedobjects, vibrant arts and crafts, and colorful home furnishings. Fiveunique toy stores offer playful options for stocking stuffers and kidsof all ages. The incredible variety makes Solvang a perfect destinationto shop for unique holiday gifts while creating a holiday seasontradition. More than a dozen wine tasting rooms provide seasonalcheer. Carolers emerge around street corners and musicians enhancethe authentic scene.Winterfest emerges with the Tree-Lighting Ceremony on Friday,December 5, starting at 5 p.m. Enjoy musical entertainment, refreshmentsand caroling followed by the arrival of Old Saint Nick.On Saturday, December 6, the annual Winterfest Parade beginsat 11 a.m.A world premiere presentation of a traditional Santa LuciaPageant in verse and dance will be performed by PCPA (PacificConservatory of Performing Arts) college students in Solvang Parkon Friday, December 12, at 6 p.m.The “Christmas Story” comes to life on Saturday, December 13, inthe Nativity Pageant at the outdoor Solvang Festival Theater (420Second Street). Enjoy a choir, actors in traditional costumes, andlive animals on stage. There are two free performances at 5 and 7p.m.New this season, the Winter Solstice Party will feature candlelighting, carolers and singing to mark the shortest day of the year.Held in Solvang Park, Friday, December 19 starting at 6 p.m., all arewelcome to join this festive, free celebration.For more detailed information and a 2008 Winterfest Program,visit www.SolvangUSA.com or call the Solvang Conference and VisitorsBureau at 1-800-468-6765 or (805) 688-6144.To Santa Maria,Paso Robles154To Hwy. 101Santa Maria (32 miles)Paso Robles (88 miles)To Santa MariaPalmina Lompoc “<strong>Wine</strong> Ghetto”1Fiddlehead CellarsE. CHESTNUT7THD’Vine<strong>Wine</strong>Tasting246Lompoc1BabcockMelville101ToHwy.101FoleyEstates<strong>Wine</strong>ryTo Santa BarbaraLos OlivosRusackBALLARD CANYON RDEpiphanyDaniel GehrsLongoriaWild HeartTre AnelliLos Olivos Tasting RoomAndrew MurrayGRAND AVEALAMO PINTADO AVECARINACELLARSCarhartt <strong>Wine</strong>ryConsilienceAlexander & Wayne and Arthur EarlScott CellarsSILVER WINESALAMO PINTADO AVE(<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong>)BASELINEBeckmenREFUGIO154ROBLAR AVERoblar<strong>Wine</strong>ryBrander & DomaineSanta BarbaraEDISONBridlewoodMORAALAMOPINTADO RDFoleyEstates<strong>Wine</strong>ryTo Lompoc(18 miles)ToHwy. 1246SANTA ROSA AVEBuelltonSORT THIS OUT CELLARSSanfordCasa CassaraLafondINDUSTRIALAlma RosaAVE OF THE FLAGSBALLARD CANYON RDToSantaBarbara(43 miles)BallardCHALKHILLATTERDAG2NDGOAKMOLLEPARK1STPARKSolvangHoneywood/Olde Mission <strong>Wine</strong> Co.Cabana/Wondering Dog <strong>Wine</strong> BarD’ALFONSO CURRANShoestringCasa CassaraTastes of the ValleysHitching Post Presidio246Lucas & LewellenSTOLPMANKalyraMosbyLion’s Peak/Mission Meadow <strong>Wine</strong>ryRoyal OaksMandolinaAlisal CellarsBellissimaSunstone101Uncorked/Monsoon CellarsCOPENHAGENALISALMISSIONBlackjackLincourtRideauButtonwoodREFUGIOQUESTAS O NEDISanta Ynez <strong>Wine</strong> CellarSanta YnezArtisteSAGUNTOInn•ChumashCasinoMEADOWVALEGaineyTo Santa Barbara(29 miles)246SantaYnezNot to Scale32www.winecountrythisweek.com
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KSANTA BARBARA COUNTYArtwork of Santa Ynez Valley Landscapes bySuzanne Huska at Carina Cellars through January 31Carina Cellars welcomes Santa Ynez Valley artist Suzanne Huska toher first art show at the Carina Cellars Tasting Room. Originally from theTexas Panhandle, Huska finished high school in Anchorage, Alaskawhere her family moved in 1963. Always ready to paint or travel shechose to study art at the University of the Americas in Mexico City, andspent the next 20 years there raising her children and becoming anEnglish teacher at her children’s school. Still longing to develop her art,Huska eventually moved to Cabo San Lucas, and there painted her firstoil paintings of Diego Rivera-style portraits of women.Huska moved back to California in 1999, and settled in SantaYnez, where she has enjoyed painting the beautiful valley with itswonderful oaks, local barns, windmills, old schools and churchs. Anextra feature in most of her oil paintings is that there are severalhidden nude ladies (try to find them!) Each of her paintings tellstories of good feelings and warm days with the golden yellows of thevalley, the deep greens of the oaks, the cerulean blue skies and ofcourse graced with her lovely ladies who help her landscapes makeyou smile.Carina Cellars Tasting Room is located at 2900 Grand Avenue in the“Range Rovers Too” 26” x 48”, oil on canvasquaint village of Los Olivos, surrounded by art galleries, restaurantsand boutique shops, all within walking distance. Actually, the entiretown of Los Olivos is within walking distance! The winery is located afew miles away in Buellton, and tours and tastings at the winery itselfare available by appointment. And between the tasting room and thewinery are many other wineries, restaurants, historical points ofinterest, recreational opportunities and just plain beautiful scenery.For more information, check out www.carinacellars.com or call thetasting room at (805) 688-2459. To view the artist’s website, visitwww.suzannehuskasart.com.www.winecountrythisweek.com33
SANTA BARBARA COUNTYW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KLeonard Bernstein’s PETER PAN: Complete Scoreto Receive First Full Performance in Santa BarbaraSBT is producing a New Holiday Show for the Young and the Young at HeartSBT: The Santa Barbara Theatre proudly presents Bernstein’s PeterPan at the Lobero Theatre in downtown Santa Barbara, December 17to 28. <strong>This</strong> version uses J.M. Barrie’s original Peter Pan, the comicfantasyplay that has entranced young and old for more than 100years. Peter Pan will be accompanied by a live orchestra in the FirstProduction to use the complete music by America’s greatcomposer/conductor, Leonard Bernstein, written for a hit productionthat premiered on Broadway in 1950 with Jean Arthur as Peter Panand Boris Karloff as Captain Hook and Mr. Darling.Bernstein’s Peter Pan features the full story with Peter, the flyingDarling children, Captain Hook, Tinkerbell, pirates, Indians, lost boys,mermaids and one very large crocodile. Los Angeles-based actorCorina Boettger (Akeelah and the Bee, My Name is Earl) will playPeter, and Arroyo Grande resident Sarah Bierstock will play Wendy.Robert Yacko (Sunday in the Park with George, Sylvia with CathyRigby) will appear as Captain Hook and Mr. Darling, with CarolynHennesy (an Ovation Award-winning actor currently appearing onGeneral Hospital as Diane Miller – mob lawyer) as Mrs. Darling. Flyingby Foy, custom-built sets and costumes will complete the picture.“<strong>This</strong> is the first staged revival of Bernstein’s Peter Pan in the UnitedStates, and a major artistic coup for the Santa Barbara Theatre” saysSBT Managing Director, Ellen Pasternack. “We’re especially thrilled topresent this joyous fantasy play for all ages with Mr. Bernstein’s beautifuland enchanting songs and music.”Albert Idhe, SBT’s Producing Director, and Peter Pan’s director,adds: “<strong>This</strong> version of Peter Pan was the first professional play I eversaw and it hooked me on theatre for life. Many critics have said thatit’s the best Peter Pan ever to appear on Broadway.”Ms. Pasternack explains: “Our quest to unearth the rights took ayear and a half and a trip to London. In 2005, I discovered that theBernstein estate had just released the ‘lost’ Peter Pan score on CD. Ithadn’t been available for over 50 years. The arrangement was by arenowned conductor named Alexander Frey. When Mr. Frey heard34MISSION101STATECoquelicotTo Solvang(34 miles, see page 32)OLIVEANAPAMUANACAPAN SALSIPUEDESCarr <strong>Wine</strong>ryMILPASE GUITERREZGeisingerKalyra<strong>Wine</strong>ryOreanaMONTECITOSanta Barbara<strong>Wine</strong>rySanta BarbaraJaffurs<strong>Wine</strong> CellarsWhitcraftP a c i f i c O c e a nSummerland<strong>Wine</strong>ry101Stearns Wharf Vintnersthat the Santa Barbara Theatre had secured the rights to stage Bernstein’sPeter Pan, he called from Berlin to ask if he could conduct theshow. It didn’t take us long to say ‘Yes!’”<strong>This</strong> fall, New York City will celebrate the 90th anniversary of Mr.Bernstein’s birth with a city-wide festival of his work from Septemberthrough December, presented by Carnegie Hall and the New YorkPhilharmonic. But if you want to see Bernstein’s Peter Pan, you’ll haveto visit Santa Barbara!Sir James Barrie was one of the leading playwrights in England atthe turn of the last century. His classic play, Peter Pan, was written fora sophisticated London audience, and was an instant hit with theatergoersof all ages. <strong>As</strong> portrayed by Johnny Depp in the film FindingNeverland, Barrie was inspired to write Peter Pan by a family he metin Kensington Gardens. The play has been a popular choice in therepertory of theatres around the world ever since its premiere inDecember 1904.Leonard Bernstein (1918-1990) was perhaps the most influentialfigure in classical music in the last half of the twentieth century.Composer, conductor, author, lecturer and media personality, Mr.Bernstein is renowned for his work in classical music and musicaltheatre, ballet and film, with works such as West Side Story, Candide,On The Town and the score for On The Waterfront.There will be 14 performances of Peter Pan, with evening shows at7 p.m. and matinees at 2 p.m. Previews, December 17 and 18, are$30-$40, with a Gala Opening Night Party on Friday, December 19.Performances are $45-$70 with a $32.50 ticket for children ages fiveto 18. Priority seating is available for an additional $50 donation toSBT. Discounts for college students, seniors and groups of 15 or more.All tickets are subject to a $3 Lobero Facility Fee. For more information,call the Lobero Theatre at (805) 963 0761 or go to the website atwww.sbtheatre.org. Group sales, call 1-866-963-7282 toll-free.www.winecountrythisweek.comPhoto by Joann CalitriPeter is played by Corina Boettger and Wendy is Sarah Bierstock.
N ROSE AVEN RICE AVEN ELEVAR STKINETIC DRHoliday Trains Delight Children of All AgesSanta is gearing up for hisfamous Christmas Eve journey tothe homes of children all over theworld. But first, he is making afew stops along the way, mostnotably on the Fillmore &Western Railway’s variety ofholiday trains.There are still seats availablefor families on the North PoleExpress Wednesdays throughSunday evenings, until December26, with trains departing at 6 p.m.and 7:30 p.m. The one-hour trainride journeys to the North Poleeast of Fillmore, where it picksup Santa Claus, who climbsonboard to visit with all the children.Elves are onboard eachrailcar and entertain passengersby reading a Christmas story andleading everyone in singingChristmas carols.The Christmas Tree Train runson Saturdays and Sundays,through December 21 with twodepartures each day at 10 a.m.and 2 p.m. The 2-1/2 to 3-hourtrain ride takes passengers to aprivate Christmas Tree Farm,where they seek out and cutE VENTURABLVDHerzog<strong>Wine</strong>CellarsCAMINO DEL SOLDEL NORTE BLVDCENTRAL AVECANTARACELLARSOxnarddown their “perfect Christmastree.”“Dinner With Santa” trainsdepart on Friday and Sundayevenings at 5:30 p.m., throughDecember 21.For more information or tobook passage, call (805) 524-2546 or go to www.fwry.com.WOOD RDAVIADOR STVERDULERA101VENTURA BLVDCamarilloW I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KLAS POSAS RDLAS POSAS RDE DAILY DRRanchoVentavo(Opening Soon)S LA LUNA AVEFIR ST33N VENTURA AVE33OLD CREEK RDBellaVictorianVineyardELM DR(Opening Soon)CREEK RDARNEILL RDVENTURA COUNTYE OJAI AVES DAWSON DROjaiOld Creek Ranch<strong>Wine</strong>ryLEWIS RDS SIGNAL STLEWIS RDDAWSON PLCamarilloCustomCrushS MONTGOMERY STCasaBarranca(Opening Soon)www.winecountrythisweek.com35
WINERY LISTINGS W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E K★★ Especially recommended by <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> <strong>This</strong> <strong>Week</strong>WINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALESWINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALESWINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALESP A S O R O B L E S A R E A★ Adelaida Cellars – Paso Robles Daily 10-55805 Adelaida Rd; 805-239-8980, 800-676-1232 X X XAJB Vineyards – Paso Robles <strong>Week</strong>ends3280 Township Rd; 805-239-9432 12-5 X X★ Anglim <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Th-Mo 11-6740 Pine St; 805-227-6813 Su 12-6 & By Appt X X★ Arroyo Robles – Paso RoblesDaily739 12th St; 877-759-WINE 11-7 X XBassetti Vineyards – Cambria By1191 N. Green Valley Rd; 805-927-1925 Appt X XB & E Vineyards – Paso Robles Fr-Su By10,000 Creston Rd; 805-238-4815 10-5 Appt X X★ Bear Cave Cellars – Paso Robles By Appt. &1227 Park St; 805-238-4329 Some <strong>Week</strong>ends X XBella Luna – TempletonFr-Su1850 Templeton Rd; 805-434-5477 10-5 X X★ Bianchi <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Daily3380 Branch Rd; 805-226-9922 10-5 X XBlack Hand – San MiguelBy1735 Nygren Rd; 805-712-WINE Appt X XBrian Benson Cellars – Paso Robles Daily2985 Anderson Rd; 805-296-9463 10:30-5 X XCalcareous <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Th-Mo3430 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-239-0289 11-5 X XCaparone <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Daily2280 San Marcos Rd; 805-467-3827 11-5 X X XCarmody McKnight Estate <strong>Wine</strong>s – Paso Robles11240 Chimney Rock Rd; 805-238-9392 Daily 10-5 X XCass Vineyards – Paso RoblesDaily7350 Linne Rd; 805-239-1730 11-6 X X★ Castoro Cellars – TempletonDaily1315 N Bethal Rd; 805-238-0725 10-5:30 X X★ Cayucos Cellars – Cayucos We-Su 11-5:30131 N Ocean Ave; 805-995-3036 Closed Tu X XChangala <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Templeton Sa 11:30-5 By422 Main St; 805-238-0421 Su 12-4 Appt X XChateau Margene – CrestonSa-Su4385 La Panza Rd; 805-238-2321 12-6 X XChristian Lazo – San MiguelSa-Su249 10th Street, Suite A; 805-467-2672 10-5 X XChumeia Vineyards – Paso Robles Daily8331 Hwy 46 E; 805-226-0102 10-5 X XClautiere Vineyard – Paso Robles Daily1340 Penman Springs Rd; 805-237-3789 12-5 X XClayhouse <strong>Wine</strong>s – Paso Robles Opening November849 13th St; 805 727-4720 Daily 12-5 X X X★ D’Anbino Cellars – Paso Robles Th-Mo 11-7710 Pine St; 805-227-6800 Closed Tu-We X XDark Star Cellars – Paso Robles Fr-Su2985 Anderson Rd; 805-237-2389 10:30-5 X X36Derby Estates – Paso RoblesDaily5620 Hwy 46 East; 805-238-6300 10-5 X XDenner Vineyards & <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles5414 Vineyard Dr; 805-239-4287 Sa-Su 12-4 X XDoce Robles – Paso RoblesDaily2023 Twelve Oaks Dr; 805-227-4766 10-5:30 X XDonati Family Vineyard – Templeton Daily 11am-5pmCorner of 46 West & Vineyard Dr; 805-238-0676 X XDonatoni <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Sa-Su 12-53225 Township Rd; 805-226-0620 Or By Appt XDover Canyon <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Th-Su4520 Vineyard Dr; 805-237-0101 11-5 XDunning Vineyards Estate <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles1953 Niderer Rd; 805-238-4763 Th-Mo 11-5 X XEagle Castle <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Daily3090 Anderson Rd; 805-227-1428 10:30-5:30 X X X★ Eberle <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso RoblesDaily3810 Hwy 46 E; 805-238-9607 10-6 X X X★ Edward Sellers – Paso Robles Th-Mo1220 Park St; 805-239-8915 12-7 X X★ EOS Estate <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Daily5625 Hwy 46 East; 805-239-2562 10-5 X X X★ Falcon Nest <strong>Wine</strong>ry– Paso Robles Daily5185 Union Rd; 805-226-0227 10-7:30 X XFirestone Vineyard Paso – Paso Robles By2300 Airport Rd; 805-591-8050 Daily 10-5 Appt X XFive Rivers <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles By8998 North River Rd; 805-467-0192 ApptFour Vines <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Templeton Daily3750 Hwy 46 West; 805-237-0055 11-5 X XFralich Vineyard & <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Templeton By ApptPrivate tastings at Paso Robles <strong>Wine</strong> Services; 805-434-1526Fratelli Perata – Paso RoblesBy1595 Arbor Rd; 805-238-2809 ApptGarretson <strong>Wine</strong> Co. – Paso Robles Daily2323 Tulley Rd #110; 805-239-2074 11-5 X XGelfand Vineyards – Paso Robles By5530 Dresser Ranch Place; 805-239-5808 Appt★ Grey Wolf Cellars– Paso Robles Daily2174 Hwy 46 West; 805-237-0771 11-5:30 X X★ Halter Ranch Vnyd– Paso Robles Th-Mo8910 Adelaida Rd; 805-226-9455 11-5 X X★ Hansen Vineyard– Templeton Daily5575 El Pomar Dr; 805-239-8412 10-5:30 X XHarmony Cellars– HarmonyDaily3255 Harmony Valley Rd; 805-927-1625 10-5 X XHice Cellars – Paso RoblesTh-Mo821 Pine St Unit D; 805-237-8888 12-5Hug Cellars – Paso RoblesTh-Mo2323 Tuley Ct Ste. 120 D; 805-226- 8022 11-5 X X XHunt Cellars – Paso RoblesDaily2875 Oakdale Rd; 805-237-1600 10:30-5:30 X Xwww.winecountrythisweek.com★ J Lohr – Paso RoblesDaily6169 Airport Rd; 805-239-8900 10-5 X X★ J. Paul Rosilez – Paso RoblesDaily4889 Dry Creek Rd; 805-226-0550 11-5:30 X XJack Creek Cellars – Templeton By5265 Jack Creek Rd; 805-226-8283 Appt X X★ Jada <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso RoblesFr-Su5620 Vineyard Dr; 805-226-4200 10-5 X X XJanKris <strong>Wine</strong>ry – TempletonDaily1266 Bethel Rd; 805-434-0319 11-5 X X XJustin <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso RoblesDaily11680 Chimney Rock Rd; 805-238-6932 10-5 X X XKukkula – TempletonBy9525 Chimney Rock Rd; 805-434-5475 ApptL’Aventure <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Th-Su 11-42815 Live Oak Rd; 805-227-1588 or By Appt X XLe Cuvier – Paso RoblesBy Appt,9750 Adelaida Rd; 805-238-5706 <strong>Wine</strong> Club OnlyLinne Calodo – Paso RoblesFr-Su3030 Vineyard Dr; 805-227-0797 11-5 X X★ Locatelli <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Fr-Su8585 Cross Canyons Rd; 805-467-0067 11-4 X XLone Madrone – Paso Robles Daily2485 Hwy 46 West; 805-238-0845 10:30-5 X XMadison Cellars – Paso RoblesBy4540 Hwy 41; 805-238-9831 Appt X XMaloy O’Neill – Paso Robles Fr-Sa 10-5; Su 12-55725 Union Rd; 805-238-7320 Or By Appt X XMartin & Weyrich – Paso Robles Su-Th 10-52610 Buena Vista Dr; 805-238-2520 Fr-Sa 10-6 X XMcClean Vineyards – Templeton By4491 S. El Pomar Dr; 805-237-2441 ApptMeridian Vineyards – Paso Robles Daily7000 Hwy 46 E; 805-226-7133 10-5 X X★ Midlife Crisis – Paso RoblesDaily1244 Pine St, Suite A; 805-237-8730 10:30-6 X XMidnight Cellars – Paso Robles Daily2925 Anderson Rd; 805-239-8904 10-5:30 X XMinassian-Young – Paso Robles Fr-Su4045 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-238-7571 11-5 X XMoonstone Cellars – CambriaTh-Mo801 Main St, Suite C; 805-927-9466 11-5 X XNadeauFamilyVintners – Paso Robles Fr-Su3860 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-239-3574 12-5 X XNorman Vineyards – Paso Robles Daily7450 Vineyard Dr; 805-237-0138 11-5 X X★ Opolo Vineyards – Paso Robles Daily7110 Vineyard Dr; 805-238-9593 10-5 X X★ Orchid Hill Vineyard – Paso Robles Daily1140 Pine St; 805-237-7525 11:30-6 X X★ Ortman Family Vnyds – Paso Robles Daily 12-61317 Park Street; 805-237-9009 Fr-Sat 12-7 X X
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KWINERY LISTINGSWINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALESWINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALESWINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALESParkfield Vineyards – San Miguel By70502 Vineyard Canyon Rd; 805-463-2316 Appt X X★ Peachy Canyon <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Daily1480 N. Bethel Rd; 805-239-1918 11-5 X X★ Peachy Canyon <strong>Wine</strong>ry Too – Paso Robles2020 Nacimiento Lake Dr; 805-237-7848 Fr-Su 11-5 X X★ Penman Springs Vineyard – Paso Robles1985 Penman Springs Dr; 805-237-7959 Fr-Su 11-5 X X★ Pianetta – Paso RoblesSu-Mo-Th: 12-6pm829 13th St; 805-226-4005 Fr-Sa 11-7 X X XPipestone – Paso RoblesTh-Mo2040 Niderer Rd; 805-227-6385 11-5 X XPoalillo Vineyards – Paso Robles By18888 Willow Creek Rd; 805-238-0600 ApptPretty-Smith – San MiguelFr-Su13350 River Rd; 805-467-3104 10-5 X XRabbit Ridge – Paso RoblesWe-Su1172 San Marcos Rd; 805-467-3331 11-5 X XRainbows End <strong>Wine</strong>ry – San Miguel By8535 Mission Ln; 805-467-3345 Appt X X★ Rio Seco – Paso RoblesDaily4295 Union Rd; 805-237-8884 11-5 X XRiverStar Vineyards – Cayucos Fr-Su36 N Ocean Ave; 805-995-3741 11-4 X XRN Estate <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles By7986 North River Rd; 805-467-3106 Appt★ Robert Hall – Paso RoblesDaily3443 Mill Rd; 805-239-1616 10-6 X X XRotta <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso RoblesDaily3750 Hwy 46 West; 805-237-0510 11-5 X XRocky Creek Cellars – Templeton Daily8687 Apple Rd; 805-238-1919 10:30-5 X X★ San Marcos Creek Vineyard – Paso Robles7750 North Hwy; 805-467-9260 Daily 11-5 X XScott Aaron – TempletonSa-Su422 South Main; 888-611-9463 11-5 X X★ Sculpterra – Paso Robles Fr-Su 10-55015 Linne Road, 888-302-8881 or By Appt X X★ Silver Horse – San MiguelFr-Mo2995 Pleasant Rd; 805-467-WINE 11-5 X X★ Silver Stone – Paso Robles Mo-Th 12-7827 13th St; 805-226-2788 Fr-Sa 12-8 Su 11-4 X XSkyhawk Lane – San MiguelBy1605 Commerce Way; 213-200-4661 ApptStacked Stone Cellars – Paso Robles Fr 12-51525 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-238-7872 Sa-Su 11-5 X XStephen’s Cellar – TempletonBy7575 York Mountain Rd; 805-238-2412 Appt X XStill Waters Vineyards – Paso Robles Th-Mo2750 Old Grove Ln; 805-237-9231 11-5 X XSummerwood – Paso RoblesDaily2175 Arbor Rd; 805-227-1365 10-5:30 X XSylvester Vineyards – Paso Robles Daily5115 Buena Vista Dr; 805-227-4000 11-5 X X XTablas Creek – Paso RoblesDaily9339 Adelaida Rd; 805-237-1231 10-5 X X XTerry Hoage – Paso RoblesBy870 Arbor Rd; 805-238-2083 ApptThacker <strong>Wine</strong>ry– Paso Robles Opening in8355 Vineyard Dr; 805-237-0087 June '08 X XThunderbolt Junction – Paso Robles Fr-Su2740 Hidden Mountain Rd; 805-226-9907 11-5 X XTobin James Cellars – Paso Robles Daily8950 Union Rd; 805-239-2204 10-6 X XTolo Cellars – Paso RoblesFr-Mo9750 Adelaida Rd; 805-226-2282 11-5 X XTurley <strong>Wine</strong> Cellars – Templeton Daily2900 Vineyard Dr; 805-434-1030 9-5 X XVenteux Vineyards – Templeton Fr-Su1795 Las Tablas Rd; 805-369-0127 10-5 X XVictor Hugo <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Templeton By2850 El Pomar Dr; 805-434-1128 Appt X X★ Vihuela <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Th-Sa 11-81307 Park St; 805 835-4304 Su & Mo 11-4 X XVillicana <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Th-Su2725 Adelaida Rd; 805-239-9456 11-5 X X★ Vina Robles – Paso RoblesDaily3700 Mill Rd; 805-227-4812 10-5 X XVinFuzion – Paso RoblesWe-Su2485 Hwy 46 West; 805-238-0208 11-5:30 X XVista Del Rey – Paso Robles Su 11-57340 Drake Rd; 805-467-2138 By Appt X XMOLLY & OLIVET U R L E Y W I N E C E L L A R S2900 Vineyard Drive, Templeton(805) 434-1030Open Daily 9am-5pmwww.winecountrythisweek.comWhalebone <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Daily8325 Vineyard Dr; 805-239-9020 11-5 X XWild Coyote <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Paso Robles Daily3775 Adelaida Rd; 805-610-1311 11-5 X X★ Wild Horse <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Templeton Daily1484 Wild Horse <strong>Wine</strong>ry Ct; 805-434-2541 11-5 X XWindward Vineyard – Paso Robles Daily138 Live Oak Rd; 805-239-2565 11-5 X XYork Mountain – TempletonDaily7505 York Mountain Rd; 805-238-3925 11-5 X XZenaida Cellars – Paso Robles Daily1550 Hwy 46 West; 805-227-0382 11-5 X X XZinAlley – TempletonFr-Su3730 Hwy 46 West; 805-238-0959 11-5 X XS A N T AM A R G A R I T A★ Pozo Valley – Santa MargaritaFr-Su2200 El Camino Real; 805-286-7172 12-6 X XS A N L U I S O B I S P OAlapay Cellars – Avila BeachDaily415 First St; 805-595-2632 10:30-6 X XAron Hill Vineyards – Morro Bay Th-Su845 Embarcadero Rd, Suite F; 805-610-5751 12-5 X X★ Baileyana Vineyard – San Luis Obispo Daily5828 Orcutt Rd; 805-269-8200 10-5 X XBarnwood <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Arroyo Grande Daily453 Laetitia Vineyard Dr; 888-809-VINE 11-5 X XCerro Caliente – San Luis Obispo Fr-Su831 A Via Esteban; 805-544-2842 11-5 X X★ Claiborne & Churchill – San Luis Obispo Daily2649 Carpenter Canyon Rd; 805-544-4066 11-5 X XTHIS WEEK’S WINE COUNTRY CRITTERBreed: Brabant Draft Horsestrained to farm the vineyardFavorite Past times: EatingCan Be Found … EatingHave anything to say foryourself? We’re hungry.Favorite Things:Food & shadeIf you see me … If you seeme...you’ll see my sister. too!37
WINERY LISTINGS W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E K★★ Especially recommended by <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> <strong>This</strong> <strong>Week</strong>WINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALESWINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALESWINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALES38Domaine Alfred – San Luis Obispo Daily7525 Orcutt Rd; 805-541-9463 10-5 X XEdna Valley Vnyd – San Luis Obispo Daily2585 Biddle Ranch Rd; 805-544-5855 10-5 X X★ Kelsey See Canyon – San Luis Obispo1947 See Canyon Rd; 805-595-9700 Daily 11-5:30 X X XKynsi <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Arroyo Grande Th-Mo2212 Corbett Canyon Rd; 805-544-8461 11-5 X X★ Laetitia Vineyard – Arroyo Grande Daily453 Laetitia Vineyard Dr; 805-481-1772 11-5 X XMorovino – Avila BeachTh-Mo550 1st St; 805-627-1443 12-5 X X★ Per Bacco Cellars – San Luis Obispo Daily1850 Calle Joaquin Rd; 805-787-0485 11-5 X X XPiedra Creek <strong>Wine</strong>ry – San Luis Obispo6425 Mira Cielo Dr; 805-541-1281 By ApptRancho Arroyo Grande – Arroyo Grande591 Hi Mountain Rd; 805-474-0220 1st Saturday of the month 11-5★ Salisbury Vineyards – Avila Valley Daily6985 Ontario Rd; 805-595-WINE 11-6 X XSaucelito Canyon – San Luis Obispo Daily3080 Biddle Ranch Rd; 805-543-2111 10-5 X XSextant <strong>Wine</strong>s – San Luis Obispo Daily3536 S. Higuera St; 866-833-WINE 11-5 X XShadow Canyon Cellars – San Luis Obispo956 Monterey Street; 805-781-0862 Th-Su 12-7 X XStephen Ross <strong>Wine</strong> Cellars – San Luis Obispo2330 Johnson Ave; 805-594-1318 By Appt X★ Tangent Vineyards – San Luis Obispo Daily5828 Orcutt Rd; 805-269-8200 11-5 X X★ Talley Vineyards – Arroyo Grande Daily3031 Lopez Dr; 805-489-0446 10:30-4:30 X XTaste – San Luis Obispo Mo-Sa 11-91003 Osos St; 805-269-TASTE Su 11-5 X X★ Tolosa <strong>Wine</strong>ry – San Luis Obispo Daily4910 Edna Rd; 805-782-0500 11-5 X X★ Wood <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Arroyo Grande Th-Mo136 Bridge St; 805-489-9663 11-5 X XWolff Vineyards – San Luis Obispo Daily6238 Orcutt Rd; 805-781-0448 11-5 X X XS A N T A M A R I A / F O X E N C A N Y O NAddamo Estate Vineyards – Orcutt Tu-Su400 East Clark Ave; 805-937-6400 11-7 X XBedford Thompson – Los Alamos Daily448 Bell St; 805-344-2107 11-5 X XByron Vineyard – Santa MariaBy5250 Tepusquet Rd; 805-934-4770 ApptCambria <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Maria Daily5475 Chardonnay Lane; 888-339-9463 10-5 X XChimere – Santa MariaBy217 North Russell; 805-310-1148 Appt★ Costa de Oro – Santa MariaDaily1331 S. Nicholson Ave; 805-922-1468 11-6 X XCottonwood Canyon – Santa Maria Daily3940 Dominion Rd; 805-937-VINE 10-5:30 X X XCurtis <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Los OlivosDaily5249 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-686-8999 10-5 X XFess Parker – Los OlivosDaily6200 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-1545 10-5 X XFirestone Vineyard – Los Olivos Daily5000 Zaca Station Rd; 805-688-3940 10-5 X X XFoxen Vineyard – Santa Maria Daily7200 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-937-4251 11-4 X XIO Vineyards – Santa MariaBy5250 Tepusquet Rd; 805-934-4770 Appt★ KennethVolkVineyards – Santa Maria Daily5230 Tepusquet Rd; 805-938-7896 10:30-4:30 X X XKoehler – Los OlivosDaily5360 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-693-8384 10-5 X XLabyrinth – at Old Mission <strong>Wine</strong> Company in Solvang2717 Aviation Way; 805-268-4155 Daily 10-5 X XMcKeon-Philips – Santa MariaDaily2115 S Blosser Rd; 805-928-3025 11-6 X XOvene <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Maria (Tasting Room: See Solvang)2717 Aviation Way; 714-420-2525 By Appt X XRancho Sisquoc <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Maria Daily6600 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-934-4332 10-4 X XRiverbench Vineyards – Santa Maria Daily6020 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-937-8340 10-4 X X XTantara Vineyard – Santa Maria By4747 Ontiveros Lane; 805-938-5051 ApptTres Hermanas <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Maria Daily9660 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-937-8451 10-5 X XZaca Mesa – Los OlivosDaily6905 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-9339 10-4 X XL O SO L I V O SAlexander & Wayne – Los Olivos Daily2922 Grand Ave; 805-688-9665 11-6 X XAndrew Murray – Los OlivosDaily2901 Grand Ave; 805-693-9644 11-6 X XArthur Earl – Los OlivosDaily2922 Grand Ave; 805-693-1771 11-6 X XBeckmen Vineyards – Los Olivos Daily2905 Grand Ave; 805-688-8664 11-5 X XBernat – at Los Olivos CaféDaily2879 Grand Ave; 805-688-7265 11-9 X XThe Brander Vineyard – Los Olivos Daily2401 Refugio Rd; 805- 688-2455 11-4 X Xwww.winecountrythisweek.comBrophy Clark Cellars – at Los Olivos <strong>Wine</strong> Tasting Room2905 Grand Ave; 805-929-4830 Daily 11-6 X XCarhartt Vineyard – Los Olivos Th-Mo 11-52990A Grand Ave; 805-688-0685 (Closed Tu-We) X X★ Carina Cellars – Los OlivosDaily2900-A Grand Ave; 805-688-2459 11-5 X XConsilience – Los OlivosDaily2933 Grand Ave; 805-691-1020 11-5 X XCurtis <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Los OlivosDaily5249 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-686-8999 10-5 X XDaniel Gehrs <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Los Olivos Daily2939 Grand Ave; 800-275-8138 11-5 X XDierberg Estate Vineyard – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X XEpiphany Cellars – Los Olivos Th-Mo2963 Grand Ave; 866-354-9463 11:30- 5:30 X XJohn Kerr <strong>Wine</strong>s – at Los Olivos <strong>Wine</strong> Tasting Room2905 Grand Ave; 805-688-7406 Daily 11-5:30 X XFess Parker – Los OlivosDaily6200 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-1545 10-5 X XFirestone Vineyard – Los Olivos Daily5000 Zaca Station Rd; 805-688-3940 10-5 X X XFlying Goat Cellars – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X XGreat Oaks Ranch – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X XJ Wilkes <strong>Wine</strong> – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X XKoehler – Los OlivosDaily5360 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-693-8384 10-5 X XLane Tanner <strong>Wine</strong>s – at Los Olivos Tasting Room2905 Grand Ave; 805-688-7406 Daily 11-6 X XLongoria <strong>Wine</strong>s – Los OlivosDaily2935 Grand Ave; 866-759-4637 11-4:30 X XOak Savanna – at Andrew Murray Tasting Room in Los Olivos2901 Grand Ave; 805-693-9644 Daily 11-6 X XQupé <strong>Wine</strong> – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-968-9699 Daily 11-5 X X★ Silver <strong>Wine</strong>s – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-963-3052 Daily 11-5 X XScott Cellars – Los OlivosTh-Mo2933 San Marcos Ave, Ste 101; 805-570-0048 12-5 X XStar Lane – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos2445 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X XThree Saints – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X XTre Anelli – Los OlivosDaily2923 Grand Ave; 805-686-3000 11-5 X XVandale – at The Ballard Inn in Ballard Fr-Su2436 Baseline Ave; 805-688-7770 12-5:30 X X
W I N E CO U N T RY T H I S W E E KWINERY LISTINGSWINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALESWINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALESWINERY - LOCATIONHOURSTOURSTASTINGSALESVerdad <strong>Wine</strong>s – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X XWild Heart <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Los Olivos Daily2933-C Grand Ave; 805-688-7386 11-5 X XZaca Mesa – Los OlivosDaily6905 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-9339 10-4 X XL O M P O C / B U E L L T O NAlma Rosa – BuelltonDaily7250 Santa Rosa; 805-688-9090 11-4:30 X XAmpelos Cellars – LompocBy805-736-9957 Appt X XBabcock <strong>Wine</strong>ry – LompocDaily5175 E. Hwy 246; 805-736-1455 10:30-4 X XCasa Cassara – BuelltonWe-Mo291 Valley St; 805-686-5159 11-5 X XClos Pepe – LompocBy4777 East Hwy 246; 805-735-2196 ApptFiddlehead Cellars – at the Lompoc <strong>Wine</strong> Ghetto1597 E. Chestnut Ave; 530-756-4550 Th-Sa 11-4 X XFoley Estates – LompocDaily6121 East Hwy 246; 805-737-6222 10-5 X XHarrison-Clarke – LompocBy805-686-0850 ApptHitching Post <strong>Wine</strong>s – at Hitching Post Restaurant in Buellton406 East Hwy 246; 805-688-0676 Daily from 4pm X XHuber Vineyards – LompocBy4892 Hapgood Rd; 805-736-3854 ApptKen Brown <strong>Wine</strong>s – BuelltonBy2025 Still Meadows Rd; 805-448-3791 ApptLafond Vineyard – BuelltonDaily6855 Santa Rosa Rd; 805-688-7921 10-5 X XMelville Vineyard – LompocDaily5185 East Hwy 246; 805-735-7030 11-4 X XMosby <strong>Wine</strong>ry – BuelltonDaily9496 Santa Rosa Rd; 805-688-2415 10-4 X XPalmina – LompocTh-Sa1520 East Chestnut Ct; 805-735-2030 11-4 X XSanford <strong>Wine</strong>ry – LompocDaily5010 Santa Rosa Rd; 805-735-5900 11-4 X X★ Sort <strong>This</strong> Out Cellars – Buellton Daily593 Avenue of the Flags; 805-688-1717 10-5:30 X XS O L V A N G★ Badge <strong>Wine</strong>s – at Trio Tastings, Solvang1557 Mission Dr; 805 688-3494 Th-Su 11-5 or By Appt X XBlackjack Ranch – Solvang Daily 11-52205 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-455-1412 Closed Wed X XBlair Fox Cellars – at Cabana Tasting Room in Solvang1539 Mission Dr; 805-686-9126 Daily 11-8 X XCabana Cellars/Wandering Dog <strong>Wine</strong> Bar – Solvang1539 Mission Dr; 805-686-9126 We-Mo 11-8ish X XCasa Cassara – at Olive House in Solvang1661 Mission Dr; 805-686-5159 Daily 11-5 X X★ Curran <strong>Wine</strong>s – at Trio Tastings, Solvang1557 Mission Dr; 805 688-3494 Th-Su 11-5 or By Appt X X★ D’Alfonso – Solvang Th-Su 11-51557 Mission Dr; 805 688-3494 or By Appt X X★ DiBruno – at Trio Tastings, Solvang1557 Mission Dr; 805 688-3494 Th-Su 11-5 or By Appt X XEast Valley – at Cabana Tasting Room in Solvang1661 Mission Dr; 805-686-5159 Daily 11-5 X XHoneywood/Olde Mission <strong>Wine</strong> Co.Tasting room for Honeywood, Michael Grace and Ovene <strong>Wine</strong>ry1539 Mission Dr, #A & B, Solvang Su-Th 9:30-5:30805-686-9323 Fr-Sa 9:30-6:30 X XJorian Hill – SolvangBy1051 Croft Lane; 805-686-8490 ApptLincourt <strong>Wine</strong>ry – SolvangDaily1711 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-688-8554 10-5 X XLions Peak Vineyards – Solvang Fr-Mo1659 Copenhagen Dr; 805-693-5466 11-5 X XLucas & Lewellen – SolvangDaily1645 Copenhagen Dr; 805-686-9336 11-5:30 X XMandolina <strong>Wine</strong>s – SolvangDaily1665 Copenhagen Dr; 805-686-5506 11-5:30 X XMichael Grace – at Old Mission <strong>Wine</strong> Company in Solvang1539 Mission; 805-686-9323 Daily 9:30-5:30 X XOvene <strong>Wine</strong>ry – at Old Mission Tasting Company in Solvang1539 Mission; 714-420-2525 Daily 9:30-5:30 X XPresidio Vineyard – SolvangDaily1603 Copenhagen Dr, 805-693-8585 11-6 X XRideau Vineyard – SolvangDaily1562 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-688-0717 11-4 X XRoyal Oaks – SolvangDaily1651 Copenhagen Dr; 805-693-1740 10-5:30 X XRusack Vineyard – SolvangDaily1819 Ballard Canyon Rd; 805-688-1278 11-5 X XShoestring <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Solvang Fr-Su800 East Hwy 246; 800-693-8612 11-4 X X★ Stolpman Vineyard – Solvang Daily1659 Copenhagen Dr; 805-688-0400 11-4 X XUncorked/Monsoon Cellars Fr-Sa 12-9pm467 Alisal Rd Ste 2; 805-693-8000; Solvang Su 12-6 X XS A N T AY N E ZArtiste – Santa YnezDaily3569 Sagunto St; 805-686-2626 11-5 X XAu Bon Climat – at <strong>Wine</strong> Cellar Tasting Room in Santa Ynez3631 Sagunto St; 805-688-8688 Daily 11-6 X XButtonwood Farm – Santa Ynez Daily1500 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-688-3032 11-5 X XGainey Vineyard – Santa Ynez Daily3950 East Hwy 246; 805-688-0558 10-5 X XKalyra <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Ynez Mo-Fr 11-5343 North Refugio Rd; 805-693-8864 Sa-Su 10-5 X XRoblar <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa YnezDaily3010 Roblar Ave; 805-686-2603 10-5 X XSunstone – Santa YnezDaily125 Refugio Rd; 800-313-9463 10-4 X XS A N T AB A R B A R ACarr Vineyards – Santa Barbara Daily414 N. Salsipuedes St; 805-965-7985 11-5 X XCoquelicot – at Intermezzo in Santa Barbara813 Anacapa St; 805-996-9463 Sa-Su 11-3 X XJaffurs – Santa BarbaraFr-Su819 East Montectio St; 805-962-7003 11-5 X XGiessinger – Santa Barbara Mo-Fr 12-7:30212 State St; 805-695-8606 Sa 11-8 Su 11-7 X XKalyra <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Barbara Mo-Fr 12-7212 State St; 805-695-8606 Sa-Su 12-8 X XSanta Barbara <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Barbara Daily202 Anacapa St; 805-963-3633 10 - 5 X XStearns Wharf Vintners – Santa Barbara 9-9 SummerEnd of State St; 805-966-6624 9-6 Winter X XSummerland – Summerland Tu-Th 11-52330 Lillie Ave; 805-565-WINE Fr-Su 11-7 X XOreana <strong>Wine</strong>ry – (formally Cellar 205) Santa Barbara205 Anacapa St; 805-962-5857 Daily 11-5 X XWhitcraft <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Barbara Fr-Su36A S. Calle Cesar Chavez; 805-730-1680 12-4 X XV E N T U R AC O U N T YBella Victorian Vineyard – Camarillo Fr-Su2135 E. Ventura Blvd; 805-383-8800 12-6 X XCamarillo Custom Crush – Camarillo300 S. Lewis Rd, Ste C; 805-484-0597Opening Soon★ Cantara Cellars– CamarilloFri-Sun126 Wood Rd, Ste 104; 805-484-9600 11-5 X XCasa Barranca – OjaiFri-Sun208 E. Ojai Ave; 805-640-1255 12-6 X XHerzog <strong>Wine</strong> Cellars – Oxnard Sun-Thurs 11-93201 Camino Del Sol; 805-938-1560 Fri 11-4 Sat Closed X XOld Creek Ranch <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Ventura Opening Soon10024 Old Creek Rd; 805-649-4132Bridlewood Estate – Santa Ynez DailyRancho Ventavo – Camarillo Opening Soon3555 Roblar Ave; 805-688-9000 10-5 X X 1690 Ventura Blvd, 805-529-4221 Early 2009www.winecountrythisweek.com 39