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SERVING SAN LUIS OBISPO, SANTA BARBARA & VENTURA COUNTIES<br />
winecountrythisweek.com<br />
HUNT CELLARS<br />
PAGE 18<br />
Y 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<br />
& E V E N T S<br />
E 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 2 4 , 2 0 0 9<br />
PAGE 6<br />
NEW YEAR’S EVE AT<br />
ROBERT HALL WINERY<br />
PAGE 15<br />
PISMO BEACH<br />
WINERY<br />
PAGE 23<br />
OJAI<br />
OLIVE OIL<br />
PAGE 28<br />
PREFERRED TASTING ROOM:<br />
POZO VALLEY WINERY<br />
PAGE 31<br />
WINEMAKER PROFILE:<br />
STOLPMAN VINEYARDS<br />
PAGE 34
HEARST<br />
CASTLE<br />
Morro<br />
Bay<br />
P<strong>as</strong>o<br />
Robles<br />
• San Simeon<br />
Cambria YORK<br />
1<br />
MOUNTAIN<br />
46W<br />
•<br />
Cayucos<br />
•<br />
101<br />
41<br />
•<br />
•<br />
1<br />
•<br />
Avila Beach<br />
Pismo<br />
Beach<br />
•<br />
San Miguel<br />
227<br />
46E<br />
Templeton<br />
41<br />
• At<strong>as</strong>cadero<br />
San Luis Obispo<br />
•<br />
• •<br />
PASO ROBLES<br />
EDNA VALLEY<br />
Arroyo<br />
Grande<br />
101<br />
166<br />
Santa•<br />
Maria<br />
•<br />
Orcutt<br />
ARROYO GRANDE<br />
VALLEY<br />
SANTA MARIA<br />
VALLEY<br />
58<br />
166<br />
5<br />
San Luis Obispo,<br />
Santa Barbara &<br />
Ventura Counties<br />
MILEAGE:<br />
•<br />
Lompoc<br />
1<br />
P a c i f i c O c e a n<br />
SANTA<br />
RITA<br />
HILLS<br />
246<br />
Buellton<br />
Los<br />
Olivos<br />
•<br />
Solvang<br />
• • •<br />
<br />
SANTA<br />
YNEZ<br />
VALLEY<br />
CHUMASH<br />
CASINO<br />
Santa Ynez<br />
154<br />
101<br />
Santa<br />
Barbara<br />
•<br />
150<br />
Ojai<br />
•<br />
33<br />
150<br />
Ventura<br />
•<br />
5<br />
Camarillo<br />
126<br />
23<br />
118<br />
• • Thousand<br />
Oxnard • Oaks<br />
1
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST<br />
SAN LUIS OBISPO, SANTA BARBARA & VENTURA COUNTIES<br />
P U B L I S H I N G E V E R Y O T H E R W E E K !<br />
D E C E M B E R 2 4 , 2 0 0 9 • I S S U E 2 5 – V O L U M E 3<br />
ON THE COVER<br />
Kelsey See Canyon <strong>Wine</strong>ry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6<br />
WINE COUNTRY NEWS<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14<br />
PASO ROBLES WINERIES MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20<br />
SAN LUIS OBISPO/PISMO BEACH WINERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23<br />
SANTA MARIA VALLEY WINERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25<br />
SOLVANG, LOS OLIVOS, SANTA YNEZ WINERIES MAP . . . . . . 26<br />
SANTA BARBARA WINERIES MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27<br />
VENTURA COUNTY WINERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-29<br />
WINERY LISTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30-35<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com 3
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST<br />
SAN LUIS OBISPO, SANTA BARBARA & VENTURA COUNTIES<br />
ADVERSTISING/MARKETING<br />
DIRECTOR<br />
PUBLISHER<br />
MANAGING EDITOR<br />
CALENDAR EDITOR<br />
OFFICE MANAGER<br />
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS<br />
Whitney Brem<br />
San Luis Obispo, CA<br />
Phone 805-252-5440<br />
centralco<strong>as</strong>t@winecountrythisweek.com<br />
Mike Giangreco<br />
Direct 707-938-3734<br />
mike@winecountrythisweek.com<br />
Chandra Grant<br />
P.O. Box 92, El Verano, CA 95433<br />
Phone 707-938-1783 / Fax 707-938-3674<br />
chandra@winecountrythisweek.com<br />
Laurie Flippen<br />
Phone 707-938-1783 / Fax 707-938-3674<br />
laurie@winecountrythisweek.com<br />
Cathy Gore<br />
Phone 707-938-3494 / Fax 707-938-3674<br />
Email cathy@winecountrythisweek.com<br />
Michael Cervin, Len Napolitano,<br />
Mark Storer, Dave Wilcox<br />
Music for<br />
Your Palate<br />
Music and<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> T<strong>as</strong>ting<br />
Experience<br />
Going to Northern California <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong>?<br />
Look for WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK at wineries,<br />
hotels, concierge desks, car rentals, restaurants,<br />
high-end grocery stores and more!<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com<br />
A SYMPHONY<br />
OF FLAVORS<br />
www.huntcellars.com<br />
1-866-HUNT-WINE<br />
Hwy 46 West • 3 Miles at Oakdale Road<br />
4<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com 5
WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK<br />
KELSEY SEE CANYON<br />
An Avila Love Story<br />
When Dick Kelsey moved with his family<br />
from Mojave to Avila in 1951, he had no idea<br />
that he would spend the majority of his life<br />
on the same twenty-six acres that his parents<br />
had bought for a mere $4000. At age sixteen<br />
he had gone to work on a sport fishing boat<br />
out of Avila Harbor. It w<strong>as</strong> hard work, but<br />
Dick loved it. He also found something else<br />
to like about the job. The boat’s owner had a<br />
thirteen year-old-niece named Delores who<br />
started coming down each day to meet the<br />
boat <strong>as</strong> it came in. One day, <strong>as</strong> he p<strong>as</strong>sed her<br />
on the road in his old pickup, Dick surprised<br />
himself with the decision that this w<strong>as</strong> the<br />
girl he w<strong>as</strong> going to marry.<br />
But he felt drawn back to Mojave.<br />
Working there, he kept thinking about that<br />
girl, though and they started to write one<br />
another. A stint in the Navy produced<br />
another separation and more letters. “I w<strong>as</strong><br />
stationed in Hawaii. I w<strong>as</strong> in paradise, but I<br />
w<strong>as</strong> miserable. I sure missed that girl.”<br />
Finally he came home and by now his girl<br />
had grown into a beautiful woman of nearly<br />
twenty. They had hardly spent any time<br />
together, though. Their entire relationship<br />
had evolved through letter writing, but<br />
6<br />
Delores and Dick knew they were in love.<br />
They married and he went to work in her<br />
family’s business <strong>as</strong> a tug boat operation.<br />
After forty-one years, he finally retired.<br />
That’s when the trouble started. As Dick<br />
puts it, “I used to make homemade wine. It<br />
w<strong>as</strong> really bad. In fact, my friends and I<br />
dubbed it ‘Kelsey’s Vino Yucky.’ The l<strong>as</strong>t<br />
thing I ever imagined w<strong>as</strong> that I’d own a<br />
winery.”<br />
One day, however, Dick w<strong>as</strong> sipping his<br />
coffee and staring at his old garage. The<br />
thought occurred to him that it sure would<br />
make a nice winery building. No sooner did<br />
the thought form then he got a call from an<br />
old friend. Leonard Cohen wanted to start<br />
making wine. W<strong>as</strong> he game? Yes he w<strong>as</strong>, but<br />
Delores had other ide<strong>as</strong>. “I w<strong>as</strong> madder than<br />
hell. In fact, I w<strong>as</strong> in a snit about this for two<br />
years. What did we know about wine? We are<br />
seafaring people, not farmers.”<br />
Fortunately, they had the good sense to<br />
hire a first-cl<strong>as</strong>s winemaker in Harold<br />
Osborne. Dick’s wine w<strong>as</strong> certainly not yucky<br />
anymore, in fact it began winning awards all<br />
over the state. Dick w<strong>as</strong> overjoyed.<br />
“I worked for my wife’s family nearly all<br />
my life and I just wanted to create something<br />
of my own. Also, my two boys, Richard and<br />
Keith, had started work in the tug boat<br />
industry. I wanted something more for them.<br />
Now Richard h<strong>as</strong> his own 160 acres of vineyard<br />
in Creston and Keith is helping clear<br />
new vineyards to incre<strong>as</strong>e the winery’s<br />
production. We have a real family business.”<br />
And thankfully, Delores came around, too.<br />
“We put a lot of money into this venture and<br />
a lot of hard work at a time when we were<br />
supposed to be retired, but it h<strong>as</strong> become the<br />
joy of our lives. We keep busy, helping out in<br />
the t<strong>as</strong>ting room and our customers have<br />
become like family. I love meeting people and<br />
watching them fall in love with our wines.”<br />
As Dick says, “We’ve been blessed. We<br />
have a great family, we make great wine.<br />
Delores and I just celebrated our fifty-first<br />
anniversary. I guess you can say that the first<br />
decision I ever made in life turned out to be<br />
the best one.”<br />
Visit them at Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards,<br />
1947 See Canyon Road, San Luis<br />
Obispo; open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.<br />
For more information, call (805) 595-9700<br />
or visit the website at www.kelseywine.com.<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST<br />
TRADITION<br />
QUALITY<br />
FLAVOR<br />
Visit our<br />
Downtown<br />
t<strong>as</strong>ting room<br />
and sample our<br />
Estate Bottled,<br />
Full Bodied<br />
Red <strong>Wine</strong>s<br />
Mention this advertisement<br />
and receive complimentary<br />
t<strong>as</strong>ting for two.<br />
HOLIDAY<br />
GIFT PACKS<br />
AVAILABLE<br />
829 13TH STREET • PASO ROBLES<br />
SUNDAY, MONDAY, WEDNESDAY<br />
AND THURSDAY 12 TO 6 PM<br />
FRIDAY & SATURDAY 11AM TO 7PM<br />
CLOSED TUESDAY<br />
805-226-4005 | pianettawinery.com<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com 7
CALENDAR OF EVENTS<br />
| WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK<br />
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY<br />
PASO ROBLES<br />
ONGOING<br />
Making Sense of Scents<br />
at Wild Horse <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Learn how to properly t<strong>as</strong>te & smell some of your favorite Wild Horse wines &<br />
find naturally occurring arom<strong>as</strong>. $20 per person Saturdays by appointment at<br />
12, 2 & 3:30pm. Limit 8 people. Call for reservations or for groups more than 8.<br />
Templeton, 805-434-2541 ext. 15, email leslie.churchill@wildhorsewinery.com<br />
ONGOING<br />
Pinot Noir Blending Seminar<br />
Sample Pinot Noirs from the Central Co<strong>as</strong>t AVA and learn what terroir truly<br />
means. Each participant creates their own blend to take home. $50, $35/wine<br />
club. Saturday or Sunday by appointment, 11am or 2pm, Limit 10, Templeton<br />
RSVP 805-434-2541 ext. 15, email leslie.churchill@wildhorsewinery.com<br />
ONGOING<br />
2nd Sunday <strong>Wine</strong> Down at Hearthstone<br />
Enjoy music and delicious food with their fine wine.<br />
www.hearthstonevineyard.com, 805 238 2544<br />
ONGOING FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> & the Arts<br />
Join the Downtown <strong>Wine</strong>ries the first Saturday of every month <strong>as</strong> they celebrate<br />
local artists, musicians & wine. Check out our website for information on the<br />
artists being featured! 4-7pm, 805-227-6813, www.anglimwinery.com<br />
ONGOING EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT<br />
Open Mic Songwriters & Comedian Night<br />
BBQ, beer, wine & soda available for purch<strong>as</strong>e. Bring your own chair, all ages<br />
welcome. 6-9pm, free, Stacked Stone Cellars, P<strong>as</strong>o Robles, 805-238-7872<br />
ONGOING WEDNESDAYS<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> T<strong>as</strong>ting at Vinoteca <strong>Wine</strong> Bar<br />
Local winemaker featured each week, 5:30-8pm, 805-227-7154<br />
ONGOING FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH<br />
Gourmet Pairings at Meridian Vineyards<br />
Try gourmet food paired with fine wine, 12-5pm, $5, 805-226-7133<br />
ONGOING SATURDAYS<br />
North County Farmers’ Market<br />
• At<strong>as</strong>cadero; Wed, 3-6 pm<br />
• P<strong>as</strong>o Robles; Tue, 3-6 pm<br />
• Baywood/Los Osos; Mon, 2-4:30 pm • Templeton; Sat, 9am-12:30pm<br />
Fresh fruit, flowers & vegetables, 805-748-1109<br />
ONGOING THIRD WEDNESDAYS<br />
Free Cooking Show at Idler’s Hospitality Catering<br />
Food samples, wine & entertainment featuring wineries and special guests<br />
5:30pm, 805-238-7979, www.hospitalitycatering.net<br />
ONGOING<br />
Estrella Warbird Museum<br />
Collection of military aircrafts, Fri & Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm<br />
805-238-9317, www.ewarbirds.org<br />
ONGOING<br />
15 Degrees C <strong>Wine</strong> Shop & Bar<br />
Templeton, 805-434-1554<br />
• Wednesday; Happy Hour, $3 gl<strong>as</strong>ses of wine & beer, 5-7pm<br />
• Thursday; Food & <strong>Wine</strong> Pairing, $25, 5-7pm<br />
• Friday; Oyster Bar, Champagne, & Bubbles galore!!! Orders must be in by 7pm<br />
ONGOING<br />
T<strong>as</strong>tings at Meridian <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
805-226-7133, www.meridianvineyards.com, open daily 10am-5pm<br />
• Limited Rele<strong>as</strong>e T<strong>as</strong>ting-$5: A selection of five t<strong>as</strong>ting room exclusive wines.<br />
T<strong>as</strong>ting fee refunded with wine purch<strong>as</strong>e.<br />
• Cheese & <strong>Wine</strong> Pairing-$10: A selection of five t<strong>as</strong>ting room exclusive wines<br />
paired with five gourmet cheeses from Vivant Fine Cheese of P<strong>as</strong>o Robles.<br />
Includes logo cheese board.<br />
• Chocolate & <strong>Wine</strong> Pairing-$10: A selection of four t<strong>as</strong>ting room exclusive reds<br />
paired with four artisan dark chocolates by Scharffen Berger of Berkeley.<br />
Includes logo board.<br />
ONGOING SATURDAYS<br />
Live Music in the T<strong>as</strong>ting Room<br />
Enjoy great music, fant<strong>as</strong>tic wines & great company at Eos. 12-3pm<br />
805-239-2562, www.eosvintage.com<br />
• December 12: Mike Maguire • December 19: Unfiltered Jazz Trio<br />
8<br />
ONGOING THROUGH DECEMBER<br />
Sculpture by Bob (Bart) Kerwin<br />
at Ortman Family Vineyards<br />
His work combines formed, pl<strong>as</strong>ma-cut and welded steel with marble, granite,<br />
gl<strong>as</strong>s and br<strong>as</strong>s to create unique free-standing and wall-hung pieces.<br />
805-237-9009, www.ortmanvineyards.com<br />
ONGOING THROUGH DECEMBER<br />
Art at the C<strong>as</strong>toro Cellars <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Each month, the art gallery at C<strong>as</strong>toro Cellars <strong>Wine</strong>ry T<strong>as</strong>ting Room in Templeton<br />
exhibits artwork from local artists. In December, C<strong>as</strong>toro will be showing the<br />
work of Jennifer Hubbard. www.c<strong>as</strong>torocellars.com, 888-DAM-FINE<br />
ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 29<br />
Over the Edge<br />
The Loft Gallery annouces the opening of a group exhibition. The show opens<br />
in the historic downtown of P<strong>as</strong>o Robles with an artists reception open to the<br />
general public. Featured wine poured by Sculptura <strong>Wine</strong>ry, music by Jacob<br />
O’Dell. 6-8:30pm, eltheloftgallery@gmail.com, 805-239-8152<br />
DECEMBER 12<br />
Holiday Open House at Eberle <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Join the festivities with carolers, free appetizers and Gary’s famous barbecue.<br />
Their friendly elves in the T<strong>as</strong>ting Room will be happy to help you finish your<br />
shopping list with great ide<strong>as</strong>, free gift wrapping and pre-made or custom gift<br />
b<strong>as</strong>kets. Ple<strong>as</strong>e take a new, unwrapped toy <strong>as</strong> a donation to the Toy Bank of<br />
San Luis Obispo County. 12-4pm, 805-238-9607, www.Eberle<strong>Wine</strong>ry.com<br />
DECEMBER 12<br />
Holiday Open House at Eos<br />
Share in the holiday cheer with live holiday music at Eos. Warm up by their<br />
wood burning fireplace with a gl<strong>as</strong>s of Eos wine paired with gourmet foods<br />
www.eosvintage.com<br />
DECEMBER 12<br />
Vine Street Victorian Christm<strong>as</strong> Showc<strong>as</strong>e<br />
8th to 21st Streets lined with beautiful Victorian homes, be-decked in the<br />
holiday charm of yesteryear. Storytellers, Scrooge, carolers, dancers, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong><br />
Santa Claus. Visitors and locals stroll the streets greeting neighbors and friends<br />
for the holidays. Hot cider, coffee, popcorn, cookies, ro<strong>as</strong>ted chestnuts, candy<br />
canes & more. www.p<strong>as</strong>oroblesdowntown.org<br />
DECEMBER 13<br />
Polar Express Reading at Sylvester <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Their traditional holiday fundraiser for the Family Care Network. Serves foster<br />
and high-needs children and families on the Central Co<strong>as</strong>t. Climb aboard<br />
Sylvester’s 1947 Pullman Train cars for the reading of the holiday cl<strong>as</strong>sic. Then be<br />
whisked to the North Pole where Santa & Mrs. Claus will give out sleigh bells.<br />
Kids will be treated to hot chocolate & Christm<strong>as</strong> cookies. Adults will be treated<br />
to wine & cheese. $15 donation per person. Limited to 30 people. Kids with the<br />
best pajam<strong>as</strong> will win a prize. 805-227-4000 www.sylvesterwinery.com<br />
DECEMBER 17<br />
Celebrations of Life Lecture<br />
Vineyard Water Management/Irrigation at Eos, featuring Lowell Valenski in the<br />
Meeting Room. Learn more about vineyard irrigation methods. 2-3pm<br />
Featured wines: Reserve French Connection & Late Harvest Moscato<br />
805-239-2562, www.eosvintage.com<br />
DECEMBER 19<br />
Victorian Teddy Bear Tea<br />
A delightful time for the little ones and those that simply love teddies<br />
www.p<strong>as</strong>oroblesdowntown.org<br />
DECEMBER 26<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> & Cheese Flight on the Patio<br />
T<strong>as</strong>te Eos Reserve <strong>Wine</strong>s paired with local gourmet cheeses. $10 per person<br />
805-239-2562, www.eosvintage.com<br />
DECEMBER 31<br />
Annual New Year's Eve Celebration<br />
at Robert Hall <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Join them for their snazzy C<strong>as</strong>ablanca themed New Year’s Eve Party!!<br />
The elegantly appropriate Moroccan dinner, catered by Catering Unlimited of<br />
SLO, will be paired with their luscious wines. After dinner, enjoy the tunes by<br />
Funk 30, 7pm-1am, $120. RSVP early Chelsey @ 805-239-1616 ext. 24<br />
www.roberthallwinery.com, events@roberthallwinery.com<br />
DECEMBER 31<br />
New Year’s Eve at Villa Valdemosa<br />
Enjoy an array of hot & cold gourmet appetizers, cheeses, fruits, veggies, red &<br />
white wines, beer, coffee, dessert, party favors, live music & dancing. Champagne<br />
to<strong>as</strong>t at midnight, 9pm-1am, $90/couple. www.valdemosa.net, 805-237-0170<br />
JANUARY 16-18<br />
Esprit du Vin<br />
Celebrate the “Spirit of <strong>Wine</strong>” with the <strong>Wine</strong>ries of Highway 46 E<strong>as</strong>t!<br />
Join a consortium of 10 wineries located along Highway 46 on the e<strong>as</strong>t side of<br />
Highway 101 in P<strong>as</strong>o Robles, California. You will find diverse wine t<strong>as</strong>ting<br />
experiences, local accomodations and great restaurants all close by. $20, RSVP<br />
800-838-3006 www.p<strong>as</strong>orobleswineriese<strong>as</strong>t.com, www.brownpapertickets.com<br />
JANUARY 16<br />
Walking Tour: The View from Halter Ranch<br />
<strong>This</strong> walking tour of the vineyard with veteran hiker Leslie Wyss is the best way<br />
to see the spectacular views that Halter Ranch h<strong>as</strong> to offer. Wear your walking<br />
shoes and bring your camer<strong>as</strong> and binoculars. Includes a picnic lunch with<br />
wine. 10am-1pm, $20, Club discounts apply, lunch included<br />
RSVP 888-367-9977, info@halterranch.com<br />
JANUARY 18<br />
Tour of Sustainably Farmed<br />
Halter Ranch Vineyard<br />
As part of the annual Morro Bay Winter Bird Festival, birding guide Roger<br />
Zachary teams up with <strong>Wine</strong>grower Mitch Wyss for a tour of Halter Ranch Vineyard.<br />
Every Martin Luther King weekend over 450 birders visit Morro Bay, a<br />
Globally Important Bird Area, to see, photograph and learn more about birds.<br />
The birding and vineyard tour will include an introduction to sustainable<br />
farming at Halter Ranch and a chance to see how vineyards protect wildlife<br />
habitat. <strong>Wine</strong> T<strong>as</strong>ting included. RSVP, www.morrobaybirdfestival.org<br />
JANUARY 23<br />
SLOFolks presents Rosalie Sorrels<br />
at C<strong>as</strong>toro Cellars<br />
A rare opportunity to see a folk legend, in person, at this intimate venue. One<br />
critic described Rosalie Sorrels' singing voice <strong>as</strong> an instrument <strong>as</strong> mellow and<br />
finely aged <strong>as</strong> an antique viola. 7:30pm, $20pp, www.c<strong>as</strong>torocellars.com<br />
events@c<strong>as</strong>torocellars.com, 888-DAM-FINE<br />
JANUARY 26<br />
Food and <strong>Wine</strong> Seminar at Edna Valley<br />
Learn to work with ingredients that will showc<strong>as</strong>e your favorite varietals and<br />
how to utilize characteristics in food that will allow you to balance the components<br />
found in wine. 805-544-5855 ext. 42, tina.hoppe@diageo.com<br />
JANUARY 29 – 31<br />
Cambria Annual Art & <strong>Wine</strong> Festival<br />
• Friday opens the event with shopping deals, demonstrating artists and some<br />
wine t<strong>as</strong>ting at local participating businesses.<br />
• Friday evening an Event Kick-Off Party offering wine & food pairing,<br />
entertainment, preview of the Art Show/SilentAuction and special raffle prize<br />
packages will be held at the Veterans' Hall.<br />
• Saturday offers <strong>Wine</strong> T<strong>as</strong>ting at the Veterans' Hall (west village) & the<br />
Cambria Historical Museum (e<strong>as</strong>t village), over 25 local wineries<br />
participating. In addition Saturday offers an Art Show/Silent Auction of local<br />
artists original creations and more opportunities for guests to acquire raffle<br />
tickets by visiting participating businesses throughout the village.<br />
• Saturday evening offers additional venues with artists, food and wine pairing<br />
and continued entertainment.<br />
• Sunday offers an Artist's Faire with demonstrating artists, wine t<strong>as</strong>ting and a<br />
barbecue lunch available. Raffle drawings will be held at the end of the event<br />
on Sunday at the Artist's Faire. www.seecambria.com/artwine/<br />
JANUARY 30<br />
Barrel T<strong>as</strong>ting at Harmony Cellars<br />
Cambria, in conjunction with Cambria Art & <strong>Wine</strong> Festival. Learn more about<br />
the art of winemaking! Barrel t<strong>as</strong>tes and chef prepared hors d'oeuvres. Hosted<br />
by <strong>Wine</strong>maker Chuck Mulligan. 5:30-7pm,$20/pp<br />
RSVP, www.harmonycellars.com, 805-927-1625<br />
FEBRUARY 6<br />
La Fête de la Chandeleur<br />
Crepe Making Workshop at Halter Ranch<br />
La Chandeleur is crêpe day in France. The tradition is to hold a coin in your<br />
writing hand and a crêpe pan in the other; then toss the crêpe in the air. If you<br />
manage to catch the crêpe, your family will enjoy prosperity for the rest of the<br />
year. Come celebrate la Chandeleur at with <strong>Wine</strong> Club Manager and Bordeaux<br />
native, Solène Christophe. She will share with you a very simple French crêpe<br />
recipe. You'll make lots of crêpes - savory crêpes with ham, cheese and eggs,<br />
sweet crêpes with jam, or chocolate and maybe ice cream on the top. $20/Club<br />
discounts apply - lunch included, RSVP 888-367-9977, info@halterranch.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | CALENDAR OF EVENTS<br />
FEBRUARY 12-15<br />
17 Far Out <strong>Wine</strong>ries Partner for Charity<br />
The 17 Far Out <strong>Wine</strong>ries of P<strong>as</strong>o Robles are partnering with the Wellness<br />
Community of the Central Co<strong>as</strong>t for a fundraiser to help find ‘Hope and Support’<br />
for people with cancer and their families. Sample award-winning wines and<br />
enjoy VIP treatment <strong>as</strong> you travel. Activities planned exclusively for P<strong>as</strong>sport<br />
holders include complimentary wine t<strong>as</strong>ting at each winery, special barrel<br />
t<strong>as</strong>ting, winery tours, new rele<strong>as</strong>es, food pairings and much more. $40 donation<br />
for a VIP P<strong>as</strong>sport and a stamp at each winery you visit. After visiting 8 t<strong>as</strong>ting<br />
rooms you will be entered into a final drawing for some terrific prizes! In addition,<br />
5% of the weekend sales will be donated to the Wellness Community!<br />
Order your p<strong>as</strong>sports by February 9 and receive a discounted price of $35 by<br />
contacting Judy at Norman Vineyards, 805-237-0138<br />
FEBRUARY 13<br />
Valentine's Day <strong>Wine</strong>maker's Dinner<br />
at Opolo Vineyards<br />
When you’re looking for a romantic evening, they’ve got the perfect event.<br />
Five delicious courses paired with favorite Opolo wines. Live music, dancing<br />
and amazing fun. 6:30pm, $90/<strong>Wine</strong> Club Member, $110/Non-Member<br />
805-238-9593, www.opolo.com<br />
FEBRUARY 13<br />
Black Tie Valentines Dinner in the Caves<br />
at Eberle <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Join them for a romantic candlelight dinner in the caves. $150/person<br />
$120/Cellar Club members. RSVP Sheri Kennedy 805-238-9607<br />
www.Eberle<strong>Wine</strong>ry.com<br />
FEBRUARY 13<br />
Valentines Day Dinner<br />
with Chef Charles Paladin Wayne<br />
at Halter Ranch Victorian Farmhouse<br />
<strong>This</strong> beautiful dinner celebrates love, chocolate and red wine! The ambience,<br />
the company and the wine all combine to make this an evening to remember.<br />
Limited to 20 guests. 6pm, $95, Club discounts apply, RSVP 888-367-9977<br />
info@halterranch.com, www.halterranch.com<br />
FEBRUARY 14<br />
Rhone Rangers Regional Chapter<br />
Seminar, Lunch, Grand T<strong>as</strong>ting &<br />
Silent Auction<br />
Vina Robles, $75/seminar, lunch and grand t<strong>as</strong>ting: $25/walk around t<strong>as</strong>ting<br />
only. Sells out, RSVP 805-227-4812, www.vinarobles.com<br />
• Seminar 10:30am-12pm: Each winery panelist will pour one special wine for<br />
discussion and t<strong>as</strong>ting.<br />
• A catered lunch at 12pm<br />
• Walk around t<strong>as</strong>ting 1:30-3:30pm: Each winery will pour up to four of their<br />
best wines for your t<strong>as</strong>ting ple<strong>as</strong>ure!<br />
FEBRUARY 14<br />
Happy Valentine’s Day at Jada<br />
Nothing’s better than romance and wine a little chocolate to boot! New<br />
rele<strong>as</strong>es and old favorites paired with gourmet cheeses and chocolates. Special<br />
vertical t<strong>as</strong>ting of 2005/2006 & 2007 Jack of Hearts! Enjoy Jada wines while<br />
taking in the breathtaking views from the t<strong>as</strong>ting room or deck. Give the gift<br />
of wine to someone you love! www.jadavineyard.com, 805-226-4200<br />
FEBRUARY 14<br />
Wedding Celebrations at Edna Valley<br />
Celebrating Edna Valley Vineyard's 30th Anniversary, they are offering 30% off<br />
all ceremonies that are performed on Valentine's Day. Starting at noon they<br />
will begin individual ceremonies. At 6pm they will host one group ceremony.<br />
Contact 805-544.5855 ext. 42, tina.hoppe@diageo.com<br />
CAYUCOS & MORRO BAY<br />
ONGOING SECOND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH<br />
Morro Bay Embarcadero Art Walk<br />
Spend an enjoyable evening touring the many Art Galleries along the waterfront<br />
on the Embarcadero in beautiful Morro Bay. Sample great food and wine<br />
and converse with the artists. Open late till 8pm, 805-772-9955, morrobay.org<br />
ONGOING SATURDAYS<br />
Fishermen & Farmers’ Market in Morro Bay<br />
Fresh se<strong>as</strong>onal produce, crafts & musicians, 3-6pm, 800-231-0592<br />
ONGOING<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>maker Dinners at Hoppe’s<br />
Join Chef Bill Hoppe <strong>as</strong> he celebrates his p<strong>as</strong>sion for food and wine with <strong>Wine</strong>maker<br />
Dinners featuring California's best wine producers and Chef Hoppe's<br />
personalized cooking cl<strong>as</strong>ses featuring beautiful combinations of local and<br />
exotic foods. 805-995-1006, www.hoppesbistro.com<br />
JANUARY 21<br />
Harmony Cellars <strong>Wine</strong>maker Dinner<br />
At C<strong>as</strong>s House Restaurant. A wonderful four course gourmet winter supper with<br />
wine. 6:30pm, $98, RSVP 805-927-1625, www.harmonycellars.com<br />
SAN LUIS OBISPO<br />
ONGOING<br />
Hearst C<strong>as</strong>tle Tours<br />
Led by an experience guide, tour Hearst C<strong>as</strong>tle and encounter first-hand the majesty<br />
and beauty of this historical tre<strong>as</strong>ure. 800-444-4445, www.hearstc<strong>as</strong>tle.org<br />
ONGOING EVERY FRIDAY<br />
Tap<strong>as</strong> at Tolosa<br />
Start the weekend enjoying four tap<strong>as</strong> from Corner View Restaurant paired<br />
with four reserve wines, 5:30-7:30pm. Located in the Heritage Room. $25<br />
$20/Heritage Club members, jshakley@tolosawinery.com, 805-782-0500 x10<br />
ONGOING SATURDAYS<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> & Cheese Pairings at Tolosa Vineyards<br />
In the Heritage Room, four estate wines are paired with four artisan cheeses<br />
from around the world. 11am-3pm, 805-782-0500, www.tolosawinery.com<br />
ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS<br />
Reserve Flight T<strong>as</strong>tings at Tolosa Vineyards<br />
In the Heritage Room. Flights will vary from Pinot Noir flights to Rhone style<br />
wines or even a vertical t<strong>as</strong>ting of library wines. $20, $15/Heritage Club<br />
members, 805-782-0500 x10, jshakley@tolosawinery.com<br />
ONGOING<br />
The San Luis Obispo Art Center<br />
Permanent collection & constantly rotating exhibits of works by local artists in<br />
all media – paintings, sculpture, photography & more. 11am-5pm daily except<br />
Tuesdays, 805-543-8562, www.sloartcenter.org<br />
ONGOING WEEKENDS<br />
Music at Mother’s Tavern<br />
Upscale tavern with entertainment, check for schedules<br />
805-541-8733, www.motherstavern.com<br />
ONGOING SECOND SUNDAY<br />
Dallidet Adobe & Gardens<br />
Oldest house in the city of San Luis Obispo. Site of first commercial winery in<br />
the area. 1-4pm, 805-543-0638, www.slochs.org/dallidet<br />
ONGOING FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH<br />
Art Gallery Events “Art After Dark”<br />
Various art galleries stay open late & host artist receptions with wine & cheese<br />
6-9pm, Downtown San Luis Obispo , 805-544-9251, www.sloartcouncil.org<br />
DECEMBER 17<br />
Holiday in the Vineyards<br />
Extended holiday hours for l<strong>as</strong>t minute shopping. Enjoy great wines, snacks,<br />
games and good company! Participating wineries in the Edna Valley will be<br />
open late and offering special discounts and t<strong>as</strong>tings:<br />
Holiday in the Vineyards<br />
at Claiborne & Churchill<br />
Extended holiday hours for all of your l<strong>as</strong>t minute shopping.<br />
Enjoy great wines, snacks, games and good company! 11am-7pm<br />
805-544-4066, www.claibornechurchill.com<br />
Holiday in the Vineyards at Tolosa<br />
What's better than the gift of wine? Explore the wineries of San Luis Obispo <strong>as</strong><br />
they stay open late for holiday shopping, wine t<strong>as</strong>ting and t<strong>as</strong>ty treats.<br />
11am-7pm, 805-782-0500, www.tolosawinery.com<br />
Holiday in the Vineyards at Laetitia<br />
Extended holiday hours for all of your l<strong>as</strong>t minute shopping. Enjoy great wines,<br />
snacks, games and good company! 11am-7pm<br />
805-481-1772, www.laetitiawine.com<br />
JANUARY 26<br />
Food and <strong>Wine</strong> Seminar at Edna Valley<br />
Learn to work with ingredients that will showc<strong>as</strong>e your favorite varietals and<br />
how to utilize characteristics in food that will allow you to balance the components<br />
found in wine. 805-544.5855 ext. 42, tina.hoppe@diageo.com<br />
JANUARY 30<br />
Crab & Chardonnay Fetê with Tolosa<br />
Tolosa <strong>Wine</strong>ry and Cracked Crab of Pismo Beach will join forces once again to<br />
present the 5th Anniversary of the Crab & Chardonnay Dinner. A five course<br />
dinner, complete with fresh oysters, King crab appetizers, crab cakes, mussels,<br />
salad, crab bisque, the famous "bucket" of crab, sausage & potatoes and their<br />
decadent key lime pie. Three top-rated Chardonnays, along with other specially<br />
selected wines. <strong>This</strong> event is guaranteed to sell out, so buy tickets early. 6pm<br />
$100 <strong>Wine</strong> Club/$120 Non-Members, 805-782-0500, www.tolosawinery.com<br />
FEBRUARY 14<br />
Wedding Celebrations at Edna Valley<br />
Celebrating Edna Valley Vineyard's 30th Anniversary, they are offering 30% off<br />
all ceremonies that are performed on Valentine's Day. Starting at noon they<br />
will begin individual ceremonies. At 6pm they will host one group ceremony.<br />
Contact 805-544.5855 ext. 42, tina.hoppe@diageo.com<br />
PISMO BEACH/SHELL BEACH<br />
SUNDAYS DECEMBER 6 – JANUARY 31<br />
A Murder Mystery Dinner<br />
Golden Girls: The Curse of Jessica Fletcher<br />
Dinner, wine & laughter, Spygl<strong>as</strong>s Restaurant, Shell Beach, Sundays, 5pm<br />
805-489-3875, www.murderinmind.com<br />
ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY<br />
The Monarch Migration<br />
The Monarch Butterfly Grove is located at the Pismo State Beach - North Beach<br />
Campground. A favorite area for the butterflies to winter. From November to<br />
February docents are on hand everyday from 10am-4pm. Docent talks on<br />
Monarchs every day at 11am- 2pm. www.ccnha.org, 805-489-2684<br />
ONGOING<br />
Local <strong>Wine</strong> T<strong>as</strong>ting Tuesday,<br />
Live Music & Complimentary Appetizers<br />
At Lido Restaurant<br />
The Dolphin Bay Resort & Spa, 5:30-6:30pm, $12<br />
RSVP 805-773-8900, www.thedolphinbay.com<br />
• December 8: Rancho Arroyo Grande<br />
• December 15: Halter Ranch Vineyard<br />
• December 22:Ancient Peaks <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
• December 29: Zaca Mesa <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
ONGOING FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH<br />
Art in the Park at Dinosaur Caves<br />
Art, crafts, children’s activities, music & more. Pismo Beach, 10am-4pm<br />
805-704-8128, www.pismochamber.com<br />
AVILA BEACH<br />
ONGOING SUNDAYS<br />
Art on the Beach at Avila Beach<br />
Artists paint & present their work, 10am, 805-238-4103, Avila Beach Pier<br />
ONGOING<br />
Wood <strong>Wine</strong>ry h<strong>as</strong> moved!<br />
Great wines and an oceanfront view on 480 Fronts Street. 805-595-9663<br />
http://wildwoodwine.com<br />
ARROYO GRANDE<br />
ONGOING<br />
Hopping Good Time at the SLO Down Pub<br />
Open mic Mondays and everything else from blues to bluegr<strong>as</strong>s. See the whole<br />
calendar of events at www.slodownpub.com/event_calendar.shtml<br />
ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS<br />
Visit Historic Buildings in Arroyo Grande<br />
Sat 12-3pm, Sun 1-4pm, 805-473-5077, www.arroyograndevillage.org<br />
ONGOING THROUGH DECEMBER<br />
A Village Christm<strong>as</strong><br />
Enjoy fairyland of lights throughout the Village every night. Santa strolls<br />
through the streets daily. www.arroyograndevillage.org<br />
ONGOING SATURDAYS<br />
Arroyo Grande Farmers’ Market<br />
Farm Fresh Produce & Flowers, Art Show and Live Entertainment in the Arroyo<br />
Grande City Hall Parking Lot at 215 E<strong>as</strong>t Branch Street. 12-2:30pm<br />
805-473-2250, www.arroyograndevillage.org<br />
ONGOING WEDNESDAYS<br />
Ice Cream Creating ~ a family affair!<br />
The Doc Burnsteins Ice Cream Lab Show is a live performance that involves the<br />
whole audience! Live performances every Wednesday. 7pm, Invent a brand<br />
new flavor and watch it being made! 805-474-4068, www.docburnsteins.com<br />
DECEMBER 11<br />
Mermaid Designs Jewelry Party<br />
at Phantom Rivers <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Enjoy wine t<strong>as</strong>ting while checking out Sara's line of handcrafted one of a kind<br />
jewelry. 5-8pm, 805-481-WINE, www.phantomrivers.com<br />
DECEMBER 18<br />
Photography by Paul Foutz<br />
at Phantom Rivers <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Meet the artist Friday evening from 5pm-8pm. See Paul's beautiful photography<br />
while enjoying great wines. 805-481-WINE, www.phantomrivers.com<br />
9
CALENDAR OF EVENTS<br />
| WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK<br />
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY<br />
SANTA MARIA/FOXEN CANYON<br />
ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS<br />
Santa Maria Valley Railway Historical Museum<br />
Lots of fun including a train simulator exhibit. 1-4:30pm<br />
805-714-4927, www.smvrhm.org/museum<br />
ONGOING<br />
Friday Night <strong>Wine</strong> Down at Costa de Oro<br />
Great way to start your weekend! Enjoy live music, wine t<strong>as</strong>ting, and cheese<br />
plates. 4:30-7:30pm, 805-922-1468, www.cdowinery.com<br />
• Dec.11 Mike Dean - The Dean of Guitar!<br />
• Dec.18 Mark Owens - Instrumental Guitar<br />
LOS OLIVOS<br />
ONGOING FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH<br />
Wildling Art Museum - Free Friday Flicks<br />
Free movie & snacks with discussion, 7pm<br />
805-688-1082, www.wildlingmuseum.org<br />
ONGOING WEDNESDAYS<br />
Evening with the <strong>Wine</strong>maker<br />
$15, 805-688-7265, 5-6pm, www.losolivoscafe.com<br />
ONGOING THURSDAYS<br />
Understanding Your Palate at Los Olivos Café<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> t<strong>as</strong>ting & hors d’oeuvres, 5pm, $15<br />
805-688-7265, www.losolivoscafe.com<br />
ONGOING SATURDAYS<br />
Global Gardens Organic Food T<strong>as</strong>ting<br />
Enjoy delicious organic t<strong>as</strong>tings. 11am-5pm daily, $3<br />
805-693-1600, www.globalgardensgifts.com<br />
ONGOING THROUGH JANUARY 31<br />
“A Little of <strong>This</strong>, a Little of That”<br />
at Carina Cellars<br />
Royanna Robertson’s first show at Carina Cellars’ Los Olivos T<strong>as</strong>ting Room w<strong>as</strong><br />
such a success l<strong>as</strong>t year that she is back again. Her watercolors display a range<br />
of landscapes, still life portraits, animals and California historical landmarks.<br />
She will also be displaying montage photographs, her jewelry and winegl<strong>as</strong>s<br />
charms, available year-round. 805-688-2459, www.carinacellars.com<br />
DECEMBER 9<br />
The Bench Holiday Open House<br />
Introducing the new Byron Cuvee wines. Music, appetizers & a special guest in<br />
The Bench T<strong>as</strong>ting Room. 6-8pm, $10, <strong>Wine</strong> Club/Complimentary<br />
RSVP 805-938-1537, virginia.plume@byronwines.com<br />
SANTA YNEZ<br />
ONGOING THURSDAYS, FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS<br />
Dancing at Maverick Saloon<br />
Dance lessons, live country western or rock & roll. 6:45pm, check web for<br />
schedule of entertainers. 805-686-4785, www.mavericksaloon.org<br />
ONGOING<br />
Santa Ynez Valley Historical Society Museum<br />
& Parks - Janeway Carriage House<br />
Exhibits from Chum<strong>as</strong>h period through early 20th century ranch day, 12-4pm<br />
805-688-7889, www.santaynezvalleymuseum.org<br />
ONGOING<br />
Saturdays - Cachuma Lake Nature Walk<br />
Naturalists lead one mile walk for all ages, Oak Canyon Trail, 10-11:30am<br />
<strong>Week</strong>ends -Cachuma Lake Wildlife Cruise<br />
Guided 2-hour cruise with wildlife & geology. $7 for 12 & under, $15 over 12<br />
Junior Ranger Program<br />
Kids learn about wildlife, ecosystems & caring for the environment<br />
12:30-1:30pm $2 per child<br />
Many other children & adult friendly programs! Cachuma Lake Nature Center<br />
Santa Ynez Park, 805-693-0691, www.cachuma.com<br />
10<br />
ONGOING<br />
Art at Artiste <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Each quarter, Artiste rele<strong>as</strong>es two new wines with impressionist painted labels<br />
from the brushes of their featured artist. 805-686-2626, www.artiste.com<br />
ONGOING<br />
Glider Rides at the Airport<br />
805-688-2517, Santa Ynez, www.gliderides.com<br />
LOMPOC/BUELLTON<br />
ONGOING FRIDAYS<br />
Olde Towne Market in Lompoc<br />
Food wine & music in the summer months<br />
805-736-4567, www.lompocrecord.com<br />
DECEMBER 19<br />
T<strong>as</strong>ting at Foley in Lompoc<br />
Sample estate produced Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, while enjoying a complimentary<br />
t<strong>as</strong>ting from Los Olivos Olive Oil Co. Jeff Feeley, owner, treats guests to<br />
t<strong>as</strong>tings of his wonderful products, including artisanal Olive Oils, Balsamic Vinegars,<br />
Bread Dippers and the latest hit of French fries with Black Truffle Oil.<br />
10:30am-4pm, 805-737-6222, www.foleywines.com<br />
DECEMBER 12-13<br />
Open House at Ken Brown <strong>Wine</strong>s<br />
Come t<strong>as</strong>te with Ken and Deborah and learn about the vineyards of Sta. Rita<br />
Hills and Santa Maria Valley! 11am - 4pm<br />
www.sbcountywines.com/wineries/pages/kenbrown.html<br />
SOLVANG<br />
ONGOING<br />
Quicksilver Miniature Horse Farm<br />
Visit Solvang horse farm with beautiful views. They do not offer petting pens or<br />
rides in the cart, but you are able to get up close and personal with the<br />
miniature horse.10am–3pm, 805-686-4002, http://www.syv.com/qsminis/<br />
ONGOING WEDNESDAYS<br />
Solvang Farmers Market<br />
Fresh produce, flowers & foods, on First Street, between Mission Drive and<br />
Copenhagen, 4-7pm, 805-962-5354, www.sbfarmersmarket.org<br />
ONGOING<br />
Elverhoj Museum of History & Art<br />
Showc<strong>as</strong>es Solvang’s rich cultural history. Former residence of one of Solvang's<br />
most artistic families, now a community museum devoted to the history of<br />
Solvang, the colorful heritage and pioneer spirit of Denmark, and the arts.<br />
1-4pm Wed-Thur, 12-4pm Fri-Sun, 805-686-1211, www.elverhoj.org<br />
ONGOING<br />
Hans Christian Andersen Museum<br />
Honoring the multi-talented Danish father of the modern fairy tale, is filled<br />
with copies of Andersen’s books, sketches, paper cutouts, silhouettes and<br />
collages. 10am-5pm daily, www.solvangusa.com<br />
ONGOING<br />
Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum<br />
Houses a collection of vintage and rare motorcycles <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> European race<br />
bikes. The museum rotates some of the bikes each month so that the bikes on<br />
display are constantly changing and expanding. <strong>Week</strong>ends 11am-5pm and by<br />
appointment mid-week. 805-686-9522, www.motosolvang.com<br />
SANTA BARBARA<br />
ONGOING SUNDAYS<br />
Santa Barbara Arts & Crafts Show<br />
For 44 years featuring all types of art, crafts & jewelry with 200+ artists and<br />
craftsman. E<strong>as</strong>t Beach Pier, 10am–dusk, 805-897-1982,www.sbaacs.com<br />
ONGOING FRIDAYS<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> T<strong>as</strong>ting at E<strong>as</strong>t Beach <strong>Wine</strong><br />
Hosted by a winemaker, winery owner or wine broker. 8 -10 wines to t<strong>as</strong>te.<br />
4-7pm, contact for current host listing. 805-691-1020, www.e<strong>as</strong>tbeachwine.com<br />
ONGOING<br />
University of California, Santa Barbara<br />
Arts & Lectures<br />
Check their website for events. 805-893-3535, www.arts&lectures.ucsb.edu<br />
ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS<br />
Downtown Walking Tours<br />
Guided stroll - experience Santa Barbara’s p<strong>as</strong>t. Saturday tour historic are<strong>as</strong> and<br />
Sunday 20th century architecture. $10, info@afsb.org, 805-965-6307<br />
ONGOING<br />
Ty Warner Sea Center<br />
Explore creatures of the sea at Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History<br />
Stearns Wharf, www.sbnature.org/seacenter<br />
ONGOING<br />
Lectures & Readings at the<br />
Santa Barbara Maritime Museum<br />
805-962-8404, Santa Barbara, www.sbmm.org<br />
ONGOING<br />
Downtown Santa Barbara<br />
Various venues for art exhibits, cultural events &<br />
fine wine t<strong>as</strong>ting, plus festival and holiday events.<br />
805-962-2098, www.santabarbaradowntown.com<br />
ONGOING<br />
Santa Barbara Museum of Art<br />
Check site for hours and exhibits. 805-963-4364, www.sbma.net<br />
ONGOING<br />
Planetarium Shows at<br />
Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History<br />
805-682-4711, www.sbnature.org<br />
Saturdays and Sundays<br />
• 11am : Twinkle, Twinkle for Little Stars<br />
• Noon: Cosmic Safari<br />
• 1pm: Exploring the Fall Sky<br />
• 2pm: Earth's Wild Ride<br />
• 3pm: Exploring the Fall Sky (in Spanish on Sundays)<br />
ONGOING<br />
C‘est Cheese<br />
Stop for lunch, wine, cheese and chocolate.<br />
They’re starting to ramp up their selection, bringing in new<br />
and delicious cheeses, wines, and various treats for all to enjoy.<br />
825 Santa Barbara Street, Santa Barbara, 805-965-0318<br />
DECEMBER 11-13<br />
Christm<strong>as</strong> Revels: in Celebration of the Winter Solstice<br />
Santa Barbara Revels presents their 2009 production of<br />
“The King and the Fool” at the Marjorie Luke Theatre features medieval<br />
traditions in music, dance, drama and ritual. Join them and be joyous!<br />
December 11-12, 7:30pm December 13, 3pm<br />
Tickets: $12-$35, 805 963-0761, lobero.com<br />
For more information, call 805-565-9357 or visit santabarbararevels.org<br />
DECEMBER 12<br />
Santa's Starry Ride<br />
7:30 & 8:30pm, tickets are required for Evening Exclusive presentations<br />
and are available at the Planetarium door.<br />
Members $3; non-members $6<br />
805-682-4711, www.sbnature.org<br />
VENTURA COUNTY<br />
ONGOING<br />
Museum of Ventura County<br />
Photographs, publications, documents & exhibits depicting Ventura County’s<br />
history. 10am-5pm, 805-653-0323, www.venturamuseum.org<br />
ONGOING<br />
Ventura County Maritime Museum<br />
An enriching museum experience b<strong>as</strong>ed on maritime history<br />
ranging from ancient mariners to the modern marine era.<br />
Educational programs through world-cl<strong>as</strong>s maritime art,<br />
unique ship models, dynamic exhibits, artifacts and a nautical research.<br />
11am-5pm, 805-984-6260, Oxnard<br />
ONGOING SATURDAYS<br />
Tour Ojai Olive Oil at Asquith Farm<br />
Begins outside with the history of the grove, an explanation of the olive varieties,<br />
their maturing process, the harvesting & a visit to the tree nursery. Share<br />
the adventure of producing premium-quality olive oils. 10am-3pm Mon-Fri by<br />
appointment. 805-701-3825, www.ojaioliveoil.com<br />
Email your upcoming event information to<br />
Laurie@<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com<br />
For best results, submit information<br />
at le<strong>as</strong>t 6 weeks prior to your event.<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
<strong>Wine</strong>ology<br />
INTELLIGENCE FOR THE WINE CONSUMER<br />
by Len Napolitano<br />
Is ‘white wine with fish, red wine with meat’<br />
still the rule when pairing food with wine?<br />
For some people, the t<strong>as</strong>k of pairing wine with food<br />
becomes a study in the seemingly unlimited complexities of<br />
wine and food anatomy. However, the simple rule of pairing<br />
white wines with fish and red wines with meat serves <strong>as</strong> a<br />
good starting point for anyone who enjoys wine with their<br />
meals. Of course, you can feel free to break this golden rule<br />
and still create a great food-and-wine experience. Two of my<br />
favorite exceptions to this rule are salmon with Pinot Noir,<br />
and pork with Chardonnay.<br />
When choosing a wine that matches well with food, rule<br />
number one is that your own personal wine preference overrides<br />
all other rules. So, if you absolutely love Merlot, and<br />
only Merlot, even with the most delicate fish dish, then go<br />
ahead and drink it regardless of what you are eating. If,<br />
however, you want to experience a marriage between food<br />
and wine that in some c<strong>as</strong>es can be described <strong>as</strong> heavenly, it<br />
may be worthwhile to precede your decision on wine with<br />
some consideration for this golden rule of wine and food<br />
pairing and a couple of subsequent steps that can bring you<br />
closer to wine-pairing nirvana.<br />
After applying the first stage of wine and food pairing –<br />
deciding on whether to have a red or white wine – you get to<br />
the next decision point – matching a full bodied wine with a<br />
robust dish or a light wine with a delicate dish. Finally, if you<br />
really want to get into the nitty-gritty of wine and food<br />
pairing, you can then match the flavors in a wine with the<br />
dominant flavors in the dish (or sauce) either because there is<br />
a shared component between them or because there is a<br />
complementary contr<strong>as</strong>t between them. In some c<strong>as</strong>es, the<br />
structure of a wine – its crisp acidity, for example, or its dry,<br />
tannic backbone – are features to also consider in the decision.<br />
There are some food and wine pairings that are considered<br />
<strong>as</strong> cl<strong>as</strong>sic marriages. These include steak with Cabernet Sauvignon,<br />
lamb with Merlot, scallops with Chardonnay, caviar<br />
with sparkling wine, or sweet Port-style dessert wine with<br />
Stilton cheese. Except for the l<strong>as</strong>t example, these pairings<br />
follow the rule of red wine with meat, white wine with fish.<br />
But they all match the robustness of the wine with the food.<br />
They also are built upon the marriage of either similar or<br />
contr<strong>as</strong>ting flavors that complement each other on the palate<br />
and make for a rich wine and culinary experience.<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com<br />
Len Napolitano lives in Sonoma <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> and is certified in wine by the Society of <strong>Wine</strong> Educators,<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> & Spirits Education Trust and Chicago <strong>Wine</strong> School and continually gains knowledge<br />
from his frequent contact with California winemakers. More information is on his website, www.wineology.com.<br />
Send your questions about wine to: wineologist@earthlink.net or by mail to Len Napolitano in care of<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> <strong>This</strong> <strong>Week</strong> magazine. <strong>Wine</strong>ology is a registered trademark of Len Napolitano.<br />
11
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST<br />
Celebrate Esprit du Vin, the “Spirit of <strong>Wine</strong>”<br />
With Highway 46 E<strong>as</strong>t <strong>Wine</strong>ries, Jan.16-18<br />
Join all 9 wineries of Highway 46 E<strong>as</strong>t<br />
for fabulous wines and scrumptious bites<br />
Come gather for an amazing weekend<br />
celebrating the collective spirit and enthusi<strong>as</strong>m<br />
of the <strong>Wine</strong>ries of Highway 46 E<strong>as</strong>t in<br />
P<strong>as</strong>o Robles. The 8th annual Esprit du Vin<br />
event weekend is scheduled for January 16-<br />
18, 2010.<br />
<strong>This</strong> exciting weekend consists of several<br />
special events including a wine, cheese and olive oil t<strong>as</strong>ting with all<br />
12<br />
participating wineries Saturday evening and a complementary<br />
‘<strong>Wine</strong>ries of Highway 46 E<strong>as</strong>t’ t<strong>as</strong>ting p<strong>as</strong>sport to be used all weekend<br />
long. Completed p<strong>as</strong>sports will be entered into a drawing for fant<strong>as</strong>tic<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> prizes!<br />
Saturday night, January 16 – Celebrate Esprit du Vin,<br />
the “Spirit of <strong>Wine</strong>” at Firestone Vineyard, 5-7pm<br />
Nine wineries will gather at the beautiful Firestone Vineyard<br />
T<strong>as</strong>ting Room in P<strong>as</strong>o Robles for an exciting night of wine and<br />
cheese. <strong>Wine</strong>s will be expertly paired with different gourmet<br />
cheeses. Stroll around and savor each pairing! Gourmet olives, olive<br />
oils, breads and bites will also be served.<br />
Tickets are $20 per person, $35 for couples, plus tax.<br />
For reservations and information, visit the website at<br />
www.p<strong>as</strong>orobleswineriese<strong>as</strong>t.com or contact Brown Paper Tickets at<br />
1-800-838-3006 or order online at www.brownpapertickets.com.<br />
You can also purch<strong>as</strong>e tickets by calling Firestone Vineyard at (805)<br />
591-8050. Firestone Vineyards is located at 2300 Airport Road, off<br />
Highway 46 E<strong>as</strong>t, in P<strong>as</strong>o Robles.<br />
The <strong>Wine</strong>ries of Highway 46 E<strong>as</strong>t is a consortium of wineries<br />
located along Highway 46 on the e<strong>as</strong>t side of Highway 101 in P<strong>as</strong>o<br />
Robles. Member wineries include: Bianchi, Chumeia Vineyards,<br />
Eberle <strong>Wine</strong>ry, EOS Estate <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Firestone Vineyard, Martin &<br />
Weyrich, Meridian, Sylvester <strong>Wine</strong>ry and Tobin James Cellars.<br />
Eberle <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Experience fabulous wine in a friendly atmosphere. Enjoy complimentary<br />
wine t<strong>as</strong>ting, explore more than 16,000 square feet of underground<br />
caves or enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch on the deck overlooking<br />
the Estate vineyard. 2009 will mark 30 years of fine winemaking at<br />
Eberle!<br />
Firestone Vineyard<br />
Come t<strong>as</strong>te the limited, P<strong>as</strong>o Robles grown Cabernet Sauvignon<br />
and Merlot. They also offer a diverse selection of wines to satisfy<br />
almost anyone’s palate. Conveniently located on Hwy 46 E<strong>as</strong>t, the<br />
winery features four acres of estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon <strong>as</strong><br />
well <strong>as</strong> a spacious t<strong>as</strong>ting room with unique gifts and gourmet foods.<br />
<strong>This</strong> is a perfect place for an impromptu picnic in our terraced<br />
gardens.<br />
Sylvester <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
The spacious t<strong>as</strong>ting room offers hospitality, hand-crafted wines to<br />
t<strong>as</strong>te and a gourmet foods shop. Enjoy the expansive views of the<br />
vineyards and nearby mountain range with a picnic b<strong>as</strong>ket or with a<br />
sampling of the large <strong>as</strong>sortment of gourmet meats and cheeses.<br />
Explore the cl<strong>as</strong>sic railcars on display, including two vintage Pullman<br />
sleepers and a dining car.<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST<br />
ZAP Festival Celebrates Zin in Paradise<br />
The 19th Annual Zinfandel Advocates &<br />
Producers Festival takes place January 28-30, 2010,<br />
in San Francisco. The festival will “headline” Chef<br />
Beverly Gannon, one of the founders of “Hawai‘i<br />
regional cuisine.” Chef Gannon is the proprietor of<br />
Maui’s world famous Hali‘imaile General Store and<br />
possibly the most well-known chef in Hawaii. She<br />
will develop the “Hawai‘i regional cuisine” menu for Dinner With The<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>makers <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> prepare a signature Hawaiian dish for Good<br />
Eats & Zinfandel Pairing; she will also be visible throughout the three<br />
days of the festival and her new cookbook, Home Style Meals at The<br />
Hali‘imaile General Store, will be for sale. To order tickets by phone,<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ry and Z-52.<br />
Flights: A Showc<strong>as</strong>e of Zinfandels, a seated<br />
t<strong>as</strong>ting with in-depth seminars focusing on limitedproduction<br />
Zinfandels, takes place on January 29<br />
from 10:30 a.m. until 1 p.m., at The InterContinental<br />
Mark Hopkins Hotel’s Peacock Court [1 Nob<br />
Hill, San Francisco, 94108, (415) 291-9020]. Topics<br />
will include the role of blending and regional variation in the world of<br />
Zinfandel. Tickets for non-ZAP members are $80; for ZAP members,<br />
$65. Tickets are available only in advance and not at the door.<br />
Evening With The <strong>Wine</strong>makers: A Benefit Live Auction &<br />
Dinner, takes place on January 29 beginning with a reception-t<strong>as</strong>ting at<br />
call (530) 274-4900; tickets can be purch<strong>as</strong>ed online at 5 p.m., at the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel in San Francisco [1<br />
www.zinfandel.org.<br />
The ZAP Festival will include more than 200 Zinfandel-specialist<br />
wineries from all across California pouring their barrel samples and<br />
new rele<strong>as</strong>es for over 10,000 enthusi<strong>as</strong>ts during three days at four<br />
separate events. There will be silent auctions during three events –<br />
Good Eats & Zinfandel Pairing, The Grand Zinfandel T<strong>as</strong>ting, and<br />
Evening with the <strong>Wine</strong>makers; proceeds support ZAP’s Heritage Vineyard<br />
projects.<br />
Nob Hill, San Francisco, 94108, (415) 291-9020]. Tickets are $260 for<br />
non-members and $210 for ZAP members, available only in advance<br />
and not at the door. Participating wineries are Alderbrook <strong>Wine</strong>ry,<br />
Artezin <strong>Wine</strong>s, Cakebread Cellars, Charter Oak <strong>Wine</strong>ry, D-Cubed<br />
Cellars, Dogwood Cellars, Edmeades <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Four Vines <strong>Wine</strong>ry, JR<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>s, Mazzocco <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Peachy Canyon <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Ravenswood, Ridge<br />
Vineyards, Robert Biale Vineyards, Rosenblum Cellars, Saddleback<br />
Cellars, St. Francis <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Starry Night <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Terra d’Oro-Trinchero<br />
Good Eats & Zinfandel Pairing takes place on January 28, 6 Family Estates and Three <strong>Wine</strong> Company. Updates are at<br />
to 9 p.m. at Fort M<strong>as</strong>on Center (Marina Blvd. at Buchanan, San<br />
Francisco 94123). Approximately 50 restaurants will pair with<br />
wineries. Tickets are $125 for non-ZAP members, $95 for ZAP<br />
members. A list of the participants can be found on the website at<br />
www.zinfandel.org/default.<strong>as</strong>p?n1=14&n2=472&member=. Some<br />
tickets may be available at the door, but it is recommended to buy<br />
tickets in advance.<br />
Some of the Good Eats participants are Acorn <strong>Wine</strong>ry/Alegria Vineyards<br />
with Zin Restaurant & Bar, Alderbrook <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Artezin <strong>Wine</strong>s<br />
with Knickerbockers’ Catering, B.R. Cohn <strong>Wine</strong>ry with Preferred<br />
Sonoma Caterers, Barefoot Cellars with Sonoma Cake Creations, Barefoot<br />
Cellars ‘2’, Barnard Griffin <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Blaauwklippen Vineyards with<br />
Radio Africa Kitchen, D-Cubed Cellars, Deep Purple <strong>Wine</strong>ry,<br />
www.zinfandel.org/default.<strong>as</strong>p?n1=14&n2=473&member=<br />
The reception will include the opportunity to t<strong>as</strong>te, for the first<br />
time, the 2008 Heritage Vineyard Zinfandel (made from ZAP’s experimental<br />
vineyard by Tom Mackey of St. Francis Vineyards & <strong>Wine</strong>ry).<br />
Guests will then enjoy a fe<strong>as</strong>t prepared by ZAP’s celebrity chef, Beverly<br />
Gannon; guests are seated with a winemaker host at their table.<br />
Proceeds from the silent and live auctions benefit ZAP’s Heritage<br />
Projects, preserving the historical and viticultural significance of<br />
America’s heritage wine.<br />
The 19th Annual Grand Zinfandel T<strong>as</strong>ting takes place on January<br />
30 from 2 until 5 p.m. at the Festival and Herbst Pavilions at Fort<br />
M<strong>as</strong>on (Marina Blvd. at Buchanan, San Francisco 94123). Tickets for<br />
non-ZAP members are $59; for ZAP members, $49. A list of the 200+<br />
Dogwood Cellars, Dry Creek Vineyard with The Pe<strong>as</strong>ant & The Pear, participating wineries can be found at on the website at<br />
Edmeades <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Four Vines <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Gnarly Head Cellars, Grgich<br />
Hills Estate, Guglielmo <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Hartford Family <strong>Wine</strong>ry, J. Rickards<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ry & Vineyards, John Tyler, Klinker Brick <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Marr Cellars,<br />
Mounts Family <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Outpost Estate <strong>Wine</strong>s with Mustard’s Grill,<br />
Murphy-Goode, Peachy Canyon <strong>Wine</strong>ry with Hali‘imaile General<br />
Store, Peirano Estate Vineyards, R& B Cellars, Rancho Zabaco <strong>Wine</strong>ry,<br />
Ravenswood, Ridge Vineyards with Lark Creek Steak, Rockwall <strong>Wine</strong><br />
Company with Angela’s Bistro, Rosenblum Cellars with Miss Pearl’s<br />
Jam House, Saddleback Cellars, Sausal <strong>Wine</strong>ry with EOS Restaurant<br />
& <strong>Wine</strong> Bar, Scott Harvey <strong>Wine</strong>s, Sextant <strong>Wine</strong>s, St. Amant <strong>Wine</strong>y<br />
with A Chef For You, St. Francis <strong>Wine</strong>ry & Vineyard, Terra d’Oro-<br />
Trinchero Family Estates with T<strong>as</strong>te, Three <strong>Wine</strong> Company with<br />
Hali‘imaile General Store, Tin Barn Vineyards, Van Ruiten Family<br />
www.zinfandel.org/default.<strong>as</strong>p?n1=14&n2=474&member=. There<br />
will be a silent auction b<strong>as</strong>ed at the Festival Pavilion from 10 a.m. until<br />
4 p.m., benefiting ZAP’s Heritage Projects. Participating wineries:<br />
www.zinfandel.org/default.<strong>as</strong>p?n1=14&n2=474&member=.<br />
“The world of Zinfandel is full of surprises and out-of-the-box<br />
thinking,” says Rebecca Robinson, ZAP’s Executive Director. “Since<br />
Zinfandel lovers are always looking for new adventures, we anticipate<br />
that Chef Gannon’s headlining the Festival will energize wineries and<br />
attendees alike,” Ms. Robinson adds.<br />
Visit zinfandel.org, zinworld.org to join in the enormous online<br />
world of Zinfandel lore and socializing or join that conversation at<br />
Twitter (http://twitter.com/ZinfandelOrg), Facebook (Facebook/ZAP-<br />
Zinfandel.<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com 13
W I N E C O U N T R Y T H I S W E E K ’ S<br />
W I N E C O U N T R Y S P O T L I G H T<br />
M A M A’S M E AT BA L L<br />
One pretty reliable way to find out just how good<br />
the food at a local restaurant is, is to <strong>as</strong>k somebody<br />
in the restaurant business. Ask a bartender, a<br />
waiter, anyone in fact, what they think of Mama’s<br />
meatballs in San Luis Obispo and their lips begin to<br />
quiver, their eyes roll towards the heavens, they<br />
sigh; that is how good Mama’s Meatball is.<br />
Set in a small courtyard off of one of the town’s<br />
main streets, in a place called the Old Creamery,<br />
Mama’s Meatball is actually divided in two. On the<br />
right is the take-out where people line up to get their orders of meatballs and more. To the left,<br />
fronted by a huge-trunked tree and a water fountain, is the intimate restaurant with it’s mural of<br />
the Mediterranean across the back.<br />
Meatballs <strong>as</strong>ide, the restaurant, under owner and chef Nicola Allegretta, offers a wide range of<br />
authentic Italian dishes, many of them now available in smaller sizes <strong>as</strong> well, a bow to the<br />
economy and his customer’s wishes. Among them are half a dozen soups, a long list of salads<br />
(including grilled salmon and a refreshing pear and gorgonzola), some wonderful antip<strong>as</strong>to<br />
choices, both hot and cold paninis (including, of course, one made with meatballs), more p<strong>as</strong>ta<br />
dishes than there is space here to share (though the Ravioli di Pollo all Vodka – homemade ravioli<br />
filled with chicken and served in a vodka sauce – cannot go unmentioned).<br />
There is also a heady selection of meat and fish dishes <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> any number of traditional and specialty pizz<strong>as</strong> (now available in two sizes)<br />
and some far too-tempting desserts.<br />
Mama’s Meatball is open from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day except Sunday. They are located in the Old Creamery plaza at 570 Higuera<br />
Street, San Luis Obispo. They are also known for their very popular catering services, which work with groups (including weddings) of<br />
every type and size. Their telephone number is (805) 544-0861 and they<br />
are on the Internet at www.Mam<strong>as</strong>Meatball.com. Watch for their new<br />
location opening the first week in April at 325 Pier Avenue, in Oceano;<br />
C A Y U C O S<br />
(805) 473-2383.<br />
S A N L U I S O B I S P O<br />
MAMA'S MEATBALL<br />
Fine Italian Restaurant and Catering<br />
Mama's Meatball h<strong>as</strong> specialized in creating<br />
se<strong>as</strong>onal menus by using only the finest and<br />
freshest ingredients.<br />
570 Higuera St. Suite 130-135<br />
www.mam<strong>as</strong>meatball.com<br />
805-544-0861<br />
HOPPE’S GARDEN BISTRO & WINE SHOP<br />
The most highly acclaimed restaurant and <strong>Wine</strong> Shop on the Central<br />
Co<strong>as</strong>t. Recognized for Chef Wilhelm Hoppe’s se<strong>as</strong>onally inspired menu,<br />
hand-selected wine list with a beautiful garden and historical setting.<br />
Offering a wide range of menu items - from wild game to prime meats<br />
and vegetarian/vegan items.<br />
78 N. Ocean Avenue • Wednesday-Sunday 11am-10pm<br />
www.hoppesbistro.com • 805.995.1006<br />
A T A S C A D E R O<br />
NOVO RESTAURANT<br />
NOVO’s international flavors are the leading ingredients in an<br />
exotic dining experience. Brazilian, Mediterranean and Asian<br />
flavors awaken the senses. In house ro<strong>as</strong>ted spices for curries,<br />
mixtures and marinades balanced with crisp, se<strong>as</strong>onal vegetables<br />
and savory meats. Explore.<br />
726 Higuera Street • Open Daily from 11am<br />
805-543-3986 • www.novorestaurant.com<br />
14<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
In order to celebrate another wonderful year,<br />
join Robert Hall <strong>Wine</strong>ry at its snazzy C<strong>as</strong>ablancathemed<br />
New Year’s Eve Party, December 31 from<br />
7 p.m. to 1 a.m. The elegantly appropriate<br />
Moroccan dinner, catered by Catering Unlimited<br />
of SLO, will be paired with luscious Robert Hall<br />
wines. After dinner, enjoy jazz tunes by Funk 30<br />
and don’t forget to dress to impress. <strong>This</strong> is the<br />
event that will only get better <strong>as</strong> the clock turns 12<br />
a.m. and seating is limited so don’t miss out! For<br />
tickets, or more information, call (805) 239-1616<br />
ext. 24 or email events@roberthallwinery.com.<br />
And remember, “Here’s lookin’ at you, kid.”<br />
Hotel rooms are blocked off at the following<br />
locations: La Quinta Inn and the P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Inn. Click or call either and reference Robert<br />
Hall <strong>Wine</strong>ry for your special rate. Contact The<br />
Grape Line for your transportation needs.<br />
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST<br />
Robert Hall <strong>Wine</strong>ry Hosts C<strong>as</strong>ablanca-Themed New Year’s Event<br />
With the holidays upon us, Robert Hall’s<br />
t<strong>as</strong>ting room is a buzz of activity of all<br />
kinds. The winery h<strong>as</strong> a series of gift<br />
boxes, including wood wine boxes<br />
engraved with personal information <strong>as</strong><br />
well <strong>as</strong> the Robert Hall name. One of the<br />
most popular gifts created at Robert Hall<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ry for the holidays is port-filled<br />
chocolates.<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>maker Don Brady makes certain<br />
that each of Robert Hall’s <strong>Wine</strong>s is<br />
uniquely made b<strong>as</strong>ed on the terroir of the<br />
estate itself. Focused on sustainable<br />
practices and instituting a water-saving<br />
irrigation plan, Robert Hall <strong>Wine</strong>ry is not<br />
only at the cutting edge of winemaking,<br />
but of wine t<strong>as</strong>ting <strong>as</strong> well.<br />
Robert Hall <strong>Wine</strong>ry is located at 3443<br />
Mill Road/Highway 46 E<strong>as</strong>t in P<strong>as</strong>o Robles.<br />
Tours and t<strong>as</strong>tings are availble from 10<br />
a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For more information,<br />
call (805) 239-1616 ext. 24 or visit<br />
the website at www.roberthallwinery.com.<br />
Robert Hall winery h<strong>as</strong> always placed an emph<strong>as</strong>is on combining<br />
premium and quality wines with top-notch customer service. It’s no<br />
wonder then that visiting their t<strong>as</strong>ting room is always a new experience.<br />
As the se<strong>as</strong>ons change, so does the t<strong>as</strong>ting room at Robert Hall<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ry.<br />
The room itself is a large open space with lots of warm colors, soft<br />
blues, pale yellow and extraordinary artwork. Steve Kalar, a Central<br />
Co<strong>as</strong>t artist w<strong>as</strong> responsible for the art that you see and the first eye<br />
catcher <strong>as</strong> you come into the room is the chandelier. Richard Raper,<br />
renowned ironwork artist, is responsible for its creation.<br />
Robert Hall’s focus on creating vineyard-selected premium wines<br />
is still at the heart of the t<strong>as</strong>ting room. <strong>This</strong> year, the winery<br />
produced 100,000 c<strong>as</strong>es of wine while remaining intensely<br />
committed to making certain every bottle gets the same high-quality,<br />
handcrafted attention.<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com 15
P erfect<br />
Pairs by Len Napolitano<br />
2006 Hearthstone Profundo Perfectly Paired<br />
with Orechiette P<strong>as</strong>ta, Sausage, Peppers & Feta<br />
It is fitting that a winery whose name refers to the part of a traditional<br />
home that keeps its residents warm would create a wine and<br />
food pairing perfect for warming up the body on a chilly day. The<br />
hearth, a stone fireplace used for heating or cooking, is the inspiration<br />
for P<strong>as</strong>o Robles-b<strong>as</strong>ed Hearthstone Vineyard and <strong>Wine</strong>ry, whose<br />
recipe for Orechiette P<strong>as</strong>ta with Sausage, Peppers and Feta is married<br />
with their 2006 Profundo, a robust and aromatic blend of<br />
Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. <strong>This</strong> wine falls under<br />
the category of Super Tuscan, a style of wine that takes the traditional<br />
grape of the Tuscany region of Italy – Sangiovese – and joins it<br />
with other red grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah or<br />
even Zinfandel. In the c<strong>as</strong>e of the 2006 Profundo by Hearthstone, it’s<br />
rich flavor and power stand up well to the Italian sausage, red bell<br />
peppers, kalamata olives and feta cheese included in this lively dish.<br />
Surprisingly, the beauty of this blend of grapes of Italian and<br />
French origin is its versatility. Sangiovese is generally acknowledged<br />
to be a food-friendly wine. Its balance of acidity and fruit work well<br />
with a variety of dishes. In Profundo, the added Cabernet Sauvignon<br />
contributes a tannic structure for mouthfeel and longevity, while<br />
Syrah delivers a bold and ripe fruitiness. It will impress anyone who<br />
enjoys a deeply flavored wine of depth, and apparently some wine<br />
critics, <strong>as</strong> well – Profundo recently won a “Critics Gold” recognition<br />
at the 2009 Critics Challenge International <strong>Wine</strong> Competition.<br />
Hearthstone Vineyard and <strong>Wine</strong>ry issued its first rele<strong>as</strong>e in 2003<br />
and opened a new t<strong>as</strong>ting room l<strong>as</strong>t summer, bo<strong>as</strong>ting incredible<br />
views and a picnic area. They make hand-crafted wine from estategrown<br />
grapes from the relatively cooler Templeton Gap region. Be<br />
sure to visit their rustic winery and t<strong>as</strong>ting room and enjoy the<br />
variety of wines that warm the heart and soul. There’s a $7 t<strong>as</strong>ting<br />
fee per person, complimentary with a two-bottle purch<strong>as</strong>e.<br />
Open 11am to 5pm Thursday to Monday<br />
5070 Vineyard Drive, Templeton<br />
805 238-2544 • www.hearthstonevineyard.com<br />
ORECHIETTE PASTA WITH SAUSAGE, PEPPERS AND FETA<br />
• 8 ounces uncooked orecchiette<br />
(“little ear” p<strong>as</strong>ta; about 2 cups)<br />
• 1 te<strong>as</strong>poon olive oil<br />
• 3 cups (1/4-inch-thick) slices red bell pepper,<br />
each cut in half crosswise<br />
• 1/2 te<strong>as</strong>poon salt, divided<br />
• 8 ounces turkey Italian sausage<br />
• 1 te<strong>as</strong>poon dried oregano<br />
• 1 garlic clove, minced<br />
• 3/4 cup (3 ounces) crumbled feta cheese<br />
• 1/4 cup sliced pitted kalamata olives<br />
• 1/4 te<strong>as</strong>poon freshly ground black pepper<br />
Cook the orecchiette according to package directions,<br />
omitting salt and fat. Drain the p<strong>as</strong>ta in a colander<br />
over a bowl, reserving 1/2 cup cooking liquid.<br />
Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high<br />
heat. Add the bell pepper and 1/4 te<strong>as</strong>poon salt;<br />
sauté 2 minutes. Remove c<strong>as</strong>ings from the sausage.<br />
Add sausage, oregano and garlic to pan; cook 4<br />
minutes or until sausage is done, stirring to crumble<br />
sausage. Add p<strong>as</strong>ta, reserved cooking liquid,<br />
1/4 te<strong>as</strong>poon salt, cheese, olives and black pepper;<br />
cook for 2 minutes or until thoroughly heated,<br />
stirring frequently.<br />
16 www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com 17
WINERY FEATURE | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK<br />
HUNT CELLARS<br />
by Dave Wilcox<br />
A few years ago, a small group from Dartmouth University’s prestigious<br />
Tuck School of Business decided to examine the business model<br />
of a boutique winery on California’s Central Co<strong>as</strong>t.<br />
What better subject than Hunt Cellars, whose owner and winemaker,<br />
David Hunt, combines a connoisseur’s appreciation of exceptional<br />
wine with the acumen of a savvy businessman.<br />
Hunt Cellars, concluded the business school study, w<strong>as</strong> poised to<br />
become the next cult winery, following in the footsteps of such wineries<br />
<strong>as</strong> Harlan Estates and Screaming Eagle.<br />
Loyal fans of Hunt Cellars would agree, anxiously awaiting new<br />
rele<strong>as</strong>es from the winery, which specializes in brawny reds and varietal<br />
ports that have consistently scooped up numerous gold medals and 90-<br />
plus scores.<br />
Hunt and his wife, Deborah, started the winery 12 years ago after<br />
buying property in e<strong>as</strong>t of P<strong>as</strong>o Robles. Hunt’s meticulous nature led<br />
him to premium wine regions throughout the western U.S., including<br />
are<strong>as</strong> of Oregon and W<strong>as</strong>hington, in search of an ideal location for his<br />
vineyard. His pursuit led him to P<strong>as</strong>o Robles – more specifically, an area<br />
e<strong>as</strong>t of P<strong>as</strong>o called Creston – where he purch<strong>as</strong>ed 550 acres of hilly,<br />
rugged land where only the most vigorous vines would thrive.<br />
“Our vineyard is a jewel,” said Hunt, adding that the stubborn,<br />
shallow soil strewn with chalky, calcified rocks mirrors some of the<br />
world’s finest grape-growing regions.<br />
“We have no clay,” he said. “Our yields are so low it kills me financially.”<br />
Destiny’s Vineyard – named for the Hunts’ daughter – climbs from<br />
1,500 to 2,400 feet above sea level, with sweeping vist<strong>as</strong> of 50 miles.<br />
“The best wines in the world are made from hillside vineyards,”<br />
noted Hunt. Ocean breezes blowing in from the Pacific 14 miles away<br />
cool the higher elevations and provide what Hunt believes is “the best<br />
climate on the Central Co<strong>as</strong>t” for growing red wine grapes.<br />
“We get an extra three hours of growing time each day.”<br />
An entrepreneur at heart, David Hunt’s earlier business success w<strong>as</strong><br />
grounded in part through his ability to recognize that people value<br />
quality. He applies that same philosophy to his winemaking, constantly<br />
tinkering with his sumptuous blends until he’s satisfied they’ve reached<br />
their potential.<br />
Hunt’s red wines are aged in barrels for more than two years, with<br />
some remaining more than 30 months, before bottling. It’s in the barrel,<br />
he says, where wines gain character and expression, without becoming<br />
overly extracted.<br />
Hunt’s palate is likely more refined than most because he’s legally<br />
blind. His sight gradually dimmed throughout his adult life, due to a<br />
disorder diagnosed early in his life. His discerning sense of t<strong>as</strong>te distinguishes<br />
nuances in wine that are often missed by winemakers, leading<br />
him to produce wines with layers of characteristics and lengthy<br />
finishes.<br />
“Blindness in some ways helps me making wine,” he once told an<br />
interviewer. “I’m totally hands-on: I analyze seeds, grapes. The Good<br />
Lord took away my eyes, but gave me an extra-sensitive palate and<br />
nose.”<br />
His wines, he says, “are juicy and succulent. They’re irresistible.”<br />
Music is another of Hunt’s p<strong>as</strong>sions. By the time he w<strong>as</strong> 12 he w<strong>as</strong><br />
performing with show bands and he pursued a music career after<br />
moving to California. The names of his wines reflect that love for song.<br />
There’s “Rhapsody in Red,” a Meritage, “Duets” a blend of Cabernet<br />
Sauvignon and Syrah, and a Tawny Port called “Oldie But Goodie” that<br />
is one of Hunt’s highest-scoring wines. A Petite Sirah -b<strong>as</strong>ed port is<br />
expected to be rele<strong>as</strong>ed next year, said Hunt.<br />
Hunt, who’s a songwriter and who will typically plays piano during<br />
18 www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY FEATURE<br />
Continued<br />
his intimate winemaker dinners, said he’s been writing a new batch of<br />
tunes that echo the musical names of his wines. He plans on burning<br />
some CDs to distribute to wine club members.<br />
With the limited production of a boutique winery – Hunt said he<br />
rele<strong>as</strong>es between 8,000 and 12,000 c<strong>as</strong>es annually – the v<strong>as</strong>t majority<br />
of sales come through its wine club. Hunt’s wines are also served in<br />
some of the country’s most prestigious restaurants, including Ruth’s<br />
Chris Steakhouses, Roy’s, The Four Se<strong>as</strong>ons and the Ritz-Carlton.<br />
While most of the wine is made with estate-grown fruit, Hunt will<br />
source fruit from other vineyards if that’s what it takes to make the best<br />
possible wine.<br />
Quality grapes, combined with patience, enable Hunt Cellars to<br />
produce wines that consistently impress.<br />
“We’re not in a rush to produce a product,” said Hunt, “until it’s<br />
ready.”<br />
The Hunt Cellars t<strong>as</strong>ting room is three miles west of Highway 101<br />
on Highway 46 at Oakdale Road. It’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.<br />
More information is available at (805) 237-1600, or by logging onto<br />
www.huntcellars.com.<br />
T<strong>as</strong>ting menus include six samples for $5. Reserve vintages are $10<br />
for six t<strong>as</strong>tes. Both menus include Hunt Cellars’ noteworthy ports.<br />
Additionally, visitors can indulge in a Chocolate Zinfandel Port Shooter,<br />
featuring gourmet dark chocolate cups imported from Belgium that are<br />
filled with port.<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com<br />
19
CRESTON<br />
AIRPORT<br />
PENMAN<br />
SPRINGS<br />
JARDINE<br />
PASO ROBLES | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK<br />
DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES<br />
15TH STREET<br />
101<br />
T o Monterey ( 1 0 8 miles) /<br />
S an J ose ( 1 5 0 miles) /<br />
S an F rancisco ( 1 9 5 miles)<br />
OAK STREET<br />
Justin<br />
OAK STREET<br />
T o H earst C <strong>as</strong>tle<br />
( 3 6 .6 miles)<br />
MAIN ST<br />
BURTON<br />
Carmody<br />
McKnight<br />
Moonstone Cellars<br />
ADELAIDA<br />
CHIMNEY ROCK<br />
Tolo Cellars<br />
LeCuvier<br />
Tabl<strong>as</strong> Creek<br />
Vineyard Whalebone<br />
Lions Peak<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> Co.<br />
C amb ria<br />
N. GREEN VALLEY<br />
Harmony Cellars<br />
HOPPE’S GARDEN<br />
BISTRO & FINE WINES<br />
C ayu cos<br />
Cayucos Cellars<br />
1<br />
Ortman Family<br />
Vineyards<br />
Asuncion Ridge<br />
Bear Cave Cellars<br />
ARROYO ROBLES<br />
SPRING STREET<br />
13TH ST<br />
12TH STREET<br />
CITY PARK<br />
10TH STREET<br />
B<strong>as</strong>setti Vineyards<br />
(by appt.)<br />
OLD CREEK<br />
PARK STREET<br />
9TH STREET<br />
8TH STREET<br />
Starr Ranch<br />
T o Morro B ay/<br />
S an L u is O b ispo<br />
HALTER<br />
RANCH<br />
Aron Hill Vineyards<br />
Kukkula<br />
YORK MTN<br />
ADELAIDA<br />
WILLOW CREEK<br />
VINEYARD<br />
PEACHY CANYON RD<br />
NIDERER<br />
S an Migu el<br />
SAN MARCOS<br />
Thunderbolt<br />
Junction<br />
Caparone<br />
LI VE OAK<br />
PACIFIC<br />
KILER CANYON<br />
SANTA RITA<br />
RAYMOND<br />
Rabbit<br />
Ridge<br />
WELLSONA<br />
ARBOR<br />
24TH<br />
Wild Coyote<br />
Adelaida<br />
Villicana/Alta Colina<br />
Nadeau Family Cellars Calcareous<br />
41W<br />
ROSSI<br />
MAIN<br />
14th<br />
10th<br />
Christian Lazo<br />
6TH<br />
T empleton<br />
SPRING<br />
RIVER<br />
RIVER<br />
Martin-<br />
Weyrich<br />
TEMPLETON<br />
Pretty-Smith<br />
MISSION LANE<br />
NORTH RIVER<br />
ESTRELLA<br />
SAN MARCOS<br />
CREEK<br />
J LOHR<br />
SYLVESTER<br />
Barrel 27<br />
Locatelli<br />
WELLSONA<br />
Thacher<br />
Stacked Stone<br />
Villa Creek<br />
Min<strong>as</strong>sian-Young<br />
Écluse<br />
101<br />
Norman<br />
Terry Hoage<br />
Fratelli Perata<br />
Dunning<br />
L’Aventure Windward<br />
Pipestone<br />
Doce Robles<br />
OPOLO<br />
Changala Treana/Hope Eagle<br />
Sharp’s Hill<br />
JADA<br />
Midnight CalizaC<strong>as</strong>tle<br />
Summerwood<br />
Denner<br />
Zenaida FS Cellars<br />
Donatoni Brian Benson<br />
PerCazo Cellars<br />
AJB Dark Star<br />
Peachy Canyon<br />
Jan Kris<br />
HEARTHSTONE<br />
Red Soles Booker<br />
CASTORO CELLARS<br />
Jack Creek HUNT CELLARS Grey<br />
Dover Canyon Four Vines Wolf VINFUZION<br />
Croad<br />
Lone Madrone<br />
Linne Calodo<br />
York Mountain <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Clavo Cellars<br />
Zin Alley<br />
Croad<br />
Rotta<br />
Venteux<br />
Turley<br />
Stephens<br />
Jack Creek Donati<br />
Bella Luna<br />
Family<br />
Vineyard<br />
HammerSky<br />
Oso Libre P<strong>as</strong>oPort<br />
46W<br />
Rocky<br />
Creek<br />
Cellars<br />
14TH<br />
PIANETTA<br />
CLAYHOUSE<br />
VIHEULA<br />
7TH STREET<br />
PINE STREET<br />
RAILROAD ST<br />
101<br />
EDWARD SELLERS<br />
ORCHID HILL<br />
Kaleidos<br />
Kiamie Cellars<br />
RIVERSIDE AVENUE<br />
ANGLIM WINERY<br />
D’Anbino Cellars<br />
PASO ROBLES STREET<br />
Mondo<br />
NACIMI<br />
CARINA<br />
CELLARS<br />
VINEYARD<br />
WINERY<br />
OLD MORRO RD W<br />
Vista<br />
del Rey<br />
ENTO<br />
LAKE<br />
LASTABLAS<br />
BETHEL<br />
Chronic<br />
Frolicking Frog<br />
Vines on the<br />
Marycrest<br />
SAN MIGUEL RD<br />
Roxo<br />
Port<br />
VINE<br />
MISSION<br />
INDIAN VALLEY RD<br />
RN Estate RiverStar<br />
Nichols<br />
P <strong>as</strong>o R ob les<br />
NIBL<br />
CROSS CANYON<br />
NIBLICK<br />
BUENA VISTA<br />
NEAL<br />
EL POMAR<br />
CHAROLAIS<br />
SPRINGS<br />
LUPINE<br />
SILVER<br />
HORSE<br />
PLEASANT<br />
Graveyard<br />
Vineyards<br />
EBERLE<br />
FIRESTONE<br />
UNION<br />
VIHUELA<br />
101<br />
N ot to S cale<br />
Villa San-Juliette<br />
Ranchita Canyon<br />
Hug Cellars<br />
UNION<br />
SCULPTERRA<br />
CRESTON<br />
Derby <strong>Wine</strong><br />
Estates<br />
Meridian<br />
J. Paul Rosilez<br />
Tobin<br />
46E<br />
Chumeia James<br />
Eos Estate<br />
T o I -5<br />
Vina Robles<br />
MILL<br />
Bianchi Rockin’ R <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Mitchella ROBERTPear Valley<br />
HALL<br />
Rio Seco<br />
Maloy O’Neill<br />
Falcon Nest Gelfand<br />
Penman<br />
Springs<br />
Victor Hugo<br />
AmByth<br />
Estate<br />
WILD HORSE<br />
Laraneta<br />
LINNE RD<br />
REDONDO<br />
RANCHITA CANYON<br />
TOWER ROAD<br />
Bishop’s Peak<br />
Pomar<br />
Junction<br />
Sextant<br />
S. EL POMAR<br />
JUDD FAMILY<br />
Clautiere<br />
Vineyard<br />
OLD GROVE<br />
41E<br />
CREEK<br />
S anta Margarita<br />
POZO VALLEY<br />
C<strong>as</strong>s<br />
DRESSER RANCH PL<br />
LINNE<br />
Still Waters<br />
BRANCH<br />
GENESEO<br />
T S L u O b ( 2 6<br />
S B ( 1 3 3<br />
Ancient<br />
Peaks<br />
58<br />
o an is ispo miles)<br />
anta arb ara miles)<br />
Cinquain<br />
Sarzotti<br />
B & E Vineyards<br />
Hansen Vineyards<br />
Loma Linda<br />
GreMark<br />
Hidden Oak<br />
August<br />
Stanger<br />
Ridge<br />
ALMOND<br />
Tackitt<br />
VON DOLLEN RD<br />
HOG CANYON<br />
INDEPENDENCE<br />
RANCH<br />
CAMP 8<br />
LA PANZA<br />
Chateau<br />
Margene<br />
20<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | PASO ROBLES<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com 21
SAN LUIS OBISPO | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK<br />
Hospice of San Luis Obispo’s Avila Beach Concours d’Elegance<br />
Avila Beach Concours d’Elegance to take place at the Avila Beach Golf Resort<br />
Hospice of San Luis Obispo<br />
County is proud to announce the<br />
third annual Avila Beach<br />
Concours d’Elegance on October<br />
22-25. <strong>This</strong> regional event will<br />
be hosted by the Avila Beach Golf<br />
Resort and The Rossi Foundation<br />
a 501 (c)(3) cooperation with<br />
Porsche <strong>as</strong> the featured marque<br />
and showc<strong>as</strong>ing fine Italian Automobiles<br />
and pre-1950 cl<strong>as</strong>sics.<br />
All proceeds will benefit Hospice<br />
of San Luis Obispo County,<br />
which h<strong>as</strong> provided all of its<br />
many services free of charge to<br />
the community since 1977.<br />
<strong>This</strong> four-day series of events<br />
will feature unique venues<br />
around the entire county, highlight<br />
the best food and wine<br />
purveyors, local artists and showc<strong>as</strong>e<br />
more than 200 of the most<br />
beautiful cars in the world. All of<br />
these unique vehicles will be<br />
displayed at the Avila Beach Golf<br />
Resort on Sunday, October 25<br />
from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. General<br />
admission tickets are $10 donation<br />
to Hospice and children 15<br />
and under get in free. Connoisseur<br />
T<strong>as</strong>ting tickets are $75<br />
which include unlimited food<br />
and wine t<strong>as</strong>ting and live entertainment.<br />
LOS OSOS VALLEY RD<br />
San Luis Obispo<br />
SEE CANYON RD<br />
PER<br />
BACCO<br />
CELLARS<br />
KELSEY SEE<br />
CANYON<br />
SALISBURY<br />
VINEYARDS<br />
SANLUISBAYRD<br />
ONTARIO RD<br />
AVILA BEACH<br />
Morovino<br />
Alapay<br />
WOOD WINERY<br />
Avila Beach<br />
CALLE JOAQUIN<br />
101<br />
Shell Beach<br />
To P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
(26 miles )<br />
VACHELL<br />
101<br />
Other events leading up to the<br />
Concours on the golf course<br />
include a premier event at the<br />
Fremont Theater, two road rallies<br />
around the Central Co<strong>as</strong>t, a<br />
barbecue at the Santa Margarita<br />
Ranch, and an elegant gala dinner<br />
S. HIGUERA<br />
MARSH ST<br />
Sextant <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
SUBURBAN<br />
MONTEREY ST<br />
OSOS ST<br />
BROAD ST<br />
SANTA ROSA<br />
TANK FARM<br />
Stephen Ross<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
BUCKLEY RD<br />
JOHNSON AVE<br />
JOHNSON AVE<br />
ORCUTT<br />
Cerro Caliente Cellars<br />
PRICE<br />
CANYON RD<br />
TANK FARM<br />
BIDDLE RANCH<br />
Edna Valley <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Piedra Creek<br />
Sextant<br />
COMING NOV. 09<br />
TOLOSA<br />
WINERY<br />
EDNA RD<br />
POZO VALLEY<br />
CLAIBORNE<br />
& CHRUCHILL<br />
RIGHETTI RD<br />
CARPENTER CANYON<br />
NOYES<br />
with a live and silent auction at<br />
the Avila Beach Golf Resort.<br />
For more details, check out<br />
www.avilabeachconcours.com or<br />
call Katie Manley at Hospice of<br />
San Luis Obispo County at (805)<br />
544-2266.<br />
Baileyana and Tangent Vineyards<br />
Saucelito Canyon<br />
BY APPOINTMENT<br />
227<br />
Wolff Vineyards<br />
Chamisal/Domaine<br />
Alfred<br />
Kynsi<br />
Vineyards<br />
ORCUTT<br />
TIFFANY RANCH<br />
CORBETT<br />
RD<br />
CANYON RD<br />
BISHOP’S PEAK/<br />
TALLEY<br />
VINEYARDS<br />
LOPEZ DR<br />
Rancho<br />
Arroyo<br />
Grande<br />
22<br />
P a c i f i c O c e a n<br />
Pismo Beach<br />
HINDS AVE<br />
PISMO<br />
BEACH<br />
WINERY<br />
OAK PARK<br />
1<br />
Grover Beach<br />
MAMA’S<br />
MEATBALL<br />
Oceano<br />
OAK PARK<br />
CAMINO<br />
BRISCO<br />
101<br />
GRAND AVE.<br />
TRAFFIC<br />
PHANTOM<br />
RIVERS WINE<br />
BRIDGE<br />
BRANCH RD<br />
HUASNA RD<br />
HUASNA RD<br />
Arroyo Grande<br />
LAETITIA VINEYARD<br />
Barnwood Vineyard<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | SAN LUIS OBISPO<br />
Martin & Bryan in the Barrel Room<br />
Inviting T<strong>as</strong>ting Room<br />
PISMO BEACH WINERY<br />
Where <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> Meets the Beach<br />
by Michael Cervin<br />
Pismo Beach h<strong>as</strong> always been <strong>as</strong>sociated<br />
with the Pismo clam, but the times are<br />
changing. Pismo’s very first t<strong>as</strong>ting room h<strong>as</strong><br />
opened and it might make Pismo just <strong>as</strong> well<br />
known for wine. Brothers Bryan and Martin<br />
Friedman were home winemakers for years,<br />
and started <strong>as</strong> a hobby. After years of making<br />
wine they were “heavily encouraged” to go<br />
professional. “All the people we were sharing<br />
our wines with told us we should sell it,”<br />
Bryan says. And thus began a near 10 year<br />
plan to open their very own winery. They<br />
owned a rental property in Pismo Beach, but<br />
it had been le<strong>as</strong>ed for 10 years already and<br />
everyone <strong>as</strong>sumed the tenant would stay<br />
another 10 years. When their tenant moved<br />
out they saw the perfect opportunity.<br />
“Finding a location w<strong>as</strong> the limiting factor for<br />
not opening sooner,” Bryan acknowledges.<br />
Additionally, it’s far better to be close to vineyard<br />
sources than too far removed. “High<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com<br />
quality fruit and <strong>as</strong> close to home <strong>as</strong> possible,”<br />
is Bryan’s motto.<br />
They are making about 1,500 c<strong>as</strong>es<br />
currently and their portfolio consists of<br />
Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel,<br />
Barbera and Petite Syrah. The Pinot Noir<br />
which they grow in the Edna and Avila<br />
valleys, utilizes four different clones. They are<br />
looking into a red blended wine and maybe<br />
adding a Pinot Gris or a Viognier for another<br />
white wine. But since it’s just them doing all<br />
of the work, they’re taking it slow. “My<br />
brother and I do pretty much everything<br />
ourselves, we’re wearing a lot of different<br />
hats.”<br />
Pismo Beach receives a tremendous<br />
number of visitors and the t<strong>as</strong>ting room h<strong>as</strong><br />
seen not only guests from within the co<strong>as</strong>tal<br />
communities, but California’s Central Valley<br />
and international tourists <strong>as</strong> well. “Just this<br />
l<strong>as</strong>t year, we’ve had people from all over the<br />
world,” Bryan says. Countries <strong>as</strong> diverse <strong>as</strong><br />
Denmark, Korea, Africa, Australia and<br />
Ireland. The great benefit they have is that<br />
Bryan and Martin are the only game in town.<br />
The t<strong>as</strong>ting room, located adjacent to the<br />
Pismo Outlet mall right off Highway 101 isn’t<br />
surrounded by verdant vineyards. Instead the<br />
urban setting is more a working facility with<br />
the crush pad next to the t<strong>as</strong>ting room. “We’re<br />
family owned,” Bryan says proudly. “My wife<br />
works in the t<strong>as</strong>ting room <strong>as</strong> does Martin’s<br />
daughter. We’re a tight-knit family business<br />
which is fun,” he says. Though the l<strong>as</strong>t year<br />
h<strong>as</strong> been challenging for the brothers, it’s been<br />
more than rewarding. “We’ve met a lot of<br />
friends and met interesting people. It’s great to<br />
be in the hospitality business.”<br />
Stop by Pismo Beach <strong>Wine</strong>ry to t<strong>as</strong>te their<br />
handcrafted wines at 271B Five Cities Dr.<br />
Chances are one of the Friedman family<br />
will be behind the counter. Visit their website,<br />
www.pismobeachwinery.com or phone them<br />
at (805) 773-9463<br />
23
SANTA MARIA | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK<br />
Santa Maria’s Women of the Vine<br />
Rarely have housewives been seen <strong>as</strong> playing a major role in<br />
the development of California’s wine country…or any role at all,<br />
for that matter besides being the primarily buyers (and in my<br />
c<strong>as</strong>e, consumers) of the household’s wine supply. But in the now<br />
famous Santa Maria wine region it w<strong>as</strong> the housewives of the<br />
town of Sisquoc who got the whole thing started.<br />
In 1963, William De Mattie and Uriel Nielson bought 100<br />
acres of the Fesler Ranch for the purpose of growing wine grapes.<br />
In 1964, the planting began when Bill Collins enlisted the homemakers<br />
of Sisquoc to help him plant Cabernet, Chardonnay, Riesling,<br />
Sauvignon Blanc and Sylvarnii grapes. Whether it w<strong>as</strong><br />
dreams of delicious wines for their tables or just the extra pocket<br />
money that motivated them, the gals made it happen.<br />
Since then, some very talented and determined women have<br />
followed their lead and made the Central Co<strong>as</strong>t one of California’s<br />
premier winemaking regions. These remarkable women have left<br />
their mark on the region <strong>as</strong> winemakers, owners of wineries and<br />
<strong>as</strong> t<strong>as</strong>ting room employees.<br />
135<br />
1<br />
McKeon-<br />
Philips<br />
BLOSSER<br />
SKYWAY<br />
Addamo<br />
Vineyards<br />
Core<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> Co.<br />
GRAY<br />
Orcutt<br />
To San Luis Obispo<br />
(32 miles)<br />
E DONOVAN<br />
MAIN<br />
STOWELL<br />
BROADWAY<br />
135<br />
CLARK<br />
ROEMER<br />
101<br />
Roemer Way Self-Storage<br />
COSTA DE ORO<br />
BETTERAVIA<br />
TELEPHONE<br />
DOMINION<br />
Cottonwood<br />
Canyon<br />
SANTA MARIA MESA RD<br />
River Bench<br />
Vineyards<br />
Santa Maria<br />
Cambria<br />
KENNETH<br />
VOLK<br />
VINEYARDS<br />
TEPUSQUET<br />
Byron<br />
Rancho Sisquoc<br />
Foxen Vineyards<br />
Lane Tanner is an icon in the wine world. She is one of the<br />
Central Co<strong>as</strong>t’s most notable winemakers and a woman whose<br />
significant contributions to the area’s development have helped it<br />
to achieve the fame it now enjoys. She grew up in Kelseyville,CA<br />
and graduated from San Jose State with a degree in chemistry.<br />
When she returned to Kelseyville in 1980, she w<strong>as</strong> hired by<br />
Konocti <strong>Wine</strong>ry to do lab work. While there she met the man<br />
who would change her life. Andre Tchelistcheff w<strong>as</strong> a consulting<br />
enologist for Konocti <strong>Wine</strong>ry and w<strong>as</strong> very impressed by the<br />
young lady he met there in the lab. He took her under his wing<br />
and taught her the art of winemaking. It w<strong>as</strong> a role she w<strong>as</strong> born<br />
to play. She officially began her career <strong>as</strong> a winemaker with the<br />
Hitching Post of the movie “Sideways” fame, but quickly moved<br />
on to a larger stage. In 1989 she developed Lane Tanner <strong>Wine</strong>ry,<br />
b<strong>as</strong>ed in Santa Maria Valley. Her awards are too numerous to list<br />
and her wine is a must-have for any serious wine collector.<br />
Kate Firestone is another of the area’s influential women. She<br />
may be known more famously now <strong>as</strong> the mother of Andrew<br />
Firestone of “The Bachelor” fame, but her contributions to the<br />
family’s winery extend way beyond that simple distinction. As a<br />
London-trained ballerina, Kate brought her sense of style and<br />
grace to the emerging Central Co<strong>as</strong>t wine world and set a standard<br />
of sophistication that h<strong>as</strong> helped the region take its place<br />
amongst the finest wine districts in the world. In 1987, along<br />
with her husband, A Brooke Firestone, she purch<strong>as</strong>ed the small<br />
family-owned Carey Cellars and set about creating a winery that<br />
reflected her intelligent and artistic approach to the business of<br />
winemaking. Now her daughter, Hayley Firestone Jessup is<br />
carrying on the tradition of Firestone women who are making<br />
their mark in the wine industry.<br />
In Santa Maria, another woman h<strong>as</strong> worked hard to place the<br />
FOXEN CANYON RD<br />
1<br />
Los Alamos<br />
To<br />
Lompoc (18 miles)<br />
Solvang (34 miles)<br />
Bedford<br />
Thompson<br />
ALISOS CANYON<br />
Curtis<br />
FIRESTONE<br />
Tres Herman<strong>as</strong><br />
Zaca Mesa<br />
STA<br />
ZACA<br />
Fess Parker<br />
Koehler<br />
FOXEN<br />
CANYON RD<br />
154<br />
24<br />
101<br />
To Solvang<br />
(17 miles)<br />
To Los Olivos<br />
(11 miles)<br />
Jess Jackson and Barbara Banke<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | SANTA MARIA<br />
area on the map of great wines. Barbara Banke, along with her<br />
husband Jess Jackson (of Kendall Jackson fame) opened Cambria<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ry in 1988. Barbara, acting <strong>as</strong> president, h<strong>as</strong> created a<br />
winery whose name is synonymous with excellence. Her husband<br />
often refers to her winery <strong>as</strong> the “jewel in the crown” of the<br />
company’s many fine winery operations.<br />
In a tour of the region, you will find many gracious women<br />
operating t<strong>as</strong>ting rooms <strong>as</strong> well. Acting <strong>as</strong> hostesses for the area’s<br />
wineries, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> experts on the local wines, these women are<br />
instrumental in introducing visitors to the great wines of the<br />
Central Co<strong>as</strong>t.<br />
The art of winemaking, the business management of wineries,<br />
the cordial greeting of guests, <strong>as</strong> well <strong>as</strong> the very planting of the<br />
vines have all been profoundly influenced by many talented,<br />
hard-working and dedicated women. The Santa Maria and Santa<br />
Barbara wine regions would truly not be the same without them.<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com<br />
25
5<br />
TH<br />
SAN MARCOS<br />
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK<br />
TTB Officially Announced the Formation of<br />
the Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA<br />
Abridged from redwinebuzz.com, October 9, 2009<br />
On October 8, 2009, after an uneventful Public Comment period,<br />
the TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) officially<br />
announced the formation of the Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA.<br />
Happy Canyon, in many ways, is Santa Ynez Valley’s resolution to<br />
the larger AVA’s Bordeaux conundrum of the late ’80s: Their Cabernetb<strong>as</strong>ed<br />
wines were regarded <strong>as</strong> vegetal. Many pulled their Cabernet<br />
vines and switched over to Rhône varieties – some <strong>as</strong> late <strong>as</strong> 2005.<br />
Some of those vines were rightfully pulled <strong>as</strong> they had been put in the<br />
wrong sites. So, even in the l<strong>as</strong>t decade, Santa Ynez Valley growers<br />
pulled their Pinot Noir vines <strong>as</strong> well.<br />
Some of the region’s Bordeaux-style wines, however, not only had<br />
good varietal typicity but were also good emulators of Old World<br />
styles. A few producers (for example, Luc<strong>as</strong> & Lewellen with 30-<br />
year-old Cabernet vines at their Valley View Vineyard), have been<br />
going strong and proving this “vegetal” <strong>as</strong>sumption very wrong.<br />
Styles are subject to trends. Fancy is quite fickle and, at times,<br />
fleeting. One could entertain ide<strong>as</strong> of the pendulum swinging<br />
between two extremes of style <strong>as</strong> the re<strong>as</strong>on for the trajectory of the<br />
style of California’s Bordeaux-type wines over the l<strong>as</strong>t two decades or<br />
so. There remains a fact, though, that producers want to find the<br />
To Santa Maria,<br />
P<strong>as</strong>o Robles, see page 18<br />
154<br />
To Hwy. 101<br />
Santa Maria (32 miles)<br />
P<strong>as</strong>o Robles (88 miles)<br />
Foley<br />
Estates<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
To Lompoc<br />
(18 miles)<br />
To<br />
Hwy. 1<br />
246<br />
1<br />
Sanford<br />
To Santa Maria<br />
Palmina<br />
E. CHESTNUT<br />
7TH<br />
Lompoc<br />
SANTA ROSA AVE<br />
Buellton<br />
INDUSTRIAL<br />
AVE OF THE FLAGS<br />
101<br />
Lompoc “<strong>Wine</strong> Ghetto”<br />
Fiddlehead Cellars<br />
Babcock<br />
D’Vine<br />
<strong>Wine</strong><br />
T<strong>as</strong>ting 246<br />
Melville<br />
Foley Estates <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Dierberg & Star Lane Vineyards<br />
1<br />
To<br />
Hwy.<br />
101<br />
To Santa Barbara<br />
BALLARD CANYON RD<br />
To<br />
Santa<br />
Barbara<br />
(43 miles)<br />
Los Olivos<br />
G<br />
Rusack<br />
Ballard<br />
CHALKHILL<br />
ATTERDAG<br />
2ND<br />
OAK<br />
MOLLE<br />
PARK<br />
1ST<br />
BALLARD CANYON RD<br />
PARK<br />
COPENHAGEN<br />
ALISAL<br />
Epiphany<br />
Daniel Gehrs<br />
Saarloos & Sons<br />
Longoria<br />
Wild Heart<br />
Tre Anelli<br />
Los Olivos T<strong>as</strong>ting Room<br />
Andrew Murray<br />
MISSION<br />
ALAMO PINTADO AVE<br />
ALAMOPINTADO RD<br />
GRAND AVE<br />
CARINA CELLARS<br />
Blackjack<br />
Lincourt<br />
Coquelicot<br />
STOLPMAN<br />
Carhartt <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Consilience<br />
Alexander & Wayne and Arthur Earl<br />
ALAMO PINTADO AVE<br />
Rideau<br />
Scott Cellars<br />
Silver <strong>Wine</strong>s<br />
BASELINE<br />
Buttonwood<br />
Sort <strong>This</strong> Out Cellars<br />
Solvang<br />
C<strong>as</strong>a C<strong>as</strong>sara<br />
Honeywood/<br />
Olde Mission <strong>Wine</strong> Co.<br />
Cabana/Wondering Dog <strong>Wine</strong> Bar<br />
D’Alfonso-Curran <strong>Wine</strong>s<br />
Shoestring<br />
C<strong>as</strong>a C<strong>as</strong>sara<br />
T<strong>as</strong>tes of the Valleys<br />
Lafond<br />
Hitching Post Presidio<br />
246<br />
Luc<strong>as</strong> & Lewellen<br />
Kalyra<br />
Alma Rosa Mosby<br />
Lion’s Peak/Mission Meadow <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Royal Oaks<br />
Mandolina<br />
Alisal Cellars<br />
Bellissima<br />
Sunstone<br />
101<br />
Uncorked/Monsoon Cellars<br />
Beckmen<br />
REFUGIO<br />
REFUGIO<br />
154<br />
ROBLAR AVE<br />
Roblar<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Brander & Domaine<br />
Santa Barbara<br />
QUESTA<br />
EDISON<br />
S O N<br />
EDI<br />
Bridlewood<br />
Santa Ynez<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> Cellar<br />
Artiste<br />
SAGUNTO<br />
NUMANCIA<br />
Imagine <strong>Wine</strong><br />
Chum<strong>as</strong>h<br />
C<strong>as</strong>ino<br />
MORA<br />
MEADOWVALE<br />
Gainey<br />
To Santa Barbara<br />
(29 miles)<br />
SantaYnez<br />
246<br />
Not to Scale<br />
26<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | SANTA BARBARA COUNTY<br />
Continued<br />
varieties that work best in a particular location and to be able to<br />
consistently deliver a product that consumers expect. Moving<br />
Bordeaux variety-producing viticulture to the e<strong>as</strong>tern ends of the<br />
Santa Ynez Valley may be a way of achieving that. It affords a greater<br />
guarantee of arriving at a quality of fruit which will satisfy market<br />
demands.<br />
To gain a better understanding of the new AVA, I spoke with Wes<br />
Hagen, Clos Pepe’s Vineyard Manager and <strong>Wine</strong>maker (who w<strong>as</strong><br />
hired to draft the AVA proposal for the Happy Canyon vintners)<br />
several months prior to this formal ruling.<br />
The Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara AVA rests against the<br />
foothills of the San Rafael Mountains e<strong>as</strong>t of Highway 154, touches<br />
the Los Padres National Forest to the e<strong>as</strong>t, the Lake Cachuma Recreation<br />
Area in the southe<strong>as</strong>t and the Santa Ynez river in the southwest.<br />
The e<strong>as</strong>tern and southern boundaries line use the same lines<br />
established in 1983 for the Santa Ynez Valley AVA. The same applies<br />
to the new AVA’s southern boundary. The western boundary moves<br />
north from the Santa Ynez River and proceeds north, west of Santa<br />
Agueda and Figueroa Creeks and completes the perimeter at the<br />
point where Figueroa Mountain Road meets the e<strong>as</strong>tern boundary in<br />
the foothills of the San Rafael Mountains. The area traditionally<br />
referred to <strong>as</strong> “Figueroa Mountain” is excluded from the AVA for<br />
geographical and geological re<strong>as</strong>ons.<br />
The AVA’s terrain varies significantly across the 23,941-acre AVA.<br />
In the southe<strong>as</strong>t, seep slopes span elevations of 800 to 3,400 feet.<br />
The appellation then spans across canyons, rolling hills, creek and<br />
river b<strong>as</strong>ins to the e<strong>as</strong>t and south. The landscape of the new AVA<br />
changes from gently rolling, green p<strong>as</strong>tures in the west to alluvial<br />
and then steep, stony infertile soils in the e<strong>as</strong>t. The central portion,<br />
surrounded by rolling hills, transitions to deep canyons whose ridge<br />
lines range from 1,200 feet to 1,800 feet in elevation.<br />
Vines<br />
There are less than 500 acres of vineyards on six commercial<br />
properties (and a few other tiny properties) in the newly formed,<br />
23,941-acre AVA. The region’s growers have emph<strong>as</strong>ized Bordeaux<br />
varieties, though the main Rhône varieties are also well-represented.<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>s<br />
Labeling laws concerning wines made around the time of AVA<br />
approval allow for some wines to be cl<strong>as</strong>sified retroactively. 2007<br />
vintage wines could be retroactively allowed to bear the “Happy<br />
Canyon of Santa Barbara” AVA name if they were still in barrel at the<br />
time of AVA approval (label cannot be submitted for approval prior<br />
to the AVA being approved). <strong>This</strong> is different from some wines such<br />
<strong>as</strong> Fiddlehead Cellars Happy Canyon Sauvignon Blanc and Doug<br />
Margerum’s Piocho label, which bear the words “Happy Canyon”<br />
but are still designated <strong>as</strong> Santa Ynez Valley wines.<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ries sourcing from the region and expected to label their<br />
wines with this new AVA include: Andrew Murray, Arthur Earl,<br />
Babcock, Brander, Carharrt, Carina Cellars, DiBruno, Fiddlehead,<br />
Gainey, Hitching Post, Jaffurs, Kalyra, Margerum, Nipomo <strong>Wine</strong><br />
Grp., Ojai Vineyard, Osseus, Paige 23, Pietra Santa, Renard, Rusack,<br />
Sanford, Sanguis, Santa Barbara <strong>Wine</strong>ry, Siempre and William James<br />
Cellars.<br />
MISSION<br />
101<br />
To Solvang<br />
(34 miles)<br />
STATE<br />
Coquelicot<br />
OLIVE<br />
ANAPAMU<br />
ANACAPA<br />
N SALSIPUEDES<br />
Carr <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
MILPAS<br />
E GUITERREZ<br />
MONTECITO<br />
Santa Barbara<br />
Jaffurs<br />
<strong>Wine</strong> Cellars<br />
Oreana Whitcraft<br />
Geisinger Santa Barbara <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Kalyra Kunin & Westerly<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
Summerland<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
101<br />
Stearns Wharf Vintners<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com<br />
27
VENTURA COUNTY | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK<br />
Explore a Working Ranch, T<strong>as</strong>te the Olive Oils<br />
by Michael Cervin<br />
California h<strong>as</strong> long been an agricultural wonderland. The very<br />
first olive trees were planted around 1789 at the mission in San<br />
Diego. And in the small village of Ojai, north of Ventura, immigrants<br />
planted Spanish olive trees in 1880 and, using a communal press,<br />
provided oil for themselves and their families. Those trees still stand<br />
today and Ojai Olive Oil still harvests them. Ron and Alice Asquith<br />
operate Asquith Family Farm and have planted an <strong>as</strong>tonishing 2,600<br />
olive trees in the l<strong>as</strong>t 12 years to compliment the old Spanish trees.<br />
They have planted Italian, French and Spanish varieties to maximize<br />
flavors and complexities for their oils. “Olive oil is pure fruit juice,”<br />
Ron points out, “without additives or preservatives, rich in antioxidant<br />
qualities that help the cardiov<strong>as</strong>cular flow. It contains vitamins<br />
A, D, K and E and <strong>as</strong>sists in the absorption of calcium.” And since<br />
Ventura County is on the same latitude <strong>as</strong> C<strong>as</strong>ablanca in North<br />
Africa, the Asquith’s believe it enjoys an ideal Mediterranean climate<br />
28<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
S. A ST.<br />
OXNARD BLVD<br />
N ROSE AVE<br />
N RICE AVE<br />
N ELEVAR ST<br />
KINETIC DR<br />
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: VENTURA COUNTY<br />
oranges?” He says with a laugh,<br />
In addition to the variety of extra virgin oils, there are olive oil<br />
soaps and a face cream, balsamic vinegars and flavored olive oils like<br />
rosemary, garlic and mandarin. “We are primarily a local producer.<br />
We sell mostly in southern California, yet we ship throughout the<br />
U.S. via our website,” Ron says. To experience the free tour and<br />
t<strong>as</strong>ting and even a bit of California history, contact them at (805)<br />
701-3825, or visit www.ojaioliveoil.com.<br />
to grow olive trees. “Our extra virgin oils are produced from olives<br />
that are grown specifically because of the quality of the oil,” Ron<br />
says.<br />
On Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine, they welcome<br />
all visitors to tour the farm’s olive grove, explore the working ranch<br />
and to t<strong>as</strong>te their olive oils. Their tour begins outside with the<br />
history of the grove, an explanation of the different olive varieties,<br />
the maturing process, the harvesting and a visit to the tree nursery.<br />
And people come from all over to educate themselves about the<br />
diversity of olive oil. For Ron and Alice it h<strong>as</strong> become a rewarding<br />
career. “The most satisfying experience from being in the olive oil<br />
business is the contact with the many people that we would never<br />
have met were it not for our producing olive oil,” he says. Ron sites<br />
a recent trip to Italy, where he spent a day with Dr. Mario Beltrami,<br />
an expert in the production of extra virgin oil. The following day<br />
when Ron w<strong>as</strong> in Zurich, he talked with a Greek producer and<br />
sampled his oil. “How could this happen if I were simply growing<br />
S LA LUNA AVE<br />
33<br />
N VENTURA AVE<br />
33<br />
OLD CREEK RD<br />
CREEK RD<br />
E OJAI AVE<br />
Ojai<br />
OLD CREEK<br />
RANCH<br />
WINERY<br />
S SIGNAL ST<br />
S MONTGOMERY ST<br />
CASA<br />
BARRANCA<br />
OJAI<br />
OLIVE OIL<br />
Ojai<br />
Beverage<br />
Co.<br />
BALD ST<br />
S. FULTON<br />
THATCHER<br />
CARNE RD<br />
150<br />
Rancho<br />
Ventavo<br />
E VENTURA<br />
BLVD<br />
Herzog<br />
<strong>Wine</strong><br />
Cellars<br />
CAMINO DEL SOL<br />
DEL NORTE BLVD<br />
CENTRAL AVE<br />
CANTARA<br />
CELLARS<br />
Oxnard<br />
WOOD RD<br />
AVIADOR ST<br />
VERDULERA<br />
101<br />
VENTURA BLVD<br />
Camarillo<br />
LAS POSAS RD<br />
LAS POSAS RD<br />
E DAILY DR<br />
Rancho<br />
Ventavo<br />
(Opening Soon)<br />
FIR ST<br />
Bella<br />
Victorian<br />
Vineyard<br />
ELM DR<br />
(Opening Soon)<br />
ARNEILL RD<br />
S DAWSON DR<br />
LEWIS RD<br />
LEWIS RD<br />
DAWSON<br />
Camarillo<br />
Custom<br />
Crush<br />
(Opening Soo<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com<br />
29
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST<br />
« Especially recommended by <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> <strong>This</strong> <strong>Week</strong><br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
P A S O R O B L E S A R E A<br />
Adelaida Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily 10-5<br />
5805 Adelaida Rd; 805-239-8980, 805 239-8980 X X X<br />
AJB Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles <strong>Week</strong>ends<br />
3280 Township Rd; 805-239-9432 12-5 X X<br />
Alta Colina – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Th-Su<br />
2725 Adelaida Rd; 805 227-4191 11-5 X X<br />
AmByth Estate – Templeton<br />
510 Sequoia Lane; 805 305-9497 appt X X<br />
« Anglim <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Th-Mo 11-6<br />
740 Pine St; 805-227-6813 or by Appt X X<br />
« Arroyo Robles – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
739 12th St; 877-759-WINE 11-7 X X<br />
Asuncion Ridge – P<strong>as</strong>o Roble Su-Th 12:30-6<br />
729 13th Street; 805 461-0675 Fr-Sa 12-8 X X<br />
August Ridge – Creston Fr 12-5<br />
8790 E. Highway 41; 805 239-2455 Sa-Su 11-5 X X<br />
Austin Hope – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Sa 10-4<br />
1585 Live Oak Road; 805 238-4112 Call X X<br />
B & E Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 11-5<br />
10,000 Creston Rd; 805-238-4815 or By Appt X X<br />
Baily Vineyard – Temecula Su-Fr 10-5<br />
33440 La Serena Way; 951-676-9463 Sa 11-5 X X<br />
Barrel 27 – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 11-5<br />
2323 Tulley Rd #110; 805-237-1245 or By Appt X X<br />
B<strong>as</strong>setti Vineyards – Cambria By<br />
1191 N. Green Valley Rd; 805-927-1925 Appt X X<br />
Bear Cave Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles By<br />
1227 Park St; 805-238-4329 Appt X X<br />
Bella Luna – Templeton<br />
Fr-Su<br />
1850 Templeton Rd; 805-434-5477 10-5 X X<br />
Bianchi <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
3380 Branch Rd; 805-226-9922 10-5 X X<br />
Black Hand – San Miguel<br />
By<br />
1735 Nygren Rd; 805-712-WINE Appt X X<br />
Booker Vineyard – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su<br />
2640 Anderson Rd; 805-237-7367 11-4 X X<br />
Brian Benson Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su<br />
2985 Anderson Rd; 805-296-9463 10:30-5 X X<br />
Calcareous <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Th-Mo<br />
3430 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-239-0289 11-5 X X<br />
Caliza <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Fr-Su<br />
2570 Anderson Rd; 805-237-1480 11-4:30 X X<br />
Caparone <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 11-5<br />
2280 San Marcos Rd; 805-467-3827 By Apt X X X<br />
« Carina Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 11-5<br />
3525 Adelaida Rd; 415-309-2046 By Apt X X X<br />
Carmody McKnight Estate <strong>Wine</strong>s – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
11240 Chimney Rock Rd; 805-238-9392 Daily 10-5 X X<br />
C<strong>as</strong>s Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Sa-Su 11-6<br />
7350 Linne Rd; 805-239-1730 Mo-Fr 12-5 X X<br />
« C<strong>as</strong>toro Cellars – Templeton Daily<br />
1315 N Bethal Rd; 805-238-0725 10-5:30 X X<br />
30<br />
By<br />
Cayucos Cellars – Cayucos We-Su 11-5:30<br />
131 N Ocean Ave; 805-995-3036 Closed Tu X X<br />
Changala <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su By<br />
3770 Willow Creek Road; 805-226-9060 11-5 Appt X X<br />
Chateau Margene – Creston<br />
Fr-Su<br />
4385 La Panza Rd; 805-238-2321 12-5 X X<br />
Christian Lazo – San Miguel<br />
Sa-Su<br />
249 10th Street, Suite A; 805-467-2672 10-5 X X<br />
Chronic Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 12-5<br />
2020 Nacimiento Lake Dr; 805 237-7848 or by apt X X<br />
Cinquain Cellars – San Miguel By apt<br />
6404 Independence Ranch Pl; 805 400-5978 X X<br />
Chumeia Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
8331 Hwy 46 E; 805-226-0102 10-5 X X<br />
Clautiere Vineyard – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
1340 Penman Springs Rd; 805-237-3789 12-5 X X<br />
Clavo Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Mo-Sa 12-5<br />
1101 Riverside Avenue; 805-226-0174 Su 12-4 X X<br />
« Clayhouse <strong>Wine</strong>s – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
849 13th St; 805 238-7055 11-6 X X<br />
Croad Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 11-5<br />
3550 Vinedo Robles Lane; 805-226-9899 Th-Mo 12-5 X X X<br />
D’Anbino Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fri-Sun 12-6<br />
710 Pine St; 805-227-6800 Closed Tu-We X X<br />
Dark Star Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su<br />
2985 Anderson Rd; 805-237-2389 10:30-5 X X<br />
Denner Vineyards & <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
5414 Vineyard Dr; 805-239-4287 Daily 11-5 X X<br />
Derby <strong>Wine</strong> Estates – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Mo<br />
5620 Hwy 46 E<strong>as</strong>t; 805-238-6300 11-5 X X<br />
Doce Robles – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Daily<br />
2023 Twelve Oaks Dr; 805-227-4766 10-5:30 X X<br />
Donati Family Vineyard – Templeton Daily 11am-5pm<br />
Corner of 46 West & Vineyard Dr; 805-238-0676 X X<br />
Donatoni <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Sa-Su 12-5<br />
3225 Township Rd; 805-226-0620 Or By Appt X<br />
Dover Canyon <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Th-Su<br />
4520 Vineyard Dr; 805-237-0101 11-5 X X<br />
Dunning Vineyards Estate <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
1953 Niderer Rd; 805-238-4763 Th-Mo 11-5 X X<br />
Eagle C<strong>as</strong>tle <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
3090 Anderson Rd; 805-227-1428 10:30-5:30 X X X<br />
« Eberle <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
3810 Hwy 46 E; 805-238-9607 10-6 X X X<br />
Écluse <strong>Wine</strong>s – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Fr-Sa<br />
1520 Kiler Canyon Rd; 805 238-4998 By Appt X X<br />
« Edward Sellers – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Th-Mo<br />
1220 Park St; 805-239-8915 12-7 X X<br />
« Eos Estate – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Win 10-5<br />
5625 Hwy 46 E<strong>as</strong>t; 805-239-2562 Sum 10-6 X X X<br />
Falcon Nest <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
5185 Union Rd; 805-226-0227 10-7:30 X X<br />
« Firestone Vineyard – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles By<br />
2300 Airport Rd; 805-591-8050 Daily 10-5 X X<br />
Five Rivers <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles By<br />
8998 North River Rd; 805-467-0192 Appt X X<br />
Four Vines <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Templeton Sum 11-6<br />
3750 Hwy 46 West; 805 227-0865 Win 11-5 X X<br />
Fralich Vineyard & <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Templeton By Appt<br />
Private t<strong>as</strong>tings at P<strong>as</strong>o Robles <strong>Wine</strong> Services; 805-434-1526 X X<br />
Fratelli Perata – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
By<br />
1595 Arbor Rd; 805-238-2809 Appt X X<br />
FS Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Th-Mo<br />
1337 Vendels Circle; 805-226-8989 11-6 X X<br />
Gelfand Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles By<br />
5530 Dresser Ranch Place; 805-239-5808 Appt X X<br />
Graveyard Vineyards – San Miguel By<br />
6990 Estrella Road; 805 467-2043 Appt X X X<br />
Grey Wolf Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
2174 Hwy 46 West; 805-237-0771 11-5:30 X X<br />
« Halter Ranch Vnyd– P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
8910 Adelaida Rd; 805-226-9455 11-5 X X<br />
HammerSky Vineyards– P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su<br />
7725 Vineyard Drive; 949 338-7813 By Appt X X<br />
Hansen Vineyard – Templeton Fr-Sun<br />
5575 El Pomar Dr; 805-239-8412 11-5 X X<br />
Harmony Cellars– Harmony Sum 10-5:30<br />
3255 Harmony Valley Rd; 805-927-1625 Win 10-5 X X<br />
« Hearthstone – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Th-Mo<br />
5070 Vineyard Dr; 805 431-0138 11-5 X X<br />
Hice Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
By<br />
500 Linne Rd.; 805 610-1470 Appt X X<br />
Hug Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Fr-Su<br />
2323 Tuley Rd; 805-226- 8022 11-5 X X X<br />
« Hunt Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Sum 10-6<br />
2875 Oakdale Rd; 805-237-1600 Win 10:30-5:30 X X<br />
« J. Lohr Vineyards & <strong>Wine</strong>s – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
6169 Airport Rd; 805-239-8900 10-5 X X<br />
J. Paul Rosilez – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
4889 Dry Creek Rd; 805-226-0550 11-5 X X<br />
Jack Creek Cellars – Templeton Fr-Su 11-4:30<br />
5265 Jack Creek Rd; 805-226-8283 By Appt X X<br />
« Jada <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Th 12-5<br />
5620 Vineyard Dr; 805 226-4200 Fr-Su 10-5 X X X<br />
JanKris <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Templeton<br />
Daily<br />
1266 Bethel Rd; 805-434-0319 11-5 X X X<br />
Justin <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Daily<br />
11680 Chimney Rock Rd; 805 238-6932 10-6 X X X<br />
JUST OPENED!<br />
GREAT VALUES!<br />
2850 Ranchita Canyon, San Miguel<br />
Friday-Sunday 11am-5pm<br />
805-467-2891<br />
Come enjoy the friendly atmosphere in our t<strong>as</strong>ting room<br />
while sipping on our latest rele<strong>as</strong>es.<br />
Kaleidos – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Th-Sa 12-8<br />
1032 Pine St; 805 226-2976 Su-Mo 12-5 X X<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST<br />
Preferred T<strong>as</strong>ting Room:<br />
POZO VALLEY WINERY<br />
by Mark Storer<br />
Steve Arnold w<strong>as</strong> simply looking for a way to<br />
keep his kids, Joey and Michelle, interested in the<br />
family farm. His kids are the fifth-generation of<br />
Arnolds to live on this land, after all, and he<br />
w<strong>as</strong>n’t sure the cattle and hay farm he’d been<br />
operating w<strong>as</strong> going to keep his teenagers<br />
focused.<br />
So Arnold planted a vineyard and <strong>as</strong>ked Joey<br />
and Michelle to take care of it. It must have<br />
worked, because 15 years later, Pozo Valley<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>ry now h<strong>as</strong> a t<strong>as</strong>ting room and the little town<br />
of Santa Margarita, just northe<strong>as</strong>t of San Luis<br />
Obispo, is on the map <strong>as</strong> a wine-growing region.<br />
The calcareous soils of the area are natural for farming grapes and<br />
indeed the Mondavi’s planted vineyards near here in the ’90s <strong>as</strong> well.<br />
For the Arnolds, the vineyard planted in 1995 h<strong>as</strong> become the labor<br />
of love that is Pozo Valley <strong>Wine</strong>ry.<br />
Those soils are where the Arnolds run a 32-acre vineyard of<br />
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel and most recently, a small<br />
block of Viognier. Joey Arnold is acting winemaker and farmer while<br />
sister Michelle and her husband run the business end of the winery.<br />
Joey is self-taught winemaker, learning the rhythms of the vineyard at<br />
a young age and getting a feel for his vines. “I just learned <strong>as</strong> I went<br />
along,” says Joey. “I experimented with what worked and what didn’t,”<br />
he says. It’s how he knew that his vineyards would grow great Viognier.<br />
The family’s t<strong>as</strong>ting room is located 22202 El<br />
Camino Real in Santa Margarita. The town h<strong>as</strong> an<br />
old west feel to it and development h<strong>as</strong> not settled<br />
in all around. E<strong>as</strong>y to get to, right off the 101 at the<br />
top of the Cuesta Grade, Pozo Valley <strong>Wine</strong>ry is<br />
setting itself, quite literally, apart from the competition.<br />
It’s a simple structure dedicating itself to showing<br />
off these the beautiful wines of this unique region.<br />
Working with the land, Arnold works to minimize<br />
his footprint in the vineyard. “We’re moving more<br />
toward sustainable practices and away from<br />
synthetic chemicals,” says Arnold. The fruit he’s<br />
getting is proof that it’s working, too.<br />
Keeping it all in the family, Pozo Valley’s only employees are the<br />
Arnold family and its various branches by marriage. Michelle’s<br />
daughter is just about to turn one year old and Joey and his wife<br />
Jessica just welcomed their new baby into the world. The family business<br />
just got a couple of inheritors.<br />
As the holidays approach, Pozo Valley h<strong>as</strong> several specials including<br />
a c<strong>as</strong>e of select wines for $120. Also, there will be several new rele<strong>as</strong>es<br />
of wines and special holiday deals.<br />
T<strong>as</strong>ting room hours are from noon to 5 p.m. Friday through<br />
Sunday. It’s located on the corner of Pinal Avenue and El Camino Real<br />
at 2200 El Camino Real For more information, call (805) 438-3375 or<br />
visit the website at www.pozovalley.com.<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com 31
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST<br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
Kiamie <strong>Wine</strong> Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Th-Mo<br />
1111 Riverside Ave, Ste 102; 805 226-8333 11-6 X X<br />
Kukkula – Templeton<br />
By<br />
9525 Chimney Rock Rd; 805 227-0111 Appt<br />
L’Aventure <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Th-Su 11-4<br />
2815 Live Oak Rd; 805-227-1588 or By Appt X X<br />
Le Cuvier – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Fr-Su<br />
9750 Adelaida Rd; 805-238-5706 12-5<br />
Linne Calodo – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Fr-Su<br />
3030 Vineyard Dr; 805-227-0797 11-5 X X<br />
Lion’s Peak – Cambria<br />
Daily<br />
4044 Burton Ave; 805-927-1450 11-6:30 X X<br />
Locatelli <strong>Wine</strong>ry – San Miguel Fr-Su<br />
8585 Cross Canyons Rd; 805-467-0067 1l-4 X X<br />
Lone Madrone – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
2485 Hwy 46 West; 805-238-0845 10:30-5 X X<br />
Madison Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
By<br />
4540 Hwy 41; 805-238-9831 Appt X X<br />
Maloy O’Neill – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Sa 10-5; Su 12-5<br />
5725 Union Rd; 805-238-7320 Or By Appt X X<br />
Martin & Weyrich – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Su-Th 10-5<br />
2610 Buena Vista Dr; 805-238-2520 Fr-Sa 10-6 X X<br />
McClean Vineyards – Templeton By<br />
4491 S. El Pomar Dr; 805-237-2441 Appt<br />
Meridian Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
7000 Hwy 46 E; 805-226-7133 10-5 X X<br />
Midnight Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
2925 Anderson Rd; 805-239-8904 10-5:30 X X<br />
Min<strong>as</strong>sian-Young – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su<br />
4045 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-238-7571 11-5 X X<br />
Mitchella Vineyard – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 12-5<br />
2525 Mitchella Ranch Way; 805 239-8555 or by appt X X<br />
Mondo Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Sum 11-6<br />
3260 Nacimiento Lake Dr; 805 226-2925 Win 11-5 X X X<br />
Moonstone Cellars – Cambria<br />
Th-Mo<br />
801 Main St, Suite C; 805-927-9466 11-5 X X<br />
NadeauFamilyVintners – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su<br />
3860 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-239-3574 12-5 X X<br />
Norman Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
7450 Vineyard Dr; 805-237-0138 11-5 X X<br />
« Opolo Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
7110 Vineyard Dr; 805-238-9593 10-5 X X<br />
« Orchid Hill Vineyard – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
1140 Pine St; 805-237-7525 12-6 X X<br />
Ortman Family Vnyds – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily 12-5<br />
1317 Park Street; 805-237-9009 Fr-Sat 12-7 X X<br />
Oso Libre <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Thu-Mon<br />
7383 Vineyard Dr; 805 238-3378 11-5 X X<br />
Parkfield Vineyards – San Miguel By<br />
70502 Vineyard Canyon Rd; 805-463-2316 Appt X X<br />
P<strong>as</strong>oport <strong>Wine</strong> Co – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fri-Sun 11-5<br />
6996 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805 239-2229 or by appt X X<br />
Peachy Canyon <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
1480 N. Bethel Rd; 805-239-1918 11-5 X X<br />
32<br />
Pear Valley – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Daily<br />
4900 Union Road; 805 237-2861 11-5 X X<br />
Penman Springs – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
1985 Penman Springs Dr; 805-237-7959 Fr-Su 11-5 X X<br />
Per Cazo Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
By<br />
5325 Vineyard Dr; 805 227-4949 Appt X<br />
« Pianetta – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Su-Mo-Th: 12-6pm<br />
829 13th St; 805-226-4005 Fr-Sa 11-7 X X X<br />
Pipestone – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Th-Mo<br />
2040 Niderer Rd; 805-227-6385 11-5 X X<br />
Poalillo Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles By<br />
18888 Willow Creek Rd; 805-238-0600 Appt<br />
Pomar Junction – Templeton<br />
Fr-Su<br />
5036 S. El Pomar Dr; 805-238-9940 11-5 X X<br />
Pretty-Smith – San Miguel<br />
Fr-Su<br />
13350 River Rd; 805-467-3104 11-5 X X<br />
Rabbit Ridge – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
We-Su<br />
1172 San Marcos Rd; 805-467-3331 11-5 X X<br />
Ranchita Canyon – San Miguel Fr-Mo 11-5<br />
3439 Ranchita Canyon Road; 805 467-9448 X X<br />
Red Soles – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Mo-Sa 11-5<br />
3230 Oakdale Rd; 805-226-9898 Su 12-5 X X<br />
Rio Seco – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Daily<br />
4295 Union Rd; 805-237-8884 11-5 X X<br />
RiverStar Vineyards – San Miguel Fr-Mo<br />
7450 Estrella Rd; 805 467-0086 12-5 X X<br />
RN Estate <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles By<br />
7986 North River Rd; 805 610-9802 Appt X X<br />
« Robert Hall – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily Win 10-5<br />
3443 Mill Rd; 805-239-1616 Sum 10-6 X X X<br />
Rockin’ R <strong>Wine</strong> – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fri-Sun<br />
8500 Union Road; 805 835-8529 11-5 X X<br />
Rocky Creek Cellars – Templeton Daily<br />
8687 Apple Rd; 805-238-1919 10:30-5 X X<br />
Rotta <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Daily<br />
3750 Hwy 46 West; 805-237-0510 11-5 X X<br />
« San Marcos Creek Vineyard – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
7750 North Hwy; 805-467-9260 Daily 11-5 X X<br />
Sarzotti <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Templeton Sa-Sun 11-5<br />
180 Bella Rancy Rd; 805 226-2022 or By Appt X X<br />
« Sculpterra – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 10-5<br />
5015 Linne Road, 888-302-8881 or By Appt X X<br />
Sextant <strong>Wine</strong>s – Templeton<br />
By Appt<br />
Crnr of Almond & S. El Pomar; 866-833-WINE X X<br />
« Silver Horse – San Miguel Fr-Mo<br />
2995 Ple<strong>as</strong>ant Rd; 805-467-WINE 11-5 X X<br />
Skyhawk Lane – San Miguel<br />
By<br />
1605 Commerce Way; 213-200-4661 Appt<br />
Stacked Stone Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Sa 11-5<br />
1525 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-238-7872 Su 12-5 X X<br />
Stanger Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 11-5<br />
5225 Hwy 41; 805 238-4777 & By Appt X X<br />
Stephen’s Cellar – Templeton<br />
By<br />
7575 York Mountain Rd; 805-238-2412 Appt X X<br />
Still Waters Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Th-Mo<br />
2750 Old Grove Ln; 805-237-9231 11-5 X X<br />
Summerwood – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Daily<br />
2175 Arbor Rd; 805-227-1365 10-5:30 X X<br />
« Sylvester Vineyards – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Sum 11-6<br />
5115 Buena Vista Dr; 805-227-4000 Win 11-5 X X X<br />
Tabl<strong>as</strong> Creek – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Daily<br />
9339 Adelaida Rd; 805-237-1231 10-5 X X X<br />
Tackitt Family – San Miguel<br />
We-Su<br />
6640 Von Dollen Rd; 805 467-9490 11-5<br />
Terry Hoage – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
By<br />
870 Arbor Rd; 805-238-2083 Appt<br />
Thacher <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 11-5<br />
8355 Vineyard Dr; 805-237-0087 & By Appt X X<br />
Thunderbolt Junction – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 11-5<br />
2740 Hidden Mountain Rd; 805-226-9907 & By Appt X X<br />
Tobin James Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
8950 Union Rd; 805-239-2204 10-6 X X<br />
Tolo Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Fr-Mo<br />
9750 Adelaida Rd; 805-226-2282 11-5 X X<br />
Treana <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Fr-Sa<br />
1585 Live Oak Rd; 805 238-4112 10-4 X X<br />
Turley <strong>Wine</strong> Cellars – Templeton Daily<br />
2900 Vineyard Dr; 805-434-1030 9-5 X X<br />
Venteux Vineyards – Templeton Fr-Su<br />
1795 L<strong>as</strong> Tabl<strong>as</strong> Rd; 805-369-0127 10-5 X X<br />
Victor Hugo <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Templeton By<br />
2850 El Pomar Dr; 805-434-1128 Appt X X<br />
Vihuela <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
840 11th St, Ste 104; 805-886-5400 X X<br />
Villicana <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Th-Su<br />
2725 Adelaida Rd; 805-239-9456 11-5 X X<br />
Villa Creek Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 12-4<br />
5995 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805 238-7145 & By Appt X X<br />
Villa San-Juliette – San Miguel By<br />
6385 Cross Canyon Rd; 805 550-0522 Appt X X<br />
Vina Robles – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles<br />
Daily<br />
3700 Mill Rd; 805-227-4812 10-5 X X<br />
Vines on the Marycrest – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su 11-5<br />
5050 Mustard Creek Rd; 805 237-0378 & By Appt X X<br />
« VinFuzion – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Fr-Su<br />
2485 Hwy 46 West; 805-238-0208 11-5 X X<br />
Vista Del Rey – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Su 11-5<br />
7340 Drake Rd; 805-467-2138 By Appt X X<br />
Whalebone Vineyard – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
8325 Vineyard Dr; 805-239-9020 11-5 X X<br />
Wild Coyote <strong>Wine</strong>ry – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
3775 Adelaida Rd; 805-610-1311 11-5 X X<br />
« Wild Horse <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Templeton Daily<br />
1484 Wild Horse <strong>Wine</strong>ry Ct; 805-434-2541 11-5 X X<br />
Windward Vineyard – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
1380 Live Oak Rd; 805-239-2565 10:30-5 X X<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
« Especially recommended by <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> <strong>This</strong> <strong>Week</strong><br />
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY LISTINGS<br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
York Mountain – Templeton<br />
Daily<br />
7505 York Mountain Rd; 805-238-3925 11-4 X X<br />
Zenaida Cellars – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Daily<br />
1550 Hwy 46 West; 805-227-0382 11-5 X X X<br />
ZinAlley – Templeton<br />
Fr-Su<br />
3730 Hwy 46 West; 805-238-0959 11-5 X X<br />
Zoller <strong>Wine</strong> Styling – P<strong>as</strong>o Robles Mo-Th 12-8<br />
525A Pine St; 805 226-9707 Fr-Sa 12-5 X X<br />
S A N T A<br />
M A R G A R I T A<br />
Ancient Peaks – Santa Margarita Th-Mo<br />
22720 El Camino Real; 805-365-7045 11-5:30 X X<br />
« Pozo Valley – Santa Margarita Fr-Su<br />
2200 El Camino Real; 805-286-7172 12-6 X X<br />
S A N L U I S O B I S P O<br />
Alapay Cellars – Avila Beach<br />
Daily<br />
415 First St; 805-595-2632 10:30-6 X X<br />
Aron Hill Vineyards – Morro Bay Daily 11-6<br />
845 Embarcadero Rd, Suite F; 805-610-5751 Win Th-Mo X X<br />
Baileyana Estate– San Luis Obispo Daily<br />
5828 Orcutt Rd; 805-269-8200 10-5 X X<br />
Barnwood <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Arroyo Grande Daily<br />
453 Laetitia Vineyard Dr; 888-809-VINE 11-5 X X<br />
Bishop’s Peak <strong>Wine</strong>s – Arroyo Grande Daily<br />
3031 Lopez Dr; 805-489-0446 10-4:30 X X<br />
Cerro Caliente – San Luis Obispo Fr-Su<br />
831 A Via Esteban; 805-544-2842 11-5 X X<br />
Chamisal/Domaine Alfred – San Luis Obispo Daily<br />
7525 Orcutt Rd; 805-541-9463 10-5 X X<br />
« Claiborne & Churchill – San Luis Obispo Daily<br />
2649 Carpenter Canyon Rd; 805-544-4066 11-5 X X<br />
Edna Valley Vnyd – San Luis Obispo Daily<br />
2585 Biddle Ranch Rd; 805-544-5855 10-5 X X<br />
« Kelsey See Canyon – San Luis Obispo Daily<br />
1947 See Canyon Rd; 805-595-9700 11-5:30 X X X<br />
Kynsi <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Arroyo Grande Th-Mo<br />
2212 Corbett Canyon Rd; 805-544-8461 11-5 X X<br />
« Laetitia Vineyard – Arroyo Grande Daily<br />
453 Laetitia Vineyard Dr; 805-481-1772 11-5 X X<br />
Morovino – Avila Beach<br />
Th-Mo<br />
550 1st St; 805-627-1443 12-5 X X<br />
« Per Bacco Cellars – San Luis Obispo Daily<br />
1850 Calle Joaquin Rd; 805-787-0485 11-5 X X X<br />
NOW OPEN IN THE VILLAGE<br />
OF ARROYO GRANDE<br />
211 E<strong>as</strong>t Branch Street<br />
Sun-Mon, Thu 11-5 • Fri-Sat 11-7<br />
805-481-WINE (9463)<br />
Enjoy exceptional hand crafted wines that showc<strong>as</strong>e the best fruit<br />
from Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties.<br />
Piedra Creek <strong>Wine</strong>ry – San Luis Obispo<br />
6425 Mira Cielo Dr; 805-541-1281 By Appt<br />
« Pismo Beach <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Pismo Beach Daily<br />
271 B Five Cities; 805-773-WINE 12-5 X X X<br />
Rancho Arroyo Grande – Arroyo Grande<br />
591 Hi Mountain Rd; 805-474-0220 1st Saturday of the month 11-5<br />
Salisbury Vineyards – Avila Valley Daily<br />
6985 Ontario Rd; 805-595-WINE 11-6 X X<br />
Saucelito Canyon – San Luis Obispo Daily<br />
3080 Biddle Ranch Rd; 805-543-2111 10-5 X X<br />
Stephen Ross <strong>Wine</strong> Cellars – San Luis Obispo Sa-Su 11-5 By Apt<br />
178 Suburban Rd; 805-594-1318 X X X<br />
Tangent Vineyards – San Luis Obispo Daily<br />
5828 Orcutt Rd; 805-269-8200 10-5 X X<br />
« Talley Vineyards – Arroyo Grande Daily<br />
3031 Lopez Dr; 805-489-0446 10:30-4:30 X X<br />
T<strong>as</strong>te – San Luis Obispo Mo-Sa 11-9<br />
1003 Osos St; 805-269-TASTE Su 11-5 X X<br />
« Tolosa <strong>Wine</strong>ry – San Luis Obispo Daily<br />
4910 Edna Rd; 805-782-0500 11-5 X X<br />
« Wood <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Avila Beach New t<strong>as</strong>ting room<br />
480 Front St; 805-595-9663 opening this month X X<br />
Wolff Vineyards – San Luis Obispo Daily<br />
6238 Orcutt Rd; 805-781-0448 11-5 X X X<br />
S A N T A M A R I A / F O X E N C A N Y O N<br />
Addamo Estate Vineyards – Old Orcutt Tu-Su<br />
400 E<strong>as</strong>t Clark Ave. Suite A; 805-937-6400 11-7 X X<br />
Bedford Thompson – Los Alamos Daily<br />
448 Bell St; 805-344-2107 11-5 X X<br />
Byron Vineyard – Santa Maria<br />
By<br />
5250 Tepusquet Rd; 805 938-7365 Appt<br />
Cambria <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Maria Daily<br />
5475 Chardonnay Lane; 805 938-7318 10-5 X X<br />
« Costa de Oro – Santa Maria Th-Su 11-6<br />
1331 S. Nicholson Ave; 805-922-1468 Closed Mo-We X X<br />
Core <strong>Wine</strong> – Orcutt<br />
We-Su<br />
145 S. Gray Street, Ste 103; 805 937-1600 11-6 X X<br />
Cottonwood Canyon – Santa Maria Daily<br />
3940 Dominion Rd; 805-937-VINE 10-5:30 X X X<br />
Curtis <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
5249 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-686-8999 10-5 X X<br />
Fess Parker – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
6200 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-1545 10-5 X X<br />
« Firestone Vineyards – Los Olivos Daily<br />
5000 Zaca Station Rd; 805-688-3940 10-5 X X X<br />
Foxen Vineyard – Santa Maria Daily<br />
7200 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-937-4251 11-4 X X<br />
IO Vineyards – The Bench in Los Olivos Th-Mo<br />
2367 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805 938-7365 11-5 X X<br />
« Kenneth Volk Vineyards – Santa Maria Daily<br />
5230 Tepusquet Rd; 805-938-7896 10:30-4:30 X X X<br />
Koehler – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
5360 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-693-8384 10-5 X X<br />
Labyrinth – at Old Mission <strong>Wine</strong> Company in Solvang<br />
2717 Aviation Way; 805-268-4155 Daily 10-5 X X<br />
McKeon-Philips – Santa Maria<br />
Daily<br />
2115 S Blosser Rd; 805-928-3025 11-6 X X<br />
Ovene <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Maria (T<strong>as</strong>ting Room: See Solvang)<br />
2717 Aviation Way; 714-420-2525 By Appt X X<br />
Rancho Sisquoc <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Maria Daily<br />
6600 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-934-4332 10-4 X X<br />
Riverbench Vineyards – Santa Maria Daily<br />
6020 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-937-8340 10-4 X X X<br />
Tantara Vineyard – Santa Maria By<br />
4747 Ontiveros Lane; 805-938-5051 Appt<br />
Tres Herman<strong>as</strong> <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Maria Daily<br />
9660 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-937-8451 10-5 X X<br />
Zaca Mesa – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
6905 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-9339 10-4 X X<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com 33<br />
L O S<br />
O L I V O S<br />
Alexander & Wayne – Los Olivos Daily<br />
2922 Grand Ave; 805-688-9665 11-6 X X<br />
Andrew Murray – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
2901 Grand Ave; 805-693-9644 11-6 X X<br />
Arthur Earl – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
2922 Grand Ave; 805-693-1771 11-6 X X<br />
Beckmen Vineyards – Los Olivos Daily<br />
2670 Ontiveros ; 805-688-8664 11-5 X X<br />
Brander Vineyard – Los Olivos Sum 10-5<br />
2401 Refugio Rd; 805- 688-2455 Win 11-4 X X<br />
Brophy Clark Cellars – at Los Olivos <strong>Wine</strong> T<strong>as</strong>ting Room<br />
2905 Grand Ave; 805-929-4830 Daily 11-6 X X<br />
Carhartt Vineyard – Los Olivos Sum We-Mo 11-5<br />
2990A Grand Ave; 805-688-0685 Win Th-Mo 11-5 X X<br />
« Carina Cellars – Los Olivos Daily<br />
2900 Grand Ave; 805-688-2459 11-5 X X<br />
Consilience – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
2933 Grand Ave; 805-691-1020 11-5 X X<br />
Coquelicot – Los Olivos Su-Th 11-5<br />
2884 Grand Ave; 805-688-1500 Fr 11-6, Sa 10-6 X X<br />
Curtis <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
5249 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-686-8999 10-5 X X<br />
Daniel Gehrs <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Los Olivos Daily<br />
2939 Grand Ave; 800-275-8138 11-6 X X<br />
Epiphany Cellars – Los Olivos Daily<br />
2963 Grand Ave; 866-354-9463 11:30- 5:30 X X<br />
Fess Parker – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
6200 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-1545 10-5 X X<br />
« Firestone Vineyard – Los Olivos Daily<br />
5000 Zaca Station Rd; 805-688-3940 10-5 X X X<br />
Great Oaks Ranch – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos<br />
2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X X<br />
J Wilkes <strong>Wine</strong> – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos<br />
2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X X<br />
John Kerr <strong>Wine</strong>s – at Los Olivos <strong>Wine</strong> T<strong>as</strong>ting Room<br />
2905 Grand Ave; 805-688-7406 Daily 11-6 X X<br />
Koehler – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
5360 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-693-8384 10-5 X X
CENTRAL COAST | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK<br />
<strong>Wine</strong>maker Profile: Stolpman Vineyards<br />
SASHI MOORMAN<br />
by Michael Cervin<br />
Stolpman Vineyards’ rise to success h<strong>as</strong><br />
been nothing short of spectacular. Originally<br />
devised <strong>as</strong> grape growers, their fruit became<br />
so sought after that owner Tom Stolpman<br />
decided to start producing his own wine. For<br />
this he needed a winemaker. That’s when<br />
S<strong>as</strong>hi Moorman entered the picture in 2001.<br />
“When S<strong>as</strong>hi joined the team, we decided that<br />
the emph<strong>as</strong>is of the Stolpman Vineyard<br />
program would be to produce wines of the<br />
highest quality possible,” Tom mentioned.<br />
Moorman, a V<strong>as</strong>sar College graduate w<strong>as</strong><br />
originally a front line cook in New York<br />
including a small family-run restaurant in<br />
Manhattan, Etats-Unis. He became intrigued<br />
with wine through food and ended up<br />
moving to the Central Co<strong>as</strong>t to work with the<br />
Ojai Vineyard. “I learned more working at<br />
that restaurant about wine than I think I ever<br />
have in such a short period of time,” he<br />
explained. People constantly tell Moorman<br />
that they want to be a winemaker, and the<br />
question is always the same: what should I<br />
do? “I always tell them go work in a restaurant<br />
with a really good wine program, because<br />
there’s no other place where you’ll have the<br />
opportunity to t<strong>as</strong>te so much wine in a short<br />
period of time. Unless you’re independently<br />
wealthy, you can’t afford to participate by just<br />
buying bottles. But in a great restaurant with<br />
a great wine program, you can t<strong>as</strong>te so much<br />
great wine.”<br />
For Moorman and Stolpman great wine<br />
equates to a full portfolio of Syrah. In addition,<br />
they have a fondness for Italian varietals<br />
like Sangiovese and Nebbiolo. Moorman is a<br />
hands on winemaker, or perhaps more appropriately,<br />
a hands-in winemaker. “If you’re the<br />
winemaker for a large winery, you’re not<br />
making wine,” he says. “You’re adding tartaric<br />
acid and filling out work orders. You can see<br />
it, their hands are clean.” Stained hands are a<br />
badge of honor. So too is the ability to work<br />
with others.<br />
In 2003, the winery began a project called<br />
“La Cuadrilla” – Spanish for “the crew” – in<br />
which the group of year-round vineyard<br />
workers are allotted a section of the vineyard<br />
to manage <strong>as</strong> they ple<strong>as</strong>e, making all pruning,<br />
watering and fruit-yield decisions. The<br />
resulting wine is divided among the crew to<br />
be enjoyed with friends and family.<br />
“The La Cuadrilla Project h<strong>as</strong> been really<br />
rewarding for everyone involved,” agreed<br />
Moorman. “It is a joyful, educational experience<br />
that h<strong>as</strong> created extraordinary qualitative<br />
benefits for the vineyard and all of our wines.”<br />
And it is that ability to allow an open forum<br />
that defines what Moorman h<strong>as</strong> been able to<br />
accomplish, and what best reflects what’s in<br />
the bottle. “There is no such thing <strong>as</strong> a<br />
talented winemaker,” Moorman admits. “It’s<br />
only how p<strong>as</strong>sionate you are.”<br />
T<strong>as</strong>te S<strong>as</strong>hi Moorman’s wines at the<br />
Stolpman t<strong>as</strong>ting room daily from 11 a.m. to<br />
5 p.m., and Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at<br />
2434 Alamo Pintado Avenue, 1/2 block e<strong>as</strong>t<br />
of the flagpole in historic Los Olivos. Contact<br />
them directly at (805) 688-0400, or on-line at<br />
www.StolpmanVineyards.com<br />
34<br />
www.<strong>Wine</strong><strong>Country</strong><strong>This</strong><strong>Week</strong>.com
« Especially recommended by <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> <strong>This</strong> <strong>Week</strong><br />
WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY LISTINGS<br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
WINERY - LOCATION<br />
HOURS<br />
TOURS<br />
TASTING<br />
SALES<br />
Lane Tanner <strong>Wine</strong>s – at Los Olivos T<strong>as</strong>ting Room<br />
2905 Grand Ave; 805-688-7406 Daily 11-6 X X<br />
Longoria <strong>Wine</strong>s – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
2935 Grand Ave; 866-759-4637 11-4:30 X X<br />
Oak Savanna – at Andrew Murray T<strong>as</strong>ting Room in Los Olivos<br />
2901 Grand Ave; 805-693-9644 Daily 11-6 X X<br />
Qupé <strong>Wine</strong> – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos<br />
2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-968-9699 Daily 11-5 X X<br />
Saarloos & Sons – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
2971 Grand Ave; 805 688-1200 11-5 X X<br />
Silver <strong>Wine</strong>s – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos<br />
2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-963-3052 Daily 11-5 X X<br />
Scott Cellars – Los Olivos<br />
Th-Mo<br />
2933 San Marcos Ave, Ste 101; 805-570-0048 12-5 X X<br />
Star Lane – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos<br />
2445 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X X<br />
« Stolpman Vineyard – Los Olivos Daily<br />
2434 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-688-0400 11-4 X X<br />
Three Saints – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos<br />
2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X X<br />
Tre Anelli – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
2923 Grand Ave; 805-686-3000 11-5 X X<br />
Verdad <strong>Wine</strong>s – at <strong>Wine</strong> <strong>Country</strong> in Los Olivos<br />
2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X X<br />
Wild Heart <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Los Olivos Th-Mo 12-6<br />
2933-C Grand Ave; 805-688-7386 Sa 11-7 X X<br />
Zaca Mesa – Los Olivos<br />
Daily<br />
6905 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-9339 10-4 X X<br />
L O M P O C / B U E L L T O N<br />
Alma Rosa – Buellton<br />
Daily<br />
7250 Santa Rosa; 805-688-9090 11-4:30 X X<br />
Ampelos Cellars – Lompoc Sat 11-4<br />
1633 West Central Avenue, 805-736-9957 By Appt X X<br />
Babcock <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Lompoc<br />
Daily<br />
5175 E. Hwy 246; 805-736-1455 10:30-4 X X<br />
C<strong>as</strong>a C<strong>as</strong>sara – Buellton Mo,We,Th 12-6:30<br />
291 Valley Station Dr; 805-688-8691 Fr-Su 11-6:30 X X<br />
Clos Pepe – Lompoc<br />
By<br />
4777 E<strong>as</strong>t Hwy 246; 805-735-2196 Appt<br />
Dierberg Estate/Star Lane/Three Saints – Lompoc<br />
1280 Drum Canyon Rd; 866-652-8430 Daily 11-5 X X<br />
Fiddlehead Cellars – Lompoc Fr-Sa<br />
1597 E. Chestnut Ave; 805 742-0204 11-4 X X<br />
Flying Goat Cellars – Lompoc Th-Sa<br />
1520A E<strong>as</strong>t Chestnut Court; 805 736-9032 11-4 X X<br />
Foley Estates – Lompoc<br />
Daily<br />
6121 E<strong>as</strong>t Hwy 246; 805-737-6222 10-5 X X<br />
Harrison-Clarke – Lompoc<br />
By<br />
805-686-0850 Appt X X<br />
Hitching Post <strong>Wine</strong>s – at Hitching Post Restaurant in Buellton<br />
406 E<strong>as</strong>t Hwy 246; 805-688-0676 Daily from 4pm X X<br />
Huber Vineyards – Lompoc Sa-Sun 11-4<br />
4892 Hapgood Rd; 805-736-3854 & By Appt X X<br />
Ken Brown <strong>Wine</strong>s – Buellton<br />
By<br />
70 Industrial Way; 805-448-3791 Appt<br />
Lafond Vineyard – Buellton<br />
Daily<br />
6855 Santa Rosa Rd; 805-688-7921 10-5 X X<br />
Melville Vineyard – Lompoc<br />
Daily<br />
5185 E<strong>as</strong>t Hwy 246; 805-735-7030 11-4 X X<br />
Mosby <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Buellton<br />
Daily<br />
9496 Santa Rosa Rd; 805-688-2415 10-4 X X<br />
Palmina – Lompoc<br />
Th-Su<br />
1520 E<strong>as</strong>t Chestnut Ct; 805-735-2030 11-4 X X<br />
Sanford <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Lompoc<br />
Daily<br />
5010 Santa Rosa Rd; 805-735-5900 11-4 X X<br />
Sort <strong>This</strong> Out Cellars – Buellton Daily<br />
593 Avenue of the Flags; 805-688-1717 10-5:30 X X<br />
S O L V A N G<br />
Au Bon Climat – at T<strong>as</strong>te of the Valleys Su-Th 12-8<br />
1672 Mission Drive; 805 688-7111 Fr-Sa 12-10 X X<br />
Blackjack Ranch – Solvang<br />
Th-Mo<br />
2205 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-455-1412 11-5 X X<br />
Blair Fox Cellars – at Cabana T<strong>as</strong>ting Room in Solvang<br />
1539 Mission Dr; 805-686-9126 Daily 11-8 X X<br />
D’Alfonso Curran – Solvang Win Su-Th 11-5, Fr-Sa 11-6<br />
1557 Mission Dr; 805 688-3494 Sum Su-Th 11-6, Fr-Sa 11-7 X X<br />
E<strong>as</strong>t Valley - at The Olive House in Solvang<br />
1661 Mission Dr; 805 686-5159 Daily 10-5 X X<br />
Honeywood/Olde Mission <strong>Wine</strong> Co.<br />
T<strong>as</strong>ting room for Honeywood, Michael Grace and Ovene <strong>Wine</strong>ry<br />
1539 Mission Dr, #Unit B, Solvang Daily<br />
805-686-9323 9:30-5:30 X X<br />
Lincourt Vineyards – Solvang Daily<br />
1711 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-688-8554 10-5 X X<br />
Lions Peak Vineyards – Solvang Daily<br />
1659 Copenhagen Dr; 805-693-5466 11-6:30 X X<br />
Luc<strong>as</strong> & Lewellen – Solvang<br />
Daily<br />
1645 Copenhagen Dr; 805-686-9336 11-5:30 X X<br />
Mandolina <strong>Wine</strong>s – Solvang<br />
Daily<br />
1665 Copenhagen Dr; 805-686-5506 11-5:30 X X<br />
Margerum – at T<strong>as</strong>te of the Valleys Su-Th 12-8<br />
1672 Mission Drive; 805 688-7111 Fr-Sa 12-10 X X<br />
Michael Grace – at Old Mission <strong>Wine</strong> Company in Solvang<br />
1539 Mission; 805-686-9323 Daily 9:30-5:30 X X<br />
Ovene <strong>Wine</strong>ry – at Old Mission T<strong>as</strong>ting Company in Solvang<br />
1539 Mission; 714-420-2525 Daily 9:30-5:30 X X<br />
Presidio Vineyard – Solvang<br />
Daily<br />
1603 Copenhagen Dr, 805-693-8585 11-6 X X<br />
Rideau Vineyard – Solvang<br />
Daily<br />
1562 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-688-0717 11-4 X X<br />
Royal Oaks – Solvang Tu-Sa 11-7<br />
1651 Copenhagen Dr; 805-693-1740 Su-Mo By Appt X X<br />
Rusack Vineyard – Solvang<br />
Daily<br />
1819 Ballard Canyon Rd; 805-688-1278 11-5 X X<br />
Shoestring <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Solvang Fr-Su<br />
800 E<strong>as</strong>t Hwy 246; 800-693-8612 11-4 X X<br />
Uncorked/Monsoon Cellars Fr-Sa 12-9pm<br />
467 Alisal Rd Ste 2; 805-693-8000; Solvang Su 12-6 X X<br />
Wandering Dog <strong>Wine</strong> Bar – Solvang Daily<br />
1539 Mission Dr; 805-686-9126 11-8ish X X<br />
S A N T A<br />
Y N E Z<br />
Artiste – Santa Ynez<br />
Daily<br />
3569 Sagunto St; 805-686-2626 11-5 X X<br />
Bridlewood Estate – Santa Ynez Daily<br />
3555 Roblar Ave; 805-688-9000 10-5 X X<br />
Buttonwood Farm – Santa Ynez Daily<br />
1500 Alamo Pintado Rd; 800-715-1404 11-5 X X<br />
Gainey Vineyard – Santa Ynez Daily<br />
3950 E<strong>as</strong>t Hwy 246; 805-688-0558 10-5 X X X<br />
Imagine <strong>Wine</strong> – Santa Ynez<br />
Daily<br />
3563 Numancia #103; 805-688-1767 10-5 X X<br />
Kalyra <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Ynez Mo-Fr 11-5<br />
343 North Refugio Rd; 805-693-8864 Sa-Su 10-5 X X<br />
Roblar <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Ynez Sa-Su 10-5<br />
3010 Roblar Ave; 805-686-2603 Mo-Fr 11-5 X X<br />
Sunstone – Santa Ynez<br />
Daily<br />
125 Refugio Rd; 800-313-9463 10-4 X X<br />
S A N T A<br />
B A R B A R A<br />
Carr Vineyards – Santa Barbara Daily<br />
414 N. Salsipuedes St; 805-965-7985 11-5 X X<br />
Co<strong>as</strong>tal <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Barbara<br />
Daily<br />
End of State St; 805-962-2100 11-7+ in sum X X<br />
Jaffurs – Santa Barbara<br />
Fr-Su<br />
819 E<strong>as</strong>t Montectio St; 805-962-7003 11-5 X X<br />
Giessinger – Santa Barbara Mo-Th 12-7<br />
212 State St; 805-568-0820 Fr 12-7:30 Sa-Sun 11-8 X X<br />
Kalyra by the Sea – Santa Barbara Mo-Th 12-7<br />
212 State St; 805-695-8606 Fr-Su 12-8 X X<br />
Kunin & Westerly – Santa Barbara Daily<br />
28 Anacapa St; 805-963-9696 11-6 X X<br />
Santa Barbara <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Barbara Daily<br />
202 Anacapa St; 805-963-3633 10 - 5 X X<br />
Summerland – Summerland<br />
Tue-Sun<br />
2330 Lillie Ave; 805-565-WINE 11-6 X X<br />
Oreana <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Barbara<br />
205 Anacapa St; 805-962-5857 Daily 11-5 X X<br />
Whitcraft <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Santa Barbara Daily<br />
36A S. Calle Cesar Chavez; 805-730-1680 12-4 X X<br />
V E N T U R A<br />
C O U N T Y<br />
Bella Victorian Vineyard – Camarillo We-Th 11:30-7<br />
2135 E. Ventura Blvd; 805-383-8800 Fr-Sat11:30-8, Su 11:30-4 X X<br />
Camarillo Custom Crush – Camarillo By<br />
300 S. Lewis Rd, Ste C; 805-484-0597 Apt X X<br />
« Cantara Cellars– Camarillo <strong>Week</strong>ends<br />
126 Wood Rd, Ste 104; 805-484-9600 11-5 X X<br />
« C<strong>as</strong>a Barranca – Ojai Wed-Sun<br />
208 E. Ojai Ave; 805-640-1255 12-6 X X<br />
Herzog <strong>Wine</strong> Cellars – Oxnard<br />
Sun-Fri<br />
3201 Camino Del Sol; 805-938-1560 Call for hours X X<br />
« Old Creek Ranch <strong>Wine</strong>ry – Ojai Valley Daily<br />
10024 Old Creek Rd; 805-649-4132 11-5 X X<br />
Ojai Beverage Co. & T<strong>as</strong>ting Rm – Ojai Daily<br />
655 E. Ojai Ave; 805 646-1700 10-9 X X<br />
Rancho Ventavo Cellars – Oxnard Fri-Sun<br />
1741 S. A Street, 805 483-8084 11-6 X X
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