Getting There

Known as The American Riviera, Santa Barbara is situated on a south-facing stretch of coastline along the Central Coast, roughly two hours north of Los Angeles and five hours south of San Francisco. If not traveling by car, Santa Barbara is accessible by Amtrak train, which makes stops in downtown Santa Barbara and the neighboring communities of Carpinteria and Goleta, as well as via the Santa Barbara Airport — a quaint (and super charming) airport that partners with seven different airlines.

Old Mission Santa Barbara, Courtesy of Jay Sinclair

Iconic Santa Barbara Things To See

There are a few things one should definitely not miss if visiting Santa Barbara for the first time, and though they may not be insider secrets, they’re worth taking the time to explore. First on the list should be a visit to the Old Mission Santa Barbara. Founded by Spanish Franciscans in 1786, Mission Santa Barbara is still an active church and is one of the area’s most beautiful landmarks — there’s a reason it’s known as the “Queen of the Missions.” Explore the church and on-site museum, including the original adobe wall, and be sure to head across the street to the impressive Mission Rose Gardens, home to over 1,500 rose bushes. To experience it the way the locals do, pack a picnic and enjoy the views from the lawn.

Santa Barbara County Courthouse, Courtesy of Jay Sinclair

For a 360 degree view of Santa Barbara from above (and to admire one of the most beautiful public buildings you’ll likely ever encounter), head to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Completed in 1929, this still-active Courthouse, designed in the city’s iconic Spanish Colonial style and surrounded by lush gardens, is filled with elaborate murals, colorful tiles, and ornate details. Climb the stairs (or take the elevator) to the clock tower, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of downtown Santa Barbara’s red-roofed, Spanish and Mediterranean-style buildings and the surrounding mountains.

Last on your list of must-dos is to head to the waterfront. Walk out along Stearns Wharf for a great vantage point of the coast from out at sea before making your way (by foot or bike) to the Santa Barbara Harbor. Bustling with sailboats, kayakers, and fishing boats carrying in fresh catches of the day, the harbor is a great place to go for a stroll or to savor fresh seafood with a view. On Saturday mornings from 6:00 – 11:00am, you can even buy fresh fish directly from the people who caught them.

Stearns Wharf, Courtesy of David Collier

Get Out in Nature

Santa Barbara’s proximity to the mountains and ocean is unprecedented, which makes it easy to explore the land and sea all in one day. Throw on your hiking boots to take advantage of one of the area’s many hiking trails, including the popular Inspiration Point, Tangerine Falls, and Cold Springs Trail hikes.

Hiking at sunrise in Santa Barbara, Courtesy of Elliot Hawkey

For something less challenging, take your time meandering around The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden to admire the plant life, blooming flowers, and towering Redwood trees. Have any furry companions with you? At Douglas Family Preserve, you can let your dogs roam free (sans leash) within this family-friendly nature preserve. The three-mile trail loops through Eucalyptus and oak trees while offering views of the ocean. Afterwards, make your way to the dog-friendly beach below (Arroyo Burro Beach), where you and Fido can enjoy running around in the sand.

Hit the Beach

For sun, sand, and sea, Santa Barbara’s got you covered. At East Beach, you’ll find plenty of tanned volleyball players making use of the sand volleyball courts, but it’s also a popular beach for families, thanks to a playground, picnic facilities, and bathrooms all located within steps of the sand. Closer to the harbor, Leadbetter Beach is a prime spot to surf, boogie board, paddle board, or just hang with friends. There’s also a grassy area with built-in grills, but since it’s first-come, first-served, you’ll have to go early to snag a picnic table or two.

Butterfly Beach, Courtesy of Jay Sinclair

Over in Montecito, Butterfly Beach doesn’t offer much in the way of facilities, but it’s a beautiful stretch of sand that looks west (rather than most of the south-facing beaches), which makes it a nice spot for a beach picnic as the sun goes down. Just be wary of the tide schedule, as there really isn’t any sand left for sitting on when it’s high tide.

Santa Barbara Sailing Center, Courtesy of Blake Bronstad

For something a bit more adventurous, visit the Santa Barbara Sailing Center (located in the harbor) to rent a kayak or to charter a sailboat for a day at sea. They also offer whale watching excursions depending on the time of year, as well as sunset wine cruises. Nearby, Sunset Kidd Sailing has a 41-foot sailing yacht with spots for 16 passengers and a fully stocked bar — the makings of a fun day at sea.

Where to Eat & Drink

Though Santa Barbara’s diverse neighborhoods each offer a different taste of Santa Barbara, there are a few main areas ideal for eating and drinking.

The Valley Project, Courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara

Right off of State Street, near the ocean, is what is known as The Funk Zone neighborhood. What was once an abandoned warehouse district is now a popular place to get your drink on, thanks to the two dozen tasting rooms and several breweries all within walking distance. At The Valley Project, you’ll find a minimalist tasting room with an impressive focal point: a floor-to-ceiling chalk art mural depicting Santa Barbara County’s winegrowing areas. Acquaint yourself with the lay of the land as you taste through the small-lot wines, then head next door to Pali Wine Co., known for chardonnay, pinot noir, and their line of natural wines under the label, Neighborhood. Nearby, Riverbench Winery‘s Santa Barbara tasting room specializes in flights of sparkling wine, and is next door to Santa Barbara’s first distillery, Cutler’s Artisan Spirits. Down the street, Municipal Winemakers offers a funky, retro vibe in which to enjoy a bottle or tasting. It’s the sister winery of Potek, an urban winery and tasting room located at The Mill.

Lama Dog Tap Room, Courtesy of David Collier

If a cold brewski is all you’re after, take advantage of the sunny patio, regular live music, and beer selection at Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co., a casual brewery in the heart of the Funk Zone. Or, head a block away to The Waterline, where you’ll find two beer drinking spots under one roof: Topa Topa Brewing Co. and Lama Dog Tap Room + Bottle Shop — the latter of which offers 20 revolving beers on tap and many more to-go. For tasty fare to nibble on while you sip, order a burger or lobster mac n’ cheese from Nook, also inside The Waterline, where comfort food is both creative and delicious.

Pizza at Lucky Penny, Courtesy of Eat This Shoot That

For more eats in the Funk Zone, stop by Shalhoob Meat Co., which has a massive patio and plenty of mouthwatering grub to keep you satiated between all that beer and wine. Or pop by the new XO Burger for burgers, fries, and a wedge salad. The hospitality group behind XO Burger is also responsible for Funk Zone restaurants Lucky Penny, a casual pizza and sandwich spot covered in — you guessed it — pennies; the Spanish tapas-focused Loquita; and the uber-popular The Lark, which specializes in family-style, globally-inspired dishes using local and seasonal ingredients. While it’s best to make a reservation at The Lark, the restaurant has a 24-seat communal table available for walk-ins. They also recently launched weekend brunch.

In downtown Santa Barbara, several eateries and watering holes have added new life to State Street in recent years, making it a worthy destination again. At Shaker Mill and Broad Street Oyster Co., pair oysters and lobster rolls with a boozy tropical concoction (they also have a fantastic burger), or head up the street to Institution Ale, where craft beers, pizzas, and pretzels are served in a lively, open space. Also found along downtown’s main drag is Joe’s Cafe, a Santa Barbara institution for dining and drinking since 1928, known for its old school atmosphere and classic American fare. Nearby, Bibi Ji attracts locals and tourists for its approachable and modern twist on traditional Indian cuisine and exciting list of hard-to-find wine and craft beer, served in the playfully exotic atmosphere.

Santa Barbara Public Market, Courtesy of David Collier / Visit California

Further up State Street you’ll find the newly opened Hook & Press Donuts, a must-stop for gourmet donuts in such flavors as apple pie and earl grey tea, as well as the natural wine hot spot Satellite, which attracts a hip crowd seeking funky wines and delicious, farmers’ market-inspired vegetarian fare. Just a couple of blocks up, in the Arts and Theater District, is the Santa Barbara Public Market, a dining destination that will appeal to every budget and taste. Inside, you’ll find vendors churning out market-driven tacos, curry noodle bowls, sushi, gourmet pizza, artisanal ice cream, and more.

Enchiladas at Carlitos Café Y Cantina, Courtesy of Cecilia Rossell

Of course, no visit to Santa Barbara would be complete without some Mexican food. At Santo Mezcal, you’ll find a menu of modern Mexican cuisine, including a large selection of seafood-influenced fare, and thoughtfully composed cocktails. Carlitos Café Y Cantina, which has been around for over 40 years, also specializes in flavorful Mexican food, along with handcrafted margaritas that are best enjoyed on the spacious outdoor patio. Julia Child’s love for La Super-Rica Taqueria may have popularized this no-frills establishment (to the point where it’s hard to find a time where there isn’t a line out the door), but the sizzling meat and charred pasilla peppers folded into warm tortillas keep everyone coming back for more. Lastly, if you’re looking for casual tacos, you can’t miss Corazon Cocina (in the Public Market), Mony’s (in the Funk Zone), Lily’s Taqueria, and East Beach Tacos.

Lastly, when all you crave is fresh seafood with a view, you can’t beat a visit to the happenin’ Brophy Bros. in the harbor. It’s always busy, so if you don’t feel like braving the crowds for a table, hop aboard the Lil’ Toot water taxi over to Stearns Wharf to enjoy lobster rolls and clam chowder at Santa Barbara Shellfish Company. It may not have stiff drinks (just wine and beer), but it does have equally lovely ocean views and a casual vibe.

Clam chowder in a bread bowl at Santa Barbara Shellfish Co., Courtesy of Blake Bronstad

Kid-Friendly

Santa Barbara makes for a wonderful family-friendly vacation, and while you could easily spend your time frolicking on the beach or exploring downtown, there are a couple of places tailor-made for kids. Near the train station in downtown Santa Barbara is MOXI: The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation, home to three floors of interactive science and technological experiences for hands-on learning.

Gibbon at the Santa Barbara Zoo, Courtesy of Cecilia Rosell

Every kid (and adult) who loves to see animals will thoroughly enjoy a visit to the charming Santa Barbara Zoo, where you’ll find monkeys, sea otters, gorillas, elephants, and more. Feeding the giraffes is an activity the kiddos will adore, which makes for an especially nice photo opp. Also worth exploring with the family is the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, offering a glimpse into the natural history of the region, from birds to mammals, marine life to Native American life.

Where to Stay

When it comes to places to stay in Santa Barbara, luxury is the name of the game. Conveniently located across from Stearns Wharf is the Hotel Californian, a 121-room hotel featuring Spanish Colonial Revival architecture with Moorish accents. A rooftop pool, exclusive spa, and panoramic views of the ocean are sure to impress.

Lobby of Hotel Californian, Courtesy of Hotel Californian

Also offering stunning views and easy access to the beach is Rosewood Miramar Beach, a beachfront property in Montecito that charms with Gatsby-esque glamour and an upscale, yet laid-back vibe. Offering several restaurants/bars, two pools, bocce courts, a Goop store, and guest rooms directly above the sand, it’s a seaside retreat that’s hard to beat.

Manor Pool at Rosewood Miramar Beach, Courtesy of Rosewood

For those looking for a luxurious hideaway that’s a little more tucked away, Belmond El Encanto, located in the hills above Santa Barbara, is a great option. Walk around the lush property, sip Champagne from the outdoor terrace overlooking the city, or treat yourself to a day of serenity at the spa — whatever you choose to do, Belmond is a lovely escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. Back downtown, Pali House Santa Barbara also offers a quiet place to rest your head, but is conveniently within walking distance to all the action.

Suite at The Leta, Courtesy of The Leta

In Goleta, The Leta Hotel charms with its retro California cool aesthetic, but it’s the on-site amenities that are the real draw, like the pool and full-service restaurant.

– The Food & Wine Enthusiast Guide to Santa Barbara –

– Traveler’s Guide to Santa Ynez Valley –

The post First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Santa Barbara first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Known as Southern California’s Wine Country, Temecula Valley offers world-class wines produced from classic wine grapes like cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay, as well as Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and Rhône varieties which thrive in the Mediterranean-like climate. It also beguiles with rolling hills reminiscent of parts of Tuscany, and a warm, welcoming vibe synonymous with California living.

While generally known for wine, Temecula Valley is emerging as an exciting culinary destination, with many restaurants tucked among the vines at the wineries themselves. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorites, from casual to upscale, for the foodie and wine enthusiast alike.

Courtesy of Altisima Winery

Wine Country views don’t get much better than at this Spanish-inspired spot, brand new to Temecula Valley. With breathtaking architecture, modern yet timeless design elements, indoor dining as well as an outdoor patio overlooking the vineyards, Gaspar’s is the perfect place for Wine Country dining. Enjoy small, tapas-style bites, Spanish favorites, and elevated California fare alongside regular live music and Altisima’s lineup of wines made from a range of Spanish, Italian, and classic international grapes.

Insider Tip: If you love a good burger, Gaspar’s is among the best we’ve ever had. Made with a blend of ribeye and brisket, and topped with all of the fixings, including caramelized onions, bacon, and house-made sauce, it will have you licking your wrists and wishing they would serve these at late-night drive throughs after a day of wine tasting.

Courtesy of Jimmy Fu Photography

This upscale restaurant with numerous accolades – including being named Best Winery Restaurant by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards – features a creative fusion of classic French cooking techniques with fresh, unmistakably Californian flair. Open Friday through Sunday for lunch and early dinner, the Restaurant at Leoness can also create exceptional chef-curated private dinners, featuring thoughtful pairings with the winery’s portfolio of estate and vineyard-designate wines made by the ultra-talented winemaker and native Southern Californian Tim Kramer.

Insider Tip: For an out-of-body experience in deliciousness, order up a round of Leoness’ hand-cut, duck-fat fries. They come dressed in a range of flavor options, including bacon-parm, cajun, truffle, gorgonzola, and au natural, and are accompanied by a selection of house-made sauces.

Courtesy of Bolero Restaurante

Close your eyes and you are in Barcelona at this Spanish-themed winery restaurant. Bolero offers true Spanish-style tapas like patatas bravas, pan de cristal, and boquerones, various types of jamón, as well as heartier dishes like paella, and creative plates like the “Organized Caesar” – perfectly-dressed Caesar salad wrapped in paper-thin jicama and served with parmesan and sea salt croutons.

Insider Tip: Bolero Restaurante offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week, not to mention a lavish prix fixe weekend brunch with pastries, cheese and charcuterie, shellfish, and a pancake and Spanish toast station among other culinary delights.

Courtesy of Visit Temecula Valley

Sip expertly crafted wines made from wunderkind winemaker Oliva Bue and dig into brick oven pizzas, sandwiches, salads, antipasto plates, and more at this casual yet dreamy terrace restaurant. With a full belly, head to the bocce court to work off your lunch over some healthy competition.

Insider Tip: Owner Robert Renzoni originally hails from Buffalo so be sure to kick off your meal with an order of the Buffalo wings, which he swears are just like the real thing.

Courtesy of Jimmy Fu Photography

The outdoor dining patio at Avensole Winery is an enchanting spot to take in spectacular Southern California weather while sipping and savoring wines made from the winery’s 16 acres of estate vineyards, including cabernet sauvignon, muscat canelli, old vine and heritage zinfandel, and gewurztraminer. It’s also the perfect Wine Country lunch spot. Nosh on classic yet elevated California cuisine while looking out onto the winery’s sparkling pond and lush vineyards.

Insider Tip: Wine not your thing? Avensole also offers a selection of craft beer and cocktails to sip while you dine.

Courtesy of Visit Temecula Valley

We love the happening vibe at this well-known Temecula Valley hotspot, tucked among the vines along Rancho California Road. With a seasonally changing menu designed to pair with Wilson Creek’s selection of still and sparkling wines made in the hands of expert winemaker Gus Vizgirda, Creekside Grille is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal seven days a week, including dinner on weekends. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Insider Tip: Can’t snag a table at the restaurant? Hit up the more casual Courtyard Bar and Grill, which is first come, first served for a glass of wine and a smaller menu of Wilson Creek’s most popular bites.

Courtesy of Fazeli Cellars

For casual dining in one of Temecula Valley’s most dramatic settings, head to Baba Joon’s at the Persian-inspired Fazeli Cellars, featuring an exciting menu of Mediterranean-Persian fusion dishes, each with a suggested wine pairing. Relax in the dazzling tasting room or out on the welcoming patio while you nosh on tasty creations like rice and herb-stuffed dolma, mezze platters, award-winning Persian tacos, and tasty sandwiches.

Insider Tip: The unusual but mouth-watering Walnut Panar – a decadent walnut and cream cheese spread with pomegranate reduction – is one of owner BJ Fazeli’s signature creations and is an absolute must-try, especially alongside a glass of Boland Rooz, the winery’s bright and citrusy sauvignon blanc.

Courtesy of Ponte Winery

Nestled in a lush garden courtyard setting, the Restaurant at Ponte Winery offers al fresco Wine Country dining at its finest. Sip Ponte’s selection of small-lot, single-varietal wines and blends alongside a seasonal menu that features locally-sourced produce, hormone-free meats, and wild-caught or sustainably-farmed fish. Dishes range from bright salads, to eye-and-palate-catching cheese and charcuterie spreads, to hearty mains and wood-fired pizzas.

Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for Ponte’s special, seasonal holiday menus, which are generally accompanied by a fun schedule of musical performances for a lively Southern California Wine Country dining experience.

Courtesy of South Coast Winery Resort & Spa

Enter the dramatic Tuscan-inspired dining room featuring a cozy wine bar and outdoor terrace and you are instantly transported to the classic Temecula Valley Wine Country dining experience. Enjoy contemporary California cuisine for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and “intermezzo,” created by Executive Chef José Esparza and his talented culinary team, using fresh, local ingredients. Exciting wine pairings abound thanks to South Coast Winery’s award-winning portfolio of wine selections, most of which you will not find elsewhere.

Insider Tip: Winemakers Jon McPherson and Javier Flores are among the hardest working in Temecula Valley and are almost always on the property overseeing the winery’s robust production. If you’re lucky, one of them will happily stop by your table to chat about what you are sipping and offer a taste of something new while you dine.

– First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Temecula Wine Country –

– Temecula Valley Hotels Sure to Impress –

The post The 9 Best Temecula Winery Restaurants first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Meditating over a bottle of bubbly from our friends at J Vineyards, inspiration struck: sparkling punch for the holidays! But we didn’t stop there. Here are 20 delicious reasons to mix up your cocktail (and wine) game. Plus, we made our very own pinterest board with even more scrumptious concoctions.

1. Sparkling Rosé Punch with Cranberry and Persimmon

A Cozy Kitchen

Don’t fret — there will be no flashbacks to junior high dances with this punch. Blending a spritely rosé with spicy, fresh ginger, sweet elderflower liqueur, and the seasonal fruit flavors of persimmon and cranberry, this sweet punch from A Cozy Kitchen adds sparkle to any holiday get together.

2. Spiced Winter Sangria

What Molly Made

While sangria typically comes out for picnics and warm-weather days, we’re not complaining about this winter-worthy version from What Molly Made. Fresh apples, oranges, and cinnamon sticks are soaked in warmed sweet red wine and brandy, but it’s the chai sugar rim that really brings out the wintery vibes.

3. Cidertini

Mantitlement

Shake up your typical martini and add a fall twist with Mantitlement’s Cidertini. Chilled cider gets a spiked upgrade by adding caramel-flavored vodka, apple liqueur, and enough cinnamon to warm up any chilly night.

4. Smoke Signals

Richard Pierce – Epicurious

For those wanting to take their cocktail-making skills to another level, Epicurious shares their recipe for a Smoke Signal. Add on a few hours to craft this show-stopping cocktail as you’ll be leveraging the flavor of wood chips to craft smoked ice chunks. And, if that wasn’t enough, a homemade pecan syrup is also on the list of tasks. While this libation may be more than just shaken or stirred, sherry, whiskey, and the artisanal add ons will have your tastebuds flying high.

5. Candy Cane Cocktail

Boulder Locavore

Candy cane infused vodka is the star of this holiday musical for your mouth, and while you will need to infuse the vodka yourself, it is as easy as pie (and makes great holiday gifts too!) A little bit naughty and definitely nice, Creme de Cacao and Bitters are the costars to this future seasonal favorite from Boulder Locavore.

6. Bacon, Bourbon, and Hazelnut Hot Chocolate

Serious Eats

Talk about a trio made in heaven, the Bacon, Bourbon, and Hazelnut Hot Cocoa from Serious Eats is bound to add a bit of sparkle to the eyes of any bacon, bourbon, hazelnut/chocolate fans, and this recipe is not messing around. Full slices of hearty bacon mingle with milk and bittersweet chocolates, biting bourbon, and Frangelico. Sweet and meaty, we won’t judge if this cocktail ends up as part of your holiday brunch plans.

7. Pumpkin Spice White Russian

Move over PSL, because you have some major pumpkin-spice competition. A small step can add big flavor to this cold-weather favorite. A sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice is all Nutmeg Nanny suggests to upgrade the dessert-like White Russian cocktail.

8. The Roast and Toast Cocktail

GastroNom

Mix and mingle your morning Joe with the big flavors of bourbon, Amaro, and orange juice. Add a blow-torched marshmallow accoutrement and you have the Roast and Toast Cocktail from GastroNom.

9. Cranberry and Cinnamon Whiskey Sour

Baker by Nature

Baker by Nature mixed up a little somethin’ special with a traditional Whiskey Sour. Cranberries, the obvious choice for any winter bevvy, are cooked down with sugar and water to create a delightfully decadent simple syrup. Add citrus, alcohol, and shake vigorously to burn off some holiday calories before you sip.

10. Old Fashioned

Salted Plains

After a long winter’s day, why not mix yourself up an Old Fashioned — you deserve it. And, we have two decadent seasonal options to suggest. Delish’s Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned includes a splash of maple syrup to add a bit of sweetness to your night, while the Cinnamon Rosemary Old Fashioned from Salted Plains includes a cinnamon, rosemary, and honey simple syrup.

11. Vin Brulé

The Spruce

As days become cooler, winter markets across Europe are firing up their burners to create traditional mulled wine. In Italy, it is no different and Vin Brulé — Italian-style mulled wine — is a delightfully warm treat with full-bodied flavor care of a handful of spices, a hearty red wine, and a desire to celebrate the holidays right. Craft your own version, give or take a liquor or two, with guidance from The Spruce.

12. Hot Buttered Rum

Chelsea Lupkin – Delish

Welcome season’s greetings care of Delish and their Hot Buttered Rum recipe crafted out of ice cream, brown sugar, apple cider, rum, and a whole cup of BUTTER.

13. Red Nose Punch

Helen Rosner – Saveur

Reindeer approved, Saveur’s Red Nose Punch is as playful as the name. Grab a favorite bourbon and lager, mix with cranberry juice and fresh cranberries, stir and enjoy. This punch will add a rosy glow that will make even Santa jealous.

14. Red Wine Hot Chocolate

Imma Eat That

Chocolate and wine is an absolute favorite pairing, so why not combine the two in seasonal celebration? Imma Eat That suggests stirring up a robust red with thick and creamy, homemade chocolate milk for a decadently rich beverage to sip while you deck all the halls.

15. Mulled White Wine

Mitzy at Home

You’re only 20 minutes away from this spiked winter favorite with a twist. Versus the typical red wine base, this mulled wine from Mitzy at Home boasts a light and sweet white wine warmed with honey, oranges, and a trio of spices to keep you toasty from the inside out.

16. Gold Rush Cocktail

Garnish with Lemon

A simple mix sometimes strikes it rich and the Gold Rush Cocktail from Garnish with Lemon, which has a delightfully body-warming zing from the main ingredient — ginger liqueur. With a splash of lemon and a bit of bourbon, you’ll be warm-weather California dreaming in no time.

17. Cranberry Thyme Gin and Tonic

A Cozy Kitchen

A Cozy Kitchen did it again with another tasty update to a year-round cocktail fav. Post-holiday meal leftovers are the perfect add to your typical G+T. Lingering cranberries and thyme with a splash of OJ will elevate your norm to seasonal splendor.

18. Charles Dickens Punch

Photo Courtesy of Portobello Road Gin – Chilled Magazine

No visits from the ghosts of holiday past needed to enjoy Chilled Magazine’s Charles Dickens Punch. The ghosts of holiday future want to share this spiced Madeira wine libation to ensure your shindig is the toast of the town.

19. Broiled Bailey’s Hot Chocolate

Amanda K by the Bay

When the weather outside is frightful, Amanda K by the Bay’s Broiled Bailey’s Hot Chocolate is absolutely delightful. And, let’s be honest, enjoying an adult-version of hot cocoa doesn’t have to depend on weather patterns. Bailey’s Irish Cream and hot chocolate may seem pretty obvious, but it’s the final step of broiling the marshmallows to get tasty, toasted perfection.

20. Apple and Pumpkin Beer Cocktails

Cooking and Beer

Easily described as Thanksgiving in a glass, Cooking and Beer’s Apple and Pumpkin Beer Cocktail is easy to mix into seasonal rotation for any beer aficionado, even well after the Thanksgiving feast is over.

Explore even more holiday-fueled, spiked beverage inspiration with our Boozy Holiday Beverages Pinterest board.

— The Difference Between Sparkling Wine and Champagne —

— Celebrate With These Sparkling Wines for the Holidays —

The post 20 Boozy Beverages for The Holiday Season first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Whether you want to treat your mom to a mother-daughter gourmet outing in Napa Valley, enjoy a horseback ride with your significant other through the hills of Sonoma County, or sip and cycle with your best friend through Calistoga, our WineCountry Experiences Gift Guide is here to help with gift giving ideas for those who prefer experiences over material things.

For the Wine Aficionados

Merryvale Estate Picnic & Tasting, Courtesy of Merryvale

Merryvale Estate Picnic & Tasting

For the quintessential Napa Valley experience, look no further than Merryvale’s picnic lunch at their beautiful Profile Estate Vineyard. Located on a ridge 800 feet above the valley floor, you’ll enjoy a guided vineyard tour before settling down on the tasting deck to savor spectacular views, a gourmet Italian lunch, and, of course, a lineup of world-class Profile Collection wines.

For the Foodies

Pan-Asian Food & Wine Experience, Courtesy of RD Winery

Pan-Asian Food & Wine Experience

While wine and cheese are always a good choice, why not step it up a notch by gifting them Napa’s only Pan-Asian food and wine experience? An adventure for the palate, this refreshingly different tasting experience features a selection of seasonal, Asian-inspired bites served alongside a flight of five unique wines from RD Winery’s line of Fifth Moon wines. The foodie and the wine-o alike are sure to find pleasure in discovering the versatility of Asian flavors with both familiar and less common varietals, including zinfandel, gruner veltliner, and malvasia bianca.

Five-Course Farm-to-Table Experience

This five-course, farm-to-table wine and food experience at Brian Arden Winery in Calistoga is one of our most popular WineCountry Experiences, and for good reason — not only does this experience include a behind-the-scenes tour of the beautiful property’s expansive garden and winery facility, but it also lets guests go on a culinary journey of five exquisite courses, all cooked in front of them by the winery’s own Estate Chef. Top it all off with a tasty selection of wines from this small, family-owned winery and you can almost guarantee your giftee will have a perfect day in Napa Valley.

For the Outdoorsy Types

Courtesy of Getaway Adventures

Cycle & Sip in Wine Country

Guests will venture along bucolic country roads as they explore Calistoga on two wheels during this moderate, yet leisurely, 12-mile Napa Valley bike tour. This five-hour guided experience will include plenty of scenic views in between stops for wine tastings at small, off-the-beaten-path wineries, plus a signature Wine Country picnic lunch. A Sonoma version of this experience is also available.

Secret Horseback Ride & Picnic

Treat your sweetie to a secluded horseback ride through one of the most beautiful trails in Sonoma County. The trail winds its way through hills, meadows, creek crossings, and cliffside views, stopping at a private (and secret) vista for a gourmet picnic lunch overlooking Lake Sonoma. This picturesque two-hour ride ends at a beautiful barn (built from one 800-year-old Redwood tree), where a glass of Dry Creek Valley wine or an ice cold beer awaits.

Need more holiday gifting inspiration? Visit our sister site to view our 2021 Holiday Gift Guide for all the wine and drink lovers in your life.

The post 6 Holiday Gifts for Those Who Like Experiences Over Things first appeared on WineCountry.com.

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Restaurants / Fredericksburg

Vaudeville

Vaudeville is part bistro, part supper club, and part boutique shopping experience, located in the heart of Fredericksburg’s historic downtown. Daily lunch specials, like Crawfish Etouffé, incorporate the best flavors from around the world with an American spin. Dinner is served on Friday and Saturday nights only, with a prix fixe menu. The wine list is heavy on Italian, French, and California wines, with a couple of Texans in the mix. There’s also a good selection of sparkling wines.

Insider Tip

Locals favor Sunday Buttermilk Fried Chicken brunch. Get there early as the line begins before 11:00 am.

Image courtesy of Trish Rawls

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Restaurants / Fredericksburg

Auslander Restaurant

The Ausländer Restaurant and Biergarten has been a favorite for authentic German cuisine for 20 years. Known for their hand-cut sausages and schnitzel, The Ausländer also serves American classics like chicken sandwiches and hamburgers, including a classic burger and a schnitzel burger. The menu features a large variety of beers from around the world, but try a local beer and sausage for a blend of Texas and Bavaria.

Insider Tip

The Ausländer has a nice beer garden as well as covered outdoor seating.

Image courtesy of The Ausländer

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Restaurants / Fredericksburg

Cabernet Grill

Cabernet Grill is the quintessential Texas Hill Country fine dining experience, where flavors of Texas and the southwest are paired with the largest Texas wine list in the state. If it’s your first time dining at Cabernet Grill, try the Texas Mixed Grill which includes jalapeno quail, grilled shrimp, and a smoked pork tenderloin medallion. The Mexican street corn side is also a must. Cabernet Grill’s long-time sommelier, Elizabeth Rodriguez, has recently expanded the wine list to include over 180 Texas wines, so don’t miss pairing your meal with a glass or bottle.

Insider Tip

If the weather is nice, sit outside to enjoy the pretty patio and water gardens all lit up with fairy lights. It’s so romantic you may just fall in love with the Hill Country and decide to stay. Note that outdoor dining is on a first come, first served basis.

Image courtesy of Cabernet Grill

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4

Restaurants / Fredericksburg

Otto’s

Otto’s is an ode to fine dining that showcases the German heritage of Fredericksburg. The farm-to-table menu is carefully curated to highlight what’s available and in season. Starters include a twist on a German-style pretzel served with brie and crème fraiche, as well as the Flammkuchen, which is a bit like a tart flambé, topped with crème fraiche, Spanish chorizo sugo, arugula, pickled red peppers, and blue cheese crumbles. The wine and beer menu features Austrian and German flavors as well as those of Texas and California. Since the venue is a small frame house and seating is limited, just be sure to make a reservation.

Insider Tip

Sunday brunch at Otto’s is truly divine, featuring a menu of unique breakfast and lunch items. There’s a good selection of standard drinks such as mimosas and bloody marys, but take a chance on one of the more creative cocktails.

Image courtesy of Trish Rawls

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Restaurants /

Hill Top Cafe

Hill Top Cafe has 40 years of history, family, good food, and music. Housed in an old gas station, the location is a bit out of the way, but worth the drive. Owner Johnny Nicolas and his late wife Brenda transformed the venue into more than a restaurant; Hill Top is an experience. Go for the excellent Greek-Cajun-inspired food and atmosphere, or just go for the live music. Over the years, Hill Top has hosted such famous musicians as Eric Clapton, Jimmie Vaughan, and Bonnie Raitt, which isn’t surprising given Johnny’s successful music career in the Grammy winning band, Asleep At The Wheel.

Insider Tip

Hill Top Cafe also has a bed and breakfast for those that want to stay up late and listen to music or just gaze at the star-filled sky without having to venture far after dinner.

Image courtesy of Hill Top Cafe

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6

Wineries /

Pontotoc Vineyard

Pontotoc Vineyard and Weingarten was created in the image of a Viennese Heurigen. A Heurigen is a wine bar located in the vineyards where locals bring a picnic basket and enjoy the wine produced by that vineyard. Though Pontotoc is not in the vineyards, it is located in a historic limestone building surrounded by old oak trees, and while the winery is not technically a restaurant, you can order a picnic basket made by the owners to go with your estate wine. Texas sausage, local bread, and homemade pimento cheese are a few of the goodies you’ll find inside. Sit outside, listen to great music, and enjoy one of the most unique wine gardens in the area.

Insider Tip

Kids are welcome and there are alcohol-free beverage options.

Image courtesy of Pontotoc Vineyard and Weingarten

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Restaurants /

Emma + Ollie

Emma + Ollie is a restaurant and bakery offering delicious food and mouthwatering desserts served in a cozy ‘40s bungalow just off of Fredericksburg’s Main Street. The food is always fresh and many ingredients come from their garden. Entree favorites include the salmon cobb salad and the po-boy sandwiches, but be sure to save room for the desserts, which will make you think of visiting your grandmother. People line up for the lemon bars and hello dollies, but it’s all decadent in the best way.

Insider Tip

Emma + Ollie is open for breakfast Tuesday through Friday and brunch on Saturday, but you can always stop in simply to purchase their homemade desserts to go.

Image courtesy of Penny Sadler

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Corporate Events /

La Bergerie

A boutique wine bar and market, La Bergerie is the perfect spot in Fredericksburg for distinctive wines as well as housemade charcuterie, cheeses, and freshly baked bread. If you’re hungry for something more substantial but don’t want a full meal, they also serve small plates. Specializing in Old World wines, the wine list includes unique imports and old vintages, but you’ll also find some local wines on the menu.

Insider Tip

When the weather permits, there’s a lovely wine garden in the back, and in 2022, La Bergerie is launching an Italian restaurant.

Image courtesy of La Bergerie

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9

Restaurants / Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg Pie Company

Family-owned and operated Fredericksburg Pie Company specializes in pies, as the name implies, all made from scratch daily. At their downtown Fredericksburg bakery, you’ll find over 20 types of pie available each day, from coconut cream pie to pecan pie to blackberry pie — just like grandma used to make. Order a slice to enjoy in the dining area or on the front porch, or take a whole pie to eat at home. Just be sure to get there early, as these tasty pies tend to sell out quickly.

Insider Tip

Fredericksburg Pie Company has its own private coffee label, Fredericksburg Texas Coffee, featuring a large variety of whole bean and ground coffee blends for sale. They have a different coffee flavor on special each month, which is available by the cup to sip on-site.

Image courtesy of Visit Fredericksburg

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The post 9 Best Restaurants in Fredericksburg first appeared on WineCountry.com.

1

Restaurants /

Ember Restaurant

For a taste of locally sourced, wood-fired cuisine in a clean and gorgeous barn-like setting (made mostly of reclaimed wood), head to Ember in Arroyo Grande. For his menu of Italian-inspired California cuisine, Chef/Owner Brian Collins utilizes simple ingredients that are meticulously prepared and beautifully presented — think flavorful, seasonal salads, wood-fired steaks, hand-cut pastas, and unexpected takes on classic desserts.

Insider Tip

The menu is uber seasonal, so you’ll always find something new to try, like the Burrata Levain with blood orange and snap peas on grilled walnut bread, or the Dungeness Crab Spaghetti with lime, jalapeno, and crab butter. Mmmm.

Photo courtesy of Ember Restaurant

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Restaurants /

Luna Red

Conveniently located in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo, Luna Red serves flavorful tapas and tasty craft cocktails in a welcoming, eclectic setting. Sister restaurant to nearby Novo Restaurant, this popular dining destination charms with its vibrant outdoor patio, innovative small plates that meld global flavors with locally-sourced ingredients, and casual, yet lively atmosphere.

Insider Tip

Take advantage of Luna Red’s Takeout Taco Tuesday. You’ll love the delectable selection of tacos to-go, including Beef Short Rib with mole poblano, Tempura Rockfish, and Portuguese-style Pork Belly.

Photo courtesy of Luna Red

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Restaurants /

The Spoon Trade

This charming industrial-chic eatery south of SLO in Grover Beach boasts an open kitchen, chalkboard walls, and a reclaimed wood bar, giving the whole space an inviting feel. Ingredients are sourced locally and many are made in-house, including their famous fresh-baked sourdough bread. Whatever you order, don’t leave without trying the chicken and waffles with spiced honey and housemade kimchi.

Insider Tip

The waffles are actually sourdough, and made from the same starter used to make their loaves.

Photo courtesy of Facebook: The Spoon Trade

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Restaurants /

Lido Restaurant at Dolphin Bay Hotel

For a taste of California coastal cuisine with a view, head to Lido Restaurant at the Dolphin Bay Hotel in Pismo Beach. Whether dining for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or their elegant Sunday Champagne Brunch, you can expect a meal rich with local influence and beautiful ocean views. Don’t miss complementing your meal with an expertly crafted cocktail or bottle of wine from their 800-bottle wine list, featuring a selection of both local and international wines.

Insider Tip

Sleep in on the weekend and roll in for a $39 prix-fixe, three-course brunch menu, which includes bottomless mimosas — a favorite among locals.

Photo courtesy of Dolphin Bay

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Restaurants /

Splash Cafe

It may not be fancy, but this no-frills cafe has been a favorite destination in Pismo Beach since 1989, drawing locals and tourists for its steaming bowls of clam chowder — known as the best clam chowder on the coast. Their famous chowder, with its fresh clams and perfectly creamy, buttery broth, lives up to the hype, but is even better when served in a housemade bread bowl.

Insider Tip

If you can’t fathom the thought of eating canned clam chowder ever again, Splash Cafe’s acclaimed chowder can be sent directly to your home. Place an order for their fresh frozen clam chowder online and you’ll be able to savor the Central Coast from afar. If you don’t like it, they offer a 100% money back guarantee, no questions asked.

Photo courtesy of Splash Cafe

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Lodging /

Granada Hotel and Bistro

Offering a glimpse into a rather contemporary version of California’s Spanish colonial past, the Bistro at this downtown SLO hotel features exposed brick, dimly lit under a tin roof, with cozy, cushioned velvet chairs and an outdoor patio with seating around fire pits. The menu takes its cue from classic French bistro fare, just slightly jazzed up. Stop in for a light meal of Morro Bay oysters, or opt for something heartier like the Moroccan-Spiced Lamb Burger. Either way, you’ll leave happy and satisfied.

Insider Tip

Plan to put away the car keys for an evening, as the hotel is right in the hub of downtown—walkable to cafes, restaurants, movie theaters, and on Thursday evenings, San Luis Obispo's beloved farmers market.

Photo courtesy of Granada Hotel

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Restaurants /

Ocean Grill in Avila Beach

While there isn’t a bad seat in the house, if you ask for one of the tables along the enclosed outdoor patio wall, you’ll have a front row seat to a spectacular Avila Beach sunset. The menu features coastal-inspired standbys, including fried calamari, ahi poke, and clam chowder, along with a selection of tasty wood-fired flatbreads, steaks, and seafood pastas.

Insider Tip

Even though moules-frites are not on the menu, if you ask for them, depending on the availability, it’s quite possible they’ll whip up an order.

Photo courtesy of Ocean Grill

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Restaurants /

Novo Restaurant

Named one of 100 Best Wine Restaurants in America by Wine Enthusiast, Novo Restaurant & Lounge offers a unique, romantic dining experience, right on San Luis Obispo Creek. Once you’ve glanced through the wine list and decided on a bottle from their extensive local or global selection, settle in for Executive Chef Ben Richardson’s locally-sourced, wholesome, and globally-inspired food that changes with the seasons.

Insider Tip

The Salmon Bisque from sister restaurant Robin’s (in Cambria), was so popular that it was brought to Novo and is still on the menu today. Be sure to ask for it.

Photo courtesy of Novo Restaurant & Lounge

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Restaurants /

Ox and Anchor

Located at the Hotel SLO in downtown San Luis Obispo, this modern spin on a typical steak house draws inspiration from the surrounding Central Coast region. Executive Chef Ryan Fancher utilizes local ingredients for his diverse menu, which includes classic steakhouse entrees and sides with an unexpected twist. While the steaks and seafood are on point, don’t miss trying one of the inventive appetizers, such as the braised short rib egg rolls or bone marrow tater tots.

Insider Tip

In keeping with their locally minded ethos, Ox and Anchor is proud to partner with a different local winery each month for their winemaker dinner series, featuring a special five-course dinner with wine pairings.

Photo courtesy of InterContinental Hotels Group

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10

Restaurants /

Mint + Craft

This relaxed downtown SLO cafe and mercantile is a great spot to grab a coffee and breakfast or lunch. Here, a globally-inspired menu features fresh, local ingredients for dishes that are equal parts healthy and delicious, such as the Avocado Toast with burrata and pistachio, Pesto Rice Bowl with soft cooked egg, and house-baked biscuits served with butter and jam (or as the star of a breakfast sandwich).

Insider Tip

If you’re in a hurry, Mint + Craft stocks a selection of grab and go breakfast and lunch items all day, and they also offer a variety of artisanal foods, housewares, olive oils, and cookbooks for when you need the perfect hostess gift fast.

Photo courtesy of Mint + Craft

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Restaurants /

Sally Loo’s Wholesome Cafe

This popular breakfast spot serves up quality dishes and a friendly atmosphere that keep happy diners coming back for more. From sweet potato and kale breakfast burritos to whole grain flax waffles to tropical fruit and chia seed smoothies, the offerings are as wholesome as they are delicious. They also offer a rotating selection of heartier monthly specials, like the Sally O’Griddle, that are worth taking note of.

Insider Tip

If breakfast isn’t your favorite meal of the day, order up the Smashburger, a delicious burger featuring local beef, american cheese, garlic aioli, and secret sauce, toasted on a brioche bun.

Photo courtesy of Facebook: Sally Loo’s

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The post The Best Restaurants in San Luis Obispo County first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Carmel

Food prep at Pebble Beach Food & Wine, Courtesy of Pebble Beach Food & Wine

Pebble Beach Food & Wine

April 16 – 19, 2020
Pebble Beach
Cost: $150 – $1,750+

One of California’s biggest wine and food festivals returns for its 13th year, welcoming 100 celebrity chefs and 250 acclaimed wineries for four days of hedonistic fun. From cooking demos to wine seminars, massive grand tastings to exclusive after parties, PBFW is one impressive epicurean experience you won’t want to miss.

Napa Valley

Sushi from Morimoto at BottleRock Napa Valley, Courtesy of Tim Hans

Taste of Yountville

March 21, 2020
Yountville
Cost: $175

Napa Valley’s culinary capital packs a flavorful punch during the 27th annual Taste of Yountville, when over 50 restaurants, wineries, and musical performers gather in one spot to celebrate Napa’s best food and wine. Whether you come to sample bites from celebrity chefs, to learn a new culinary skill during a cooking demonstration, taste wine from world-class producers, or listen to live music, Taste of Yountville is sure to delight all the senses.

BottleRock Napa Valley

May 22 – 24, 2020
Napa Valley Expo
Tickets: Prices vary, sold out

Though BottleRock Napa Valley is first-and-foremost a music festival, there’s no denying that this popular Napa Valley festival brings it when it comes to food and beverages. Many of Napa’s most acclaimed restaurants will be on-hand to dish out tasty fare for hungry festival-goers, and there will be plenty of world-class wine, craft beer, and spirits to keep the party going strong. BottleRock Napa Valley may be sold out, but if you did snag a ticket in time, you’ll be rewarded with mouthwatering fare, wine, and an incredible lineup of live music to fill your heart’s desire.

 WineCountry Inspo: Before you reserve a Napa Valley hotel room, check out our exclusive WineCountry hotel perks. When you book using one of our promo codes, you can enjoy perks like complimentary room upgrades, in-room bottles of wine, and spa credits at a number of Napa Valley’s best hotels and inns.

Palm Springs

Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival, Courtesy of Greater Palm Springs

Palm Desert Food & Wine Festival

March 27 – 29, 2020
Agua Caliente Casino
Cost: Prices vary, $40+

Now in its 10th year, Palm Desert Food & Wine is a gastronomic celebration showcasing cuisine from regional chefs, premium wine, craft beer, and more. Here, you’ll be able to watch cooking demos, sip craft brews and wine, and nosh on treats from some of the nation’s top chefs, including Carla Hall, Elizabeth Falkner, and Curtis Stone. Though your tastebuds will be pleased, Palm Desert Food & Wine isn’t all about the epicurean delights; proceeds from the event benefit the Coachella Valley FIND Food Bank.

Paso Robles

Courtesy of Hospice du Rhone

2020 Rhone Rangers Experience

February 16, 2020
Paso Robles Event Center
Cost: $48 – $101

The 2020 Rhone Rangers Experience is a fun and educational one-day event in Paso Robles, providing the opportunity to taste and learn about American Rhône varietal wines from the people who produce them. This year’s event includes a wine luncheon, seminar, grand tasting, and silent auction, with over 75 producers pouring wine for attendees to sip and savor.

Vintage Paso Zinfandel Weekend

March 20 – 22, 2020
Various Wineries in Paso Robles
Cost: $45 – $80

Vintage Paso pays homage to California’s heritage grape through a variety of zinfandel-focused experiences. Complete with a seminar, winemaker luncheon, and various events at different wineries, Vintage Paso promises you’ll have plenty of tasty zinfandel wines to enjoy over the weekend (and likely some purple-stained teeth, too).

Hospice du Rhône Paso Robles

April 23 – 25, 2020
Paso Robles Event Center
Cost: $100+; $995 for a weekend pass

Hospice du Rhône is a must for anyone who adores Rhône varietals, where over 150 national and international Rhône producers gather in Paso for a full weekend of wine-fueled fun. Expect a variety of educational seminars led by panels of winemakers, a rosé paired lunch, live auction, and spirited dinners at this much-loved biannual event.

 WineCountry Inspo: Need a place to stay in Paso Robles? Read our picks for the 10 Best Hotels & Inns in Paso Robles.

San Diego

Uncorked Wine Festival, Courtesy of Uncorked

Uncorked: San Diego Wine Festival

March 28, 2020
Embarcadero Marina Park North, San Diego
Cost: $60; $75 for VIP

This jovial wine festival features over 200 wines and ciders from around the world (including a bubbly bar featuring a variety of sparkling wines), as well as a live DJ and several local food trucks. Even more, Uncorked benefits the local non-profit, Urban Surf 4 Kids, so you can drink for a good cause.

California Wine Festival

May 29 – 30, 2020
Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Golf Club & Spa, Carlsbad
Cost: Tickets go on sale February 15, 2020

The California Wine Festival returns to San Diego County, kicking off with a classy sunset and rare wine affair featuring some harder-to-find wines from around the world. On Saturday, the fun continues with a lively beachside wine tasting, with over 100 wines, regional craft beers, food, and live music. If you can’t make it to this event in May, there’s one taking place the month prior in Dana Point.

San Francisco

Courtesy of San Francisco Wine Chronicle

San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition Tasting

February 15, 2020
Fort Mason Center
Cost: $75 – $95

The San Francisco Chronicle’s wine competition in the largest competition of North American wines in the world, with over 7,000 wines evaluated by a panel of wine judges from across the country. The public tasting, held in San Francisco’s Fort Mason Center, features more than 1,500 gold-medal winners on-hand for wine loves to sample over the course of a few hours.

Santa Barbara

World of Pinot Noir, Courtesy of Tenley Fohl Photography

World of Pinot Noir

March 5 – 7, 2020
The Ritz-Carlton Bacara Resort
Cost: $65+; $1,500 for a weekend pass

The annual World of Pinot Noir (WOPN) returns to Santa Barbara for yet another year of educational seminars, luncheons, grand tastings, and multi-course dinners centered around — you guessed it — pinot noir. Featuring more than 250 wineries from around the globe and plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in all things pinot, it’s the place to be if you’re a fan of Burgundy’s famed grape.

Santa Barbara Culinary Experience

March 13 – 15, 2020
Various locations throughout Santa Barbara
Cost: Prices vary, $40 – $350; $995 for a Platinum Pass

This inaugural three-day event, held in partnership with The Julia Child Foundation, is inspired by one-time Santa Barbara resident Julia Child and her love of food and drink. The aptly named Culinary Experience features a curated collection of special events and flavorful classes celebrating the bounty of the region — think empanada making and fermentation basics — each designed to enrich, educate, and entertain.

 WineCountry Inspo: If Santa Barbara is calling your name, take a moment to read our First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Santa Barbara for all the best places to sip, eat, play, and stay.

Sonoma

Artisan Cheese Festival, Courtesy of California Artisan Cheese Festival

Garagiste Festival: Northern Exposure

February 15, 2020
Sonoma Veteran’s Memorial Hall, Sonoma
Cost: $65 – $90; $130 for VIP pass

For a chance to taste hard-to-find wines from up-and-coming producers, head to the 3rd annual Garagiste Festival in Sonoma. At this intimate event, you’ll be able to taste small-production wines from throughout Sonoma, Napa, Mendocino, and Santa Cruz, all made by small, passionate producers worth discovering.

California Artisan Cheese Festival

March 27 – 29, 2020
Sonoma County Event Center, Santa Rosa
Cost: $25 – $150

Dairy fans, take note: the California Artisan Cheese Festival returns to Santa Rosa for the 14th time, fulfilling every cheese lover’s fantasies with a full weekend of cheese-fueld fun. From chef demos to farm and creamery tours, cheese tastings to competitions, the Artisan Cheese Festival is a chance to immerse oneself in California’s artisan cheese producers from one convenient spot.

 WineCountry Inspo: Looking for a delicious experience to enjoy in Sonoma on your own terms? The Gourmet Food & Wine Tour Sonoma is a guided progressive restaurant experience, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy four farm-to-table courses paired with wine.

Temecula

Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival, Courtesy of Visit Temecula Valley

Pechanga’s 12th Annual Chocolate Decadence & Wine Festival

March 6 – 7, 2020
Pechanga Resort, Temecula
Cost: $60 – $90; $35 – $40 for designated driver tickets

Chocoholics and wine lovers won’t want to miss this annual two-day event at Pechanga Resort, which kicks off Friday with a tasty selection of chocolates and pastries, sparkling wines, spirits, and dessert wines. The revelry continues into Saturday, which is all about the wine, offering a global selection of wines to sample alongside an array of culinary creations from Pechanga Resort’s chefs.

Temecula Valley Balloon & Wine Festival

May 29 – 31, 2020
Lake Skinner Regional Park, Temecula Valley
Cost: Prices vary, $35 – $200+

This three-day festival brings together hot air balloons and wine, as the name implies, plus live music, food, and fun for a unique celebration in Temecula Valley. Take a sunrise balloon tour, then spend the afternoon sampling wine, enjoying live entertainment, or partaking in a wine barrel race. It’s all possible at this much-loved Temecula Valley tradition, now celebrating its 37th year.

 WineCountry Inspo: Need more Temecula inspiration? Check out the 12 Best Temecula Wineries to Visit or learn how to have The Perfect Weekend Getaway in Old Town Temecula.

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– Top 10 Wineries to Visit in Southern California –

The post 16 Best Food and Wine Festival Events in California Before Summer is Here first appeared on WineCountry.com.

So when you’re shopping for the wine lover (isn’t everyone here one, right?), need gift ideas for mom, or are looking to find something perfect for the little ones of all ages, we’ve rounded up some of 2018’s best for all the special folks in your life.

Cooler months ahead mean plenty of excuses to stay home and curl up by a fire long after seasonal celebrations are complete. For The Homebody, being comfortable is a top priority and with these gift-giving options, a visit to their abode may be the only way you’ll see them before spring.

1. Nublado Throw
   The Citizenry
2. Grand Carafe
   WineCountry Shop
3. Natural Cut Himalayan Salt Lamp with Wooden Base
   Aha
4. care/of Vitamins Gift Card
   care/of, Price Varies

With ingrained good taste, The Creatives deserve something outside of the box. These finely curated gifts are sure to leave a lasting impression that continues well beyond the holiday season.

1. American Alliance of Museums Membership
   AAM, $90
2. Pantone Foodmood Cookbook
   Aha
3. Chardonnay and Croquet with Sonoma Cutrer
   WineCountry Experiences
4. Art Every Day Mug
   Poketo

With holiday gifts like these, The Entertainer in your life has even more excuses to invite you over for a special time of drinking, dining, and delighting in the season of merry.

1. Marble & Acacia Coaster Set
   WineCountry Shop
2. Stainless Steel Fondue Set
   Sur La Table, $89.95
3. Top That Toast Party Game
   Amazon, $20
4. Murray’s Cheese of the Month Club
   Murray’s Cheese, $275 for four months

Add some spice to gift giving when it comes to The Food Lover. They’re always mixing things up in the kitchen. And there’s an added perk too – we see delicious moments in your future as well.

1. Cooking Class
   Sur La Table, Price Varies
2. Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking
   Amazon, $21
3. Haku Japanese Shoyu
   Food 52, $28 – $32
4. Big Plates in Fog
   Year and a Day, $64 for four

Fun and learning can go hand in hand with four more gift options that cross all ages, from wee babes to teenagers.

1. TouchThinkLearn: ABC
   Chronicle Books, $24.99
2. 4M Crystal Growing Experiment
   Amazon, $21.99
3. Unstable Unicorns Card Game
   Unstable Unicorns, $20
4. Razor Spark Scooter
   Amazon, $59.99

Understated and elegant, The Minimalist appreciates gifts that give lifelong value and bring pleasure to their everyday.

1. Gunmetal Black Stemless Wine Glasses
   WineCountry Shop
2. Throw Quilt No. 9
   Kaufmann Mercantile
3. Light + Ladder Incense Holder
   Coming Soon, $80
4. Binu Soap Box Set
   binu binu, $110

The mountains (and lakes, and trails, and…) are always calling the off-the-beaten-path traveler, and their life adventure will be more exciting with a bit of help from their Secret Santa.

1. John Muir Notecards
   Chronicle Books
2. Eco2 Wine Tote
   Kaufmann Mercantile
3. Holy Stone HS700 FBV Drone with 1080p HD Camera
   Amazon, $329.99
4. Secret Horseback Ride + Picnic
   WineCountry Experiences

Whether their style is popping bottles or sipping and savoring, The Wine Lover understands the ins and outs of a good vintage. Here’s your chance to add some sparkle to moments with their favorite beverage.

1. Wine Journal
   Moleskine, $29.95
2. Merlot Infused Coffee
   Uncommon Goods, $22
3. Champagne Saber
   WineCountry Shop
4. Hess Collection Wine Blending Experience
   WineCountry Experiences

– Our WineCountry Experiences Offerings –

– 20 Boozy Beverages For The Holiday Season –

The post 2018 WineCountry Holiday Gift Guide first appeared on WineCountry.com.

Its vineyards may have put Sonoma County on the map, but to savor the richness of this vast and varied pocket of Wine Country, you must dig into its culinary landscape and explore its breathtaking natural beauty. Beyond the tidy rows of grapevines, there are rolling hills of unkempt farmland speckled with dairy cows, goats, and sheep used to make Sonoma’s award-winning cheeses. On the western edge, there are miles of rugged coastline filled with fresh, briny shellfish, and deep inside the county, there are artisan makers churning out everything from European-style breads, to olive oils and preserves, to fermented specialties like krauts, kombucha, beer, and cider. It’s a county filled with farmers, artists, winemakers, and chefs, all of whom share a love of Sonoma’s simple pleasures and relish in the bounty if its land.

SONOMA COAST

Courtesy of Susan Williams

About sixty miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, California’s famous Pacific Coast Highway (AKA Highway 1) winds through a cinematic, 55-mile seaside road full of rocky cliffs, secluded coves,and long stretches of beach often cloaked in a chilly, grey fog.

With only a handful of small towns along the way, it’s easy to immerse oneself in the rugged natural beauty of Sonoma’s coast in solitude and find total fulfillment with little more than epic views and a warm bowl of clam chowder from Spud Point Crab Company in Bodega Bay. Clear, crisp days in March through June offer the best opportunities for whale watching at Bodega Head, but Goat Rock State Beach, just south of Jenner, is a favorite gathering spot for the local harbor seal and sea lion populations year-round.

Further north in Jenner, where the mouth of the Russian River meets the Pacific, adventurers can book kayaks through WaterTreks Eco Tours and paddle through calm waters alongside blue herons and harbor seals.

DRY CREEK VALLEY

Courtesy of Susan Williams

It’s no wonder Dry Creek Valley is a favorite destination for weekenders. Offering both a casual, quintessential Sonoma Wine Country experience of salt-of-the-earth growers and award-winning wines, coupled with upscale lodging, shopping, and restaurants in nearby Healdsburg, travelers get to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Depending on how leisurely you want to savor this AVA, you could head to Truett Hurst Winery and settle in for the day with sandwiches from nearby Dry Creek General Store. Enjoy a bottle of the winery’s Old Vine Zinfandel with picnic fare on their biodynamic farm and keep your eyes out on the water, where you may also catch a glimpse of the annual salmon run splashing before your eyes. Or bring a little competition to your relaxation by reserving a game of bocce at Dry Creek Vineyard’s beautiful, Loire Valley inspired tasting room.

To experience more of Dry Creek Valley, add Ferrari-Carano to your itinerary for vineyard select Chardonnay, Unti Vineyards for interesting Rhone and Italian varietals, Papapietro Perry for exceptional, single vineyard pinot noir, and Bella Vineyards for a cave tasting of their small lot zinfandel. If you fall in love with Bella’s wines, you may be just as charmed with their guest cottages both on their farm and in downtown Healdsburg.

RUSSIAN RIVER

Courtesy of the Cloverdale Chamber of Commerce

A popular vacation spot for San Franciscans, Sonoma’s Russian River region draws a mix of thrill seekers, food and wine enthusiasts, and weekenders looking to unplug from their daily grind. At the heart of this region is the Bohemian Highway, a 10-mile stretch of road said to be one of California’s most scenic drives. A mix of pastoral countryside and ancient redwood groves, this winding drive is best enjoyed with windows down, a good playlist and fresh-from-the-oven treat from Wild Flour Bread at the southern end of the highway in the tiny town of Freestone.

On warm days, vacationers flock to the Russian river for kayaking, paddleboarding, or to enjoy a laid-back afternoon of lounging on the shore of Johnson’s Beach, while more adventurous types bring floats to ride down the river.

To experience the grandeur of California’s famous trees, a hike at Armstrong Redwoods State National Reserve is a must-do.

Given its close proximity to the Sonoma Coast, this cool-climate AVA produces standout chardonnay and pinot noir. Try some of the region’s finest at Littorai Wines, Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery, and Lynmar Estate Winery. More wineries to visit include Deloach Vineyards, Inman Family Wines, and Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards. Or experience an entirely different kind of tasting at El Barrio, Guerneville’s hip, new mezcal and tequila bar from the owners Boon Hotel + Spa.

ALEXANDER VALLEY

Courtesy of Susan Williams

Like a sleeping giant, Alexander Valley is about to have its moment. Comprised of hilly terrain from the Mayacamas, rich, fertile soils from the Russian River bed, and Sonoma’s warmest climate, this region is cabernet sauvignon country, and its productions are most frequently compared to those of both Napa and Bordeaux. While its the largest and most widely planted AVA in the county, it’s also one of the least explored. Covering the northeastern quarter of Sonoma, Alexander Valley is quietly growing exceptional fruit, just like generations past.

Stretching from the northern edge of Healdsburg, along the Russian River, up to Cloverdale, the this vast Wine Country region offers picturesque vineyard scenery to rival anywhere in Sonoma.

Discover small, unassuming, family-owned wineries with big heart and exceptional wines like J. Rickards Winery in Cloverdale, Garden Creek Vineyards in Geyserville, and Stuhlmuller Vineyards in Healdsburg.

In Geyserville, be sure to stop into Pech Merle Winery, a hip and playful tasting room with delicious Sonoma County wines, before indulging in one of the region’s culinary gems, Diavola Pizzeria and Salumeria, an innovative, farm-to-table Italian restaurant where The Dictator Pizza, topped with sliced ribeye, kimchee, kewpie mayonnaise, and serrano chiles, is a must.

SONOMA VALLEY

Courtesy of Susan Williams

On the southeastern corner of Sonoma County, just a 45- minute drive from San Francisco, you’ll find the charming, historic town of Sonoma. Mission San Francisco Solano, California’s last and northernmost mission, along with historic buildings and barracks from General Vallejo’s era, surround the town square, giving this friendly farming community an old world vibe.

Amongst cobblestone alleyways and century-old buildings, some of the area’s finest reds grown from the Valley’s famous Moon Mountain district are poured daily just off the plaza inside Kamen Estate Wines‘ modern tasting room. Travel back to the time of the pioneers with a visit to the Buena Vista Winery tasting room just outside town.

Experience more of Sonoma Valley’s unique flavor just up the road in the tiny village of Glen Ellen. Made famous by its former resident, Jack London, whose namesake park is a popular stop for hikers, picnic-goers,and history buffs, this little town is hub of great food and wine.

While in Glen Ellen, schedule a tour at the Benziger Family Winery to get a behind-the-scenes look at their biodynamically farmed Sonoma Mountain estate. Or stop by Imagery Estate Winery to try some of their unusual varietals, paired with their fabulous art collection. For a casual tasting and insider’s look at wine production, visit Loxton Cellars, where the friendly Aussie winemaker will guide you through his entire process from grape to bottle.

Finish your wine tastings just a few clicks north on Highway 12 with Wine Country comfort food at Kenwood’s popular new restaurant, Tips Roadside.

SANTA ROSA AND CENTRAL SONOMA COUNTY

Courtesy of Facebook: Visit Santa Rosa

Centrally located in the heart of the county, Santa Rosa is Sonoma’s largest and most diverse city, offering a mix of culture, arts, restaurants, and nightlife, including world class performances at Luther Burbank Center For the Arts.

Into retro? Check in at the Sandman Hotel, a beautifully renovated motor-lodge with a throw-back feel, or the new Astro Motel, a playfully restored, mid-century motor lodge effortlessly blends kitchy detail, modern design, and Sonoma hospitality. The Astro’s owners run the popular restaurant The Spinster Sisters a few blocks away, where guests enjoy farm-fresh “Sonoma County Cuisine” from breakfast through dinner.

Often referred to as “beer city,” Santa Rosa is also home to world-famous Russian River Brewing Company, along with a growing community of smaller craft beer producers in and around Santa Rosa.

Just about seven miles west of town in Sebastopol, artists, farmers and hippies have created an eclectic and innovative hub of local food and drink culture beyond beer and wine.

Sample probiotic elixirs at The Kefiry, artisan gin at Spirit Works Distillery inside The Barlow community marketplace and sustainably caught fish at the new locals hangout, Handline. If you find yourself at The Barlow, circle back to wine tasting at the MacPhail Tasting Lounge.

For another taste of this diverse region, visit Petaluma. Located seventeen miles south of Santa Rosa and surrounded by historic farms, Petaluma’s downtown district is filled with blocks of stunning Victorian homes, antique shops and delicious fare from the surrounding land and sea. Tucked inside the beautifully restored Hotel Petaluma, enjoy oysters and very local wines from “less than 30 miles away” at The Shuckery and don’t skip town without a visit to Della Fattoria for salt-studded loaf of their Meyer-Lemon Rosemary bread.

Cover image courtesy of Facebook: Experience Sonoma Valley

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Zipline in Wine Country by Way of Sonoma Zipline Adventures

Courtesy of Sonoma Zipline Adventures

Located 30 minutes west of Santa Rosa, Sonoma Zipline Adventures is a guided eco-adventure that includes zip lines and sky bridges. Based on your level of confidence (there’s both a classic and a challenging course), the canopy tour is available rain or shine, offering the chance to fly through Redwood forests via numerous ziplines before rappelling back to the forest floor. Whether you’re looking for a dose of adrenaline or just a fun, lighthearted activity, Sonoma Zipline Adventures is a great way to experience a different side of Wine Country.

6250 Bohemian Highway, Occidental, CA 95465, (888) 493-7868

Sample Local Goods at the Santa Rosa Farmers Market

Courtesy of Facebook: Santa Rosa Original Certified Farmers Market

Besides world-class wine, Sonoma is known for its long list of destination-worthy, farm-to-table restaurants. The Santa Rosa Certified Farmers Market, held every Wednesday and Saturday, is a fun way to meet the farmers behind Sonoma’s culinary scene. Here, you’ll find fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, eggs, honey, meat, bread, and flowers — almost all exclusively grown, harvested, or raised in the area — and sample local goods while talking with the people who produced them. Whether you pick up items to cook a feast at home or just peruse the vendors, the Santa Rosa Farmers Market helps put the term “farm-to-table” into perspective.

50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, (707) 522-8629

See a World-Class Performance at Luther Burbank Center for the Arts

Courtesy of Facebook: Luther Burbank Center for the Arts

Founded in 1981, the community supported Luther Burbank Center for the Arts is the area’s premier arts and events center, offering a wide variety of world-class performances and community events meant to entertain and enrich both children and adults. From music, dance, and theater performances to comedy, speaker events, educational programs, and family shows, there’s truly something for everyone. For added convenience, onsite parking is included with your ticket.

50 Mark West Springs Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, (707) 546-3600

Take a Cooking Class with Relish Culinary Adventures

Courtesy of Facebook: Relish Culinary Adventures

Based in Healdsburg in a state-of-the-art cooking center, Relish Culinary Adventures presents food lovers with a unique way to experience the bounty of Sonoma County. From cooking classes and private cooking parties to cheesemaking workshops and foraging expeditions, Relish hosts a variety of activities that help bring people together in the kitchen. All their events also feature locally-sourced ingredients and artisan products from Sonoma, so you’ll leave feeling like you got a real taste of Sonoma County.

14 Matheson Street, Healdsburg, CA 95448, (707) 431-9999

Enjoy Stunning Views From Above with Up & Away Ballooning

Courtesy of Facebook: Up & Away Ballooning

When dreaming of Wine Country, if visions of romantic balloon rides above the vineyards at sunrise come to mind, then Up & Away Ballooning is for you. Offering unprecedented views of the Russian River, redwood forests, and some of California’s most picturesque vineyards, a hot air balloon ride with Up & Away is one incredible way to start your day. On a clear day, you can even see the skyline of San Francisco roughly 60 miles away. Afterwards, enjoy farm-to-table breakfast fare and a mimosa at The SHED in Healdsburg, toasting to what will surely be an experience of a lifetime.

2200 Airport Boulevard, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, (707) 836-0171

Explore Sonoma by Bike with Sonoma Valley Bike Tours

Courtesy of Sonoma Valley Bike Tours

Ever had dreams of exploring wine country by bike? Sonoma Valley Bike Tours is your answer, providing a fun way to discover local wineries on two wheels. Led by a local tour guide, this casual bike tour will find you pedaling along scenic country roads at a leisurely pace, surrounded by the beauty of Sonoma Wine Country as you stop to taste wine. Both full and half-day tours are offered and, since no two routes and winery visits are the same, you’ll know you’re getting a one-of-a-kind experience.

1254 Broadway, Sonoma, CA 95476, (707) 996-2453

Experience Exotic Wildlife at Safari West

Courtesy of Safari West

Enjoy a safari adventure in the heart of Wine Country at the 400-acre wildlife sanctuary, Safari West, where you can view giraffes, monkeys, rhinos, cheetahs, and more — all without a plane ride to Africa. Home to over 800 exotic animals of nearly 90 different species, Safari West offers a one-of-a-kind safari experience set against a backdrop of the Mayacamas Mountains.

3115 Porter Creek Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, (707) 579-2551

Savor Farm-to-Table Fare with Gourmet Food and Wine Tours

Courtesy of Gourmet Food and Wine Tours

The family-owned and operated Gourmet Food and Wine Tours was started in 2014 by Bay Area native Renee ReBell, who developed the tour around her favorite things: food, wine, and Sonoma! Stroll around the historic Sonoma Plaza for this progressive restaurant experience that features four farm-to-table courses at top restaurants, paired with local wine and chocolate — all with a dash of history and entertaining stories peppered in. Find all the flavor with WineCountry Experiences.

Sonoma, CA, (415) 996-3663

Pedal and Paddle on the Russian River with Getaway Adventures

Courtesy of Getaway Adventures

What better way to explore the Russian River than by paddling, pedaling, and tasting your way around? Outdoor enthusiast Randy Johnson started Getaway Adventures in 1991, offering various cycling, kayaking, hiking, and van tours to wineries and breweries around the North Bay. With the “Taste, Paddle, and Pedal Sonoma Tour,” you’ll bike alongside lush forests as you stop to visit boutique wineries, indulge in a wine country picnic, then set out for a leisurely kayak tour of the Russian River. It all makes for both an active and relaxing afternoon tasting great wine and soaking in the beauty of the area. Book your river adventure with WineCountry Experiences.

2228 Northpoint Parkway, Santa Rosa, CA 95407, (800) 499-2453

Tour Wineries by Trolley with Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley

Courtesy of Facebook: Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley

Who needs a limo when you can go wine tasting by way of an open-air trolley reminiscent of San Francisco’s famed cable cars? Hop aboard the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley for a fun and casual six-hour tour that takes you through Sonoma with stops for tastings at four different wineries. Along the way, enjoy insights into the local history from the onboard tour guide, plenty of bottled water to hydrate between tastings, and a delicious catered lunch by Sonoma’s famed The Girl & The Fig restaurant.

20707 8th Street E, Suite B, Sonoma, CA 95476, (707) 938-2600

Hike Amongst the Redwoods at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve

Courtesy of Armstrong Redwoods

Just a short drive from the town of Guerneville is Armstrong Redwoods, a state reserve that offers hiking trails and camping sites amongst the majestic redwood trees. Most of the trees are over 500 years old, the largest and oldest of which is 1,400 years old and stands 310 feet tall. Needless to say, it’s a stunning sight that will leave you in awe of the grandeur of Mother Earth.

7000 Armstrong Woods Road, Guerneville, CA 95446, (707) 869-2015

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