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SERVING SAN LUIS OBISPO, SANTA BARBARA & VENTURA COUNTIES

PAGE 6 YO U R E S S E N T I A L G U I D E TO C A L I F O R N I A C E N T R A L COA S T W I N E, G E TAWAYS , T H I N G S TO D O & E V E N TS

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WALK THE VINEYARDS OF COSTA DE ORO PAGE 24

E A S Y-TO - F O L LO W W I N E R Y M A P S

A TASTE OF CAMARILLO PAGE 29

J U LY 2 3 , 2 0 0 9

WINEMAKER PROFILE:

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PIANETTA WINERY

FIRESTONE VINEYARDS

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Paso Robles

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San Luis Obispo EDNA VALLEY

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Avila Beach Pismo Beach

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ARROYO GRANDE VALLEY Arroyo Grande

San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara & Ventura Counties MILEAGE:

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101 166 Santa Maria

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Orcutt

SANTA MARIA VALLEY

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Lompoc

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Los SANTA Olivos YNEZ SANTA VALLEY RITA 246 BuelltonSolvang Santa Ynez HILLS

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CHUMASH CASINO

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Camarillo 118 • • Thousand • Oaks Oxnard 1

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK : CENTRAL COAST

Stolpman Vineyards

ON THE COVER

PUBLISHING EVERY OTHER WEEK! J U LY 2 3 , 2 0 0 9 • I S S U E 1 4 – V O L U M E 3

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FEATURE STORY

SERVING SAN LUIS OBISPO, SANTA BARBARA & VENTURA COUNTIES

ON THE COVER Berardo Wines & Villa San Giovanni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 WINE COUNTRY NEWS Wine Country Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Wine Country Premier Dining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Wine Country Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31-34

Berardo Wines & Villa San Giovanni

PASO ROBLES WINERIES MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

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SAN LUIS OBISPO/PISMO BEACH WINERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23 SANTA MARIA VALLEY WINERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25

SANTA BARBARA WINERIES MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 VENTURA COUNTY WINERIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-29 WINERY LISTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36-39

Mama’s Meatball

ADVERSTISING/MARKETING DIRECTOR

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WINE COUNTRY DINING

SOLVANG, LOS OLIVOS, SANTA YNEZ WINERIES MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

John Pianetta, Pianetta Winery

Chandra Grant P.O. Box 92, El Verano, CA 95433 Phone 707-938-1783 / Fax 707-938-3674 [email protected]

CALENDAR EDITOR

Laurie Flippen Phone 707-938-1783 / Fax 707-938-3674 [email protected]

OFFICE MANAGER

Cathy Gore Phone 707-938-3494 / Fax 707-938-3674 Email [email protected]

PREFERRED TASTING ROOM

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

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Mike Giangreco Direct 707-938-3734 [email protected]

MANAGING EDITOR

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WINEMAKER PROFILE

PUBLISHER

Sarah Flickinger San Luis Obispo, CA Phone 805-252-5440 [email protected]

Michael Cervin, Len Napolitano, Mark Storer, Dave Wilcox

Going to Northern California Wine Country? Look for WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK at wineries, hotels, concierge desks, car rentals, restaurants, high-end grocery stores and more!

Firestone Vineyard

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST

Music for Your Palate Music and Wine Tasting Experience

A SYMPHONY OF FLAVORS

www.huntcellars.com

1-866-HUNT-WINE Hwy 46 West • 3 Miles at Oakdale Road www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

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WINERY FEATURE | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

STOLPMAN VINEYARDS by Dave Wilcox Stolpman Vineyards is dedicated to winning over the hearts and minds – and palates – of wine drinkers. Founder and Owner Tom Stolpman takes every opportunity to introduce the uninitiated to the world of Syrah. With the perfect vineyard site and the passion of chef-turned-winemaker Sashi Moorman, the Stolpmans serve an evergrowing group of loyal converts. When typical American wine drinkers grab a bottle of red wine at the grocery store, or order one with dinner at a restaurant, chances are it will be either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Then there’s Syrah, that wonderfully complex Rhône varietal which, while appreciated within the wine industry, remains a mystery to most wine drinkers. Stolpman Vineyards in Santa Barbara County wants to change that, producing heralded estate Syrahs that have been turning heads for at least a decade. And the best is yet to come, promises Peter Stolpman, who heads up the winery’s national sales and operations for his father, Tom. “The critics have been floored by the quality when tasting futures out of barrel. Our customers grow more passionate about our Syrahs every year, as we’re still a hidden

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gem in the greater world of wine.” Peter Stolpman said the winery’s Syrahs benefit from the hilly Ballard Canyon vineyard in the Santa Ynez Valley, where Tom Stolpman first envisioned producing worldclass wine grapes about two decades earlier. When he first purchased the 220 acres 19 years ago, there was no track record for which grape varietal would best thrive in the limestone hills. Initially it was planted to Bordeaux varietals, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. A year later, Rhone varietals Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre were added. Buyers were certainly more than satisfied with the fruit produced by the vineyard, but it soon became clear that the Rhônes – specifically Syrah – were something special. Subsequently, out of 150 acres of hillsides planted since 1992, 100 acres are devoted to Syrah. Stolpman’s Ballard Canyon vineyard occupies a valley stretching north-south, about 25 miles from the Pacific Ocean, which typically wakes up to cool, foggy mornings that retreat as a mid-day sun heats up. By late afternoon, cool ocean breezes sweep through and fan the valley until sunset. “The ‘hybrid’ hot-cold climate allows the Syrah to express ripeness without tasting jammy and unctuous,” said Peter Stolpman.

“The cold nights and cool mornings allow the grapes to retain natural acidity and structure,” he added. “The resulting wine has complex layers of bright fresh fruit, backed by a lingering, palate-cleansing finish perfectly suited to enjoy with food.” Not only does the cool, north-south valley provide a magical climate for Syrah, the vineyard boasts soils recognized worldwide as ideal for grape vines. A slim layer of clay topsoil covers a chalky limestone, siphoning water away from roots, which search in vain for moisture and nutrients. Stressed vines add to the wine’s complexity, producing small grapes with intense flavor. Other winemakers prize the Ballard Canyon fruit, although Stolpman now sells to other wineries on a smaller, more selective scale. Further enhancing Stolpman Winery’s Syrah production is an alliance with Pierre Rostaing of Domaine Rostaing in Cote Rotie, the famed Syrah appellation located in the steep gorge of the Northern Rhone River. Rostaing worked with Stolpman winemaker Sashi Moorman during the 2005 harvest in Ballard Canyon and Stolpman has since planted the Syrah clone found in Domaine Rostaing’s vineyards. Peter Stolpman said Domaine Rostaing

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY FEATURE Continued

and Stolpman Vineyards are planning to hold parallel tastings, displaying wine from the traditional home of world-class Syrah alongside wine from the New World’s rising star. Visitors to Stolpman’s tasting room in Los Olivos can sample three different Syrahs, said Peter Stolpman, including the winery’s flagship Estate Grown Syrah. The 2006 vintage includes a splash of Viognier in the “Cote-Rotie” style, said Stolpman, along with a generous amount of Grenache that winemaker Moorman added to enhance the wine’s complexity. Hilltops Syrah is made with fruit from the vineyard’s ridges and steepest slopes, where vines each produce only a few clusters of fruit with a great depth of flavor. It is aged for two years in French oak. Like many of Stolpman’s wines, it showcases the elegant, nuanced style that are approachable while still young, but benefit from a few years in the bottle. Both the Estate and Hilltops Syrahs pair gracefully with a good meal. While those two Syrahs are suitable for cellaring, Stolpman is also producing a version of the varietal bottled under a Stelvin screw cap that’s meant for drinking immediately. The La Coppa Syrah, said Stolpman, “is a great introduction to the line-up.” Stolpman Vineyards’ tasting room is located in historic Los Olivos at 2434 Alamo Pintado Ave. It’s about a half-block east of the flagpole in a red cottage with white picket fence. It’s open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, closing at 6 p.m. on Fridays. Call (805) 688-0400, or visit www.stolpmanvineyards.com for more information.

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK : CENTRAL COAST

The Central Coast Shakespeare Festival Returns for 2009 Summer Season Magic and Mayhem, Pirates and Buried Treasure! Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, the Central Coast Shakespeare Festival has returned! After taking a summer off in search of a new venue, the festival found a beautiful new home in Paso Robles in the scenic Outdoor Amphitheatre at River Oaks Hot Springs. The open-air venue sits on the grassy grounds of River Oaks Hot Springs Spa, 800 Clubhouse Drive in Paso Robles. It features views of a lake, golf greens and golden hills as well as warm summer weather. Patrons are invited to relax on the lush green lawn, enjoy the golden hills and sparkling lake in the background while sipping a delicious local wine and enjoying the Central Coast’s only outdoor repertory theatre company performing great theater for the entire family. The 2009 season features Shakespeare’s magical A Midsummer Night’s Dream and a delightfully funny adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island by Phil Willmot. Treasure Island and Midsummer run on alternate weekends through August 15th. Performances are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 5 p.m. Patrons are invited to bring a picnic, low-backed beach chairs and blankets, and enjoy watching live theatre under the stars. This season, the festival is collaborating with the Wineries of Highway 46 East to provide audi-

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ences with the opportunity to enjoy some of the best wines the region has to offer. Each performance will feature a different winery from the group, offering selections by the glass or bottle to enjoy during all performances. What better way to enjoy a balmy North County night than with a fabulous glass of wine, a friend or two in tow and a terrific live performance under the stars. Picnics are permitted, but no outside alcohol will be allowed into the venue.

About Treasure Island Peg legs, eye patches, parrots and rum: All the images of pirates seem to stem from Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. His timeless tale of a young man’s adventure hunting pirate treasure has had countless retellings since its first publication in 1883. This fresh, new adaptation by Phil Wilmott keeps the heart of the tale, while updating the cast of characters to include not only sea dogs but sea wenches as well. Audiences of all ages will enjoy this hilarious and rollicking rendition. Complete with opportunities for audience involvement! Treasure Island runs Friday,

July 24; Saturday, July 25; Sunday, August 2 (5 p.m. matinee) and Friday, August 7 (closing).

A Midsummer Night’s Dream One of Shakespeare’s bestloved tales, A Midsummer Night’s Dream features all the elements of great comedy, romance and a little bit of magic. Featuring starry-eyed young lovers and magical fairies, this is a wonderful show to enjoy with your whole family, and a great introduction to Shakespeare for those who have never had the pleasure of seeing his work on stage. A Midsummer Night’s Dream runs Sunday, July 26 (5 p.m. matinee); Friday, July 31; Saturday, August 1; Sunday, August 9 (5 p.m. matinee); Friday, August 14; and Saturday, August 15 (closing). Outdoor Amphitheatre at the River Oaks Hot Springs located at 800 Clubhouse Drive in Paso Robles Tickets are $20 per person with a $2 discount for students and seniors. Additional discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. Call (805) 546-4334 for more information or go to www.centralcoastshakespeare.org.

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E COUNTRY THIS WEEK’S WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEKW: I NCENTRAL COAST

WINE COUNTRY SPOTLIGHT

The Casitas of Arroyo Grande You don’t have to go back east to see fall colors. Come see fall in the vineyards of the Arroyo Grande and Edna Valleys. Close to Los Angeles, San Francisco and the Central Valley, the vineyards of the Arroyo Grande and Edna Valleys give visitors a spectacular taste of fall color. Right after crush, when the crowds are low, the vines dazzle with displays of yellow, gold and red leaves before resting for the winter. If you want more color than the vineyards provide, go to nearby See Canyon and stop at one of the apple farms and enjoy fresh cider and more varieties of apples than you see at your local grocery. Owners Pat and Tony Goetz always preferred staying at bed and breakfasts, farmstays and boutique hotels where they could meet great people and learn about the local haunts and happenings. Opening the Casitas of Arroyo Grande also allows them to share their passion for wine, the hidden gems that are often missed by travelers and love for lush gardens, yummy food and the nicest amenities. All of the rooms are very private, quiet, and well appointed. Beautiful fixtures and custom tile work make for an elegant and peaceful place to rest. Each room has an adjoining patio that takes full advantage of the outstanding beauty and climate of the California Central Coast The “Little Houses” feature a full private bath, patio with garden or valley views, DirecTV with HBO, Bose stereo with iPod port, complimentary Wi-Fi and features sumptuous bedding with Ralph Lauren duvets and 400-thread Pima cotton sateen sheets. All rooms also have their own wood burning fireplace.

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Come stay at The Casitas and see a different world that is close to home. Begin your day with a gourmet breakfast and relax and enjoy brisk fall mornings and evenings. Be prepared for a delicious combination of hot and cold foods prepared by Tony. Breakfast is delivered to your room at the time that works best for you … they’ll make sure and find out your preference when checking in and will work around your schedule. Fresh seasonal fruits, homemade breads or yogurt, freshly roasted and ground coffee (both in room as well as served), tea, juice, and a hot entrée are ready for your enjoyment. Some of Tony’s specialties are his crepes and egg soufflés. From the moment you arrive you know you’re in a special place! The courtyard of the Casitas invokes the style and pace of life of another place and time. The Casitas of Arroyo Grande is located at 2655 Lopez Drive in Arroyo Grande. For more information, call (805) 473-1123 or go to www.the casitasofarroyogrande.com.

AT A S C A D E R O

ARROYO GRANDE

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK : CENTRAL COAST

BERARDO WINES and VILLA SAN GIOVANNI A Perfect Pairing of Heritage and Hospitality When A. John Berardo and his wife Marilyn made their first trip to Paso Robles from their hometown of Hermosa Beach, CA, it was to see his sister Giovanna’s new home in Paso. She was his dental receptionist in Manhattan Beach. The year was 1992 and among their activities while in the region was a visit to the Paso Robles Wine Festival, then in its ninth year. Food and wine had been constants in his Italian upbringing, so the festival was a perfect welcoming. “I have fond childhood memories of my father and uncles making wine at my grandma’s house in Los Angeles and storing barrels in the basement of our house,” said John. “I helped and watched them for years making wine for the family. It was a tradition.” Shortly after that first visit, John and Marilyn purchased 16.5 acres on the west side of Paso Robles with the purpose of planting one acre of estate fruit for their personal winemaking. Having recently retired from his 40-year career as a dentist in Manhattan Beach and Marilyn as an elementary school teacher, also in Manhattan Beach, the couple saw it fit to focus on their passions – including the winemaking John had grown up with. In 1993, John planted the first vineyards to Viognier and Syrah. From 1994 to 1996 he expanded the plantings to include Nebbiolo, Sangiovese and Zinfandel. In 1999, the endeavor grew once again to include the opening of a winery on the premises. That same year the Berardos purchased an adjacent 23.5 acres which included a modest single-family home. As the years passed, the dream continued to expand, first with the public sale of wines under the AJB Vineyards label, and later with the openings of two vacation rentals. Today, Berardo Vineyards and Winery offers a strong portfolio of handcrafted, small lot wines and serves as home to three vacation destinations where guests are treated to Italian hospitality in the heart of wine country. Villa San Giovanni – once the modest single-family

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home – has been transformed into an exquisite hilltop bed and breakfast. John and Marilyn began renovations in 2007, and after years of painstakingly searching for the perfect pieces, it is ready for its first guests in August. Each of the three expertly appointed guest suites offers luxury bedding, private bath, a sitting area and expansive views of the west side’s rolling, vineyard studded hills. The common areas feature hand-painted artwork and a full range of amenities for everything from dinner parties to small business meetings to movie nights. A gourmet kitchen – with John at the helm – rounds out the property. “Mario Batali is my mentor,” explained John as he glided between prep and cooking areas. “I have every one of his shows recorded, and they’re on an infinite loop in here.” Indeed, in true Italian style, John insists that guests join him for wine and appetizers in the afternoon at poolside, as he and Marilyn serve as innkeepers at the property. “That’s why we’re here, to share our love of this place and our love for good food and great wine with our guests and friends,” he said. Throughout the property, touches of John’s heritage shine through. From the three suite names: Siena, Barolo and Corigliano – where his Italian family immigrated from – to the hand carved woodworking and furniture. “I met this gentleman, Tony Rende, who how it turns out, was born in a town 45 minutes from my family’s in Calabria,” begins John. “It turned out that his family had been making furniture in Italy for generations. He made nearly all of the furniture and all of the woodwork in the Villa. It’s just incredible, and it really gives the property its own sense of history.”

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK : CENTRAL COAST

For those who prefer a stay closer to the wines, the “Vineyard Suite” is a spacious studio/one bedroom suite located directly above the Berardo Winery and Tasting Room. There is a granite kitchenette and private patio with barbecue. Also, “The Cottage” is a large one bedroom, one bath home that has a full kitchen and offers a private patio with barbecue. Both the Cottage and Vineyard Suite offer sweeping vineyard views for an authentic wine country experience. And for less than $200 per night, they truly are a great value for your wine country getaway. What’s next for the couple now that the B&B is complete? As for history, the “Ranch House” is an 1880s ranch house originally built by the Mennonite settlers who once lived on the property. Now that the Berardos have moved into the Villa, the ranch house is under renovation as a 2 bedroom – 2 bath home that will also be available as a vacation rental. “Well, we’ve got the pool and Jacuzzi there overlooking the vineyards, and we’re going to add a fireplace, Santa Maria style barbecue and a brick oven for making pizzas,” said John as he looked out over the property. “Four years ago we planted an olive grove, with Tuscan Blend olives so in two years, we’ll be making our own estate olive oils along with our Italian varietal wines. Also, I will be planting a couple more Italian varietals to add to the existing Italian ones, but I don’t want to make more than 2,000 cases. I want to be able to keep it personal – a small, family-run estate winery like you would find in the Italian countryside.” For more information about Berardo Vineyards and Winery, Villa San Giovanni, the Cottage and the Vineyard Suite, visit the website, www.BerardoVineyardsandWinery.com or call (805) 2399432. The Berardo Tasting Room is open to the public 12 to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays at 3280 Township Road in Paso Robles.

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK : CENTRAL COAST

SAN MARCOS CREEK WINERY Fairytale Come True by Michael Cervin Located at the confluence of San Marcos Creek and the Salinas River, the storybook building which houses the San Marcos Creek tasting room sits off the Highway 101 just north of Paso Robles. It’s becoming something of a visual landmark as it rests atop a small hill and seems better suited to a fairytale than a working winery. The interior is filled with a multitude of gift items and the exposed wood trusses and warm tones and colors might make you forget you’re in the middle of wine country. Though it feels like a Hansel and Gretel cottage, it’s still all about the wine. Their White Merlot just earned a gold medal along with a best of class award at the California Mid-State Fair, and San Marcos Creek is slowly inching their way into the hearts of wine lovers. With their first harvest in 2002 and with approximately 40 acres under vine, San Marcos Creek is relatively small, and still family owned and operated. The vineyard was first established in 1992 and they began by selling their fruit to notable local wineries including J. Lohr, Peachy Canyon and Rosenblum, among others. Like many wineries,

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they eventually went into making wine for themselves after they saw the wonderful fruit they were producing. San Marcos Creek is in good company, in spite of the plethora of wines available. “There are so many wineries in this area that are producing great wines using the same tried and true winemaking techniques,” winemaker Brady Winter says. “We are really not reinventing the wheel here, but our motto is, ‘where fine wine begins at the vine,’ and we strive to produce the highest quality wines possible in every step from the vineyard to the bottle.” To that end they employ various techniques to ensure the success of their wines. “During the growing season, along with careful irrigation management, we are shoot thinning, leaf pulling, and dropping about 20 to 25 percent of the fruit to insure the best quality grapes and even ripening throughout the vineyard,” Brady mentions. “It is very labor intensive and somewhat costly, however we feel it is well worth the time and effort and it definitely shows in the end product. We truly believe that solid fruit will produce solid wines, and we as winemakers are merely putting our signature on the vineyard” he adds. The result of such efforts is a diverse port-

folio of wines, including their popular and award-winning White Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc and others. “I feel that we are unique in the fact that almost all of our wines are estate grown and produced from our 17year-old vines and spend at least 24 months in the barrel, so patience is the key,” Brady says. “From our vineyard management to our minimalist approach in winemaking, our goal is to produce premium wines that represent a great value and are a true expression of our vineyard and the Paso Robles appellation.” In addition to their wines, they have a reserve tasting room for special guests and groups, and a large spacious patio under an arbor, both of which overlook the vines, the pond, the highway and the distant mountains. San Marcos Creek Vineyard is located directly off the 101 freeway, just five miles north of Paso Robles, and they are open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It makes the perfect spot to take a breather from a long drive and to sample the dedication of nearly two decades of farming. For additional information, phone (805) 467-9260, or check out their website at www.sanmarcoscreek.com

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Wineology

INTELLIGENCE FOR THE WINE CONSUMER

by Len Napolitano

What can be learned from a visit to a winery? I enjoy visiting wineries and learning as much as I can about the wines, the winemaker and the history of the winery. In addition, the vineyard in the peak of the growing season – June through August – is be a beautiful sight with clusters of red and green grapes under bright green leaves. Winery tasting rooms are as varied as the wines themselves and are always welcoming, whether it’s a large and lavish room or simply a folding table among the barrels in a storage facility. A winery experience also is an opportunity to take a winery tour or talk to the people who are pouring the wines for tasting. This is a chance to learn something about their wines. Whether or not you like the wine, the time spent in a tasting room or winery is a time for discovery and learning. You should feel free to ask questions like “Is this wine filtered or unfiltered?” or “Does the winery source grapes from outside its own property or are the grapes estategrown?” It can also be interesting to know how many cases of wine

are produced and how long the wines are aged before they are released to the public. I also like hearing about the history of a winery and how its owner became involved in the wine business. It’s surprising how many winery owners started their professional careers in areas completely outside the wine industry. In almost every case it was a deep passion for wine that motivated them. In “Once Upon a Vine: The Secret Stories of California’s Artisan Wineries” by Judy C. Reynolds, the compelling reasons why people choose to make wine are revealed. The book breaks down the stories behind 24 small, family-owned wineries into groups that share common threads, such as those that have built a reputation on a single grape varietal, or wineries founded and operated by women. Maybe the best part of the winery experience is breathing in the aroma of a winery during the time of harvest, from September to November, when tons of just-picked grapes are nearby, some already in the process of fermentation. It’s a sweet smell of fresh picked fruit mixed with notes of great expectations for a new vintage. Len Napolitano lives in Sonoma Wine Country and is certified in wine by the Society of Wine Educators, Wine & Spirits Education Trust and Chicago Wine School and continually gains knowledge from his frequent contact with California winemakers. More information is on his website, www.wineology.com. Send your questions about wine to: [email protected] or by mail to Len Napolitano in care of Wine Country This Week magazine. Wineology is a registered trademark of Len Napolitano.

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK : CENTRAL COAST

Accommodation/Ticket Packages and Expanded Website a Part of the Paso Robles Rotary 2009 Winemakers’Cookoff Enhancements Rotary and Area Hoteliers Partner to Offer Discounted Weekend Cookoff Packages Winemaker’s Cookoff Adds Complete Facelift to Its Expanded Website Focus Made to Expand“Make It a Winemakers’ Weekend”Events and Discounts The Paso Robles Rotary Club announced the creation of discounted weekend accommodation-ticket packages for attendees of its Winemakers’ Cookoff coming Saturday, August 8. To encourage event attendance and participation in its “Make It a Winemakers’ Weekend,” lodging/ticket discounts have been

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arranged with four Paso Robles hotels: Hampton Inns and Suites, La Bellasera Hotel; La Quinta Inns and Suites; and The Paso Robles Inn. The packages will offer discounted accommodations and Winemakers’ Cookoff tickets plus optional round-trip transportation between the event and participating hotels. “Offering accommodation and ticket packages is an indication of our growing sophistication as a major event host,” said Doug Mondo, the 2009 Rotary Winemakers’ Cookoff chair. “By also encouraging participating Cookoff wineries to add events and discounts during Cookoff weekend, it is a great way for us to boost event attendance and full weekend visits to our area. If we’re successful, everyone involved wins: our charity, our sponsors, our event attendees, area hotels, supporting wineries and our local economy.” A newly remodeled and enhanced Winemakers’ Cookoff website has also just been completed to better assist prospective attendees. On the site, visitors can purchase tickets and will find detailed information about the Cookoff including: sponsors, participating wineries and hotel packages, event directions, judges and event beneficiaries. The site also contains sponsor links, answers to frequently asked questions and a media section with graphics and event photos. To obtain Cookoff accommodation package details or to make hotel reservations, interested parties can call the following numbers direct: Paso Robles Hampton Inn, (805) 226-9988; La Bellasera, 1-866-782-9669; Paso Robles La Quinta Inn, (805) 2393004; or The Paso Robles Inn, 1-800-676-1713. Callers should reference “Winemakers’ Cookoff packages.” Hotel contact information can also be viewed on the Winemakers’ Cookoff website, www.winemakerscookoff.com. Individual “for-a-fee” round-trip shuttle service between these hotels and the Cookoff has also been arranged. Attendees can check the Cookoff website for more information. In its brief history, the Paso Robles Winemakers’ Cookoff has become one of Paso Robles’ most-popular wine, food and music events. It is also one of its most unique featuring both the culinary and wine-pairing talents of 30-plus local winemakers. Winemakers pair their culinary creations with their finest wines and compete for both Judges’ Choice and People’s Choice awards on the day of the event. Since the first Winemakers’ Cookoff in 1999, proceeds from the Winemakers’ Cookoff have been deposited in the Rotary’s Harlow Ford Scholarship Foundation building a perpetual fund that has enabled the Paso Rotary Club to award college and vocational scholarships approaching $230,000. For more information, go to the Winemakers’ Cookoff website at www.winemakerscookoff.com.

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK’S WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST

PREFERRED RESTAURANTS M A M A’S M E AT BA L L One pretty reliable way to find out just how good the food at a local restaurant is, is to ask somebody in the restaurant business. Ask a bartender, a waiter, anyone in fact, what they think of Mama’s meatballs in San Luis Obispo and their lips begin to quiver, their eyes roll towards the heavens, they sigh; that is how good Mama’s Meatball is. Set in a small courtyard off of one of the town’s main streets, in a place called the Old Creamery, Mama’s Meatball is actually divided in two. On the right is the take-out where people line up to get their orders of meatballs and more. To the left, fronted by a huge-trunked tree and a water fountain, is the intimate restaurant with it’s mural of the Mediterranean across the back. Meatballs aside, the restaurant, under owner and chef Nicola Allegretta, offers a wide range of authentic Italian dishes, many of them now available in smaller sizes as well, a bow to the economy and his customer’s wishes. Among them are half a dozen soups, a long list of salads (including grilled salmon and a refreshing pear and gorgonzola), some wonderful antipasto choices, both hot and cold paninis (including, of course, one made with meatballs), more pasta dishes than there is space here to share (though the Ravioli di Pollo all Vodka – homemade ravioli filled with chicken and served in a vodka sauce – cannot go unmentioned). There is also a heady selection of meat and fish dishes as well as any number of traditional and specialty pizzas (now available in two sizes) and some far too-tempting desserts. 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 Street, San Luis Obispo. They are also known for their very popular catering services, which work with groups (including weddings) of every type and size. Their telephone number is (805) MAMA'S MEATBALL 544-0861 and they are on the Internet at Fine Italian Restaurant and Catering www.MamasMeatball.com. Watch for their new location opening Mama's Meatball has specialized in creating the first week in April at 325 Pier Avenue, in Oceano; (805) 473seasonal menus by using only the finest and freshest ingredients. 2383.

SAN LUIS OBISPO

C AYUCOS

570 Higuera St. Suite 130-135 www.mamasmeatball.com 805-544-0861

HOPPE’S GARDEN BISTRO & WINE SHOP

NOVO RESTAURANT

The most highly acclaimed restaurant and Wine Shop on the Central Coast. Recognized for Chef Wilhelm Hoppe’s seasonally inspired menu, handselected wine list with a beautiful garden and historical setting. Offering a wide range of menu items - from wild game to prime meats and vegetarian/vegan items. 78 N. Ocean Avenue • Wednesday-Sunday 11am-10pm www.hoppesbistro.com • 805.995.1006

NOVO’s international flavors are the leading ingredients in an exotic dining experience. Brazilian, Mediterranean and Asian flavors awaken the senses. In house roasted spices for curries, mixtures and marinades balanced with crisp, seasonal vegetables and savory meats. Explore. 726 Higuera Street • Open Daily from 11am 805-543-3986 • www.novorestaurant.com

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK : CENTRAL COAST

Sylvester Winery Holds Summer Concert Series to Fund Pullman Train Restoration Project The backdrop to Sylvester Winery’s new event center and Wine Park are three vintage Pullman railcars that date back to 1947. During the heyday of American travel-train tourism, Pullman train cars were the ultimate in luxury. Travel by Pullman meant freshly prepared gourmet meals, chandeliers, lamps with silk shades and porters who polished your shoes while you slept. Sylvester’s Pullman was originally a set of five. Two of Sylvester’s cars became Il Treno, a gourmet restaurant in Vernon, California. The other three rest amongst the winery’s vineyard and Wine Park and are open to the public. These cars have remained untouched since they came to Sylvester in 1995. Sylvester’s Summer Sunset Concert Series continues as an effort by the winery to bring these cars back to their former glory. These concerts are open to the public. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Members of Sylvester’s wine club, the FLOCK, will have exclusive access to the VIP Club Car. The Club Car consists of Sylvester’s Observation Car, The Joseph Pulitzer and the patio and lawn area surrounding it. For tickets or more information on upcoming concerts, visit the website at www.sylvesterwinery.com. Sylvester Vineyards & Winery is located at 5115 Buena Vista Drive in Paso Robles, just four miles off of Highway 46 East.

16

Concert Dates • August 8th, 5:30-8:30pm Jazz with the Tipsy Gypsies A Gypsy Jazz Quartet – easily accessible, old timey sonic texture spiced up with some edgy lyrics and modern influences • September 5th – 3- 9pm World Music Festival featuring Calinambe, Zongo All Stars and a special surprise headliner Calinambe – an entrancing mix of “World Fusion” with a tremendous influence from the improvisational aspects of jazz and indigenous music from all over the planet Zongo All Stars – high-energy dance music blend they call “CaliCubano”

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Mark Your Calendars! Paso Robles Olive Festival, August 22 The 6th Annual Paso Robles Olive Festival, a Paso Robles Main Street Association event, will be held Saturday, August 22, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Paso Robles Downtown City Park. Olive oil and olive vendors, both locally and outside the county, will feature their products along with free tasting, tasting seminars, cooking demonstrations, and a head-to-head chef cook-off in the outdoor kitchen stadium. Local wineries and breweries will be feature tastings for a fee. There will be an olive-inspired cooking contest and delicious olive-inspired food sold in the Olive Festival Culinary Row. Anyone

is welcome to enter the cooking contest and/or submit recipes for our future Olive Festival Cookbook. The Cooking Contest Awards are sponsored by Spice Hunter. Entry forms available online, www.pasoolivefestival.com or from the Main Street office by calling (805) 238-4103. There will be music and free olive oil ice cream. Enjoy arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities and much more. “The last five years, the popularity of this event has proved that people want to learn more about olives and olive oil, and that a festival makes it fun for the whole family,” said Gary Brown, owner of We Olive and a member of the Main Street Association Olive Festival committee. For more information contact Paso Robles Main Street Association at (805) 238-4103 or visit www.pasoolivefestival.com.

Fine Wine... Fine Art... Fine Food 1307 Park St. Alley, Downtown Paso Robles www.vihuelawinery.com 805.226.2010

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK : CENTRAL COAST

Atascadero Has Big Fun in the Summertime The City of Atascadero Community Services Department is hosting the summer’s hottest events: Movies in the Park at the Sunken Gardens; Saturday in the Park, Summer 2009 Concert Series and the 17th Annual Hot El Camino Cruise Nite. Movies in the Park start August 1st and will run every Saturday until August 22, beginning at approximately 8 p.m. Concerts run every Saturday through September 5 at the Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The cruise will be held on Friday, August 21, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. extending from Curbaril to Traffic Way on El Camino Real. These events are free to the public and everyone is encouraged to bring their family and friends to enjoy an evening of action-packed entertainment and fun! For more information, call (805) 461-5000, email [email protected] or visit online at www.atascadero.org today!

Movies in the Park at the Sunken Gardens, Summer 2009 Series The City of Atascadero Community Services Department presents Movies in the Park at the Sunken Gardens starting August 1 and running every Saturday through August 22, beginning at approximately 8 p.m. All shows are held in the Sunken Gardens Park located at 6500 Palma Avenue in Atascadero and are family appropriate (rated G or PG). This event is totally free! Bring your family and friends to enjoy an evening of action-packed entertainment and fun. A snack bar will be open every week with tasty treats and beverages to purchase, provided by St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Items will vary week to week, but may include popcorn, root beer floats, nachos, candy bars, baked goods, sodas and waters. Teens at Work will be selling baked goods and homemade arts and crafts. • Saturday, August 1 – The Muppet Movie • Saturday, August 8 – The Sand Lot • Saturday, August 15 – Shark Tale • Saturday, August 22 - Grease The movies are free for the community and you are encouraged to bring a blanket, low-back chair and your family to relish the warm summer evenings. For more information, visit atascadero.org or call (805) 461-5000.

‘Saturday in the Park’ Summer 2009 Concerts The Saturday in the Park, Summer 2009 Concert Series is brought to you by the City of Atascadero Community Services Department in partnership with The Golden One Credit Union, H&R Block, Starna Cells Inc., Endless Summer Jewelry, Coast Hills Federal Credit Union, All Signs & Graphics, Mike Howe’s Automotive, Los Padres Bank, Systems 42 TTD, Atascadero Christian Home and Cat Country 96. Concerts began Saturday, July 11 and run through Saturday, September 5. All concerts are held at the Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. On August 1, enjoy the music of the Martin Paris Band – a truly versatile music ensemble covering pop to jazz, country to blue grass,

18

rock to swing … something for everyone. The band is comprised of Martin Paris singing vocals and playing acoustic guitar, vocalist Debbie White, whose vibrant energy pulls in the audience, Nashville star, Kelly Powers, on fiddle and guitar, L.A.’s own Terry Newby on bass, and former “Intruder” member, Matt Wilson on drums and percussion. On August 8, don’t miss the popular group, Big Daddy’s Rhythm & Blues Band, who has opened for blues and jazz legends such as John Mayall, Tom Scott, James Cotton, and Jimmy Witherspoon. Young and old will jump up and boogie to this danceable band featuring a mix of classic favorites, rockin’ originals and fine new music. Stan “The Rock” Manning lays the foundation on bass, with Greg Money Barnes pumping as the rhythm machine, Crackin’ Jack Collins strumming the guitar, soulful sax from Eric Stevers and Smokin’ Joe Pilloud seasoning it up with free spirited interpretations of standards and originals. The concerts are free for the community and you are encouraged to bring a blanket, low-back chair, and your family to relish the warm summer evenings. The Central Coast Zoo Society is offering wine and beer by the glass for your ultimate enjoyment. Pacific Harvest Catering is back and will be on-site at every concert with delicious gourmet barbecue available for purchase. Past menus have included tri-tip, ranch-style beans, salad and garlic bread for $13 per plate. Hot dogs for $3 for children 12 and under For more information, visit atascadero.org or call (805) 461-5000.

Hot El Camino Cruise Nite ‘Crusin’ the Nite Away’ The City of Atascadero’s Community Services Department and the presenting sponsor: Maaco of San Luis Obispo are hosting the 17th Annual Hot El Camino Cruise Nite on Friday, August 21, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Hot El Camino Cruise Nite is a closed, controlled cruise route on El Camino Real from Curbaril to Traffic Way in Atascadero. Thousands of spectators come out to watch this fun, entertaining and family-oriented show. From old fashioned favorites, to new and flashy hot rods, this event brings out the best cars from all over the county and surrounding areas. Do you want to “Cruise the Nite Away?” Pre-registration is available at the Atascadero City Hall, located at 6907 El Camino Real; mail in and on-line pre-registration will be taken through Friday, August 7; and walk-in will continue through Friday, August 21 at 3 p.m. The cost is $20 per car by August 21 at 3 p.m. All other registrations will be handled on-site beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the intersection of San Luis Avenue and Pueblo streets (enter from Curbaril). The fee the night of the cruise is $30 per car. Don’t miss your chance at winning $250 cash just by entering your vehicle in Main Street’s Show ’n’ Shine from 3 to 6 p.m. in the Sunken Gardens Park on El Camino Real. Pre-registration is required, so call (805) 462-0177 today.

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK : CENTRAL COAST

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19

PASO ROBLES | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

DOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES OAK STREET

15TH STREET

To Monterey (108 miles)/ San Jose (150 miles)/ San Francisco (195 miles)

101

Ortman Family Vineyards

SILVER STONE 14TH 101 PIANETTA CLAYHOUSE Wine Attic 13TH ST MIDLIFE CRISIS Hearthstone WINERY Bear Cave Cellars EDWARD SELLERS ARROYO ROBLES

ONA

NT O

CK RO

Tolo Cellars

LAIDA

To Hearst Castle (36.6 miles)

HALTER RANCH

Tablas Creek Vineyard Whalebone

Thunderbolt Junction Carina Cellars

ADELAIDA

Wild Coyote

Adelaida

Peachy Canyon MartinWeyrich 24T H

PLEASANT

SILVER HORSE

J. Paul Rosilez

Hug Cellars Barrel 27 ION UN

Paso Robles

UNI ON

Rio Seco

Derby Wine Meridian Estates

46E

EBERLE FIRESTONE

Villicana

Calcareous

Nadeau Family Cellars

SPRING

E AD

Justin

Y NE

LAKE

IM CH

RiverStar

SAN MARCOS CREEK WELLSONA J LOHR SYLVESTER

WELLS

IE

LA

VINA EOS Chumeia ROBLES ESTATE Bianchi MILL ROBERT HALL Maloy O’Neill

CRESTON

Moonstone Cellars

PACIFI C

To I-5

PENMAN SPRINGS

Falcon Nest 6TH Penman Stacked Stonee Springs 101 NIBLICK Minassian-Young Clautiere Thacher Cellars MA KILER LINNE IN S Opening in June RD C Vineyard ANYO T Templeton N Terry Hoage Cass Norman Vineyards Windward Lion’s Peak L’Aventure Fratelli Perata C H SCULPTERRA A RO OPOLO Dunning LAIS Wine Co. Doce Robles Pipestone LI VE OAK Eagle VINEYARDS Summerwood Midnight E JADA VINEYARD Zenaida FS Cellars Cellars Caliza Castle NGS Denner P RI Brian Benson & WINERY CRESTO Peachy Canyon Dark Star N Donatoni AJB HEARTHSTONE Still Waters OPENING MAY 1 Red Soles Booker CASTORO CELLARS Grey Jack Creek HUNT CELLARS VINFUZION Cambria AR Dover Canyon Four Vines Wolf Lone Madrone OM L AS T EL P ABL Jan Kris Linne Calodo A Clavo Cellars S Bassetti Vineyards York Mountain Winery Croad Hansen Zin Alley VIHUELA (by appt.) Vineyards Venteux Rotta O Turley R Y K MT N Donati Bella Luna TE Pomar MP LE Family Junction 46W WILD HORSE TO SANTA RITA N Vineyard Rocky Creek YM RA Harmony Cellars 41E Cellars YO PEACHY CAN N RD

Tobin James

BRANCH

Rabbit Ridge

Caparone

N ACI M

REL

RIVER

D’Anbino Cellars

COS MAR SAN

Carmody McKnight

IND IAN VAL LEY R

MISSION

D

PASO ROBLES STREET

Vista del Rey

ANGLIM WINERY

EST

RIVER

PARK

Hice Cellars

7TH STREET

MISSION LANE

Christian Lazo

9TH STREET

8TH STREET

Pretty-Smith

10th

San Miguel

AIRPORT

STREET

OAK STREET

14th

CANYON CROSS

Locatelli

BUENA V I ST A

ORCHID HILL

10TH STREET

RIVERSIDE AVENUE

CITY PARK

RAILROAD STREET

12TH STREET

PINE STREET

SPRING STREET

VIHUELA

EO

RTH NO

OR ARB

B&E Vineyards

S. E

LP

OM AR

LUP INE

MA IN

BETH

ROSSI

VALLEY

D CREEK OL

ON D

EK

N. GREEN

CRE

LA PANZA

RD EYA VIN

EL

WI NE RY

D YAR

NEAL S

OVE

E VIN

LINNE

EK

OLD G R

CR

ER RIV

W

NIDERER

LLO WI

ON BURT

S NE GE

Chateau Margene

Cayucos CAYUCOS CELLARS RiverStar

HOPPE’S Vineyards & Cellars GARDEN BISTRO & FINE WINES 1

To Morro Bay/ San Luis Obispo

Aron Hill Vineyards

20

101

41W

Not to Scale

■ = Wine Line Shuttle Stops

Santa Margarita

POZO VALLEY

Ancient Peaks

58 To San Luis Obispo (26 miles, see page 22)/ Santa Barbara (133 miles, see page 27)

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21

SAN LUIS OBISPO | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Shooting Stars Over the Vines at Tolosa Winery Join fellow star gazers at the Tolosa Vineyard Clubhouse on August 12 for the once a year Perseid Meter Showers. Experts on astronomy will be on hand for questions. Each guest will receive a 375mL bottle of Tolosa wine and tasty treats will be served. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs to observe the intense streaks of light across the night sky. Cost is $25 for club members or $35 for non-members. For reservations, visit the website at www.tolosawinery.com or call (805) 782-0500.

describing the winery’s “SelfGuided Tour of the Winemaking Process.” Year-round Tolosa features a sensory evaluation bar. Each month a new wine is selected. Several glasses are filled with different aromas that are commonly found in the featured wine. It is a great way to learn how to pick-up different aromas found in varietals. Tasting fee is $5, waived per one bottle of wine is purchased. $10 non-refundable fee for groups over 12. Enjoy a flight of four Tolosa

wines paired with four artisan cheeses, every Saturday between 11 a.m. and 3: p.m. in the Heritage Room. Menu is posted weekly on the Calendar of Events page of the website. Wine and cheese pairing is $20, $15 for club members. Every Saturday during the summer Tolosa is offering a reserve flight tastings in the Heritage Room where they can sit-down and relax enjoying Tolosa estate wines. Each Saturday will feature a different flight of wines, varing from a

flight of Pinot Noir, to a Rhône style flight or even a vertical flight from their library. Reserve flight tastings are $10, complimentary for Heritage and Legacy Club members. For reservations, more tours, – “Past, Present and Future” or barrel tasting – and more information, visit the website at www.tolosawinery.com, or call (805) 782-0500 ext. 10. Tolosa Winery is located at 4910 Edna Road, San Luis Obispo.

Tolosa Winery To Paso Robles (26 miles, see page 20) LOS

Shadow Canyon Cellars

OSO

SV ALL

EY

POZO VALLEY Y RE

RD

ST

E

NT

O

M

HI

ST

S.

SH AR

D

M

OA

BR

ORCUTT

ST

PER BACCO CELLARS

N

UI

AQ

E LL

JO

Cerro Caliente Cellars TA NK

Sextant Winery

CA

San Luis Obispo

E AV

GU ER A

N SO HN JO SA RO A NT ST OS OS

SA

101

FA RM

TTI

Stephen Ross Winery

TOLOSA WINERY

KELSEY SEE CANYON

BIDDLE RANCH

N

Edna Valley Winery Wolff Vineyards Piedra Creek BY APPOINTMENT Chamisal/Domaine Alfred

RD

EDNA

Kynsi

SALISBURY VINEYARDS

CLAIBORNE Vineyards & CHRUCHILL ON

CA

RP

RC

U

TT

E

NY

Y NO

NYON RD

CA

O

Shell Beach

R

ES

P

•

Rancho Arroyo Grande

RD

R

K

The Casitas

PA

AS NA

K A

U

PISMO BEACH WINERY

RD

O

HIN DS

AVE

N

Pismo Beach

BISHOP’S PEAK/ TALLEY VINEYARDS

CA

N

E

C RI

TE

101

O

CH Y RAN TIFFAN CO RB ET T

227

NY

Avila Beach

RD

BE AC H

CA

Morovino Alapay

RD

ONTARIO RD

Y RD SAN LUIS BA

AV ILA

Baileyana and Tangent Vineyards Saucelito Canyon

BUCKLEY RD

LOPEZ D R

CA N

VACHELL

SUBURBAN SE E

RD

HE

RIG

TANK FARM

YO

Come experience one of the most interesting and innovative tasting rooms, not only in Edna Valley, but in all of California. Architecturally modern in structure, the tasting room and its adjacent patio combine elements of the winery in its design, from the cork floor to stainless steel ceilings, glass bar, and wood panels. Large window panes overlook the winery’s tank room, flanked by plaques

Ocean

NO

TRA F

O

C

IS

R

B

SLO DOWN Oceano PUB

22

101

MI

FIC

RD

HU AS

NA RD

Arroyo Grande

E

1 Grover Beach

CA

CH

AN

BR G BRID

Pacific

OAK PA RK

H

WOOD WINERY

VE. ND A

GRA

LAETITIA VINEYARD Barnwood Vineyard

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | SAN LUIS OBISPO

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23

SANTA MARIA | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Walk the Costa De Oro Vineyards with Gary Burk The Santa Maria Valley Wine Country is hosting a series of free vineyard walks throughout the Santa Maria Valley. If you drive by vineyards and wish you were able to jump out of your car and take a stroll through the lush rows of grapevines, now is your chance. On the second Saturday of each month, through October, a different Santa Maria vineyard manager, or winemaker, will lead a tour of their vineyard starting at 10 a.m., discussing the current state of the vineyard and how they manage the vines. The tours will provide a first-hand look at different viticulture techniques and stages of grapevine growth. All vineyard walks are free to the public; a great way to get some fresh air, exercise and education without emptying the pocketbook. With the money saved, why not treat yourself to a wine tasting or bottle of wine for a picnic in the country? Take a break from the city and savor authentic wine country. For more information, send an email to [email protected] or call 1-866-480-5194. On Saturday, August 8, the vineyard walk will take place at Costa de Oro Vineyards and is hosted by owner and winemaker, Gary Burk. Begin the tour at the Costa de Oro tasting room, located at 1331 South Nicholson Avenue in Santa Maria at 10 a.m. No reservations are needed. Please arrive at the tasting room a few minutes early. For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.smvwc.com. While born into a farming family, Gary Burk fell in love with music

To San Luis Obispo (32 miles, see page 22)

1

ROE

MER

ED

ON

R

OVA

SSE

Roemer Way Self-Storage

IN

STO

WE

LL

COSTA DE ORO BET

Santa Maria

TER AVIA

135

Cambria

T UE

SA

RD

P TE

Rancho Sisquoc

River Bench Vineyards

Foxen Vineyards

FOXE N CA NYO

NR

Zaca Mesa

Fess Parker Koehler

SOS C A N Y O N

Curtis

FO

ZA

24

STA

N N CA YO N R D

Firestone

CA

ALI

XE

Bedford To Thompson Lompoc (18 miles, see page 26)/ Solvang (34 miles, see page 26)

Tres Hermanas

D

Los Alamos

Q US

Byron

101

135

1

KENNETH VOLK VINEYARDS

ME

Cottonwood Canyon

RIA

Orcutt

MIN ION

RK

DO

CLA

A MA SANT

Addamo Vineyards

TEL EPH

ON E

AY YW

SK

BRO

ADW AY

BLO

McKeonPhilips

N

MA

at an early age. After earning a degree in business from Cal Poly, SLO, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career as a musician and songwriter. Over the next few years, Gary played in Southern California clubs, including The Whiskey, The Roxy, The Palomino, At My Place, Coconut Teaser’s, and Club Lingerie, as well as studio work. He eventually came back to Santa Maria to pursue winemaking from the family property with his wife and longtime songwriting partner, Teresa Gasca-Burk. Today, Gary and Teresa have co-written and produced two children’s CDs and Gary continues to play guitar and lead “The Expensive Winos” who play at Costa de Oro dinners and other winerelated events. The 101 through Santa Maria is a beautiful drive through agriculture on the east side and development and commerce on the west side. Santa Maria, more than any other California town, exemplifies the true cross cultural divide of yesterday and today. Take the Costa De Oro Winery tasting room as an example. Sitting off the Stowell Road off ramp, the small building occupies a parking lot with a drive through coffee shop called Hunter’s Landing (a local chain) and a Cool Hand Luke’s restaurant and bar. The little building fits right in with its modern day counterparts, but make no mistake, the Burk family and Costa De Oro represent generations of Santa Maria farmers. Costa De Oro’s (Gold Coast in English) tasting room is a little like a farmer’s roadside stand, in fact. Part wine tasting bar, part fruit and vegetable stand, part gift shop, the Burk’s have gone to lengths to create a warm and inviting space that, while elegant, colorful and interesting, maintains something of a country store atmosphere. In many ways, Costa De Oro bridges cultures, from Santa Maria’s agricultural/industrial roots to Old and New World wine distinctions. “We’ve found that because of our location, people come looking for more than just wine,” Burk says. And that’s just what they find. Between a vegetable-growing winemaker and his sommelier assistant, Gary Burk is interested in more than just the bottle. It’s an oasis, of sorts, but it’s also a true representation of the unique quality and character of Central Coast Wine Country.

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | SANTA MARIA

Looking for Something Special in a Wine Club? Go online to Premier Wine Clubs www.WineCountryThisWeek.com Find your perfect wine club according to: varietal • price • color preference • winery special events • discounts • tours • and more!

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25

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Artwork by Patrick Lyons: ‘Slivers of Time’ at Carina Cellars Carina Cellars is proud to feature the artwork of Santa Barbara photographer and Carina Cellars staff member, Patrick Lyons. Originally from the Bay Area, Lyons came to Santa Barbara to study photography at Brooks Institute in 2005. During the past four years Lyons worked at several wineries in Santa Ynez Valley including Beckman, and now currently Brander and Carina Cellars. Lyons has always enjoyed looking at the world a little differently, and photography has allowed him to share that view with others. Photography provides him the tools for looking at time differently as well, since the lens can be sped up, slowed down, or even stopped altogether. Through the creation of this series, Lyons was able to combine his passion for photography, his love of wine and his fascination with time into one project. “Slivers of Time” will be on display from August 1 until

To Santa Maria, Paso Robles, see page 18

“Carina Cellars Wine Glass”

Digital photograph

September 31 in the Carina Cellars Tasting Room at 2900 Grand Avenue in Los Olivos which is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, go to www.carinacellars.com or call the tasting room at (805) 688-2459.

154

To Hwy. 101 Santa Maria (32 miles) Paso Robles (88 miles)

CA NY O LAR D

OF THE FLAG S AVE

RD

ILL KH CHAL

Sort This Out Cellars Casa Cassara

N

Solvang

Rideau

Buttonwood

BAL

26

ATT E

MORA

•

Santa Ynez Inn Artiste

STA QUE

SAGUNTO

E

To Santa Barbara (29 miles) 246

Gainey Chumash Casino

SantaYnez

OA

K

D

AL ALIS

1ST

To Santa Barbara (43 miles)

2N

5TH

RDA G

G

INDUSTRIAL

Honeywood/ 246 Olde Mission Wine Co. Cabana/Wondering Dog Wine Bar To Lompoc D’Alfonso-Curran Wines Tastes of the Valleys (18 miles) Shoestring Casa Cassara Hitching Post Lafond PA Presidio MISSION 246 PR SANTA ROSA AVE Lucas & Lewellen AK RK Kalyra To CO Sanford Lion’s Peak/Mission Meadow Winery Alma Rosa Mosby PE Hwy. 1 NH Mandolina Royal Oaks AGEN MO Alisal Cellars LLE Sunstone Bellissima Uncorked/Monsoon Cellars 101

Santa Ynez Wine Cellar AL

Lincourt

Beckmen Roblar Winery

EDISON

Blackjack

To Santa Barbara

BASELINE

REFUGIO

1

Buellton

154 ROBLAR AVE

Ballard Foley Estates Winery

Bridlewood

MEADOWV

CAN YO

STOLPMAN

BA LL A RD

7TH

Lompoc

Rusack

Coquelicot

Brander & Domaine Santa Barbara

EDISON

Lompoc “Wine Ghetto”

Fiddlehead Cellars To D’Vine Babcock Hwy. 101 Wine Tasting 246 Melville Foley Estates Winery Dierberg & Star Lane Vineyards

E. CHESTNUT

Scott Cellars

SILVER WINES ALAMO PINTADO AVE ALAMO PINTADO AVE CARINA CELLARS (Wine Country)

ALAMOPINTADO RD

1

NR D

Palmina

SAN MARCOS

Los Olivos To Santa Maria

Carhartt Winery Consilience Alexander & Wayne and Arthur Earl

REFUGIO

Epiphany Daniel Gehrs Longoria Wild Heart Tre Anelli Los Olivos Tasting Room Andrew Murray

GRAND AVE

101

Not to Scale

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

Santa Barbara Festival Celebrates Age-Old Traditions Eighty-five years ago Santa Barbara’s founding families and business leaders established the tradition that we have come to know as Old Spanish Days (OSD) Fiesta. During the five-day festival, the traditions handed down from Spain, Mexico and the California Rancho period are celebrated with old songs and dances in the Fiesta Pequeña and Noches de Ronda, traditional foods in the Mercados, the historical parade and so much more. The riding and roping competitions at the rodeo evolved from spirited contests at the end of busy days in the 1800s rounding up cattle on the old ranchos. At the first event of the fiesta season, more than 30 young men and women compete for the Spirit of Fiesta and the Junior Spirit. Flamenco and classical Spanish dance, colorful costumes and traditional music make this a compelling event. La Fiesta Pequeña, “The Little Fiesta,” officially opens Old Spanish

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Days on the steps of Santa Barbara’s historic Old Mission on Wednesday, August 5 at 8 p.m. The Fiesta Stock Horse Show and Rodeo begins at 8 a.m. on Thursday, August 6 followed by the Celebración de los Dignatarios takes from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Santa Barbara Zoo. Enjoy delicious appetizers and delectable wines presented by local restaurants and wineries. Dance to the exciting sounds of Soul City Survivors. The cost is $85 per person in advance, $100 at the gate. Tickets available online at www.brown papertickets.com/event/70512, at participating Albertsons or at the Santa Barbara Zoo. At 8 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, Las Noches de Ronda “Nights of Gaiety,” takes place at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Garden. A splendid variety show of music, singing, fiery Flamenco from Spain and vivid Folklórico dances from many regions of Mexico. Ongoing Wednesday through Saturday are mercardos in various locations featuring vendors selling authentic food and merchandise.. El Desfile Histórico/Parade will be August 7 and is one of the largest equestrian parades in the United States. A Children’s Parade takes place on Saturday, August 8. Fiesta Arts and Crafts offers items available for purchase, August 89. For a complete schedule of events and entertainment, visit the website at www.oldspanishdays-fiesta.org.

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VENTURA COUNTY | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Coastal Sailing Trips Now Available on the Bill of Rights with Island Packers

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whale watching, school field trips, sightseeing and harbor cruises. The Bill of Rights can accommodate up to 80 passengers, and individuals are encouraged to bring food and beverages for the day and layers of warm clothing. Advanced reservations are recommended. For more information and reservations, call Island Packers Cruises at (805) 642-1393 or visit www.islandpackers.com.

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Island Packers Cruises, an authorized concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park, invites visitors to enjoy a coastal adventure off the Ventura County coast aboard the Bill of Rights tall ship, which recently established its home port in Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard. The Bill of Rights, a 129' double mast gaff rig top sail schooner built in 1971, is now available for three-hour coastal cruises with Island Packers both Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 5 p.m. The cost is $45 for adults, $40 for seniors (age 55+) and $35 for children, ages 12 and under. The Bill of Rights is berthed near the Marine Emporium Landing in Channel Islands Harbor at 3600 S. Harbor Boulevard. A joint effort between Captain Stephen Taylor, boat owner and founder of the American Tall Ship Institute; Alex Brodie, Fleet Manager of

Island Packers; and Steve Buenger, owner of Marine Emporium Landing, helped bring the tall ship to Ventura County. Constructed of wood and christened at the prominent Harvey Gamage Shipyard in South Bristol, Maine, the Bill of Rights led the tall ships parade through New York Harbor in 1976 when America celebrated its 200th birthday. The ship was converted from a traditional fishing schooner to a school ship after the bicentennial and has been educating youth ever since through the American Tall Ship Institute now based in Channel Islands Harbor. The Bill of Rights programs include marine biology, environmental studies and maritime history. Cruising the California Channel Islands for education, recreation, and research since 1968, Island Packers Cruises has more than 40 years of experience as a tour operator in the waters of the Channel Islands National Park. Island Packers provides transportation services for island hiking, camping, kayaking,

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST

A Taste of Camarillo:

Tickets for A Taste of Camarillo Wine & Food Festival are $75 in advance and $85 at the door. Tickets for the Wine Auction Gala and Dinner are $60. A weekend pass for both events is $125. Tickets can be purchased in Camarillo at Cantara Cellars and on the website at www.meadowlarkserviceleague.com. For more information, call Mary Little at (805) 388-7158

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Little Jazz Band.” At the Wine & Food Festival guests can sample Cantara Cellars’ wine as well as wines from more than 100 other wineries and taste gourmet food from 50 participating restaurants. The event features silent auction, opportunity drawing and boutique shopping. Live entertainment is provided by cosmic country group “Blue Moon” and Ventura County’s jazz darling – Jeanne Tatum.

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Meadowlark Service League has chosen local award winning Cantara Cellars to be the official winery at its 22nd annual “A Taste of Camarillo” consisting of a Wine Auction Gala and Dinner on Saturday, July 25 from 5 to 9 p.m. and Wine & Food Festival on Sunday, July 26 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the historic Adolfo Camarillo House. Proceeds will benefit Camarillo and greater Ventura County charities. Cantara Cellars began as a small winemaking hobby in the garage of Mike and Chris Brown’s Moorpark home. It has evolved into a 4700 sq. ft. production, cellaring, event and wine tasting facility located at 126 N Wood Road, Suite 104, Camarillo. Sourcing their fruit from the diverse Lodi Appellation in Northern California, the Browns have created their winery to showcase this extraordinary growing area. Cantara Cellars will pour at the pre-event Wine Auction Gala and Dinner. This popular event includes live and silent auctions plus a sumptuous dinner and live music by the “Big

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WINE COUNTRY NEWS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

Winemaker Profile: Pianetta Winery

JOHN PIANETTA by Dave Wilcox It’s no accident that Pianetta Winery’s signature blend bears the name “Bilancio” – the Italian word for balance. John Pianetta, owner and winemaker, seeks balance in the vineyard, in the barrel and, ultimately, in the bottle. “Balance is a very big word in farming,” he said during a conversation in Pianetta’s attractive downtown Paso Robles tasting room. Asked if he routinely thins out fruit to reduce yields, Pianetta – a fourth-generation farmer – said it’s more important to “sit back and pay attention to Mother Nature.” “You have to be in balance with the crop that Mother Nature’s going to give you that year.” Pianetta never really planned to start a winery. He had purchased a ranch northeast of Paso Robles in 1995, planting Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah and sold his grapes. A fighter pilot who served two tours of duty during the Vietnam War, Pianetta continued working as a commercial pilot even after establishing the Indian Valley vineyard. Ultimately, though, he was encouraged to

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start making his own wine to highlight the vineyard’s quality. The 2002 vintage was Pianetta Winery’s first, producing 370 cases of estate Cabernet. Annual production now tops 2,500 cases and Pianetta expects to hit 3,000 next year. “I wasn’t really intending to get into the winery business,” said Pianetta. “I’m a grower who makes wine.” Pianetta doesn’t have formal training as a winemaker, but relationships he fostered as a grower helped when he established the winery. “I had some good winemakers guiding me in the beginning.” He has forged his own style, one which showcases fruit-forward wines with firm, approachable tannins. The winery only produces red wines, focusing on estate-grown Cabernet and Syrah, which are also used in the “Bilancio” blend. Pianetta also produces a 100 percent Sangiovese and a Petite Syrah. An inaugural vintage of Zinfandel is going to be release next year. John Pianetta may be a grower who makes wine, but he’s certainly having success. The

2005 Estate Syrah earned a gold medal at the San Diego International Wine Competition, while the 2005 Estate Cabernet won a gold and was named Best in Class at the Monterey County Wine Challenge. The winery’s 2006 Petite Syrah – its first vintage of the petite – captured a silver medal at the San Francisco International wine competition. Pianetta’s barrel program relies primarily on tight-grained European oak, primarily French, Russian and Hungarian. Over the years, he said he’s scaled back on the use of new barrels, finding that neutral oak helps highlight the fruit-forward style he favors. Pianetta did retire as a pilot, touching down his final flight in 2005. He and his daughter, Caitlin, who manages the tasting room and markets the wine, immediately caught a plane to the Central Coast. “The next morning we were crushing Sangiovese.” The Pianetta Winery tasting room is located at 829 13th Street in downtown Paso Robles, one block from City Park. It is open daily with the exception of Tuesdays. It’s open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, noon to 6 p.m. otherwise.

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | CENTRAL COAST SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY PASO ROBLES

ONGOING Free Cooking Show at Idler’s Food samples, wine & entertainment featuring “Mark The Singing Chef” of Hospitality Catering. 5:30pm, 805-238-7979, www.hospitalitycatering.net

 ONGOING Making Sense of Scents ONGOING SATURDAYS Learn how to properly taste and smell some of Paso Robles Farmers’ Market your favorite Wild Horse wines and find naturally Country farm arts and crafts market, 9am-1pm occurring aromas. $20 per person, Saturdays by 805-237-9254, www.travelpaso.com appointment at 12, 2 and 3:30pm. Limit 8 people Call for reservations or for groups more than 8. ONGOING 805-434-2541 ext. 15, Wild Horse Winery, Templeton Estrella Warbird Museum Email [email protected] Collection of military aircrafts, 10am-4pm  ONGOING 805-227-0440, www.ewarbirds.org Pinot Noir Blending Seminar ONGOING FRIDAYS Want to explore deeper into the world of wine? 15 Degrees C Wines Beer Tastings Sample Pinot Noirs from the Central Coast AVA and Featured beer every Friday night, $10, 6pm learn what terroir truly means. Then each particiTempleton, 805-434-1554, 15degreesCwines.com pant creates their own blend to take home.  ONGOING FRIDAYS IN JULY $50, $35 for wine club members, limit 10 people. Saturday or Sunday by appointment at 11am or 2pm Pismo Beach Winery Presents Live Music Call for reservations, 805-434-2541 ext. 15 Featuring Tim Jackson and Dave Miller, 5pm. Wild Horse Winery, Templeton Enjoy great music and wines by the glass or bottle. Email [email protected] 805-773-9463, [email protected] ONGOING Paso Robles Round-up: Summer Fun Happening Now It’s not too late to have a great summer trip. • Fridays through August 28. 5:30-7:30pm Concerts in the park, free! Paso Robles Main Street Association, downtown Paso Robles • Tuesdays: 3-6pm North County Market in the City Park. Fresh produce, crafts, gourmet food and other treats! • August 16: National Stock Horse Association Snaffle Bit Futurity, Horse Show and World’s Richest Stock Horse Competition • August 22: American Cancer Society Relay for Life Paso Robles More information at www.travelpaso.com ONGOING EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT Open Mic Songwriters and Comedian Night BBQ, beer, wine and soda available for purchase. Bring your own chair, all ages welcome. Stacked Stone Cellars, Paso Robles 6-9pm, free to the public, 805-238-7872 ONGOING Twilight Concerts in the Park 5:30-7:30pm, Paso Robles City Park Bandstand Refreshments, hors d’oeuvres, 805-238-4103 • July 24: Rancho Deluxe – Country Rock • July 31: Usual Suspects – Oldies • August 7: Monte Mills Band – Country & Folk • August 14: Incendio – World Fusion • August 21: Cinders Blues Band • August 28: Sugar Daddy Swing Kings ONGOING WEDNESDAYS Wine Tasting at Vinoteca Wine Bar Local winemaker featured each week, 5:30-8pm 805-227-7154, www.vinotecawinebar.com  ONGOING Art Exhibit at Castoro Cellars Featuring Heidi Franscioni, 10am-5:30pm 888-DAM-FINE, Templeton, www.castorocellars.com ONGOING FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH Gourmet Pairings at Meridian Vineyards Try gourmet food paired with fine wine, 12-5pm $5, 805-226-7133, www.meridianvineyards.com ONGOING SATURDAYS Templeton Farmers’ Market Fresh fruit, flowers & vegetables 9am-12:30pm, 805-239-6535, Templeton

 ONGOING FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH Art, Wine & Song Art, music & wine at downtown wineries, 5-7pm 805-227-6813, www.pasowine.com

ONGOING THROUGH JULY 26 Festival Mozaic Explores music from Western and Central Europe to South America and the American South. The festival takes you on distant musical journeys. www.festivalmozaic.com ONGOING THROUGH AUGUST 15 “Painting With Light – New Visions of the Central Coast” Fine Art Photography & Photo-Paintings by Paul J. McCloskey at EarthTones, 805-235-3001 http://web.mac.com/paul_mccloskey/

 ONGOING THROUGH SEPTEMBER 4 Jada’s XCV 2008 Release & Twilight Tasting Around the World with Jada, 6pm www.jadavineyard.com, 805-226-4200

 ONGOING EVERY WEDNESDAY Locavore Wednesdays at Clayhouse Featuring a local product in their downtown Paso Robles tasting room. Free samples and wine tasting! 805-238-7055, www.clayhousewines.com

 ONGOING EVERY FRIDAY Friday Night Flights Enjoy a flight of three Clayhouse wines paired with three foodie flights, 5-7pm $15, $10/Red Cedar Society members RSVP 805-238-7055, www.clayhousewines.com  ONGOING EVERY 1ST SATURDAY Wine & the Arts Clayhouse Vineyards downtown Paso Robles Tasting Room presents a celebration of music, art & wine. 4-7pm, www.clayhousewines.com

ONGOING FIRST SATURDAY THROUGH OCTOBER Bocce and BBQ Bring Donati wine and enjoy the BBQ and games on them! Donati Family Vineyard, 5-8pm winespace.donatifamilyvineyard.com ONGOING THROUGH JULY 30 Art Exhibit at Ortman Family Vineyards Presents Art by David Butz 12-6pm, Sunday-Thursday; 12-7pm, Friday & Saturday 805-237-9009, www.OrtmanVineyards.com

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK ONGOING THROUGH AUGUST 15 The Central Coast Shakespeare Festival Saturdays 7:30pm, Sundays 5pm River Oaks Amphitheatre, San Luis Obispo Tickets $20, $18 students & seniors centralcoastshakespeare.org, 805-546-4224

 JULY 18 Sylvester Winery Summer Sunset Concert Featuring Resination, 5:30-8:30pm, Come relax in the Wine Park while listening to Reggae. Blankets & chairs are welcome, coolers are not allowed. Proceeds will go toward the restoration of the Pullman Train. RSVP www.sylvesterwinery.com JULY 22 - AUGUST 2 Paso Robles Mid-State Fair Carnival rides, live music, fair food & more. Featuring the brightest stars in the show biz sky: Carrie Underwood, Styx, Tim McGraw and Heart just to name a few. 12pm-12am, $8 Paso Robles Fairgrounds, www.midstatefair.com JULY 24 Concert at Vina Robles Featuring artist Big Daddy's Blues Band, 7pm $20, $15/Signature Wine Club members RSVP Vina Robles Hospitality Center, 805-227-4812  JULY 25 Wine & Cheese Flight on Patio Taste Eos Reserve Wines paired with local gourmet cheeses, $10 Eos Estate Winery, www.eosvintage.com

 AUGUST 1 & 15 Live Music in Tasting Room at Eos Winery Acoustic guitarist Mike Maguire entertains with the sounds of Eric Clapton, Pink Floyd, U2, Led Zeppelin, Dave Matthews, Jack Johnson, STP and classic rock. 12-3pm, 805-239-2562, www.eosvintage.com

 AUGUST 16 Eos Sunday Fun-day Celebration A “Summer Pool Party” theme with the featured wine: an Eos Estate White Cabernet! Come in to celebrate the splashing around in the summer heat! Great discounts on wines. RSVP 805-239-2562, www.eosvintage.com

 AUGUST 2  AUGUST 20 Eos Sunday Fun-day Celebration Celebrations of Life Lecture at Eos Winery: This Sunday is a “Summer Sports” theme and the Vineyard Water Management/Irrigation featured wine is Eos Estate Reserve Chardonnay! Which types of wine are grown where? Why are Nothing is more American than apple pie, baseball, certain areas better for certain types of grapes and Eos wine! Great discounts on wines. and wine? Featured wines: Zin Port & Eos Sauvi805-239-2562, www.eosvintage.com gnon Blanc. 6-7pm, www.eosvintage.com AUGUST NIGHTS  AUGUST 9 Fun Nites at Rio Seco Winery! Sylvester Winery Summer Sunset Concert BBQ is Texas-style smoked brisket, Jazz with the Tipsy Gypsies, old timey sonic smoked pulled pork and true Texas cowboy beans! texture is spiced up with some edgy lyrics • August 7: DaCoy and Friends & modern influences, 5:30-8:30pm, Blankets & • August 14: Impromptu chairs are welcome, coolers are not allowed. • August 21: ZZAH Proceeds will go toward the restoration of the Pullman Train. RSVP www.sylvesterwinery.com $8 club/$10 non-club. This event is limited! RSVP 805-237-8884, [email protected]  AUGUST 21 AUGUST 5, 12, 19, 26 Ballroom Dance Lessons Tango at Vina Robles Hospitality Center Instructor Laura Nicholson will teach the dance steps from 6-7pm; social dance from 7-8pm. $13, $10/Signature Wine Club members RSVP 805-227-4812.

Pre-Olive Festival Social Mixer 5:30-7:30pm, Paso Robles Inn Ballroom For tickets, call 805-238-4103

 AUGUST 29 Summer Esprit Flights & Bites Join Sylvester Winery and the wineries of Highway 46 east to enjoy rare and reserve wines paired with artisan cheeses along with delectable gourmet bites including local olives and olive oils. 5-8pm, BBQ dinners also available for purchase. Live Jazz music by The Tipsy Gypsies. Tickets online at www.brownpapertickets.com or call 805-227-4000. ww.pasorobleswinerieseast.com Transportation available.

 AUGUST 30 Wine Show Mania Come to Eos Estate Winery to play along with family, friends and Eos staff in a live game show that will test your general knowledge, wine wits and Eos info, 10-4pm. DJ Del McCulley will host this fun event. www.eosvintage.com, 805-239-2562

 AUGUST 30 Eos Sunday Fun-day Celebration  AUGUST 22 A “Casino” theme and featured wine is Eos’s The 6th Annual Paso Robles Olive Festival Lost Angel Mischief! Play your cards right and Downtown City Park, 10-5pm you might win big! Great discounts on wines. Free tasting, tasting seminars, cooking demonstraRSVP 805-239-2562. www.eosvintage.com tions and a head-to-head chef cook-off in an outdoor kitchen stadium. Local wineries and  SEPTEMBER 1-30 breweries will be feature tastings for a fee. California Wine Month at Jada Winery Cooking Contest entry forms available online or by Celebrating September with special wine pairings 805-226-4200, www.jadavineyard.com calling 805-238-4103, www.pasoolivefestival.com

 AUGUST 8 Paso Robles Winemakers Cook-Off One of the most-popular and unique wine, food and music events featuring both the culinary and wine-pairing talents of 30-plus local winemakers. Winemakers compete for both Judges’ Choice and  AUGUST 22 Outdoor Concert at Castoro Cellars People’s Choice awards. River Oaks Hot Springs Featuring Peppino D'Agostino with Michael  JULY 25 6-9pm, tickets: $75, $650 table for 8 Manring, 6pm; Peppino D’Agostino, a virtuoso Al Fresco Dinner at Castoro Cellars RSVP 805-226-5674, www.winemakerscookoff.com acoustic guitarist, composer, singer and all-around A memorable evening of incredible food, fine  AUGUST 8TH entertainer. Joining him will be Michael Manring, wines and music under the trees outside the hailed by many as the world’s leading solo bassist. Live Music in the Tasting Room at Eos tasting room, 6:30pm, $85, $70/wine club members $22 (Dinner by Giuseppe’s is available at an addiFeaturing Rob Hege, 12-3pm, A well known RSVP 805-467-2002, castorocellars.com tional charge.) 805-467-2002, castorocellars.com recording artist and staff songwriter for music JULY 25 industry legend Don Kirshner. He co-authored the  AUGUST 23 Cinema E Vino Summer Outdoor Movie Series novel, Tuxedo Bob, and is an accomplished chef. Sunday Fun-day Celebration at Eos Winery at Cass Wines: Urban Cowboy 805-239-2562, www.eosvintage.com A “Country Western” theme and the featured wine John Travolta stars as a young man from the is Eos Petite Sirah! Put on your cowboy boots and  AUGUST 9 country who learns about life and love, 6-10pm mosey on over to Eos for a good ol time! Eos Sunday Fun-day Celebration Wine, food available for purchase. $10, $8/wine club Great discounts on wine, www.eosvintage.com Come to the Eos Estate Winery Tasting Room for RSVP, [email protected], 805-227-2888  AUGUST 28 their South of the Border Celebrations & Dry Rose. Sunset Concert at Robert Hall Winery  JULY 26 Join the fiesta to celebrate spicy food and Featuring Up In The Air Outdoor Concert featuring Guy Budd refreshing wine! Great discounts on wines. They create a unique musical experience based on Castoro Cellars, Acoustic Guitar Magic, 1-4pm 805-239-2562, www.eosvintage.com the varying backgrounds of their nine musicians. Bring a picnic lunch, relax in the shade and enjoy  AUGUST 9 6-9pm, $25, RSVP 805-239-1616 x24 the free lazy locals with a true Central Coast Outdoor Concert at Castoro Cellars [email protected] original. 805-467-2002, castorocellars.com Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the voice AUGUST 28  JULY 26TH of this world-class vocalist at free lazy locals Unfinished Business in Concert at Vina Robles Eos Sunday Fun-day Celebration outdoor concert, 1-4pm, Inga Swearingen appears Featured artist Unfinished Business, 7pm Hey good lookin’, whatcha got cookin’? regularly on NPR’s “Prairie Home Companion.” $25, $20/Signature Wine Club members A great BBQ with featured wine: Eos Estate 805-467-2002, castorocellars.com RSVP, Vina Robles Hospitality Center, 805-227-4812 Cabernet Sauvignon! Great discounts on wines.  AUGUST 15 805-239-2562, www.eosvintage.com Wine & Cheese Flight on Patio at Eos JULY 30 Taste Eos Reserve Wines paired with local gourmet Free Pancake Breakfast cheeses. Pairing with Eos wine for $10 per person. 7:30-10:30am, Paso Robles City Park 805-239-2562, www.eosvintage.com www.pasoroblesdowntown.org  AUGUST 15 AUGUST 1 Eos Movie Night Under the Stars Summer Bash – Final Big Party Watch the classic film Caddyshack under the open Music, BBQ, wine and more, before harvest sky, 6-10pm. Bring the whole family! 6pm, $25: wine club/complimentary Wine bar open as well as fun classic treats. RSVP [email protected] RSVP 805-239-2562, www.eosvintage.com  JULY 25 Guest Chef Series with Chef Vatche A meal paired with Halter Ranch wines prepared by Chef Vatche of the Cracked Pepper Bistro in Fresno. www.halterranch.com, 805-226-9455

 AUGUST 29 Martin Paris at Castoro Cellars Great music and fine wine celebrating Martin Paris' latest CD, “Guitarist Off the Vine.” Show will feature solo guitar performances by Martin Paris, and trio arrangements with Kirk Mac Lane on bass and Jesse Hesch on drums. RSVP www.castorocellars.com, 805-238-0725

 SEPTEMBER 4TH Labor Day Weekend Begins at Jada Winery Take a break from your hectic schedule. Come by and taste some good wine and gourmet cheeses. 805-226-4200, www.jadavineyard.com

 SEPTEMBER 5 Hwy. 46 West Block Party Live band, award-winning wines from 15 westside wineries, fresh local food, Donati Family Vineyard 6-8pm, www.paso46westwineries.com Tickets: www.eventbrite.com/event/269757853  SEPTEMBER 5 Halter Ranch Guest Chef Series Chef Yvon Goetz from the Winery Restaurant and Wine Bar in Tustin, California will prepare a beautiful meal perfectly paired with Halter Ranch Estate wines, 6pm RSVP 805-226-9455, [email protected]

 SEPTEMBER 5 Sylvester Winery Summer Sunset Concert World Music Festival featuring Calinambe, Faultline, Zongo All Stars & a special surprise headliner, 5:30-8:30pm. Calinambe exemplifies the essence of the term “World Fusion.” Blankets & chairs are welcome, coolers are not allowed. Proceeds go toward the restoration of the Pullman Train. Tickets $15/adv, $20/at the door, $10 for the Flock RSVP www.sylvesterwinery.com

Email your upcoming event information to [email protected] For best results, submit information at least 6 weeks prior to your event.

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | CALENDAR OF EVENTS CAMBRIA

SAN LUIS OBISPO

ONGOING FRIDAYS JULY-AUGUST Twilight Wine & ‘Apps’ at Harmony Cellars Enjoy wines by the glass and free appetizers. 5:30pm, 805-927-1625, www.harmonycellars.com

ONGOING TUESDAYS 2-oz. Tuesdays at Taste Weekly drink specials, 10am-9pm 805-269-TASTE, www.taste-slo.com

CAYUCOS AND MORRO BAY

ONGOING WEDNESDAYS Wine Down Wednesdays at Taste Tastings with the winemaker, 10am-9pm 805-269-TASTE, www.taste-slo.com

ONGOING Adventures with Nature Various hikes at various times including; Fast Hike to Coon Creek, White’s Point Vistas, Black Hill Trail, Sand Spit Walk and Ocean Lagoon. 805-772-2694 Morro Bay State Park Museum, www.ccnha.org ONGOING SECOND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH Morro Bay Embarcadero Art Walk Art galleries’ open house receptions 5-8pm, 805-772-1068, Morro Bay ONGOING SECOND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH Artists Receptions at Gallery at Marina Square Receptions for featured Central Coast artist 5-8pm, 805-772-1068, Morro Bay ONGOING SATURDAYS Fishermen & Farmers’ Market in Morro Bay Fresh seasonal fruit, crafts & musicians 3-6pm, 800-231-0592, Morro Bay

 ONGOING TUESDAYS Local Wine Tasting, Live Music & Complimentary Appetizers 5:30-6:30pm, $12 • July 28: Zaca Mesa • August 4: RN Estate Winery • August 11: Claiborne and Churchill Winery • August 18: Sinor La Vallee Winery • August 25: Vina Robles Winery • September 1s: Justin Vineyards Cooking School 5:30 -8:30pm • July 23: Lido Barbecue Basics, $65 • August 27: Cooking from Farmer’s Market, $75 • September 24: Food with Wine Pairing, $80 • October 22: Lido Basics, Sauces & Dressings, $65 • November 19: Lido Basics, Holiday Favorites, $65 All Classes include an unforgettable meal paired with fine local wines Cinema Under the Stars 007 Style Complimentary lawn seating for movie, 7:30pm Dinner & Movie on Lido patio at 7pm, $39, RSVP • August 5: Golden Eye • August 19: Tomorrow Never Dies • September 2: Casino Royale Lido Restaurant/The Dolphin Bay Resort 2727 Shell Beach Road, Shell Beach 805-773-8900, www.thedolphinbay.com

 AUGUST 1 Wine Cruise on Morro Bay Wild Horse Winery will host a wine cruise aboard the Papagallo II, 1-4pm. Enjoy their wines and specially paired appetizers by Executive Chef Leonard Gentieu. $75/wine club, $85/non members RSVP Leslie 805-788-6315  AUGUST 8 Morro Bay Harbor Cruise On the Papagallo II pairing Claiborne & Churchill’s fine wines with appetizers prepared by Executive Chef Leonard Gentieu, 2-5pm $80, $70/club members, RSVP 805-544-4066

 AUGUST 15 Set Sail with Pianetta Winery Climb aboard the Papagallo II and cruise Morro Bay, 1-4pm, pairing award-winning wines with fantastic food. $90/non-members, $75/members RSVP 805-226-4005, www.pianettawinery.com

ONGOING Hearst Castle Tours Witness the brilliance of the historical manor. 800-444-4445, www.hearstcastle.org

 ONGOING EVERY FRIDAY Tapas at Tolosa Start the weekend enjoying four tapas from Corner View Restaurant paired with four reserve wines, 5:30-7:30pm, in the Heritage Room. $25, $20/Heritage Club members [email protected], 805-782-0500 x10  ONGOING SATURDAYS Wine & Cheese Pairings at Tolosa Vineyards Four estate wines are paired with four artisan cheeses from around the world in the gorgeous Heritage Room where guests can sit-down and enjoy the view. 11am-3pm 805-782-0500, www.tolosawinery.com  ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS Reserve Flight Tastings at Tolosa Vineyards In the Heritage Room. Flights will vary from Pinot Noir flights to Rhône-style wines or even a vertical tasting of library wines. $20, $15/Heritage Club members 805-782-0500 x10, [email protected]  ONGOING EVERY FRIDAY IN JULY Pismo Beach Winery presents live music Come hang out and enjoy great music and handcrafted wines by the glass or bottle featuring Tim Jackson and Dave Miller, 5pm. 805-773-9463, [email protected]

ONGOING SATURDAYS THROUGH AUGUST Concerts in the plaza. www.downtownslo.com ONGOING FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH Art in the Park at Dinosaur Caves Art, crafts, children’s activities, music & more 10am-4pm, Pismo Beach www.pismochamber.com, 805-704-8128 ONGOING The San Luis Obispo Art Center Permanent collection and constantly rotating exhibits of works by local artists in all media – paintings, sculpture, photography and more 11am-5pm, San Luis Obispo www.sloartcenter.org, 805-543-8562 ONGOING WEEKENDS Live Music at Mother’s Tavern Upscale tavern with big band music most Sundays. Call for schedules, 805-541-8733 San Luis Obispo, www.motherstavern.com ONGOING SECOND SUNDAY Dallidet Adobe & Gardens Oldest house in the city of San Luis Obispo. Site of first commercial winery in the area. 805-543-0638, www.slochs.org/dallidet ONGOING Automobilia Museum Specialty cars, toy cars & airplanes along with many other antiques relating to transportation. 10am-5pm, 805-544-1900, San Luis Obispo

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ONGOING FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH Art Gallery Events “Art After Dark” Various art galleries stay open late & host artist receptions with wine & cheese. 5-9pm 805-544-9251, www.sloartcouncil.org

AVILA BEACH

ONGOING SUNDAYS A Murder Mystery Dinner – SLO Legal Dinner, wine and laughter, 5pm 805-489-3875, Spyglass Restaurant Shell Beach, www.murderinmind.com

ONGOING FRIDAYS First Friday at Morovino Delicious food and wine pairings 4-6pm, $12, 805-627-1443, Avila Beach

 ONGOING SLO Down Pub Music and events nightly www.slodownpub.com/event_calendar.shtml  ONGOING THROUGH JULY 26 San Luis Obispo Festival Mozaic Mozaic orchestra performs in various locations 805-781-3009, www.mozartfestival.com  AUGUST 12 Shooting Stars Over the Vines A once a year Perseid Meter Showers at Tolosa Winery. Experts on astronomy will be on hand. Receive a 375ml bottle of Tolosa wine and tasty treats. Bring blankets/chairs. $35, $25 club members, RSVP 805-782-0500  SEPTEMBER 9 Taste of San Luis Obispo Annual event with more than 600 guests enjoying great food, delicious wines and entertainment. 6-10pm, www.downtownslo.com ATASCADERO ONGOING Saturday in the Park, Summer 2009 Free, Concert Series held at the Atascadero Lake Park Bandstand, 6:30-8:30pm. Bring a blanket, low-back chair and your family to relish the warm summer evenings. Wine and beer by the glass. Delicious gourmet barbecue available for purchase. 805-461-5000, www.atascadero.org • July 25: The Cinders Sponsored by Starna Cells, Inc. • August 1: Martin Paris Band • August 8: Big Daddy’s Rhythm & Blues Band • August 15: Shades of Gray • August 22: The House Red Band • August 29: The Usual Suspects • September 5: PipeDream ONGOING SATURDAYS Movies in the Park at the Sunken Gardens A snack bar will be open with tasty treats and beverages to purchase, provided by St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 8pm. Teens at Work will be selling baked goods and homemade arts and crafts. 805-461-5000, www.atascadero.org • August 1: The Muppet Movie • August 8: The Sand Lot • August 15: Shark Tale • August 22: Grease AUGUST 21 17th Annual Hot El Camino Cruise Nite. A closed, controlled cruise route on El Camino Real from Curbaril to Traffic Way in Atascadero. This event brings out the best old, new and flashy cars. $20 per car/$30 night of the cruise 6:30-8:30pm, www.atascadero.org, 805-461-5000

ONGOING SUNDAYS Art on the Beach at Avila Beach Artists paint & present their work 10am, 805-238-4103, Avila Beach Pier

 ONGOING Schoolhouse Rock Concerts Hop on the trolley after the music ends for Viticulture 101 in the vineyards with John Salisbury, 12-3pm. Wine and food available for purchase. Salisbury Vineyards, Avila Beach 805-595-9463, www.salisburyvineyards.com • July 26: Mighty Croon Dogs • August 9: Kevin on Earth & The True Believers • August 23: Dave Aguallo ARROYO GRANDE ONGOING Visit Historic Buildings in Arroyo Grande Saturday 12-3pm, Sunday 1-4pm, Arroyo Grande 805-473-5077, www.arroyograndevillage.org ONGOING SATURDAYS Arroyo Grande Farmers’ Market Farm fresh produce, music, arts & crafts 12-2:30pm, Arroyo Grande 805-473-2250, www.arroyograndevillage.org ONGOING WEDNESDAYS Learn How to Make Ice Cream at Doc Burnsteins 30 minute skit about ice cream where you help create new flavors. Arroyo Grande, 7pm 805-474-4068, www.docburnsteins.com  ONGOING FRIDAYS Wine Down at Wood Winery Reserve wines & gourmet cheese, 4-7pm Arroyo Grande, www.wildwoodwine.com 805-489-9663, email [email protected]

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SANTA MARIA/FOXEN CANYON ONGOING MONDAYS Wine Tasting at Wine Cottage Bistro Featuring regional & varietal tastings 5-6pm, $20, 805-934-4546 ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS Santa Maria Valley Railway Historical Museum Lots of fun including a train simulator exhibit 1-4:30pm, 805-714-4927, www.smvrhm.org/museum  ONGOING Friday Night Wine Down at Costa de Oro Great way to start your weekend! 4:30pm 805-922-1468, www.costadeorowinery.com ONGOING FRIDAYS Wine Tasting at The Loading Dock Live music, wine and food. $5, 7-10pm Santa Maria, 805-934-3471

 AUGUST 8 Santa Maria Vineyard Walks Tour at Costa de Oro Winery with winemaker Gary Burk, learn about grape growing and the upcoming harvest! 10am 805-922-1468, www.cdowinery.com

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK : CENTRAL COAST AUGUST 8 First Annual Riverbench Triathlon Join them for a fun filled afternoon of croquet, horseshoes and bocce, 12-4pm. Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams. Bring your friends and family. [email protected]

ONGOING Santa Ynez Valley Historical Society Museum and Parks - Janeway Carriage House Exhibits from Chumash period through early 20th century ranch days. 12-4pm 805-688-7889, www.santaynezvalleymuseum.org

AUGUST 8 Cambria Estate Winery, Estate Club BBQ Enjoy live music and great Cambria Winery wine! $25, wine club members free; 3-7pm RSVP [email protected] 805-938-7303

SECOND THURSDAY Wine Impressions at Artiste Join fellow wine lovers for a blind tasting, sensory evaluation & discussion by region. 7-9pm, 805-686-2626, www.artiste.com

AUGUST 21 Winemaker Dinner with Jonathan Nagy Byron Estate Winery, 6-9:30pm Be among the first to taste small pot bottling of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at the Foxen Ranch. $85, $80/wine club members; RSVP 805-938-1537 or [email protected] SEPTEMBER 5 Riverbench Photo Contest Riverbench Vineyard & Winery, 12-4pm. Submit your own Riverbench photos by September 1. Winner announced at the event. The prize? A gourmet wine and food tasting for 10 at the winery! Photos not returned. Winner notified by email. 805-937-8340, [email protected] LOS OLIVOS  ONGOING THROUGH JULY 31 Artwork by Marisa Murrow New Paintings at Carina Cellars Los Olivos, 805-252-0860 ONGOING FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH Wildling Art Museum - Free Friday Flicks Free movie & snacks with discussion, 7pm 805-688-1082, www.wildlingmuseum.org

ONGOING THURSDAYS Understanding Your Palate at Los Olivos Café Wine tasting & hors d’oeuvres, 5pm, $15 805-688-7265, www.losolivoscafe.com ONGOING SATURDAYS Global Gardens Organic Food Tasting Enjoy delicious organic tastings, 10am-2pm, $3 805-693-1600, www.globalgardensgifts.com ONGOING THURSDAYS Fess Parker’s Wine Country Sing Along 8:30-10:30pm, Sing along with Fess & Marcy 805-688-7788, Los Olivos, www.syvva.com  AUGUST 9 Stolpman Dinner in the Vineyard Stolpman Vineyards, Ballard Canyon, 4pm-dusk 805-688-0400, www.stolpmanvineyards.com SANTA YNEZ

ONGOING Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum All makes and models, Solvang 805-6869522, www.motosolvang.com

AUGUST 8 All Buttonwood Farm Dinner In 1968 Betty Williams came to beautiful Buttonwood Farm. This dinner honors Betty’s vision. ONGOING This twilight dinner served in the vineyard will Saturdays - Cachuma Lake Nature Walk feature farm-raised pork and lamb, goat cheese, Naturalists lead walk one mile walk for all ages on farm-grown vegetables, Buttonwood’s famous the Oak Canyon Trail, 10-11:30am peaches and award-winning Buttonwood wines. Weekends - Cachuma Lake Wildlife Cruise RSVP www.ButtonwoodWinery.com, 805-688-3032 Guided 2-hour cruise with wildlife and geology. SANTA BARBARA $7 for 12 and under, $15 over 12. Junior Ranger Program ONGOING SUNDAYS Kids learn about wildlife, ecosystems & caring for Santa Barbara Arts and Crafts Show Featuring all types of art, crafts & jewelry. the environment. 12:30-1:30pm, $2 per child 10am–6pm, East Beach Pier Many other children and adult friendly programs! www.sbaacs.com, 805-897-1982 Cachuma Lake Nature Center, Santa Ynez Park 805-693-0691, www.cachuma.com ONGOING TUESDAYS ONGOING WEDNESDAYS Jazz on the Deck at Vineyard House Live music and fine food, 6:30pm, $2 805-688-2886, www.thevineyardhouse.com ONGOING Art Exhibit at Artiste Winery 11am-5pm, 805-686-2626, www.artiste.com ONGOING Glider Rides at the Airport 805-688-2517, Santa Ynez, www.gliderrides.com

ONGOING SATURDAYS Olde Towne Market in Lompoc Great food, wine & music, Lompoc 805-736-4567, www.lompocrecord.com ONGOING SATURDAYS Olive Oil Tasting at Foley 10:30am-4pm, Lompoc www.foleywines.com, 805-737-6222

 JULY 25 Return to Freedom Brunch by Wild Horse Winery and Vineyards Wine tasting and brunch from 11am-3pm at Return to Freedom’s Wild Horse Sanctuary in Lompoc, followed by a hike to see the wild horses. $100/pp $75/wine club members. Proceeds benefit RTF. RSVP, 805-434-2541 x15

SOLVANG ONGOING Quicksilver Miniature Horse Farm Visit Solvang horse farm with beautiful views. 10am–3pm, 805-686-4002, Solvang

ONGOING MONDAYS Maverick Saloon Blind Draw Darts 7pm, Santa Barbara Darts Association, BBQ and darts, 805-686-4785, www.mavericksaloon.org

ONGOING WEDNESDAYS Solvang Farmers Market 2:30-6pm, Fresh produce, flowers and foods 805-962-5354, www.sbfarmersmarket.org

ONGOING FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS Dancing at Maverick Saloon 6:45pm, Dance lessons, Live country western or rock & roll. 805-686-4785, www.mavericksaloon.org

ONGOING FRIDAYS Wine Tasting on the Patio 5:30-7pm, Live guitar music with fine wines 800-624-5572, www.royalscandinavianinn.com

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ONGOING THIRD SATURDAY OF THE MONTH Learn Scandinavian Folk Dancing 7-10pm, 805-688-6144, www.solvangusa.com

ONGOING Chumash Casino Concerts 800-585-3737, www.chumashcasino.com

LOMPOC/BUELLTON ONGOING WEDNESDAYS Evening with the Winemaker 5-6pm, $15, 805-688-7265, www.losolivoscafe.com

ONGOING Elverhoj Museum of History & Art Ongoing exhibits of art & photography 805-686-1211, Solvang, www.elverhoj.org

Discussions & Coffee Tastings Get insider info on up & coming books, music and movies with coffee tasting, too. 3pm, Santa Barbara 805-899-3659, Borders, Books & Music ONGOING FRIDAYS Wine Tasting with the Winemakers 4-7pm, 805-691-1020, East Beach Wine Santa Barbara, www.eastbeachwine.com ONGOING FRIDAYS Wine & Cheese Pairings at East Beach Wine Enjoy delicious pairings & new selections each week. 4-7pm, $10, Santa Barbara, 805-899-1535 www.eastbeachwine.com ONGOING Backstage Tours at Lobero Theater Guided tours upon request, Santa Barbara 805-996-4946, www.loberotheater.com ONGOING University at Santa Barbara Arts & Lectures 805-893-3535, www.artsandlectures.ucsb.edu ONGOING Historic Downtown Walking Tour Guided stroll - experience Santa Barbara’s past. 10am-12pm, 805-965-6307, Santa Barbara ONGOING Winemaker Dinners at Wine Cask Delicious gourmet dinners paired with local wines. 6:30pm, 805-996-9463, www.winecask.com

ONGOING Planetarium Shows at Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History 805-682-4711, www.sbnature.com • Exploring the Spring Sky • Cosmic Safari • Secrets of the Cardboard Rocket ONGOING THURSDAYS An Evening of Visual & Performing Arts Downtown galleries keep their doors open late allowing the public to enjoy local art. 5-8pm, 805-962-2098, Santa Barbara ONGOING University of California Santa Barbara Various speakers, 805-893-7221. Check www.artsandlectures.sa.ucsb.edu for details. AUGUST 5-9 Old Spanish Days Fiesta A celebration of the traditions handed down from Spain, Mexico and the California Rancho period. Old songs and dances, traditional foods in the mercados and an historical parade. The riding and roping competitions at the rodeo evolved from spirited contests at the end of busy days in the 1800s rounding up cattle on the old Ranchos. www.oldspanishdays-fiesta.org AUGUST 20 Nights at SBMA Nights continues to inspire through time-based art, performance and new media. These unique events offer a cultural cocktail of art, music, specialty martinis, wine and outrageous one-night-only interactive happenings in the museum’s galleries. www.sbmuseart.org

VENTURA COUNTY ONGOING Museum of Ventura County Photographs, publications, documents and exhibits depicting Ventura County’s history 10am-5pm, 805-653-0323, Ventura www.venturamuseum.org ONGOING Tidepool Talk Show and tell about fascinating animals and plants at the exhibit. National Park Visitor Center Ventura Harbor, 805-658-5730, www.nps.gov ONGOING Ventura County Maritime Museum Art, ship models, and maritime exhibits 11am-5pm, 805-984-6260, Oxnard

 ONGOING SATURDAYS Tour Ojai Olive Oil at Asquith Farm Begins with the history, olive varieties, their maturing process, the harvesting and a visit to the tree nursery. 10-3pm, Mon-Fri by appointment, www.ojaioliveoil.com, 805-701-3825

 JULY 25 - 26 ONGOING A Taste of Camarillo Wine and Food Festival Ty Warner Sea Center At the historic Adolfo Camarillo Ranch House. Explore creatures of the sea, Stearns Wharf Santa Saturday evening enjoy an evening of tempting Barbara, Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History wines, including selections from the 2009 Official 805-962-2526, www.sbnature.org/seacenter Taste of Camarillo Winery, Cantara Cellars, ONGOING Champagne, a sumptuous buffet and live music by Lectures & Readings at the “Big Little Jazz Band.” Fine and rare wines at the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum live and silent Auctions. 5-9pm 805-962-8404, Santa Barbara, www.sbmm.org Sunday: Gourmet food from 50+ outstanding ONGOING TUESDAYS THROUGH SATURDAYS Ventura restaurants and wine poured by 100+ Art Workshops for Children at Art from Scrap wineries. Live entertainment by “Blue Moon” and Fun workshops where kids reuse all sorts of “Jeanne Tatum and Company.” A silent auction materials to make works of art! 10am-2pm, $6 plus a cash raffle prize. 1-4pm, 805-388-7158 805-884-0459, www.artfromscrap.org www.meadowlarkserviceleague.com

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK: CENTRAL COAST

Preferred Tasting Room

FIRESTONE VINEYARD by Mark Storer Since the Firestone family sold its wineries to Foley Family Wines, it might be said that not much has changed…in a good way. There is still a dedication to crafting expressive, vineyard driven wines in a winery run by a family that cares a great deal about what it’s doing. Firestone Winery was the first winery in the Los Olivos area when Brooks Firestone started it in 1974. The winery’s recent expansion to Paso Robles with another full service winery and tasting room enhanced the brand and gave Firestone a new set of vineyards with all of the benefits of both San Luis Obispo County as well as Santa Barbara County with which to work. The Foley Family’s purchase of the Firestone wineries has not changed that fundamental commitment. Foley has continued the family tradition and added the expertise of vintner Bill Foley to the package. To be sure, Kevin Willenborg is still at the helm as winemaker for Firestone, speaking volumes about his ability and

commitment to Firestone’s quality wines. With the opening of the Paso Robles facility in 2007, Firestone decided to focus on the Bordeaux varietals of the Paso Robles AVA and have succeeded in creating unique wines quite apart from the sister winery to the south. The two tasting rooms are different in that they represent their vineyards and AVA’s. The Paso Robles facility, a bit smaller and obviously newer, is still decorated in the Firestone style with lots of wood and wood fixtures as well as the tasting bar itself. Willenborg’s assistant winemaker, Sheldon Theis, spends time along with his boss traveling back and forth between the two wineries. Since wine is made at both facilities, it’s imperative that the winemakers be available to both wineries. Firestone’s Los Olivos facility has nearly perfected its Sauvignon Blanc program. By far its most popular wine, Firestone’s Sauvignon Blanc has won gold medals from the California State Fair and the San Francisco International Wine Competition among others.

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But it’s not alone. Firestone’s 2005 Reserve Chardonnay with grapes grown in the Santa Rita Hills nearby won a gold in 2007’s New World International Wine Competition. It’s not just the whites, either. The Orange County Register named Firestone’s 2003 Syrah Wine of the Week in 2007 and it earned the gold medal from the 2007 California State Fair. In addition, Firestone’s Cabernet Sauvignon won gold at the San Francisco Chronicle’s 2007 Wine Competition. Firestone is the passion and heart that literally started the Santa Barbara County wine country, and subsequently branched out into Paso Robles. With its beautiful landmark Los Olivos facility providing the backdrop for weddings, celebrations and other events, Firestone continues the tradition of family centered farming and wine with a heart. Firestone facility in Los Olivos is located at 5000 Zaca Station Road, (805) 688-1545. The Paso Robles tasting room is 2300 Airport Road, (805) 591-8050. Both are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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PASO ROBLES AREA Daily 10-5 Adelaida Cellars – Paso Robles 5805 Adelaida Rd; 805-239-8980, 800-676-1232 X AJB Vineyards – Paso Robles 3280 Township Rd; 805-239-9432

X X

X X

Th-Mo 11-6 or by Appt

739 12th St; 877-759-WINE

Daily 11-7

B & E Vineyards – Paso Robles 10,000 Creston Rd; 805-238-4815

Fr-Su 10-5

Barrel 27 – Paso Robles 2323 Tulley Rd #110; 805-237-1245

Fr-Su 11-5 or By Appt

X

X

By Appt

X

X

Bassetti Vineyards – Cambria 1191 N. Green Valley Rd; 805-927-1925

 Bear Cave Cellars – Paso Robles 1227 Park St; 805-238-4329

X X By Appt

By Appt. & Some Weekends

X

X

X X X

X

Bella Luna – Templeton 1850 Templeton Rd; 805-434-5477

Fr-Su 10-5

X

X

Bianchi Winery – Paso Robles 3380 Branch Rd; 805-226-9922

Daily 10-5

X

X

Black Hand – San Miguel 1735 Nygren Rd; 805-712-WINE

By Appt

Booker Winery – Paso Robles 2640 Anderson Rd; 805-237-7367

Fr-Su 11-4

Brian Benson Cellars – Paso Robles Daily 2985 Anderson Rd; 805-296-9463 10:30-5 Calcareous Winery – Paso Robles 3430 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-239-0289

Th-Mo 11-5

Caliza Winery – Paso Robles 2570 Anderson Rd; 805-237-1480

Fr-Su 11-4:30

Caparone Winery – Paso Robles 2280 San Marcos Rd; 805-467-3827

 Carina Cellars – Paso Robles

3525 Adelaida Rd; 805-309-2046

Fr-Su 11-5 By Apt X Fr-Su 11-4:30 By Apt

X X X X X X

X X X X X X

 Hansen Vineyard– Templeton

T IN G

LE S

X

X

Daily 10-5

X

X

5070 Vineyard Dr; 805-238-2544

Opening May 1

X

X

X

Hice Cellars – Paso Robles 821 Pine St Unit D; 805-237-8888

Th-Mo 12-5

X

X

X

X

Hug Cellars – Paso Robles Th-Mo 2323 Tuley Ct Ste. 120 D; 805-226- 8022 11-5

X

X

X

X

Denner Vineyards & Winery – Paso Robles 5414 Vineyard Dr; 805-239-4287 Sa-Su 12-4

X

X

Doce Robles – Paso Robles 2023 Twelve Oaks Dr; 805-227-4766

X

X X

X

Daily 11-6

X

X

Croad Vineyards – Paso Robles Fr-Su 3550 Vinedo Robles Lane; 805-227-6800 11-5

X

X

D’Anbino Cellars – Paso Robles 710 Pine St; 805-227-6800

Fri-Sun 12-6 Closed Tu-We

X

Dark Star Cellars – Paso Robles 2985 Anderson Rd; 805-237-2389

Fr-Su 10:30-5

Derby Estates – Paso Robles 5620 Hwy 46 East; 805-238-6300

Fr-Mo 11-5

 Clayhouse Wines – Paso Robles

Daily 10-5:30

Donati Family Vineyard – Templeton Daily 11am-5pm Corner of 46 West & Vineyard Dr; 805-238-0676 X Donatoni Winery – Paso Robles 3225 Township Rd; 805-226-0620 Dover Canyon Winery – Paso Robles 4520 Vineyard Dr; 805-237-0101

Sa-Su 12-5 Or By Appt

X

Th-Su 11-5

5575 El Pomar Dr; 805-239-8412 Harmony Cellars– Harmony 3255 Harmony Valley Rd; 805-927-1625

 Hearthstone – Paso Robles

 Hunt Cellars – Paso Robles

X

2875 Oakdale Rd; 805-237-1600

Daily 10:30-5:30

X

X

6169 Airport Rd; 805-239-8900

10-5

X

X

J. Paul Rosilez – Paso Robles 4889 Dry Creek Rd; 805-226-0550

Fr-Su 11-5

X

X

Jack Creek Cellars – Templeton 5265 Jack Creek Rd; 805-226-8283

Fr-Su 11-4:30 By Appt

X

X

5620 Vineyard Dr; 805-226-4200

Fr-Su 10-5

X

X

X

 J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines – Paso Robles Daily

 Jada Winery – Paso Robles

X

X

JanKris Winery – Templeton 1266 Bethel Rd; 805-434-0319

Daily 11-5

X

X

X

Dunning Vineyards Estate Winery – Paso Robles 1953 Niderer Rd; 805-238-4763 Th-Mo 11-5

X

X

Justin Winery – Paso Robles 11680 Chimney Rock Rd; 805-238-6932

Daily 10-5

X

X

X

Eagle Castle Winery – Paso Robles Daily 3090 Anderson Rd; 805-227-1428 10:30-5:30 X

X

X

Kukkula – Templeton 9525 Chimney Rock Rd; 805-434-5475

By Appt

X

X

L’Aventure Winery – Paso Robles 2815 Live Oak Rd; 805-227-1588

Th-Su 11-4 or By Appt

X

X

X

X

Le Cuvier – Paso Robles 9750 Adelaida Rd; 805-238-5706

By Appt, Wine Club Only

X

X

Linne Calodo – Paso Robles 3030 Vineyard Dr; 805-227-0797

Fr-Su 11-5

X

X

Lion’s Peak – Cambria 4044 Burton Ave; 805-927-1450

Th-Mo 11-6

X

X

8585 Cross Canyons Rd; 805-467-0067

Fr-Su 11-4

X

X

Lone Madrone – Paso Robles 2485 Hwy 46 West; 805-238-0845

Daily 10:30-5

X

X

Madison Cellars – Paso Robles 4540 Hwy 41; 805-238-9831

By Appt

X

X

Fr-Sa 10-5; Su 12-5 Or By Appt

X

X

X

X

 Eberle Winery – Paso Robles 3810 Hwy 46 E; 805-238-9607

Daily 10-6

1220 Park St; 805-239-8915

Th-Mo 12-7

 Edward Sellers – Paso Robles  Eos Estate Winery – Paso Robles 5625 Hwy 46 East; 805-239-2562

Daily 10-5

X

X

Falcon Nest Winery – Paso Robles 5185 Union Rd; 805-226-0227

Daily 10-7:30

X

X

FS Cellars – Paso Robles 1337 Vendels Circle; 805-226-8989

Th-Mo 11-6

X

X

X

X

 Locatelli Winery – San Miguel

X

Carmody McKnight Estate Wines – Paso Robles 11240 Chimney Rock Rd; 805-238-9392 Daily 10-5

X

X

Cass Vineyards – Paso Robles 7350 Linne Rd; 805-239-1730

Daily 11-6

X

X

2300 Airport Rd; 805-591-8050

1315 N Bethal Rd; 805-238-0725

Daily 10-5:30

X

X

Five Rivers Winery – Paso Robles 8998 North River Rd; 805-467-0192

By Appt

Cayucos Cellars – Cayucos 131 N Ocean Ave; 805-995-3036

We-Su 11-5:30 Closed Tu

X

X

Four Vines Winery – Templeton 3750 Hwy 46 West; 805-237-0055

Daily 11-5

Sa 11:30-5 By Su 12-4 Appt X

X

Fralich Vineyard & Winery – Templeton By Appt Private tastings at Paso Robles Wine Services; 805-434-1526

Martin & Weyrich – Paso Robles 2610 Buena Vista Dr; 805-238-2520

Su-Th 10-5 Fr-Sa 10-6

Changala Winery – Templeton 422 Main St; 805-238-0421

SA

Daily 10-5:30

X

X

 Castoro Cellars – Templeton

TA S

WINERY - LOCATION

TO UR S

T IN G

LE S

SA

TA S

TO UR S

Clavo Cellars – Paso Robles Mo-Sa 12-5 1101 Riverside Avenue; 805-226-0174 Su 12-4

740 Pine St; 805-227-6813

 Arroyo Robles– Paso Robles

WINERY - LOCATION

849 13th St; 805 727-4720

Weekends 12-5

 Anglim Winery – Paso Robles

HO UR S

T IN G LE S SA

TA S

TO UR S

HO UR S

WINERY - LOCATION

HO UR S

 Especially recommended by Wine Country This Week

WINERY LISTINGS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

 Firestone Vineyard – Paso Robles

By Daily 10-5 Appt

X

X

Maloy O’Neill – Paso Robles 5725 Union Rd; 805-238-7320

Chateau Margene – Creston 4385 La Panza Rd; 805-238-2321

Sa-Su 12-6

X

X

Fratelli Perata – Paso Robles 1595 Arbor Rd; 805-238-2809

By Appt

McClean Vineyards – Templeton 4491 S. El Pomar Dr; 805-237-2441

By Appt

Christian Lazo – San Miguel 249 10th Street, Suite A; 805-467-2672

Sa-Su 10-5

X

X

Gelfand Vineyards – Paso Robles 5530 Dresser Ranch Place; 805-239-5808

By Appt

Meridian Vineyards – Paso Robles 7000 Hwy 46 E; 805-226-7133

Daily 10-5

X

X

Chumeia Vineyards – Paso Robles 8331 Hwy 46 E; 805-226-0102

Daily 10-5

X

X

Grey Wolf Cellars – Paso Robles 2174 Hwy 46 West; 805-237-0771

Daily 11-5:30

X

X

1244 Pine St, Suite A; 805-237-8730

Daily 10:30-6

X

X

Clautiere Vineyard – Paso Robles 1340 Penman Springs Rd; 805-237-3789

Daily 12-5

X

X

8910 Adelaida Rd; 805-226-9455

Th-Mo 11-5

X

X

Midnight Cellars – Paso Robles 2925 Anderson Rd; 805-239-8904

Daily 10-5:30

X

X

36

 Halter Ranch Vnyd– Paso Robles

 Midlife Crisis – Paso Robles

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Fr-Su 11-5

X

X

Moonstone Cellars – Cambria 801 Main St, Suite C; 805-927-9466

Th-Mo 11-5

X

X

Silver Stone – Paso Robles 827 13th St; 805-226-2788

NadeauFamilyVintners – Paso Robles 3860 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-239-3574

Fr-Su 12-5

X

X

Skyhawk Lane – San Miguel 1605 Commerce Way; 213-200-4661

Norman Vineyards – Paso Robles 7450 Vineyard Dr; 805-237-0138

Daily 11-5

X

X

Stacked Stone Cellars – Paso Robles Fr 12-5 1525 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-238-7872 Sa-Su 11-5

X

X

7110 Vineyard Dr; 805-238-9593

Daily 10-5

X

X

Stephen’s Cellar – Templeton 7575 York Mountain Rd; 805-238-2412

By Appt

X

X

 Pozo Valley – Santa Margarita

Su 11-4

X

X

Still Waters Vineyards – Paso Robles 2750 Old Grove Ln; 805-237-9231

Th-Mo 11-5

X

X

SAN LUIS OBISPO

X

X

Summerwood – Paso Robles 2175 Arbor Rd; 805-227-1365

Daily 10-5:30

X

X

Alapay Cellars – Avila Beach 415 First St; 805-595-2632

Parkfield Vineyards – San Miguel By 70502 Vineyard Canyon Rd; 805-463-2316 Appt

X

X

Peachy Canyon Winery – Paso Robles Daily 1480 N. Bethel Rd; 805-239-1918 11-5

X

X

 Opolo Vineyards – Paso Robles

 Orchid Hill Vineyard – Paso Robles Mo-Sa 11-7 1140 Pine St; 805-237-7525

 Ortman Family Vnyds – Paso Robles Daily 12-5 1317 Park Street; 805-237-9009

Fr-Sat 12-7

X

Poalillo Vineyards – Paso Robles 18888 Willow Creek Rd; 805-238-0600

By Appt

Pomar Junction – Templeton 5036 S. El Pomar Dr; 805-238-9940

Fr-Su 11-5

Pretty-Smith – San Miguel 13350 River Rd; 805-467-3104

Fr-Su 10-5

Rabbit Ridge – Paso Robles 1172 San Marcos Rd; 805-467-3331

We-Su 11-5

X

X

Red Soles – Paso Robles 3230 Oakdale Rd; 805-226-9898

Mo-Sa 11-5 Su 12-5

X

X

Rio Seco – Paso Robles 4295 Union Rd; 805-237-8884

Daily 11-5

X

X

RiverStar Vineyards – Cayucos 36 N Ocean Ave; 805-995-3741

X X

Fr-Su 11-4

RN Estate Winery – Paso Robles 7986 North River Rd; 805-467-3106

By Appt

3443 Mill Rd; 805-239-1616

Daily 10-6

 Robert Hall – Paso Robles

X

X

X

X X

X

Zenaida Cellars – Paso Robles 1550 Hwy 46 West; 805-227-0382

Daily 11-5

ZinAlley – Templeton 3730 Hwy 46 West; 805-238-0959

Fr-Su 11-5

X

X

By Appt

X

Opening in June '08

X

Thunderbolt Junction – Paso Robles Fr-Su 2740 Hidden Mountain Rd; 805-226-9907 11-5

X

X

Tobin James Cellars – Paso Robles 8950 Union Rd; 805-239-2204

Daily 10-6

X

X

Tolo Cellars – Paso Robles 9750 Adelaida Rd; 805-226-2282

Fr-Mo 11-5

X

X

Turley Wine Cellars – Templeton 2900 Vineyard Dr; 805-434-1030

Daily 9-5

X

X

Venteux Vineyards – Templeton 1795 Las Tablas Rd; 805-369-0127

Fr-Su 10-5

X

X

Victor Hugo Winery – Templeton 2850 El Pomar Dr; 805-434-1128

By Appt

1307 Park St; 805 835-4304

Th-Sa 11-8 Su & Mo 11-4

X

X

X

X

Th-Su 11-5

X

X

3700 Mill Rd; 805-227-4812

Daily 10-5

X

X

X

2485 Hwy 46 West; 805-238-0208

We-Su 11-5:30

X

X

Su 11-5 By Appt

X

X

Rotta Winery – Paso Robles 3750 Hwy 46 West; 805-237-0510

Daily 11-5

X

X

Rocky Creek Cellars – Templeton 8687 Apple Rd; 805-238-1919

Daily 10:30-5

X

X

Whalebone Winery – Paso Robles 8325 Vineyard Dr; 805-239-9020

Daily 11-5

X

X

Wild Coyote Winery – Paso Robles 3775 Adelaida Rd; 805-610-1311

Daily 11-5

X

Daily 1484 Wild Horse Winery Ct; 805-434-2541 11-5 Windward Vineyard – Paso Robles 138 Live Oak Rd; 805-239-2565

7750 North Hwy; 805-467-9260

Daily 11-5

X

X

Scott Aaron – Templeton 422 South Main; 888-611-9463

Sa-Su 11-5

X

X

5015 Linne Road, 888-302-8881

Fr-Su 10-5 or By Appt

X

X

 Sculpterra – Paso Robles

 Wild Horse Winery – Templeton

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Daily 11-5

T IN G

LE S

X

X

X

X

X

2200 El Camino Real; 805-286-7172

Fr-Su 12-6

X

X

Daily 10:30-6

X

X

Aron Hill Vineyards – Morro Bay Th-Su 845 Embarcadero Rd, Suite F; 805-610-5751 12-5

X

X

Baileyana Vineyard – San Luis Obispo Daily 5828 Orcutt Rd; 805-269-8200 10-5

X

X

Barnwood Winery – Arroyo Grande 453 Laetitia Vineyard Dr; 888-809-VINE

Daily 11-5

X

X

Daily 10:30-4:30

X

X

Fr-Su 11-5

X

X

Daily 2649 Carpenter Canyon Rd; 805-544-4066 11-5

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

Kynsi Winery – Arroyo Grande Th-Mo 2212 Corbett Canyon Rd; 805-544-8461 11-5

X

X

Daily 11-5

X

X

Morovino – Avila Beach 550 1st St; 805-627-1443

Th-Mo 12-5

X

X

1850 Calle Joaquin Rd; 805-787-0485

Daily 11-5

X

X

X

X

X

X

3031 Lopez Dr; 805-489-0446

Cerro Caliente – San Luis Obispo 831 A Via Esteban; 805-544-2842

 Claiborne & Churchill – San Luis Obispo

Chamisal/Domaine Alfred – San Luis Obispo 7525 Orcutt Rd; 805-541-9463 10-5 Edna Valley Vnyd – San Luis Obispo 2585 Biddle Ranch Rd; 805-544-5855

 Kelsey See Canyon – San Luis Obispo

 Laetitia Vineyard – Arroyo Grande

453 Laetitia Vineyard Dr; 805-481-1772

Vista Del Rey – Paso Robles 7340 Drake Rd; 805-467-2138

 San Marcos Creek Vineyard – Paso Robles

X

We-Su 10-5

1947 See Canyon Rd; 805-595-9700

Villicana Winery – Paso Robles 2725 Adelaida Rd; 805-239-9456

 Vina Robles – Paso Robles

X

Ancient Peaks – Santa Margarita 22720 El Camino Real; 805-365-7045

 Bishop’s Peak – Arroyo Grande X

 Vihuela Winery – Paso Robles

X

X

S A N TA M A RG A R I TA

X

 VinFuzion – Paso Robles X

By Appt

Daily 10-5

Thacher Winery– Paso Robles 8355 Vineyard Dr; 805-237-0087

Th-Mo 11-5

X

Tablas Creek – Paso Robles 9339 Adelaida Rd; 805-237-1231

X

Pipestone – Paso Robles 2040 Niderer Rd; 805-227-6385

X

X

X X

Mo-Th 12-7 Fr-Sa 12-8 Su 11-4

X

1985 Penman Springs Dr; 805-237-7959 829 13th St; 805-226-4005

Daily 11-5

X

Terry Hoage – Paso Robles 870 Arbor Rd; 805-238-2083

Su-Mo-Th: 12-6pm Fr-Sa 11-7 X

York Mountain – Templeton 7505 York Mountain Rd; 805-238-3925

Daily 11-5

X

 Pianetta – Paso Robles

X

5115 Buena Vista Dr; 805-227-4000

X

Fr-Su 11-5

X

 Sylvester Vineyards – Paso Robles

Peachy Canyon Winery Too – Paso Robles 2020 Nacimiento Lake Dr; 805-237-7848 Fr-Su 11-5

 Penman Springs Vineyard – Paso Robles

Fr-Mo 11-5

2995 Pleasant Rd; 805-467-WINE

SA

Minassian-Young – Paso Robles 4045 Peachy Canyon Rd; 805-238-7571

TO UR S

HO UR S

T IN G

LE S

SA

WINERY - LOCATION

TA S

 Silver Horse – San Miguel

TA S

WINERY - LOCATION

TO UR S

HO UR S

T IN G

LE S

SA

TA S

WINERY - LOCATION

TO UR S

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY LISTINGS

 Per Bacco Cellars – San Luis Obispo

Daily

Daily 10-5

Daily 11-5:30 X

Piedra Creek Winery – San Luis Obispo 6425 Mira Cielo Dr; 805-541-1281 By Appt

 Pismo Beach Winery – Pismo Beach 271 B Five Cities; 805-773-WINE

Daily 12-5

Rancho Arroyo Grande – Arroyo Grande 591 Hi Mountain Rd; 805-474-0220 1st Saturday of the month 11-5

 Salisbury Vineyards – Avila Valley 6985 Ontario Rd; 805-595-WINE

Daily 11-6

X

X

X

Saucelito Canyon – San Luis Obispo 3080 Biddle Ranch Rd; 805-543-2111

Daily 10-5

X

X

X

X

Sextant Wines – San Luis Obispo 3536 S. Higuera St; 866-833-WINE

Daily 11-5

X

X

X

X

Shadow Canyon Cellars – San Luis Obispo 956 Monterey Street; 805-781-0862 Th-Su 12-7

X

X

37

By Appt

Tangent Vineyards – San Luis Obispo Daily 5828 Orcutt Rd; 805-269-8200 11-5

 Talley Vineyards – Arroyo Grande

Daily 10-4

X

X

Qupé Wine – at Wine Country in Los Olivos 2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-968-9699 Daily 11-5

X

X

2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-963-3052 Daily 11-5

X

X

Scott Cellars – Los Olivos Th-Mo 2933 San Marcos Ave, Ste 101; 805-570-0048 12-5

X

X

Star Lane – at Wine Country in Los Olivos 2445 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5

X

X

X

X

Three Saints – at Wine Country in Los Olivos 2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5

X

X

Tre Anelli – Los Olivos 2923 Grand Ave; 805-686-3000

X

X

Vandale – at The Ballard Inn in Ballard Fr-Su 2436 Baseline Ave; 805-688-7770 12-5:30

X

X

4910 Edna Rd; 805-782-0500

Daily 11-5

X

X

136 Bridge St; 805-489-9663

Th-Mo 11-5 Fri ’til 7

X

X

X

Alexander & Wayne – Los Olivos 2922 Grand Ave; 805-688-9665

Daily 11-6

Andrew Murray – Los Olivos 2901 Grand Ave; 805-693-9644

Daily 11-6

X

X

Arthur Earl – Los Olivos 2922 Grand Ave; 805-693-1771

Daily 11-6

X

X

Beckmen Vineyards – Los Olivos 2905 Grand Ave; 805-688-8664

Daily 11-5

X

Bernat – at Los Olivos Café 2879 Grand Ave; 805-688-7265

Daily 11-9

X

The Brander Vineyard – Los Olivos 2401 Refugio Rd; 805- 688-2455

Daily 11-4

X

S A N TA M A R I A / F O X E N C A N YO N

Byron Vineyard – Santa Maria 5250 Tepusquet Rd; 805-934-4770

By Appt

Cambria Winery – Santa Maria 5475 Chardonnay Lane; 888-339-9463

Daily 10-5

Chimere – Santa Maria 217 North Russell; 805-310-1148

By Appt

1331 S. Nicholson Ave; 805-922-1468

Daily 11-6

 Costa de Oro – Santa Maria

T IN G LE S

Zaca Mesa – Los Olivos 6905 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-9339 LOS OLIVOS

X

TO UR S

X

X

Daily 11-5

T IN G

Oak Savanna – at Andrew Murray Tasting Room in Los Olivos 2901 Grand Ave; 805-693-9644 Daily 11-6 X

X

Bedford Thompson – Los Alamos 448 Bell St; 805-344-2107

LE S

X

Mo-Sa 11-9 Su 11-5

Tu-Su 11-7

SA

X

Taste – San Luis Obispo 1003 Osos St; 805-269-TASTE

Addamo Estate Vineyards – Orcutt 400 East Clark Ave; 805-937-6400

TA S

Daily 10-5

X

Daily 11-5

X

Tres Hermanas Winery – Santa Maria 9660 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-937-8451

X

Wolff Vineyards – San Luis Obispo 6238 Orcutt Rd; 805-781-0448

X

X

Daily 10:30-4:30

 Wood Winery – Arroyo Grande

Daily 11-4:30

X

3031 Lopez Dr; 805-489-0446

 Tolosa Winery – San Luis Obispo

Longoria Wines – Los Olivos 2935 Grand Ave; 866-759-4637

SA

Tantara Vineyard – Santa Maria 4747 Ontiveros Lane; 805-938-5051

WINERY - LOCATION

TA S

Stephen Ross Wine Cellars – San Luis Obispo Sa-Su 11-5 By Apt 178 Suburban Rd; 805-594-1318 X X X

TO UR S

WINERY - LOCATION

HO UR S

T IN G

LE S

SA

TA S

TO UR S

HO UR S

WINERY - LOCATION

HO UR S

 Especially recommended by Wine Country This Week

WINERY LISTINGS | WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK

X X

X

X

 Silver Wines – at Wine Country in Los Olivos

 Stolpman Vineyard – Los Olivos

2434 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-688-0400 X X X

X X X

Daily 11-4

Daily 11-5

Brophy Clark Cellars – at Los Olivos Wine Tasting Room 2905 Grand Ave; 805-929-4830 Daily 11-6

X

X

Carhartt Vineyard – Los Olivos 2990A Grand Ave; 805-688-0685

Th-Mo 11-5 (Closed Tu-We)

Verdad Wines – at Wine Country in Los Olivos 2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5

X

X

X

X

Daily 11-5

X

X

2900-A Grand Ave; 805-688-2459

Daily 11-5

Wild Heart Winery – Los Olivos 2933-C Grand Ave; 805-688-7386

X

X

Daily 11-5

Zaca Mesa – Los Olivos 6905 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-9339

Daily 10-4

X

X

X

Consilience – Los Olivos 2933 Grand Ave; 805-691-1020

X

X

X

X

Coquelicot – Los Olivos 2884 Grand Ave; 805-688-1500

Daily 11-5

X

X

Alma Rosa – Buellton 7250 Santa Rosa; 805-688-9090

Daily 11-4:30

X

X

By Appt

X

X

X

X

X

 Carina Cellars – Los Olivos

L O M P O C / B U E L LT O N

Cottonwood Canyon – Santa Maria 3940 Dominion Rd; 805-937-VINE

Daily 10-5:30

Curtis Winery – Los Olivos 5249 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-686-8999

Daily 10-5

X

X

Curtis Winery – Los Olivos 5249 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-686-8999

Daily 10-5

X

X

Ampelos Cellars – Lompoc 805-736-9957

Fess Parker – Los Olivos 6200 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-1545

Daily 10-5

X

X

Daniel Gehrs Winery – Los Olivos 2939 Grand Ave; 800-275-8138

Daily 11-5

X

X

Babcock Winery – Lompoc 5175 E. Hwy 246; 805-736-1455

Daily 10:30-4

X

X

Firestone Vineyard – Los Olivos 5000 Zaca Station Rd; 805-688-3940

Daily 10-5

X

X

Dierberg Estate Vineyard – at Wine Country in Los Olivos 2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5 X

X

Casa Cassara – Buellton 291 Valley St; 805-686-5159

We-Mo 11-5

X

X

Foxen Vineyard – Santa Maria 7200 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-937-4251

Daily 11-4

X

X

Epiphany Cellars – Los Olivos 2963 Grand Ave; 866-354-9463

X

X

Clos Pepe – Lompoc 4777 East Hwy 246; 805-735-2196

By Appt

IO Vineyards – Santa Maria 5250 Tepusquet Rd; 805-934-4770

By Appt

John Kerr Wines – at Los Olivos Wine Tasting Room 2905 Grand Ave; 805-688-7406 Daily 11-5:30

X

X

Dierberg Estate/Star Lane/Three Saints – Lompoc 1280 Drum Canyon Rd; 866-652-8430 Daily 11-5

X

X

Fess Parker – Los Olivos 6200 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-688-1545

Daily 10-5

X

X

Fiddlehead Cellars – at the Lompoc Wine Ghetto 1597 E. Chestnut Ave; 530-756-4550 Th-Sa 11-4

X

X

5000 Zaca Station Rd; 805-688-3940

Daily 10-5

X

X

Foley Estates – Lompoc 6121 East Hwy 246; 805-737-6222

Daily 10-5

X

X

By Appt X

X

X

 Kenneth Volk Vineyards – Santa Maria Daily 5230 Tepusquet Rd; 805-938-7896

X

X

X

X

Labyrinth – at Old Mission Wine Company in Solvang 2717 Aviation Way; 805-268-4155 Daily 10-5

X

X

Flying Goat Cellars – at Wine Country in Los Olivos 2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5

X

X

Harrison-Clarke – Lompoc 805-686-0850

McKeon-Philips – Santa Maria 2115 S Blosser Rd; 805-928-3025

X

X

Great Oaks Ranch – at Wine Country in Los Olivos 2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5

X

X

Hitching Post Wines – at Hitching Post Restaurant in Buellton 406 East Hwy 246; 805-688-0676 Daily from 4pm X

X

J Wilkes Wine – at Wine Country in Los Olivos 2445 Alamo Pintado Ave; 805-686-9699 Daily 11-5

X

X

Huber Vineyards – Lompoc 4892 Hapgood Rd; 805-736-3854

By Appt

X

X

Koehler – Los Olivos 5360 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-693-8384

X

X

Ken Brown Wines – Buellton 70 Industrial Way; 805-448-3791

By Appt

X

X

Lane Tanner Wines – at Los Olivos Tasting Room 2905 Grand Ave; 805-688-7406 Daily 11-6

X

X

Lafond Vineyard – Buellton 6855 Santa Rosa Rd; 805-688-7921

Daily 10-5

Koehler – Los Olivos 5360 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-693-8384

10:30-4:30 X

Th-Mo 11:30- 5:30

Daily 10-5

Daily 11-6

Ovene Winery – Santa Maria (Tasting Room: See Solvang) 2717 Aviation Way; 714-420-2525 By Appt X Rancho Sisquoc Winery – Santa Maria 6600 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-934-4332

Daily 10-4

Riverbench Vineyards – Santa Maria 6020 Foxen Canyon Rd; 805-937-8340

Daily 10-4

38

X

 Firestone Vineyard – Los Olivos

Daily 10-5

X

X

X

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

Daily 11-4

X

X

Rusack Vineyard – Solvang 1819 Ballard Canyon Rd; 805-688-1278

Daily 11-5

X

X

Jaffurs – Santa Barbara 819 East Montectio St; 805-962-7003

Mosby Winery – Buellton 9496 Santa Rosa Rd; 805-688-2415

Daily 10-4

X

X

Shoestring Winery – Solvang 800 East Hwy 246; 800-693-8612

Fr-Su 11-4

X

X

Giessinger – Santa Barbara 212 State St; 805-695-8606

Palmina – Lompoc 1520 East Chestnut Ct; 805-735-2030

Th-Sa 11-4

X

X

Uncorked/Monsoon Cellars Fr-Sa 12-9pm 467 Alisal Rd Ste 2; 805-693-8000; Solvang Su 12-6

X

X

Kalyra Winery – Santa Barbara 212 State St; 805-695-8606

Sanford Winery – Lompoc 5010 Santa Rosa Rd; 805-735-5900

Daily 11-4

Sort This Out Cellars – Buellton 593 Avenue of the Flags; 805-688-1717

Daily 10-5:30

X X

X

Artiste – Santa Ynez 3569 Sagunto St; 805-686-2626

Blackjack Ranch – Solvang 2205 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-455-1412

Daily 11-5 Closed Wed

Blair Fox Cellars – at Cabana Tasting Room in Solvang 1539 Mission Dr; 805-686-9126 Daily 11-8

X X X

X

Oreana Winery – (formally Cellar 205) Santa Barbara 205 Anacapa St; 805-962-5857 Daily 11-5

X

X

Whitcraft Winery – Santa Barbara Fr-Su 36A S. Calle Cesar Chavez; 805-730-1680 12-4

X

X

X

X

X

Gainey Vineyard – Santa Ynez 3950 East Hwy 246; 805-688-0558

Daily 10-5

X

X

Mo-Fr 11-5 Sa-Su 10-5

Bella Victorian Vineyard – Camarillo 2135 E. Ventura Blvd; 805-383-8800

Fr-Su 12-6

X

X

Opening Soon

Daily 10-5

Camarillo Custom Crush – Camarillo 300 S. Lewis Rd, Ste C; 805-484-0597

X

X X

S A N TA BA R BA R A X X X

X

By Appt

Lincourt Winery – Solvang 1711 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-688-8554

Daily 10-5

X

X

Lions Peak Vineyards – Solvang 1659 Copenhagen Dr; 805-693-5466

Fr-Mo 11-5

X

X

Lucas & Lewellen – Solvang 1645 Copenhagen Dr; 805-686-9336

Daily 11-5:30

X

X

Mandolina Wines – Solvang 1665 Copenhagen Dr; 805-686-5506

Daily 11-5:30

X

X

Michael Grace – at Old Mission Wine Company in Solvang 1539 Mission; 805-686-9323 Daily 9:30-5:30 X

X

Ovene Winery – at Old Mission Tasting Company in Solvang 1539 Mission; 714-420-2525 Daily 9:30-5:30 X

X

Presidio Vineyard – Solvang 1603 Copenhagen Dr, 805-693-8585

Daily 11-6

X

X

Rideau Vineyard – Solvang 1562 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-688-0717

Daily 11-4

X

X

Daily 10-5:30

X

X

Carr Vineyards – Santa Barbara 414 N. Salsipuedes St; 805-965-7985 Coastal Winery – Santa Barbara End of State St; 805-962-2100

Tu-Th 11-5 Fr-Su 11-7

VENTURA COUNTY

 Cantara Cellars– Camarillo

126 Wood Rd, Ste 104; 805-484-9600

Fri-Sun 11-5

X

X

208 E. Ojai Ave; 805-640-1255

Thu-Sun 12-6

X

X

Herzog Wine Cellars – Oxnard Sun-Thurs 11-9 3201 Camino Del Sol; 805-938-1560 Fri 11-4 Sat Closed X

X X

 Casa Barranca – Ojai

Daily 11-5

X

X

11-7 Weekdays 11-8 Fri-Sun

X

X

10024 Old Creek Rd; 805-649-4132

11-5

X

X

Rancho Ventavo – Camarillo 1690 Ventura Blvd, 805-529-4221

Opening Soon Early 2009

Coquelicot – at Intermezzo in Santa Barbara 813 Anacapa St; 805-996-9463 Sa-Su 11-3

T IN G LE S

X

X

X

SA

Summerland – Summerland 2330 Lillie Ave; 805-565-WINE

X

Daily 10-4

TA S

X

X

Jorian Hill – Solvang 1051 Croft Lane; 805-686-8490

Royal Oaks – Solvang 1651 Copenhagen Dr; 805-693-1740

X

Daily 11-5

X

Honeywood/Olde Mission Wine Co. Tasting room for Honeywood, Michael Grace and Ovene Winery 1539 Mission Dr, #A & B, Solvang Su-Th 9:30-5:30 805-686-9323 Fr-Sa 9:30-6:30 X

Santa Barbara Winery – Santa Barbara Daily 202 Anacapa St; 805-963-3633 10 - 5

Buttonwood Farm – Santa Ynez 1500 Alamo Pintado Rd; 805-688-3032

Sunstone – Santa Ynez 125 Refugio Rd; 800-313-9463

X

X

X

Roblar Winery – Santa Ynez 3010 Roblar Ave; 805-686-2603

East Valley – at Cabana Tasting Room in Solvang 1661 Mission Dr; 805-686-5159 Daily 11-5

X

X

X

X

Mo-Fr 12-7 Sa-Su 12-8

X

X

DiBruno – at Trio Tastings, Solvang 1557 Mission Dr; 805 688-3494 Th-Su 11-5 or By Appt

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Daily 10-5

Casa Cassara – at Olive House in Solvang 1661 Mission Dr; 805-686-5159 Daily 11-5

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Bridlewood Estate – Santa Ynez 3555 Roblar Ave; 805-688-9000

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Th-Su 11-5 or By Appt

Mo-Fr 12-7:30 Sa 11-8 Su 11-7

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D’Alfonso – Solvang 1557 Mission Dr; 805 688-3494

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Au Bon Climat – at Wine Cellar Tasting Room in Santa Ynez 3631 Sagunto St; 805-688-8688 Daily 11-6 X

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Kalyra Winery – Santa Ynez 343 North Refugio Rd; 805-693-8864

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Cabana Cellars/Wandering Dog Wine Bar – Solvang 1539 Mission Dr; 805-686-9126 We-Mo 11-8ish

Curran Wines – at Trio Tastings, Solvang 1557 Mission Dr; 805 688-3494 Th-Su 11-5 or By Appt

Fr-Su 11-5

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SOLVANG Badge Wines – at Trio Tastings, Solvang 1557 Mission Dr; 805 688-3494 Th-Su 11-5 or By Appt

Daily 11-5

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Melville Vineyard – Lompoc 5185 East Hwy 246; 805-735-7030

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WINE COUNTRY THIS WEEK | WINERY LISTINGS

 Old Creek Ranch Winery – Ojai Valley Daily

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THIS WEEK’S WINE COUNTRY CRITTER Breed: Black Lab Favorite Past times: Following the workers through the fields as they tend to the baby grapevines Can Be Found … chasing away gophers and other unwanted rodents! Quote: “Play with me.” Favorite Things: sunny naps

www.WineCountryThisWeek.com

If you see me … beware of my tail, when I get excited it has a mind of its own!

MARY JANE

2900 Grand Ave, Suite A Los Olivos, CA 93441 Open Daily 11-5

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