PARTNER CONTENT
W E ST COAST WINE DESTINATI O NS
“The Judgement of Paris” may have been in the 1970s, but California has held on to its tradition of trying to out-Euro the Europeans ever since. With its own pedigree of famous wines, from Screaming Eagle to Chateau Montelena, and coastal scenery to match, it’s easy to stay in the vinting comfort of our home state. We’re sure the rows of grapes amongst the lavender fields in Provence are lovely this time of year, but can you end the day there with a 5 p.m. surf session and a 6 p.m. glass of rosé—both from Santa Cruz? We didn’t think so.
San Luis Obispo AVA, this town is your beachside depot for a whole new world of wine and culinary charms of its very own. Due east of Heart Castle, you’ll find the bustling region of Paso Robles. Hit Tin City for the up-and-coming winemakers that are making a splash on the scene, or find your blended bliss with larger producers like Dao and Justin. The history of California wine speaks for itself. Just don’t tell that to the French.
Barbara. (Do we even need to mention Sideways?) Only an hour and a half from Los Angeles, it’s home to tasting rooms by the beach in the Funk Zone and grand estates in the mountains and canyons. These wines can range from bold and robust to acidic and understated. Santa Barbara also boasts a booming natural wine scene to add to its oenophile allure. Pismo Beach is much more than chill vibes, cool dunes, and a visually stunning pier. Travel farther north to explore this region that offers a homebase to your wine travelling. A quick 15-minute trip to the
When a business-class ticket to Europe is just out of reach, may we suggest a new travel agent? Look no
further than a pour of California wine from any one of its nearly 150 appellations and more than 4,000 wineries. Wine is meant to be a full-sensory experience that can transport you anywhere, but it’s best to go straight to the source. We all know Napa and Sonoma, but there are other regions across the state that deserve your palate’s attention. Stay on trend and on the southern end of the central coast with a trip to Santa
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PICTURED ABOVE: Cass Winery and Central Coast Trailrides at Paso Robles
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