Springtime weather is sublime, grape buds breaking, gentle breezes blowing and
the mild sun shining. It's time to get outdoors to enjoy this natural setting
and an afternoon of gourmet goodies on the grounds of a beautiful winery. Whether
for a full picnic or a little cheese and wine, WineCountry.com recommends spending
an afternoon at these wineries. Read more
2.
V. Sattui Winery, St. Helena: Thousands of wine travel enthusiasts stop each
month to relax on the tree shaded winery grounds, bring their dogs, taste wine
and shop at the deli. This winery boasts a large gourmet deli & cheese board,
gift shop, barrel aging cellars, museum & beautiful outdoor picnic area.
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more
3. Artesa Winery, Carneros: Guests
reach Artesa Winery by sweeping up a staircase bordered by cascading
waterfalls. The stairs ascend past beautiful fountains, reflecting
pools and sculpture. At the top, be struck by the panoramic vistas
of Napa Valley, Carneros and the San Francisco Bay. A catered
champagne tasting and hors'deurves with the winery's infamous artist Gordon
Huether awaits you in the WineCountry.com Exclusive Experience.
Read more
4.
Franciscan Winery, Oakville: Look for the flowing fountain
stands in front of Franciscan's winery property in Oakville, Napa
Valley. Sip
wine in the sun-lit tasting room, or step outside and relax in
the shade on the patio. We recommend to grab a gourmet sandwich
with brie or goat cheese at the infamous nearby Oakville Grocery.
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5. Gloria Ferrer Champagne Caves: Take
in the awe-inspiring views as you enjoy a glass of wine on our
Vista Terrace. Regardless of the season you'll find the ambiance
is welcoming, gracious and unhurried. Cheese goodies are sold inside
the tasting room to pair with your bubbly.
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more
6.
Ledson Winery, Sonoma Valley: Ledson Winery invites guests to taste at one
of six beautifully appointed tasting bars, stock up on local artisan foods at
the gourmet
marketplace and enjoy the vineyard and mountain views while picnicking in
the shade of the century-old, heritage oak trees. The Marketplace offers
an extensive selection of locally produced gourmet items including condiments,
oils, jams, tapanades and artisan cheeses. One whiff and you'll be hooked on
the fresh baked breads and desserts.
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more
7.
EOS Estate Winery, San Luis Obispo: The EOS Estate Winery in San Luis Obispo
features a beautiful 6,000 square foot Mediterranean Marketplace.Stroll
through the rose garden or enjoy a glass of fine wine in the spacious picnic
area set among classical Italian architecture. The winery and Mediterranean Marketplace
are open daily between 10am and 5pm.
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8.
J Vineyards, Sonoma:
The J Vineyards Bubble Room offers a sampling of J's older vintages
and small production wines paired with culinary delights. The WineCountry.com
Exclusive Experience with Hotel Healdsburg offers you this VIP sparkling treatment.
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more
9.
Domaine Chandon, Yountville: Domain Chandon's chic Tasting Salon presents
sparkling wine-friendly appetizers like smoked salmon, artisan cheeses, duck
pâté, or marinated olives. Inside view stunning artwork while tasting the sparkling
varieties or step outside to the sun-drenched deck to enjoy your gourmet treats
with a glass or two.
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10. Goosecross Cellars, Napa Valley:
Spend an unforgettable afternoon with Sherry Page, of Culinary Getaways, and
Napa Valley's family winery Goosecross Cellars. Savor a delectable multi-course
meal paired with the distinctive wines of Goosecross Cellars. Plus tour the beautiful
grounds and vineyards of Goosecross following the luncheon events in this Exclusive
Experience on WineCountry.com.
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More
I want to plan a trip for my wife and I to Paso Robles and Santa Barbara in Dec. My wife and i are from San Jose and we've visited Lodi, Santa Cruz, San jose, Levermore, etc wineries, but have heard from many that Paso Robles is the place to be. We are joining the J,Loir winery, and have had a taste of Paso Robles wines, but want to travel there ourselves.
I've only been to SLO once, and don't no anything about the area. Is it possible to give me some ideas of wineries to check out that are quality, but won't break the bank, Dinner spots, and scheduled events during this time? Also for Santa Barbara would be great as well.
I would like to stay in Paso Robles on a Friday, wine taste all day Sat, have dinner stay the night, and drive to Santa Barbara Sunday, wine taste, stay the night, leave Monday.
I know you aren't a travel Agent, but any first-hand help you could give would be greatly appreciated
Thanks Much
Temmet, don't miss the wines from L'Aventure or Tablas Creek down there. J. Lohr is an excellent winery as well, with a full range of price points. If you can find somene cooking it in December, try Santa Maria barbecue--the local specialty.