A Thirst for the Extraordinary: Three Must-Try Wines from the 7th Annual Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure

A Thirst for the Extraordinary:  Three Must-Try Wines from the 7th Annual Garagiste Festival: Southern Exposure

A couple of weeks ago, an ex-mormon, an ex-pro snowboarder, a man of mystery known as The Conspirator, and a group of 40 or so of their peers gathered at the Veterans Memorial Hall in Solvang, CA.  You may wonder what would bring this diverse cast of characters together under one roof?  Wine, of course. [...]

Exploring Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone – Part 1

Exploring Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone – Part 1

In what was once an old, rundown industrial area just west of Santa Barbara's bustling shopping district, the Funk Zone has emerged as a hub of unique art, culture, food & artisan wine.  In my opinion, it's one of the best things to happen to Santa Barbara in a long time. With a number of shops, galleries, [...]

Paraiso Vineyards | Monterey County, CA

Paraiso Vineyards | Monterey County, CA

There is something magical about the Santa Lucia Highlands in Monterey County, CA.  Whether it's the cloudless blue skies, the cool breezes that float through the Salinas Valley or the sweeping views from the hillside vineyards, there's something truly intoxicating about the area. During my last visit, I spent an afternoon at Paraiso Vineyards.  Paraiso [...]

Rancho Sisquoc Winery | Santa Maria, CA

Rancho Sisquoc Winery | Santa Maria, CA

When people ask for winery recommendations in the Santa Maria area, I never hesitate to recommend Rancho Sisquoc Winery. Located at the north end of the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail, Rancho Sisquoc is not only in a gorgeous setting, but it seems to have a wine for just about every palate. One of the first [...]