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    FEBRUARY 2014

    WORLDOF

    PINOTPAGE 47

    SANTABARBARA

    FILM FEASTPAGE 36

    ROBERT HALL:A MONTH OF

    ROMANCEPAGE 18

    IL CORTILESREVERSE WINEMAKER

    DINNERSPAGE 9

    RIDE THEPINOT EXPRESS

    IN PASO ROBLESPAGE 11

    PAGE 16

    YO UR GU IDE TO CE NT RA L CO AS T WI NE TAST IN G & EV EN TS

    SERVING SAN LUIS OBISPO & SANTA BARBARA COUNTIES

    PAGE

    six 90+ zinfandelsin a single vintage

    CABS of DISTINCTIONApril 22-26

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    J. LOHR

    PASO ROBLES WINE CENTER

    6169 Airport Road (off Hwy 46 East)

    805.239.8900TASTING DAILY 10AM 5PM

    @jlohrwines

    Celebrate Valentines with J.Lohr Gesture

    J. Lohr Vineyards &Wines

    Friday, March 14th | 6:30 pm

    J. Lohr Zinfandel Festival DinnerChef Charles D. Paladin Wayn e

    Amuse Bouche (plated)Shrimp Fritters, Crostini with French Cheese

    and Mushrooms stuffed with Lamb2013 J. Lohr Carols Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc

    First CourseButternut Squash Bisque with Curried Crab2010 J. Lohr Arroyo Vista Chardonnay

    Second CoursePan-Seared Fresh Maine Sea Scallop

    2010 J. Lohr Highlands Bench Pinot NoirIntermezzo

    J. Lohr Gesture Grenache Ros SorbetThird Course

    Porchetta-All Natural Roast Pork Loin wrapped in Pork Belly2008 J. Lohr Cuve St. E

    Dessert72% Guanaja Chocolate Molten Lava Cake

    2008 J. Lohr Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles

    $95/Public $85/Wine Club

    Sunday, March 16th | 11:00 amSip and Swirl: World-renowned stemware producer, Riedel,

    presents a seminar featuring Riedel O stemless glasses.A delicious buffet lunch by Two Cooks Catering will follow.

    Price includes a set of five Riedel stemless glasses.

    $80/Public $70/Wine Club

    Reservations are required for both eventsemail [email protected] or call 805.239.8900

    Celebrate the festivities of Paso Zinfandel andOther Wild Wines with the great staff at the

    J. Lohr Paso Robles Wine Center!

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    More Perfect Pairs at www.WineCountryThisMonth.com

    WINE COUNTRY THIS MONTH FEBRUAR

    4

    A Publication of Wine Country This Week

    PUBLISHERMike Giangreco

    Direct [email protected]

    MANAGING EDITORChandra Grant

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

    PRODUCTIONTeresa Craft

    P.O. Box 92, El Verano, CA 95433Phone 707-938-1783 | Fax 707-938-3674

    [email protected]

    OFFICE MANAGERCathy Gore

    Phone 707-938-3494 | Fax 707-938-3674Email [email protected]

    EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORSMichael Cervin, Alexandra Charsley, Melissa Chavez, Rachel Eckert, CaBethany Rhine, Kim Murphy Rodrigues, Jemma Wilson, Carolyn Woodd

    SOCIAL MEDIAwww.WineCountryThisMonth.com

    www.facebook.com/WineCountryThisMonth@WineCountryTW

    ADVERSTISING REPRESENTATIVES

    Whitney BremSAN LUISOBISPO COUNTYPhone 831-596-4945

    [email protected]

    Cathy OlsonSANTA BARBARA COUNTYPhone 415-816-1652

    [email protected]

    Reproduction, in whole or in part, without written permission is prohibi

    Planning a Visit to Northern California Wine Country?Pick up a copy of WINECOUNTRYTHISWEEKor

    download the current issue at www.winecountrythisweek.com

    SAN LUIS OBISPO & SANTA BARBARA COUNTIES

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    FEBRUARY 2014 WINE COUNTRY TH

    Sign up for our email newsletter at www.WineCountryThisMonth.com

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    Sign up for our email newsletter at www.WineCountryThisMonth.com6

    TABLE OF CONTENTS| WINE COUNTRY THIS MONTH FEBRUARY 2014 | ISSUE

    FEATURES REGULARWINE REGIONS63 | CENTRAL COAST MAP

    26 | SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

    San Luis Obispo Wineries Map, 27West Side Wineries: Venteux Vineyards, 21Pleasant Valley Wineries, 29

    Paso Robles Wineries Map, 32-33Downtown Paso Robles Wineries, 32

    34 | SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

    Northern Santa Barbara County Wineries Map, 35Solvang Wineries: Lions Peak Vineyards, 40;Wandering Dog Wine Bar, 41

    Los Alamos: Bedford Winery, 42

    Foxen Canyon Wineries: Zaca Mesa, 44; Rancho Sisquoc, 45

    Santa Maria Valley: Costa de Oro, 46

    Lompoc Wine Ghetto: Arcadian Winery, 48; Scott Cellars, 49

    Los Olivos Wineries: Stolpman, 50; Cinque Stelle, 52

    Santa Barbara: Corks N Crowns, 53

    11 | PINOT EXPRESS, BIGGEST THRILL IN WINE COUNTRY

    15 | 2014 CABS OF DISTINCTION

    16 | ON THE COVER: PEACHY CANYON WINERY Sweeping the 2011 Vintage

    18 | ROBERT HALL WINERY

    20 | VILLA SAN-JULIETTE

    24 | PREFERRED TASTING ROOMBridlewood Estate Winery

    27 | PASO ROBLES RHONE RANGERS EXPERIENCE

    28 | PREFERRED TASTING ROOMEdna Valley Vineyard

    30 | PERFECT PAIRS: OPOLO VINEYARDS

    31 | WINEMAKER PROFILE: BROKEN EARTH WINERY Chris Cameron

    36 | SANTA BARBARA INTERNATIONAL FILM FEAST

    39 | SOLVANGS THIRD WEDNESDAY

    47 | WORLD OF PINOT NOIR AT BACARA RESORT

    8 | WINEOLOGYby Len NapolitanoIs it the sulfites in wine that give me headache?

    10 | WINEGROWING DECISIONSby Josh SteinCork and Its Friends in the Enclosure Busines

    12 | CALENDAR OF EVENTSSan Luis Obispo County, 12Santa Barbara County, 14Ventura County, 14

    22 | DINING DIRECTORY

    54 | VARIETALS CHARTSan Luis Obispo County, 54-55Santa Barbara County, 56-57

    58 | WINERY LISTINGSPaso Robles, 58; San Luis Obispo, 60Santa Maria/Foxen Canyon, 60Los Alamos, 60; Los Olivos, 60Lompoc/Buellton, 61Solvang, 61; Santa Ynez, 62Santa Barbara, 62; Ventura County, 62

    62 | WINE COUNTRY DEALS & DISCOU

    63 | CENTRAL COAST MAP

    24

    2

    3

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    Find out more at www.WineCountryThisMonth.com

    FEBRUARY 2014 WINE COUNTRY TH

    ESTATE WINE TASTINGWEEKEND WINE & CHEESE FLIGHTS

    CHEF-TAUGHT COOKING CLASSESLIVE & LOCAL MUSIC SATURDAYS

    2400 HIGHWAY 46 WEST PASO ROBLES805.239.2233 OPEN DAILY, 10-5PM

    NINERWINE.COM

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    Sulfites are the reason for mandatory label warnings on winebottles because a small percentage of the US population, less than onepercent, suffer an allergic reaction to sulfites, such as sneezing orcoughing. About ten percent of these sufferers have a more seriousreaction, such as shortness of breath.

    However, people who get headaches from wine should notautomatically blame the sulfites. In the majority of cases the cause isprobably something else, such as histamines in the wine. Somepeople take an antihistamine in advance of drinking wine in order toprevent getting a reaction from the histamines in the wine. Needlessto say, the causes of allergic reactions of any kind are difficult to pindown without a doctors assistance and if you suffer any ailment as a

    result of drinking wine, you should consult with a doctor.If you have a wine allergy you can try narrowing down the cause

    by first sampling wines made from organically grown grapes, such asBonterra made by Fetzer, or Sanford from Santa Barbara County,among many others. These wines are made from grapes that aregrown without the use of synthetic chemicals, like pesticides,herbicides and fungicides. If no relief comes from drinking wine from

    organically grown grapes, the next step is to try a 100% organic winewhich contains a minimal amount of sulfites that occur naturally inproduction, and has no sulfites added. These wines are commonlyfound in natural food grocery stores.

    To be sure, every wine, organic or not, contains some sulfitesbecause sulfites are produced naturally in the process of winemakingIf the total sulfite content is 10 parts per million or higher, however,the government requires a warning label. Winemakers add moresulfites because they help to preserve the quality of the wine for longterm shelf life. Therefore, wines that contain no added sulfites shoulbe consumed while the wine is young.

    Look for us on Facebook and become a Fan8

    I N T E L L I G E N C E F O R T H E W I N E C O N S U M E RBY LEN NAPOLITANO

    Len Napolitano is the author ofNose, Legs, Body! Know Wine Like The Back of Your Han

    a quick and easy guide for the wine beginner.The book is available at bookstores, online and at wineology.c

    Follow Len on Twitter: @wineologist and visit his blog:noselegsbody.com.

    Send your wine question to Len: [email protected]

    Is it sulfites in wine that give me headaches?

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    FEBRUARY 2014 WINE COUNTRY TH

    Sign up for our email newsletter at www.WineCountryThisMonth.com

    Step into our tasting room, and discoverthe casual elegance of the Central Coast.

    Be our Guest...

    EXPERIENCE the unspoiled beauty of the Central Coast at Bridlewood Estate Winery.With world-class wines, hillside vineyards and breathtaking views its a winery destination all its

    BRIDLEWOOD ESTATE blends rustic, Spanish Style architecture with a modern, artisan wineryOur estate exudes the Central Coast lifestyle that is both comfortable and relaxed.

    COME ENJOY OUR WINES and experience one of our signature tastings or perhaps a carriage tof the vineyard, or just kick back on the veranda overlooking our majestic vineyards.

    Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily 3555 Roblar Avenue, Santa Ynez CA 93460 BridlewoodwinerReservations required for parties of 6 or more. Contact us: 800-467-4100 or visit@bridlewoodwin

    CALIFORNIA TABLE WINE, 2013 BRIDLEWOOD WINERY, SANTA YNEZ, CA. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

    PRESENT THIS AD FOR 50 % OFF TASTING FLIGHTVALID SUNDAY-THURSDAY (LIMIT 4 PER VISIT)

    Estate Wines Paired with Gourmet CheesesWe specialize in Rhone & Bordeaux single varietals & blends.

    Club ClautiereFor any occasion that family and friends gather

    for a good time Club Clautiere is a great choice.

    1340 Penman Springs Road, Paso Robles | www.clautiere.com(805) 237-3789 | www.facebook.com/clautierevineyard

    C L A U T I E R E

    Rhone Ranger Experience - February 16th Join Clautiere & 40 + member wineries of the

    Paso Robles Rhone Rangers Chapter at Broken Earth Wineryfor a day of celebrating Rhone Wines in Paso Robles!

    Tickets and information visit www.rhonerangers.org/calendar

    Paso Robles Establishment Crafts MenusAround Special Bottles of Wine

    Il Cortile Ristorante will once againwelcome top local wineries to their

    restaurant, offering guests a unique take onfood and wine pairing this winter season.

    Each Wednesday in January and February,the downtown Paso Robles fine diningestablishment will hold Reverse WinemakerDinners, in which Chef Santos MacDonalcrafts seasonal three-course menus tocomplement a handful of very special localwines.

    Unlike a traditional winemaker dinner,where the winemaker selects wines to pairwith a meal, we wanted the food to come to

    the wine, so to speak, said Owner, CaroleMacDonal. We are fortunate to live in aregion that boasts such wonderful wines andtalented winemakers. This is our way of honoring their craft.

    The Reverse Winemaker Dinners will beheld on Wednesday evenings, and each

    Wednesday will feature a different localwinery. Once guests select a varietal from thefeatured producers handful of wines, Chef Santos will then reverse it and create a

    three-course meal to complement the flavorsand textures of the wine chosen. This uniqueevening is offered at $40 per person, plus thecost of wine which will vary depending onthe varietal chosen.

    Il Cortile is located in downtown PasoRobles at 608 12th Street. The restaurantserves dinner seven days a week in its warm,contemporary dining room as well asadditional outdoor seating inside itssheltered courtyard. Il Cortile offers off-sitecatering and hosts special events featuring

    local wineries, as well as participates in anumber of local charities.

    Il Cortile is open Sunday throughThursday, from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m., andFriday and Saturday, from 5:00 to 11:00 p.m.For reservations, call (805) 226-0300, orbook your table online at www.ilcortile.com.

    Reverse Winemaker Dinners at Il Cortile Ri

    UPCOMING DINNERS:February 5 DAOU Vineyards & WinFebruary 12 LXV WineFebruary 19 Linne CalodoFebruary 26 Clos Solene

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    It seems like at least one in every three conversations I have withpeople in the wine trade, whatever the ostensible reason for the chatwas, ends up discussing cork and its alternatives. With more thanfour billion bottles domestically purchased last year, youd think thiswould be a settled issue, but, alas, the inverse is true: the more winewe make and sell, the more options of bottle enclosures we have, notless, and some packaging solutions dont even involve bottles orenclosures as we normally think of them at all! Rather than all ornothing, the discussion is now more about matching use to enclosuretype for best effect.

    Cork for an enclosure rose naturally enough given its the bark of different species of oak trees, and oak is one of the traditional woodsfor barrel staves, so it makes sense to get the most out of whatsalready being used. What is not so well known is that it takes almostthree decades of growth and several bark harvests, separated by sevenyears or more, before the first true harvesting of premium cork-levelmaterial is possible since they are vertically, not horizontally, drilledfrom the bark. Cork is one hundred percent natural, but its long lagtime growing to that thickness makes it less than ideal in todaysglobal, accelerated wine world.

    Thus have evolved a number of alternatives to the pure, grade onecork, which, not incidentally, can run most of a dollar each for the

    best quality even when purchasing large volumes. The simplest of these other options involve different forms of the same natural corkbut in combination with various stabilizers to allow smaller pieces of cork to be formed into the standard wine cork shape. Known astechnical or agglomerated corks, these provide an affordable solutionwhich gives most of the same oxygen transmission and enclosureperformance at a much more affordable cost. It also allows earlierharvesting of bark and the use of more of it without waste, always of import in agriculture.

    A middle ground between these two comes by way of the sparklngwine producer, whose corks require a special shape and performance

    because of the extra pressure from bottle fermentation; their mostcommon cork uses two disks of natural cork on the stalk of themushroom with agglomerated technical cork making up the cap of the remainder. The still wines twin top does the same thing, butwith a disk on both ends and technical cork sandwiched between.Maintaining the shape but substituting alternate materials entirely area vast range of wholely artificial extruded corks made of variousfood grade plastics and silicons.

    Moving away from a wine cork shape altogether takes us to thetwist top, more formally known as the Stelvin enclosure; a liner canbe employed to precisely control the oxygen transmission rate, but

    there is no head-turning thunk of the pulled cork. There is also theZork, which combines artificial materials with an unwrappingprocess, and glass stoppers, which work best as a cork stopperreplacement except for one thing: the O-ring necessary to mate theglass stopper with the glass bottle is the crucial element in howeffective the stopper is.

    As you can see, while the common wisdom is that once the grapeare in and the aging in barrel is done all the problems are over, thereality is that until the wine is in consumers mouths, there aredecisions to make and potential problems to avoid every step alongthe way. No enclosure solves all the problems or works for all uses,and so producers have to consider individually the best way to makethe experience of optimally enjoying a wine. Keep that in mind thenext time you reach for your opener and enjoy!

    Cork and Its Friends in the Enclosure Business

    10 www.WineCountryThisMonth.com

    BY JOSH STEIN

    10:30-5:30

    Josh Stein has been in the Napa wine business for more than a decade, and, in addition to beof the Stein Family Wine Group, which produces a nationally and internationally distributed portand donates 5% of its sales to the children of wineworkers in the form of college scholarships anregularly consults for wineries and organizations throughout the North Bay and Coast via their suWine Support Services and SF-Integrated Vineyard Management.

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    FEBRUARY 2014 WINE COUNTRY TH

    www.WineCountryThisMonth.com 1

    Margarita Adventures Launches Epic 1,800-Foot ZiplineOver Pinot Noir Vines in Paso Robles Wine Country

    Indeed, the new 1,800-foot Pinot Express zipline at MargaritaAdventures begins atop a mountainside forest at 125 feet aboveground, then sends guests swooping low right over Pinot Noir vinesat the historic Santa Margarita Ranch in the Paso Robles wine countryon Californias Central Coast.

    Theres nothing else like it in the zipline world, said ProprietorKarl Wittstrom. It feels like you can almost touch the tops of thevines on your way down.

    The Pinot Express joins four previous ziplines as part of MargaritaAdventures acclaimed zipline canopy tours. The Pinot Express isnow the highest, longest and fastest zipline on the tours. The cost of the tours ($99) remains the same.

    Margarita Adventures five ziplines now combine for a total of more than 4,500 linear feet. Each zipline offers a unique ride. The1,300-foot Renegade soars over a valley with breathtaking 360-degree views. The Woodlander glides along the top of native blueand white oaks. The Hilltopper begins with a running start andconcludes on a hilltop vista, while the Archway sends guests througha natural archway of companion oaks.

    And now the Pinot Express punctuates the experience with an

    unforgettable thrill ride and anunparalleled perspective on the winecountry. To reach the Pinot Express,guests take a quarter-mile trail walk,

    the equivalent of a very light hike.Guests who are unable to walk thisdistance may opt to remain with thetour van.

    Margarita Adventures 2.5-hourzipline canopy tours also include aguided tour of Santa MargaritaRanch, which was first planted to vines by Franciscan missionaries ithe late 1700s. The tours touch on the ranchs sustainable ranchingand winegrowing practices, as well as its diverse wildlife andremarkable geology, which includes fields of ancient oyster fossils.

    Tours conclude with an optional tasting at the affiliated AncientPeaks Winery, which specializes in artisan wines grown on theranchs estate Margarita Vineyard. Tour guests receive 20% off winepurchases, and the tasting fee is waived with a purchase of one bottlor more.

    You can taste wines from vines that you just zipped over, Wittstrom said. Its a fitting reward for your adventure. For moreinformation, visit www.margarita-adventures.com.

    Ride The Newest, Biggest Thrill In Wine

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    www.WineCountryThisMonth.com12

    ONGOINGBike, Hike and Kayak TripsExplore the amazing outdoor world of the Central Coast Outdoors. Ten unique daytrips, including bicycling the legendary Pacific Coast Highway, hiking Big Sur andkayaking among the profusion of bird life in Morro Bay. All trips include necessarytransportation, a gourmet picnic lunch and knowledgeable guide(s). $79-$119Bike rentals available. Call for reservations. 888-873-5610

    ONGOING DAILYWine and Cheese Pairingsat Villa San-JulietteLooking to kick your VSJ wine tasting experience up a notch? Join them for wineand cheese pairings with cheeses specially curated by local cheese expert andsommelier, Zina Miakinkova (also known as the Central Coast Cheese Lady). Enjoya selection of six international cheeses chosen specifically to complement six of their award-winning wines for $15 ($10 for Reserve Club members), or add a tourof the winery including our vineyards and new state-of-the-art productionfacility for a total of $25 ($20 for Reserve Club members). Wine and cheesepairings, as well as property tours, are available daily. Reservations arerecommended but not required, and may be made by calling 805-467-0014www.villasanjuliette.com

    ARROYO GRANDE

    ONGOING FIRST THURSDAYS

    Teachers Appreciation Night at Phantom RiversIn appreciation for all the dedication of school district personnel. Stop by thetasting room for happy hour specials. 3:30-7pm, 25% discounts off all bottles and$2.50 off any wine by the glass! www.phantomrivers.com, 805-481-9463

    ONGOING FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTHWinemakers Choice Night at Phantom Rivers5-7pm, www.phantomrivers.com, 805-481-9463

    ONGOING SATURDAYSArroyo Grande Farmers MarketFarm fresh produce & flowers, art show and live entertainment in the ArroyoGrande City Hall Parking Lot at 215 East Branch Street. 12-2:30pmwww.arroyograndevillage.org, 805-473-2250

    ONGOING WEDNESDAYSIce Cream Creating ~ A Family Affair!The Doc Burnstein's Ice Cream Lab Show is a live performance that involves thewhole audience! Live performances every Wednesday 7pm, Invent a brand newflavor and watch it being made. www.docburnsteins.com, 805-474-4068

    ONGOINGWinemakers Choice at Phantom RiversThe first Friday of every month join John & Linda for their Winemakers Choicetasting. John will be pouring his favorites (or mention what you like and weresure he will open it for you)! 5-7pm, www.phantomrivers.com, 805-481-9463

    FEBRUARY 13Chocolate & Wine Pairing featuring MamaGanache Chocolates at Laetitia VineyardsJoin them for a detectible tasting featuring 5 Laetitia & NADIA Wines perfectlypaired with 5 specially crafted Mama Ganache Artisan Chocolates.Guests must be 21 and over. $25, $20 Wine Club Members, 6-8pm, 805-474-7641www.laetitiawine.com

    FEBRUARY 22Pruning Seminar with ViticulturistDave Terry at Laetitia VineyardsJoin Viticulturist Dave Terry in this fun and educational seminar. Dave will take youout to the vineyard and demonstrate the techniques used to prune the vines. Afterthe demonstration you will be able to get some hands on experience and do somepruning of your own! Following the pruning we will head back to the Laetitiapress room for some lunch and a glass of wine. $35/$25 Wine Club, Guests mustbe 21 and over, 10am-2pm, Call 805-474-7641 to reserve your spotwww.laetitiawine.com

    MARCH 22Effervescent Eveningat Laetitia VineyardsJoin them for an Effervescent Evening featuring Sparkling Winemaker DaveHickey's prized bubbles at the beautiful Laetitia Estate House. Take in the amazingviews while you enjoy a delicious meal prepared by a local chef accompanied byexpertly paired wines. Seats fill fast don't miss out! $140, $120/Wine Club, 6pm805-474-7641, www.laetitiawine.com

    CAYUCOS, CAMBRIA & MORRO

    MARCH 8-9Cayucos Sea Glass FestivalCalling all Sea Glass enthusiasts, Sea Glass craftspeople and Sea Glass jewelers andartists! Come discover why sea glass collecting is so popular on coasts all over theworld. Cayucos Chamber of Commerce is hosting this exciting Central Coast eventfor sea glass enthusiasts, craftspeople and artists. Vendors from around the nationwill be selling and displaying their sea glass treasures and creations. Come enjoy

    food, beer and wine outside as you listen to the rhythms of The *805s, Jim Conroyand the Mystery Brothers, Jimmy "Tennessee" Harrell and Lenny Blue. There is noentry fee to this area, so come have a good time and get in a little dancing.Festival goers can also enjoy the Marketplace (no entry fee). Purchase classyfestival t-shirts, sweatshirts, hat, bags and more. Located next to the food court.Cayucos Vet's Hall, 10am-5pm General Admission $5 (wristband will get you inboth days)www.cayucosseaglass.com

    PASO ROBLES

    ONGOING THIRD THURSDAYSThird ThursdaysA menagerie of downtown Paso Robles businesses aim to injec t a bit more funinto local fundraising efforts thanks to a new Third Thursday promotion benefitingmust! Charities. www.mustcharities.org

    ONGOING FIRST FRIDAYS

    First Fridays Sip-N-Sing at Doce RoblesJoin their staff at Doce Robles Winery the first Friday of every month forkaraoke, sippin and sunsets. Enjoy wines by the glass at only $5 or pair withartisan cheeses and locally cured meats for just $10. Enjoy sipping one of theirmany delicious wines next to the vineyards. Wines will be sold by the glass and bythe bottle. Sing and sip into the sunsets. 5:30-8pm, www.docerobles.com

    ONGOING FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYSWood Fired Pizzas at Robert Hall WineryThey'll have the wood-buring pizza oven fired up Friday and Saturday from11-3pm. Artisan authentic Italian handmade pizzas will be fresh baked dailyon-site. You pick your pizza and they'll recommend the wine! $12/pizza, Jointhem for lunch and enjoy the view. 805-239-1616, www.roberthallwinery.com

    ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYSPinot Noir Blending Seminar at Wild Horse WineryTempleton Learn the ar t of blending wine. Experience first hand what being awinemaker is all about. Sample Pinot Noirs from the Central Coast AVA and learnwhat terroir truly means. Each par ticipant creates their own blend to take home.$50, $35/wine club. By appointment 11am or 2pm, Limit 10www.wildhorsewinery.com, RSVP, 805-434-2541 ext. 15

    ONGOING FRIDAYS, SATURDAYS & SUNDAYSPatio Food Pairings at Opolo VineyardsJoin them on the patio for delicious gourmet pizzas from their wood burningoven, sandwiches or sample an array of sausages, all paired with excellent Opolowines. Cheers! www.opolo.com, 805-238-9593

    ONGOING SATURDAYSTours & Tastings at Eberle WineryVIP Tastings by appointment, $25, Complimentary cave tours every half hourwww.eberlewinery.com, 805-238-9607

    ONGOINGLive Music on the Patioat Niner Wine Estates1-4pm, www.ninerwine.com, 805-239-2233

    ONGOING SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYSA Grape to Glass Experienceat Wild Horse WineryUnique, fun and educational! at Wild Horse Winery. Learn what happens in thevineyards and in the cellar, and end with a special wine tasting. During the tour,they encourage you to bring just two things: your walking shoes and lots of ques-tions! This is your unique opportunity to learn and experience the down and dirtydetails of Wild Horse Winery. $15 per person, Wine club members and up to 3guests are complimentary. Reservations requested. Call the Visitor Center for moreinformation at 805-788-6310, www.wildhorsewinery.com

    ONGOING THROUGH FEBRUARYIl Cortile Ristorante To OfferReverse Winemaker DinnersIl Cortile Ristorante will once again welcome top loffering guests a unique take on food and wine paiWednesday in February, the downtown Paso Roblehold Reverse Winemaker Dinners,in which Chef three-course menus to complement a handful of vea traditional winemaker dinner, where the winemakmeal, they wanted the food to come to the wine, soMacDonal. The Reverse Winemaker Dinners will band each Wednesday will feature a different local wvarietal from the featured producershandful of winreverseit and create a three-course meal to comptextures of the wine chosen. This unique evening ithe cost of wine which will vary depending on the leristorante.com February 5 - DAOU Vineyards & Winery February 12 - LXV Wine February 19 - Linne Calodo February 26 - Clos Solene

    ONGOING WEDNESDAYSWinemaker Wednesdays at the Paso Wine Centre6-9pm, $12/wine flight, additional $12/food pairinwww.pasowinecentre.com, 805-239-9156

    ONGOING SATURDAYSLive Music at the Paso Wine Centre8-10pm, free, www.pasowinecentre.com, 805-239-

    ONGOING SUNDAYSLive Music at SculpterraLive entertainment sponsored by "Songwriters At P1-4pm, free, www.sculpterra.com

    ONGOINGGo BallooningEnjoy incredible views of the wine country of Pasoand Templeton. You float along at 2-3 miles per hofeet up to several thousand feet above the ground. Weather permitting. Call for reservations. www.slo805-458-1530

    ONGOING EVERY OTHER SATURDAYSaturday Live at Vina RoblesEvery other Saturday, you are invited to slow downenjoy live music - all while savoring award-winninpurchase & tastings available. Complimentary, 1-4www.vinarobles.com, 805-227-4812

    ONGOING EVERY OTHER SATURDAYSunday Brunch at Veris CellarsCatered brunch & bottomless mimosas. Templeton$18/without mimosas, www.veriscellars.com, 805-

    ONGOING EVERY SECOND SUNDAYCentral Coast Railroad Festival Wine-Train ExcuThe excursions include a trip up the Cuesta Grade Coast Starlight, complimentary wine tasting, light private bus trip down to San Luis Obispo. The winAnglim Winery in the historical Southern Pacific DRobles Amtrak Station.

    FEBRUARY 8Black Tie Valentine's Dinner in the Cavesat Eberle Winery

    Eberle Winery welcomes good friend and ExecutivWest, William Carter to their annual Black Tie ValeExperience the ambiance of their caves while feastof the finest chefs in the country. Chef Carter is exunique menus to pair with the flavors of Eberle winyour sweetheart and you will enjoy. www.eberlewi

    FEBRUARY 13Chocolate & Wine Pairing featuring MamaGanache Chocolates at Laetitia VineyardsJoin them for a detectible tasting featuring 5 Laetitpaired with 5 specially crafted Mama Ganache Art21 and over. 6-8pm, $25, $20/ Wine Club Memberwww.laetitiawine.com

    FEBRUARY 14Valentine's Day Dinner at Opolo6:30-9:30pm, www.opolo.com

    SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY

    CALENDAR OF EVENTS| WINE COUNTRY THIS MONTH FEBRUAR

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    FEBRUARY 2014 WINE COUNTRY THIS MONTH |CALENDAR OF

    FEBRUARY 14Valentine's Day at Vina RoblesThey have set the romantic stage so that you can simply come out and enjoythe moment. Indulge in an elegant Valentines dinner by candlelight preparedby their winery chef, Thomas Drahos, while pianist, Richard Moratin serenadesyou and your guest. $80, $70/Wine Club members. RSVP required.6:30-9:30pm, www.vinarobles.com

    FEBRUARY 14Lobster Lover's Valentine Dinner

    with Robert Hall WinerySpend the evening with the one you love at Robert Hall Winery! Enjoy a lobsterdinner paired with wine and Champagne. Music by Natalie Gelman, a New YorkCity native currently touring the country in support of her album, thissinger/songwriter is quickly gaining acclaim and recognition for her music. herpassionate songs and voice have brought comparisons to Sheryl Crow, ToriAmos and Jewel. at Meritage Room 3443 Mill Road Paso Robles, 6:30-8:30pm$85, $68 members, 805-239-1616 ext 24, www.roberthallwinery.com

    FEBRUARY 16Valentine's Movie Night at Paso Robles Park CinemasThe Quiet Man 1952 Classic comes to Paso Robles Park Cinemas. Enjoy the1952 classic The Quiet Manwith John Wayne and Maureen OHara on the bigscreen once again. Popcorn and soda or Champagne and chocolates areincluded in your ticket. Sean Thornton has returned from America to reclaim hishomestead and escape his past. Sean's eye is caught by Mary Kate Danaher, abeautiful but poor maiden, and younger sister of ill-tempered "Red" WillDanaher. The riotous relationship that forms between Sean and Mary Kate,punctuated by Will's pugnacious attempts to keep them apart, form the mainplot, with Sean's past as the dark undercurrent. $12, 7pm, 805-238-4103www.pasoroblesdowntown.org

    FEBRUARY 16Sunday Brunch at EosJoin Eos and Steins Catering as they start your day with a delicious breakfastbuffet. $35, $25/Club Members, price includes a glass of wine, 10am-1pm805-591-8050, www.eosvintage.com

    FEBRUARY 16Paso Robles Rhone Ranger Tastingat Broken Earth Winery45+ members of the Paso Robles Chapter of the Rhone Rangers invite you toenjoy a day of wine tasting. Attendees have the opportunity to attend seminarsand luncheon lead by local winemakers discussing various topics on Rhonevarietals. The day will conclude with the grand tasting and silent auction. $85,seminar/lunch attendees receive free entry into the Grand Tasting. Tickets forthe Grand Tasting are just $35, 10:30am-1pm, www.rhonerangers.com

    FEBRUARY 22SLOFolks Presents: Mollie O'Brien

    and Rich Moore at Castoro CellarsMollie O'Brien and Rich Moore are two national musical treasures. Combiningblues and bluegrass (and everything in between) with their soulful voices andstunning instrumental chops, Mollie and Rich are a constant source of joy andinspiration! Join them for this great show in the intimate setting of their EventsGallery. Doors open at 6:30, show at 7:30, $20, www.castorocellars.com

    FEBRUARY 22CLUB 9 Pick Up Party at Niner Wine EstatesEnjoy live music, a sampling of appetizers, the Shutterbooth Photobooth andall the new wine releases from the February shipment including their EdnaValley Pinot Noir and Chardonnay! Your membership includes two tickets; addi-tional guests are welcome for an entry fee of $20 per person (6 people total).All guests must be 21 years or older to attend. 1-4pm, Call Heather at805-226-4882 for reservations or e-mail them at [email protected]

    FEBRUARY 22-2346 West Wine SafariThe 46 West Wineries Group is hosting a fund-raiser for Zoo to You, a local non-profit organization that rescues and rehabilitates wild animals from all overCalifornia. This organization has informative programs in place to educate ourchildren and our communities to respect and care for animals, their habitats,and the world at large. Each participating winery will have a wild critter on sitethat weekend! Tickets are $20, of which a portion of the proceeds will bedonated to Zoo to You. (There is a $1.99 fee that will be added for processing.)Print out your ticket receipt and present it at your first winery stop to receiveyour passport, which will entitle you to one free tasting at all 17 wineries!For a listing of participating wineries and to purchase tickets visitpasorobles46west.com

    MARCH 14Zinfestival Kick-off Celebrationat Castoro CellarsJoin them to celebrate Pasos flagship grape with the sultry sounds of TheNataly Lola Trio. Enjoy a casual yet elegant night of jazz and celebration of DamFine Wine to kick off a weekend of activities! $15, $10 wine clubwww.castorocellars.com

    MARCH 14Wines at J. Lohr Vineyards 5-Course Dinner This dinner includes Shrimp Fritters, Lamb Merguez stuffed Crimini Mushrooms,Butternut Squash Bisque, Fresh Maine Sea Scallops and a spectacular Porcetta(pork loin) main course, all paired with a stunning lineup of J. Lohr wines, atthe J. Lohr Paso Robles Wine Center. 6:30-8pm, $95, $85/members, Reserva-tions are required. Call the J. Lohr Paso Robles Wine Center at 805-239-8900,or email [email protected]. Must be over 21 years of age to attend all events.www.jlohr.com

    MARCH 14-16Zinfandel WeekendDuring Paso Robles Zinfandel Weekend, producers and enthusiasts cometogether in celebration of everything that Zinfandel adds to your palate andyour experience. Enjoy a Zin-filled weekend with activities including wine-maker dinners, exclusive Zinfandel tastings, winery and vineyard tours and somuch more! www.pasowine.com

    MARCH 14-16Zinfandel Festival Weekendat Halter Ranch VineyardsJoin them in our historic 19th century barn for the release their 2010 EstateZinfandel, and taste through their other Rhne and Bordeaux-styled wines.They are moving the tasting room into the barn for this weekend just for thefun of it, and so they can offer these other special events: Taste locally producedolive oils from Robbins Family Farm. Sample fabulous Paella from their goodfriend John Carson. Experience a sneak-preview of GENERAL STORE Paso Robles,opening this Spring on the park downtown. With provisions for picnic, pantryand home, the store will offer goods and treats in the Halter Ranch barn. A

    great way to bring a piece of Paso home with you! Tour through their newwinery and wine caves. Winery & Cave Tours at 11 am, 1 pm & 3 pm.Reservations are not required. $10, Wine Club Members free. 11am-5pmwww.halterranch.com

    MARCH 14-16Doce Robles is Celebrating Mardi GrasYes, they know, a week later - for Zinfest 2014. Saunter into the tasting roomwhere you can indulge your buds in our tempting varietals, spruce up youraverage wine-time attire with jazzy beads, and take home a wine glass as amemento (in case your memory somehow proves foggy after the weekend). Anassortment of cheeses will be available as well. Tasting fee is $5. With anybottle purchase you can keep a Mardi Gras mask, just to add an element of mystery to your day. 2008 Zinfandel on sale for $120 per case. It'll be a flashinggood time, so join them at Doce Robles! Questions, please [email protected], www.docerobleswinery.com

    MARCH 14-16Vintage Paso: ZinfandelAnd Other Wild Wines

    Grow Wild with the spirit of Paso Robles Wine Country in celebration of VintagePaso: Zinfandel And Other Wild Wines. Immerse yourself in a completeZinfandel experience, and discover for yourself what makes Paso Robles WineCountry the 2013 Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast! Create your ownZinful itinerary to smell, sip and savor the heritage of Paso Robles, with eventsat more than 120 wineries! Join fellow wine enthusiasts for a selection of wineand chocolate pairings, winemaker dinners, vineyard tours, laid-back barbe-cues, barrel tastings, live music and so much more! www.pasowine.com

    MARCH 14-16Paso Robles Zinfandel Festival at EosStop by Eos all weekend long for all things Zinfandel. Enjoy Zin case specialsand try their all Zin flight featuring Zinfandels from four of Californias majorgrape growing regions. If youre looking for something tasty and unique, get aglass of their Berry Zinful Sangria for $5 and peruse their Zin-tastic selection of merchandise. They've got everything you need to please your inner Zin-ner.No reservations necessary. 805-591-8050, www.eosvintage.com

    MARCH 15Wine Club Member VIP Tastingat J. Lohr VineyardsJoin them in their VIP tent overlooking their Seven Oaks Vineyard, where theywill be enjoying live music by Les Beck as they savor J. Lohr wines and specialtycheeses. At the J. Lohr Paso Robles Wine Center, 11am-3pm, Complimentary,Reservations are required. Call the J. Lohr Paso Robles Wine Center at805-239-8900, or email [email protected]. Must be over 21 years of age to attendall events. www.jlohr.com

    MARCH 15Zinfandel Weekend at Vina RoblesThe one thing they love more than wine is swine! Thats why they are turningour tasting room into a bacon bar today only. Come enjoy five sweet and savorybacon bites paired with wines from our Estate or Reserve list. Pairing is$10/Estate tasting; $15/Reserve tasting; complimentary/Signature Wine Clubmembers. No reservations required. Sit back and relax with live music 1-4pmby Melanie Devaney. 2013 Zinfandel barrel samples and case specials on allwines from our Estate list offered all weekend. 10am-5pm,www.vinarobles.com

    MARCH 15Cigars, Chocolate & Zinfandelat SummerWood Winery & InnCelebrate Zinfandel Festival Weekend at the SummerWRoom as you indulge in a delectable pairing of chocolatZinfandel and Solera-style NV Zinfandel Port! And for premium cigars and Zinfandel Tasting room open 10amZin Fest Weekend. www.summerwoodwine.com

    MARCH 15-16

    Zinfandel Weekend at Niner Wine EstatesStop by for a sample of their new releases from their esPaso Robles vineyards which will be perfectly paired wcheeses! They will also have live music by Matt Cross aon their beautiful patio overlooking Heart Hill Vineyardwww.ninerwine.com

    MARCH 16Riedel O Seminar with Lunch by TwoCooks Catering at J. Lohr VineyardsThe glass does matter. Enjoy a Riedel seminar using thea buffet lunch to follow. Includes a set of stemless RiedAt J. Lohr Paso Robles Wine Center $80/$70 members,tions are required. Call the J. Lohr Paso Robles Wine Cor email [email protected]. Must be over 21 years of age www.jlohr.com

    MARCH 16Vina Robles Cupcake and Wine Pairing

    Our popular cupcake and wine pairings are back! Tantaflavors from citrus to spice as you indulge in five cupcawith a Vina Robles estate wine. Pairing is $15, complimClub members. No reservations required. 11am-2pm sitmusic by Melanie Devaney. 2013 Zinfandel barrel sampall wines from our Estate list offered all weekend. 10amwww.vinarobles.com

    MARCH 162014 Wine Festival Dinner withThe Cracked Crab of Pismo Beachat Eberle WineryBrace yourself for one of the best (and entertaining) dinWinery is happy to welcome back the famous Cracked dinner on their cellar floor. They'll roll up the doors, hirbibs and enjoy the freshest seafood our country has to obuckets on the table and they do an old fashioned crab fhome hungry! They have to thank Mike and Kathy Lee again...and promise you it's a night of no-fuss fun. Just wine - which make a perfect combination! www.eberlew

    MARCH 19-20WiVi Central Coast SymposiumWiVi Central Coast (WiVi) is a newly expanded symposfocusing on wine and viticulture. The two-day event is of the successful VINE Symposium. The expanded showand wine grape growers together for an unprecedented cshow booths, product demonstrations and networking o

    PISMO BEACH/SHELL BEACH

    ONGOINGComplimentary Limousine Servicewith Pismo Beach WineryTheir complimentary limousine service eliminates the ndriver. Relax and travel in style on your wine tasting exWinery. Must be at least 21 years old, allow approximatLimousine only travels from your resort to their winery

    www.pismobeachwinery.com, 805-773-9463ONGOING

    Hearst Castle ToursLed by an experienced guide, tour Hearst Castle and enmajesty and beauty of this historical treasure. www.hea800-444-4445

    ONGOING FRIDAYSSips & Songs at Claiborne & Churchill VintnersLocal food and live music. Bring a blanket or a lawn chchairs will be provided on a first come first serve basis.separately. 5:30-7:30pm, www.claibornechurchill.com,

    ONGOING SUNDAYSSips & Songs at Claiborne & Churchill VintnersLocal food and live music. Bring a blanket or a lawn chchairs will be provided on a first-come, first-served basseparately. 1-3pm, www.claibornechurchill.com, 805-54

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    ONGOING FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTHArt Gallery Events Art After DarkVarious art galleries stay open late & host artist receptions with wine& cheese. 6-9pm, Downtown San Luis Obispo, www.sloartcouncil.org805-544-9251

    SAN LUIS OBISPO

    ONGOING SATURDAYS & SUNDAYSMaster the Art of Wine and Cheeseat Tolosa Winery

    Four cheeses are served using only artisan and/or farmstead products. Wine ispaired with each cheese, utilizing the principles of balance and harmony.11am-4pm, www.tolosawinery.com, RSVP, 805-782-0500

    ONGOING THURSDAYSSan Luis Obispo Farmers' MarketHeld every Thursday night, Farmers' Market brings the community together toshop for fresh produce, sample San Luis Obispo's delectable and variedcuisine, browse local shops, listen to live music and interact with local enter-tainers. Keep your eyes open for the six-foot bear giving hugs and paw shakes- that's their Farmers' Market mascot, Downtown Brown. www.down-townslo.com

    MARCH 5-920th Annual SLO International Film FestivalLocated halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles, surrounded by lushvineyards, ranchland and a 100-mile coastline, the San Luis Obispo Interna-tional Film Festival (SLOIFF) is headquartered in the quaint, sophisticateddowntown of San Luis Obispo on the spectacular Central Coast of California. Asa premiere 5-day annual event, the SLOIFF showcases contemporary and

    classic film screenings in a wide variety of venues, from the citys classic artdeco Fremont Theatre, to the popular independent Palm Theatre, with avariety of unexpected venues from the wine country of Paso Robles to theseaside towns of Avila Beach and Pismo Beach. Experience Hollywood & VinesEvents that pair excellent local wines with film classics. Or the Red CarpetEvents, where they welcome celebrities from Hollywood filmmakers to actionsports legends. slofilmfest.org

    MARCH 14Oysters and Sauv Blanc-Varietal Seriesat Tolosa WineryFresh oysters and newly released 2013 Sauvignon Blanc make this event purerefreshing! They'll be sourcing local oysters prepared in a few styles to pairalongside our 2013 Sauvignon Blanc, along with few 2013 light whites. Livemusic will also be playing during the event while you can soak in the flavors.Wine Club Member only event, limit 4 tickets per member.www.tolosawinery.com

    LOMPOC/BUELLTON

    ONGOING SECOND & FOURTH WEDNESDAYQuiz Night at Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co.6:30-10pm, www.figmtnbrew.com, 805-694-2252

    ONGOING FRIDAYS & SATURDAYSLive Music at Figueroa Mountain Brewing Co.6:30-10pm, www.figmtnbrew.com, 805-694-2252

    ONGOING EVERY OTHER SATURDAYCentral Coast Tasting Seriesat Avant Tapas and Wine

    FEBRUARY 8Cigars & Syrahat Zaca Mesa Winery & VineyardsJoin them as they pair up with The Boss Cigars and Chef John for an amazingnight of Cigar & Syrah Pairings. 5-8pm, www.zacamesa.com

    FEBRUARY 16Mardi Gras Wine Club Pick-up Eventat Foley EstatesJazz it up in New Orleans tradition at Foley Estates Mardi Gras Wine Club PickUp event! Enjoy sumptuous Creole cuisine from Two Cooks Catering. Theirassistant winemaker Lorna Kreutz-Duggan will be barrel sampling the 2012vintage of wine. Enjoy live music featuring New Orleans style Jazz and funMardi Gras hits. For questions and to make reservations, please [email protected] or call 805-737-6222 Complimentary formembers, 1-4pm, www.foleywines.com

    MARCH 8Chapel G Syrah Launch Party!at Zaca Mesa Winery & VineyardJoin them for the new arrival of their 2011 Chapel G Syrah. They will betasting this new wine and pairing it with grilled prime sirloin steaksandwiches freshly prepared by Chef John. Sandwiches $12, $10/members12-3:30pm, www.zacamesa.com

    LOS OLIVOS/FOXEN CANYON

    FEBRUARY 15Valentine's Winemaker Dinnerat Firestone VineyardThis Valentines celebrate love through your taste buds with a night of aphro-disiac inspired dishes paired with our wonderful Firestone wine. SantaBarbaras favorite caterer, Pure Joy Catering, will create a loveinspired mealthat will enlighten your senses and allow you to experience a memorableValentines Day through food and wine. Their winemaker, Paul Warson, willwalk you through each course as he pours you their newest vintages of hisfavorite wines. 6-9pm, 805-688-3940, [email protected]

    SANTA BARBARA

    ONGOING THURSDAYSPizza Party at Corks n CrownsFine wine and craft beer pairing with Full of Life Flatbread Gourmet Pizza.4-7pm, www.corksandcrowns.com, 805-845-8600

    ONGOING SUNDAYSCupcakes & Sparkling Wineat Corks n Crowns11:30am, www.corksandcrowns.com, 805-845-8600

    ONGOING SATURDAY & SUNDAYLive Music at Oreana WineryWine tasting and wine by the glass, 2-5pm, www.oreanawinery.com

    FEBRUARY 28-MARCH 2World of Pinot Noir at Bacara Resort

    Their annual event takes place at the beginning of March and includes twodays of in-depth tasting seminars and excursions, Grand Tastings, a Burgundyseminar and tasting and gourmet, locally-influenced lunches and dinners.These extraordinary food and wine extravaganzas will be hosted by partici-pating wineries and feature an outstanding panel of sommeliers from acrossthe U.S. For more information, or to purchase tickets visit www.wopn.com orcall 805-489-1758.

    SANTA MARIA/FOXEN CANYON

    ONGOING MONDAY-THURSDAYCosta de Oro Happy Hour 4-6pm, wine by the glass $7, $5 club members www.cdowinery.com805-922-1468

    ONGOINGFriday Night Wine Down at Costa de OroGreat way to start your weekend! Enjoy live music, wine tasting and cheeseplates. 5-8pm, www.cdowinery.com, 805-922-1468

    ONGOING SUNDAYSChampagne Sunday Brunchat the Historic Santa Maria InnEnjoy a variety of selected meats, carving stations and an omelette stationalong with a salad bar. They also feature traditional breakfast fare, many sidedishes and an elaborate and delicious dessert station.10am-2pm$21.95/adults, $18.95/seniors, $12.95/children, www.santamariainn.com805-928-7777

    SANTA YNEZ

    ONGOINGGlider Rides at the AirportSanta Ynez, www.gliderrides.com, 805-688-2517

    ONGOINGPrivate Access Sundays at BridlewoodThe winery will be open only to Wine Club members for an exclusive tastingevent showcasing their new releases and limited production wines.Bridlewood Estate Club member benefits include admission of member andone guest at no charge (2 people). Tickets may be purchased for extra member

    guests, pending availability, at a cost of $20 each. All guests must be accom-panied by Bridlewood club member the day of event. [email protected], 805-688-9000 Ext 22www.bridlewoodwinery.com

    SOLVANGONGOING TUESDAYS

    Open Mic Night at Carivintas WineryCome in and showcase your talent to be considered for an upcoming gig atCarivintas. 5-7pm, www.carivintas.com, 805-693-4331

    ONGOING THIRD WEDNESDAYSSolvang Wine (and Beer) WalkSolvangs Third Wednesday Wine and Beer Walk tickets cost just $20 each (cashonly please), and include a ticket to sample two wines at five participatingwine tasting rooms, a specialty logo glass and a map to help you navigateyour way through all the fun! No one under 21 is permitted to purchasetickets. 3-7pm $20, www.solvangthirdwednesday.com

    ONGOING WEDNESDAYSSolvang Farmer's MarketFresh produce, flowers and foods. First Street, Solvangwww.sbfarmersmarket.org

    ONGOING THURSDAYSWandering Dog Wine Barpresents Blind Tasting ThursdayChallenge your palate and learn about wine at the samefeatures a different region. No reservations required. 4-www.wanderingdogwinebar.com, 805-686-9126

    ONGOING THURSDAYSTeachers Night at Carivintas WineryAll teachers are invited. Receive discounts and play gawww.carivintas.com, 805-693-4331

    ONGOING FRIDAYSMovie Night at Carivintas Winery6-9pm, www.carivintas.com, 805-693-4331

    ONGOING EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAYLive Music in the Tasting Roomat Sort This Out CellarsKeep a lookout for special band performances that youwww.sortthisoutcellars.com, 805-688-1717

    ONGOING SATURDAYSLive Music at Carivintas Winery6-9pm, www.carivintas.com, 805-693-4331

    ONGOING FRIDAY-SUNDAY

    Wandering Dog Wine BarCupcakes & Wine FlightTasters enjoy 3 wines, each paired with a delicious gouSolvang Bakery. Flight includes 3 half glasses of wine $20, www.wanderingdogwinebar.com, 805-686-9126

    ONGOING LAST SATURDAY OF EACH MONTHLompoc Animal Shelter Adoptionsat Carivintas WineryMeet the wonderful volunteers and animals from the shhome and start a new family. 12-3pm, www.carivintas.

    ONGOING WEDNESDAYSSolvang Farmers MarketFresh produce, flowers & foods, on First Street, betweCopenhagen, 4-7pm, www.sbfarmersmarket.org, 805-9

    ONGOING THIRD WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTSolvang Third WednesdayShop Solvang, save money and have fun! Over 60 stortasting rooms and professional offices offer special disDiscover Solvangs unique stores and boutiques. Discostores and boutiques. Delight in a divine culinary expetage of the Third Wednesday specials offered by particibakeries and sweet shops. 3-7pm, $20, www.solvangth

    FEBRUARY 16Valentine's Sunday Wine Brunchwith Lincourt WinesTreat your sweetheart to a wine country brunch with refood, great company, and dont forget the wine! Start ySunday with brunch at Lincour t Vineyards! Santa BarbCatering will be serving up a variety of your favorite bwill be enhanced by Lincourt wines. 11am-2pm, For mreserve your seats for the Sunday brunch or Valentines805-688-8554, email [email protected] www.lincourtwines.com

    LOS ALAMOS

    FEBRUARY 15Bee Happy Honey Tastingat Bedford Winery They will be tasting approximately 40 honeys from aroNew Zealand to France, including Sidr Honey, the mosworld. Honey from their local sources will also be repavailable for sale. Come talk to the bee keepers! Theremade bread, scones, and a variety of artisan cheeses toHoney tasting included with wine tasting fee, $10/Commembers, 805-344-2107, www.bedfordwinery.com

    ONGOINGAn Evening with the Sommelierat Herzog Wine CellarsExplore a world of flavors with their tasting room Som$15, $10/wine club, www.herzogwinecellars.com, 805-

    SANTA BARBARA COUNTY

    VENTURA COUNTY

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    After the success of theinaugural CABs of Distinctionevent (launched last year tocelebrate and promote CabernetSauvignon and red Bordeauxvarietals produced in PasoRobles) and the increasedmomentum from Paso Roblesbeing named Wine Region of theYear by Wine EnthusiastMagazine, the Paso Robles CABCollective (PRCC) has geared upfor even more exciting events in

    2014. Set for April 22 through26, CABs of Distinction eventswill take place in locationsacross the Paso Robles AVA with enhancedsommelier, media, trade and consumerexperiences.

    The key event of the weekendwill be the CABs of DistinctionGala, held at River Oaks HotSprings in Paso Robles onSaturday, April 26. This top-tierevent will include tastings of PRCC member wines pairedwith artisanal cheese andcharcuterie chosen by FromagerZina Miakinkova. Decadentcatered lunches will be providedby Paso Robles finest restaurantsand caterers and will be served

    in the CAB Bistro; chocolatetastings, live music, a barrel-making demonstration and glass

    etching will also be included. Luxury VIP ticketsare available to attend an exclusive paneldiscussion, enjoy a multi-course gourmet lunchprovided by Thomas Hill Organics and continuousaccess to the VIP Lounge where desserts and drinkswill be available throughout the day. Premium-Reserve VIP tickets are available for entry to anEarly Access tasting as well as access to the VIPLounge throughout the day.

    Additionally, PRCC members will host variousconsumer events throughout the previous day,Friday, April 25, including winemaker dinners atwineries and in Paso Robles most sought-afterrestaurants

    Steve Heimoff of Wine Enthusiast, whomoderated the inaugural event had this to sayabout Paso Robles Cabernet: No disrespect toNapa, but it never made much sense to me thatone region, and one only, could excel at aparticular varietal, in this case Cabernet

    Sauvignonand [I] am ready to declare for PasoRobles Cabernet. Heimoff was echoed insentiment by Santa Barbara IndependentsMattKettman, who titled a review of the inaugural eventResetting Radar on Paso Cab: New CollectiveReminds Region, World of Roots, Future.

    Tickets for the CABs of Distinction Gala can bepurchased at www.pasoroblesc ab.com , whichnow includes member winery details and contactinformation, as well as a PRCC blog for extendedmember features, harvest reports and other news.

    www.WineCountryThisMonth.com 1

    FEBRUARY 2014 WINE COUNTRY TH

    Paso Robles CAB Collective Revved Upand Ready for 2014 CABs of Distinction

    2014 CABs OF DISTINCTION EVENTSApril 22-25:Media, trade and Sommelier events (see website for details)

    April 25:Winery-hosted events, including winemaker dinners(see website for details)

    April 26:CABs of Distinction Gala, River Oaks Hot Springs, Paso Robles

    Grand Tasting Tickets:Starts at 2:00 p.m. and includes tastings of PRCC member winespaired with artisanal cheese and charcuterie, chocolate tastings, abarrel-making demonstration, delicious complimentary lunchoptions from local restaurants, glass etching, live music and muchmore.

    Premium-Reserve VIP Tickets:Includes Grand Tasting event with early access tasting at 1:00 p.m.as well as access to the VIP Lounge where desserts and drinks willbe available throughout the day.

    Luxury VIP Tickets:Includes early access to the Grand Tasting event at 1:00 p.m.and an exclusive panel discussion starting at 10:00 a.m., amulti-course gourmet lunch prepared by Thomas Hill Organicsand continuous access to the VIP Lounge throughout the day.

    Visitwww.pasoroblescab.comfor information.

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    WINERY COUNTRY NEWS| WINE COUNTRY THIS MONTH FEBRUAR

    ON THE COVER

    PEACHY CANYON WINERY

    Sweeping the 2011 Vintage

    Open daily 10:00am to 5:00pm1480 N. Bethel Road, Templeton

    1-866-335-1918 | www.peachycanyon.comfacebook.com/PeachyCanyonWinery

    instagram.com/PeachyCanyontwitter.com/PeachyCynWinery

    Neatly tucked into the southern side of Paso Robles lauded Highway 46 West sits aconverted historic schoolhouse-turned-tasting room, home to a 2011 vintage to remember.Though resident family owned and operated Peachy Canyon Winery has been producingaward-winning wines since the late eighties when they were put on the map by WineSpectator with a Top 100 wine this most recent crop of wines has been especiallyillustrious: six 90+ point small lot Zinfandels, plus a recent Double Gold for their Ms BehaveMalbec at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

    What makes these wines special? It may have something to do with the Beckett clansdedication to creating by hand. Despite being the largest family owned winery on the westside

    of Paso, Peachy Canyon still practices artisanal winemaking methods ... Grapes are picked byhand and sorted by hand. Premium wines are punched down by hand and gently basketpressed. Its the biggest small operation around.

    The winerys commitment to the local terroir is both environmentally sustainable (they areSIP Sustainability In Practice Certified) and a positive influence on the vino. Multiple estatvineyards on some of the best dirt in Paso mean that Peachys wines boast a variety of personalities. From elegant and restrained to big and fruit-forward, the 2011 Zinfandelvintage exhibits the range of microclimates available for Zin production in Paso Robles. Famewine critic Stephen Tanzer went so far as to say, I suspect fans of extroverted Rhone wineswill enjoy this, describing vineyard designate Mustard Creek Zinfandel, not something younormally hear describing a Paso Zin! The truth is that Paso Robles Zinfandel can be so much

    Founding Vintner, Doug Beckett

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    FEBRUARY 2014 WINE COUNTRY TH

    Treat Yourself...to a wide selection of services thatexhibit the healing & rejuvenating

    properties of wine used duringthe beautification process.

    PASO ROBLES WINE TASTING & SPA TOURS - $150 PP

    Your full day starts off with a Glass of Wine, Wine Foot Soak & Champagne Sugar ScFoot Treatments, Port Infused Truffles, and an array of appetizers, your choice of a Vino Mor FacialThen head out on a 3 hour wine tasting tour of Paso Robles award winning win

    Tasting fees and lite gourmet lunch included at a Paso Robles Vineyard. Package includes local pickup & d

    805-466-VINO | www.VinoTherapyStudio.com5990 Entrada, Atascadero

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    more than a big berry bomb (though it is sometimes, unabashedly,that). Peachy Canyon loves to prove this point; each of their Zinsfeatures unique qualities highlighting the expressive nature of theZinfandel grape.

    A reflection of Paso Robles unique and varied terroir, these winesprovide an expansive look at the capabilities and quality of small lot and in many cases, single vineyard Zinfandel. Winemaker andwinery son Josh Beckett noted that although the 2011 vintage was achallenging harvest due to weather, the quality of the grapes wasmarkedly high. This was due in part to low yields resulting from anearly frost, and a cooler growing season. A cooler spring andsummer in 2011 gave us extended hang time, says Beckett.

    Peachys 2011 Malbec also obviously benefitted from excellentfruit, having just won Double Gold in the 2014 San FranciscoChronicle Wine Competition the largest wine competition in theU.S. At only 320 cases produced the Ms Behave Malbec is a verysmall production wine. Its dark, dense flavors and soft, integratedtannins are the result of hundreds of careful man hours from asurprisingly small winery team less than thirty, many wearingmultiple hats, all dedicated to the cause evidence of a dogmaticcommitment to quality.

    Despite 30 years of success in Paso Wine Country as a foundingvintner, proprietor Doug Beckett still gets great joy from earning

    accolades, saying, It's always exciting when one receives greatreviews and great scores. To have six of your Zinfandels fall into thatcategory in the same vintage is truly a treat.

    He hadnt heard about the Malbec yet.Peachy Canyon Winery pours award-winning Zinfandels and

    other small production wines out of their Old Schoolhouse TastingRoom daily. Visit them during the upcoming Vintage Paso: Zinfandeland Other Wild Wines, to taste exclusive prerelease 2012 Zins, barrelsamples, live music and food. The Peachy lawn will be open forguests of all ages relax with a picnic and a glass of wine! Blanketsand lawn chairs always welcome.

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    WINERY COUNTRY NEWS| WINE COUNTRY THIS MONTH FEBRUAR

    18 Find more at www.WineCountryThisMonth.com

    Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.3443 Mill Road off Hwy 46 East in Paso Robles(805) 239-1616| www.roberthallwinery.com

    ROBERT HALL WINERY A Month of Romance

    BY LISA PRETTY

    For those who get the February blues, the perfect cure is a trip to wine country.During the month, the tasting rooms are not as busy as usual and it is a great timeto chat with tasting room staff and try some new wines.

    The Robert Hall hospitality center was developed to welcome guests all yearround. Regardless of the season there is always something in bloom and with thegrounds all well maintained there is a special beauty in the winter. With the warmwinter weather in Paso Robles, even February is ideal for a picnic lunch.

    The spacious tasting room is open daily, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a largeselection of wines. Tasters may select five wines from either the house list ($5) orthe reserve list ($10). There is something for every palate from the dry whites, a

    Rhne-style Ros, dry reds and dessert wines. The majority of the fruit is sourcedfrom the estate vineyards where 21 different grape varietals are grown. In additionto the current vintage offering, the reserve list features a selection of well agedwines from the library.

    Be sure to plan a little extra time when you visit the Robert Hall hospitalitycenter this is much more than a wine tasting stop. The entire staff is trained tooffer full tours of the underground cavern and this special tour is offeredcomplimentary throughout the day with wine tasting. For visitors interested inlearning a little more about the history of Robert Hall and how wine is made, the30 minute tour provides a little education along with entertainment and perhapseven a taste of wine from the barrel.

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    For the month of February, the winery is featuring its 2010Vintage Port as the wine of the month, offered at a 10% discount. ThePort is made from 100% estate-grown Portuguese varietals and madein a traditional method. The grapes are all handpicked and crushedinto small bins. The bins are fermented using natural, wild yeast andpunched down by hand several time as day. Upon being fortifiedwith unaged grape brandy, the fermentation stops and the juice isthen pressed from the skins. The Port is aged in the carven in neutraloak barrels until winemaker Don Brady deems it ready for bottling.The 2010 vintage has delicious fruit flavors with a well balancedfinish. Although clearly in the dessert category, this vintage Port hasjust 6% residual sugar so it does not leave a sugary coating on themouth.

    Port pairs wonderfully with chocolate. The tasting room offerstruffles and other assorted chocolate delights for sale in the extensive

    gift area. Valentines Day Weekend, Robert Halls tasting room willhave the chocolate fountain flowing. Guests may dip strawberries andother treats into the fountain complimentary while tasting wine.Tasting fees are two for one on this special weekend.

    In celebration of Valentines Day, the winery will also host a dinnerin the gorgeous Meritage room. The romantic Lobster D inner, onFebruary 14th, is just $85 a person. To treat your special someone toan evening with music, food and wine, call (805) 239-1616 ext 24 orpurchase your tickets on-line at RobertHallWinery.com.

    All month long on Friday and Saturdays the wood burning ovenwill be fired up and a selection of traditional, Italian, handmade

    pizzas are available for purchase. Wines are available for purchase bythe glass to enjoy with the pizza and the staff will be more thanhappy to recommend the best pairings. For those who prefer to bringtheir own picnic lunch, there are several relaxing areas set with tablesand chairs to enjoy the vineyard views and gorgeous water features.After the picnic, visitors are welcome to play a round of bocce ball atone of the two champion courts. Use of the bocce ball courts is alsocomplimentary.

    The tasting room is located at 3443 Mill Road, just off of HWY 46East, in Paso Robles. For additional information visit on-line atRobertHallWinery.com or call (805) 239-1616.

    1Look for us on Facebook and become a Fan!

    FEBRUARY 2014 WINE COUNTRY TH

    Olive Oil Tasting DailyOlive & Gourmet Foods

    Gifts of the OliveDOWNTOWN PASO ROBLES

    1311 Park StreetPaso Robles , CA 93446(805) 239 -7667Open 7 days a week

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    Find out more at www.WineCountryThisMonth.com20

    WINERY COUNTRY NEWS| WINE COUNTRY THIS MONTH FEBRUAR

    Trio of Red Wines is Perfect for Pairing withComfort FoodPlus a White to Start the Meal

    Just in time for chilly weather, Villa San-

    Juliette Vineyard & Winery has released atriple threat of red wines ideal for sippingalongside hearty dishes, as well as the perfectwhite wine to sip at the stove.

    Winemaker, Matt Ortman, put thefinishing touches on VSJs 2012 SauvignonBlanc, 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2011Zinfandel, and 2011 Petit Sirah. Each winewas crafted exclusively from fruit grown onthe Villa San-Juliette estate in the PasoRobles AVA. The 2012 Villa San-Juliette Sauvignon

    Blanc is a wonderfully fragrant and juicywine, the result of a two-month longfermentation at very cool temperatures,which serves to trap and protect the mostdelicate of components. Aromas of gooseberry and tangerine are underscoredby defining notes of freshly cut grass.Lively acidity maintains the lush,mouthwatering flavors of grapefruit andmelon. This wine is lean enough to sipalone, and juicy enough to pair with pan-

    roasted Brussels sprouts or classic Caesarsalad with anchovies. (SRP $14, ReserveClub member price, $11.60)

    VSJs 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon opens withbold and lively aromatics, then followswith flavors of candied cherries,sarsaparilla and vanilla. The tannins aresoft and supple making this an enjoyablewine now, with the potential to age for thenext few years. Pair this wine with a porkcrown roast, sharp aged cheddar cheese orporcini risotto. (SRP $20, Reserve Club,

    $16) With a remarkable following already, the

    2011 Zinfandel is redolent with lusciousraspberry and blueberry notes laced withclassic Zinfandel nuances of white pepperand a chocolate richness. Mouth-fillingflannel tannins throughout the mid-palateextend into a lingering finish. Try alongsidesticky grilled baby back ribs or evenroasted turkey with rich mole sauce.(SRP$25, Reserve Club, $17.60)

    Nearly black in color, the 2011 Petite Sirahmarries big California flavors withrestrained elegance. Leading withexuberant blueberry aromas, the winelayers flavors of orange zest, violet, cedarand mocha before the acidity turns theflavors towards red fruits on the finish. The

    structured tannins are slow on release,yielding a firm structure that melts whenpaired with herbed rack of lamb or agedgoat cheese. (SRP $20, Reserve Club, $1To purchase these or any other of Villa

    San-Juliettes award-winning wines, pleasevisit www.VillaSanJuliette.com.

    Villa San-Juliette Vineyard & Winery Ge

    Villa San-Juliette Vineyard & Wineryrecently completed Sustainability InPractice (SIP) certification with the

    Vineyard Team, a network of farmersthat strives to promote sustainablevineyard practices and protect resourcesvaluable to the land and the community.

    Launched by Nigel Lythgoe and Ken Warwick in 2006, Villa San-Juliette hasmade sustainability a focus since itsinception, said Winemaker, MattOrtman.

    VSJ is a long-time member of the Vineyard Team, Ortman recalled, sowe were already following many bestpractices before pursuing SIPcertification.

    When Ortman joined the VSJ team in January, 2013, gaining SIP certificationbecame a priority. We completed the

    Vineyard Teams audit of our growingpractices and winery operations,including testing our well pump forefficiency. We made some importantchanges in erosion control andintegrated pest management specifically, installing more owl boxes and were SIP certified within a year of my hire date.

    Asked what inspires VSJs interest inadopting sustainable practices, Ortmancites Lythgoe and Warwicks foresight.Ken and Nigel came into this businesscommitted to being good stewards of the land, which is part of what attractedme to the job in the first place. As asecond-generation winemaker, I likeworking to ensure that a thirdgeneration could make wine here, too.

    Villa San-Juliette Vineyard & WinConsiders the Next Generation

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    P EA C HY C AN Y O N RD

    AD E LAI D A

    W I L L O W

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    Halter Ranch

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    MONDOCELLARS

    VENTEUX

    DUNNINGDOCEROBLES

    Stanger/Poalillo

    PEACHY CANYON

    OPOLO

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    PEACHY CANYON WINERY1480 North Bethel Road, TempletonOpen Daily 10-5:30 and by appointment805-239-1918 www.peachycanyon.comWere celebrating 25 years of amazing winemaking at Peachy Canyon,where weve been making Paso Robles wine history since 1988. Come enjoyour award-winning estate Zinfandels alongside exciting small lot blends.

    Were proud to be Westside originals.

    VENTEUX VINEYARDS1795 Las Tablas, TempletonOpen Daily 10-5 and by appointment805-369-0127 www.venteuxvineyards.comFrom soil to bottle, our hands-on approach allows us to uphighest level of care in all aspects of the winemaking procextremely small productions of Rhne wines showcase a elegance, and finesse. Picnic on the porch of the farmhouhand-crafted wines in the elegant and inviting tasting room

    DOCE ROBLES2023 Twelve Oaks Drive, Paso Robles Daily 10-5:30

    805-227-4766 www.docerobleswinery.comThe quality of our fruit is paramount and we have the experience,location and methods to deliver consistently high-quality fruit. All of this leads to great tasting wine. Try some we think youll agree!

    MONDO CELLARS3260 Nacimiento Lake Drive, Paso Robles805-226-2925 mondocellars.comHours: Sun-Thu, Sat 11-6; Fri 11-10Visit our tasting room and experience the passion in ouBordeaux and Rhone blends. Make our luxurious Bed your home and enjoy breathtaking views from every wfive miles from downtown Paso Robles shopping and

    WEST SIDE OF PASO ROBLESWine Tasting on the

    NOT TO SCALE

    Venteux Vineyards Venteux Vineyards is a dream realized by two families who share

    a passion for wine and hospitality. In 2000, the Stelzle familybought 12 acres of property in the renowned wine growing regionof the Templeton Gap. This exceptional viticultural area is knownfor hot, dry days and cool damp nights. Winemaker and co-ownerScott Stelzle focuses on letting the unique microclimate of theTempleton Gap shine through in his wines. By using native yeast

    and keeping varietal wines 100% pure, Scott is able to show off thetrue expression of the fruit. Aside from 100% varietals of Syrah,Grenache, Mourvedre, and Petite Sirah, Venteux also offers originalblends which are balanced and complex. Aside from Rhone wines,they also produce a Pinot Noir, a late-harvest Gewurtztraminer, anda 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from westside Paso that was recentlyawarded a score of 90 points from Wine Enthusiast.

    In 2009, Adam and Patricia Goldenberg joined Scott and BobbiStelzle in their venture and Venteux purchased the adjacent 10acres next to their current vineyard. The property now hosts both aluxury Bed and Breakfast and a Guest House that sleeps threecouples. Artfully decorated by owner Bobbi Stelzle, the Bed andBreakfast and Guest House offer an authentic stay in the heart of wine country. Guests are encouraged to meander in the vineyardsand enjoy a wine and cheese reception in the evenings.

    Conveniently located near the intersection of Bethel Road andLas Tablas Road in Templeton, Venteux is a wonderful place to startthe day. The tasting room is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00p.m. A tasting fee of $10 is waived with a bottle purchase. Formore information about Venteux wines and lodging, visitwww.venteuxvineyards.com.

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    Recommended RestaurantsPASO ROBLESThomas Hill Organics 1305 Park St; 805.226.5888 Contemporary American Cuisine Villa Creek 1144 Pine St; 805.238.3000 Spanish Cuisine Enoteca 206 Alexa Ct; 805.238.2834 Seafood

    Bistro Laurent 1202 Pine St; 805.226.8191 French Cuisine

    Artisan 1401 Park St; 805.237.8084 American Bistro Paso Inn and Steakhouse 1103 Spring St; 805.238.2660 Steakhouse il Cortile 608 12th St; 805.226.0300 Italian Cuisine/some Seafood Dishes Buona Tavola 943 Spring St; 805.237.0600 Northern Italian Cuisine La Cosecha 835 12th St; 805.237.0019 Latin/Spanish Estrella 815 12th St; 805.226.5406 Latin Cuisine Roberts 1218 Pine St; 805.226.5556 American Cuisine

    SAN LUIS OBISPONovo 726 Higuera St; 805.543.3986 International Cuisine Firestone Grill 1001 Higuera; 805.783.1001 BBQ and Burgers Cafe Roma 1020 Railroad Ave; 805.541.6800 Italian Cuisine Mamas Meatball 570 Higuera St; 805.544.0861 Fine Italian Cuisine

    Palazzo Giuseppes 1010 Court St; 805.541.9922 Fine Italian Cuisine Luna Red 1009 Monterey St; 805.540.5243 International Cuisine

    MORRO BAY Dorns 801 Market Ave; 805.772.4415 Specialty in Seafood & Chicken

    PISMO BEACHSteamers 1601 Price St; 805.773.4711 Seafood Giuseppes 891 Price St; 805.773.2870 Italian Cuisine

    SANTA YNEZ VALLEY Hitching Post 3325 Point Sal Rd, Casmalia; 805.937.6151 Steakhouse Hitching Post II 406 E Highway 246, Buellton; 805.688.0676 Steakhouse Full of Life Flatbread 225 Bell St, Los Alamos; 805.344.4400 American and Pizza

    Bell Street Market 406 Bell St, Los Alamos; 805.344.4609 American/Cafe Sides Hardware & Shoes - A Brothers Restaurant2375 Alamo Pintado Ave, Los Olivos; 805.688.4820 New American Los Olivos Cafe Petros 2860 Grand Ave, Los Olivos; 805.688.7788 Greek American Cuisine The Ballard Inn 2436 Baseline Ave, Ballard; 805.688.7770 French/Asian Fusion Trattoria Grappolo 3687 Sagunto St # C, Santa Ynez; 805.688.6899 Italian Root 246 420 Alisal Road, Solvang; 805.686. 8681 Contemporary American Cuisine Avant Tapas & Wine 35 Industrial Way, Buellton; 805.686.4742 Contemporary American/Small Plates Sissys Uptown Cafe 112 South I Street, Lompoc; 805.735.4877 Traditional American Cuisine

    CITY OF SANTA BARBARA Julienne 138 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara; 805.845.6488 Contemporary American Cuisine The Shellsh Company230 Stearns Wharf, Santa Barbara; 805.966.6676 Seafood The Wine Cask813 Anacapa St, Santa Barbara; 805.966.9463 Contemporary American Olio Pizzeria 11 W Victoria St. Ste. 21, Santa Barbara; 805.899.2699 Italian Cuisine Bouchon 9 West Victoria St, Santa Barbara; 805.730.1160 Wine Country Cuisine CaDario 37 East Victoria St, Santa Barbara; 805.884.9419 Italian Cuisine Arigato 1225 State St, Santa Barbara; 805.965.6074 Japanese Cuisine The Stonehouse 900 San Ysidro Ln, Montecito; 805.565.1724 Contemporary American

    VENTURA COUNTY Le Petit Cafe Bakery 1591 Spinnaker Dr #112, Ventura; 805.642.1191 French Sugar Beets 455 South A St, Oxnard; 805.240.7777 New American Cuisine La Dolce Vita 740 South B St, Oxnard; 805.486-6878 Italian and Mediterranean Cuisine Tierra Sur Restaurant 3201 Camino Del Sol, Oxnard; 805.983.1560 Mediterranean Bella Victorian Bistro

    Call for detail

    Dining AlfrescoFine Italian Restaurant

    Discover WhyPaso Loves Italian! Discover WhyPaso Loves Italian! Discover WhyPaso Loves Italian!

    Dinner 7 nights a week

    www. ilcortileristorante.com

    608 12th StreetPaso Robles CA

    805.226.0300

    Wine Country Dining b r

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    BY MELISSA CHAVEZ

    Vibrant describes Estrella Restaurant. The color palette of its

    surrounds reflects the rich cultures within the food. Tastes of SanteFe, NM, Spain and Argentina are prepared to excite and intrigue insuch a way that a first-time guest cant help but want to savoranother one of their creations.

    And what a selection there is at Estrella. The Latin Riveracuisine combines flavors to make for a distinctive and memorablemeal.

    Among Chef Travis Borbas offerings, the Tapas menu includesGrilled Scallop Ceviche, in which a citrus marinade with redonions, oranges and mango commands the taste buds. Crispy MasaCakes topped with servings of shredded chicken, chipotle-tomatillosauce, sour cream and a spicy cabbage salad is fun to share. Forlunch, a Cuban Sandwich of Mojo marinated pork loin and hamand the Braised Chicken and Chorizo Taquitos are especiallypopular as well as the new Southwest Green Chile Burger.

    For dinner, the Chile Relleno entre features roasted Anaheimchilies with a choice of fillings including roasted corn and crab,queso fresco or carnitas and two varieties of salsa. Seafood entreesinclude a Plantain Crusted Halibut served with mango-habenerosalsa and coconut-green chili sauce. The Lobster Tacos are finishedwith smoked paprika-lime garlic sauce. A consistent favorite is theArgentinean Style Grilled Ribeye, complemented with a deliciouslyaddictive chimichurri sauce. Fresh house made tamales and

    enchiladas are made daily. A refreshing counterpart to any meal are specially selected

    brews. For Estrellas Beer Dinners, a featured brewery presentedevery month to provide for a tasty and clever way to go beer tastingwhile eating a fabulous meal. Just imagine, four pints and fourcourses, including dessert!

    Visit Estrella, 815 12th Street, Paso Robles, for lunch (daily11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; Friday through Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 2:30p.m. or dinner, 5:00 to 10:00 p.m). Call (805) 226-5406 or visittheir website at www.estrellarestaurant.com.

    www.WineCountryThisMonth.com 2

    S A N L U I S O B I S P O

    A Fresh Approach toClassic American Cuisine

    ROBERTS Restaurant & Wine Bar

    1218 Pine Street, Paso Robles | www.robertsrestaurantpaso.com | 805-226-5556

    D O W N T O W N PA S O R O

    Estrella Restaurant

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    WINE COUNTRY NEWS| WINE COUNTRY THIS MONTH FEBRUAR

    PREFERRED TASTING ROOM

    BRIDLEWOOD ESTATE WINBY MICHAEL CERVINMost tasting rooms were built as winery operations not repurposed buildings. But for

    Bridlewood Winery in Santa Barbara wine country, part of the allure and history is thatthe property used to be a thoroughbred horse farm, hence the winery name. TheMission-style bell tower, long driveway, and lush grounds remind you that this once wasa grand estate. There are still a few horses on the expansive grounds and one originaltrack is still located behind the winery near a large pond an exclusive perk to picnic atfor wine club members. And on weekends from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. they offer ahorse and carriage vineyard tour of the property for a mere $10.

    Bridlewoods tasting room reflects the wood, and earthy warm tones of an equestrianfacility, complete with high volume ceilings and generous space at the tasting bar for youto roam around in. The wines too reflect what is best about this region of California,namely the expressive wines. The Central Coast is an extraordinary place that is home tsome of the best grapes California has to offer, winemaker Mark Williams says. I hopethat my wines can serve as an ambassador for this region. Since Williams collaborateswith winegrowers from Monterey, San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Countys, he is abto represent the Central Coast as few other wineries can do showcases Bridlewoodsability to produces handcrafted wine from a broad palette of the Coast and scrupulousbarrel flavors developed in the winery. My winemaking philosophy is to focus on thedetails, ensuring the highest quality in the bottle, Mark says. To me, one of the mostrewarding parts of winemaking is spending time on each lot to experiment with different

    Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.3555 Roblar Avenue,Santa Ynez

    (805) 688-9000 | www.bridlewoodwinery.com

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    I ts no wonder the people herecall it SLO. No one is in any hurryin the caf s or on the sidewalks, andcertainly no one is in any rush toleave. Strangers are genuinelyfriendly, always ready to talk abouttheir favorite hiking trail orbarbecue joint, or to point the wayto the winery with the best PinotNoir. Its all part of the SLO life, thatcombination of good stuff that

    makes visiting here so nourishing tothe soul.

    San Luis Obispos unusual naturalbeauty, along with its gentle climate,first attracted the Spanish padres tothe area in the 1700s. In 1772 theybuilt the fifth of Californias 21missions here, on the banks of SanLuis Creek, and named it MissionSan Luis Obispo de Tolosa. Today,many consider this the most beau-tiful of the Spanish missions.

    More than 200 wineries producecritically acclaimed vintages inPaso Robles, Edna Valley andArroyo Grande Valley. Visitors canhead out along the gorgeouscountry roads to sip their waythrough the vineyards.

    For more information on San LuisObispo County, go to visitslo.comor visit www.pasowine.com.

    W i n e T a s t i n g i n

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    To Paso Robles(26 miles )

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    Q U I N

    LAETITIA VINEYARD

    Saucelito CanyonAutry Cellars

    Wolff Vineyards

    KynsiVineyards

    RanchoArroyoGrande

    Cerro Caliente Cellars

    Barnwood WinesNadia

    1

    101

    227

    101

    101

    Piedra Creek BY APPOINTMENT

    BISHOPS PEAK/ TALLEY

    VINEYARDS

    TOLOSAWINERY