Foxen Al Fresco

NYoN PerIeNce

NooN ctober day as we motor north on oad. The road stretches ahead like a warm promise, as the country estates surroundlivos give way to an untroubled backcountry of high meadows, majestic oaks and well-tended vineyards. We’re here to slow down a pace—to explore the backroads, tune in to the distant screech of the red-tailed hawks, and savor the subtle aromas of a few anyon Wine Trail is the locus of some of Santa Barbara county’s best wines, from the hot- blooded rhone varietals that dominate the warm inland areas (syrah, grenache, and viognier gaining the greatest renown) to the palate-cleansing Burgundians, especially pinot noir and chardonnay, that grace the northern regions closer to the coast. Sauvignon blanc, negrette, sylvaner, sangiovese, and cabernet franc also thrive in this diverse appellation. While day trippers in other parts of the country seek out deciduous forests to marvel at autumn’s changing hues, here the seasonal transition is most evident in the vineyards, as the lush emerald leaves of summer give way to a magnificent spectrum of auburn and rust, yellow and gold.

Provisions for the Trail most wineries have picnic facilities, and there are some superb places to pick up gourmet provisions before you start up the Trail. If you are traveling from Santa Barbara via highway 154, consider a stop at los olivos Grocery to purchase deli sandwiches and a variety of complimentary delicacies. Proprietor Zaher Darghaliz purchased the “Valley Store” last year and has continued the tradition of offering gourmet and specialty foods. With a wine department that favors local varieties from Santa Barbara county, an amazing cheese department, gourmet coffee, and a tantalizing variety of hot and cold specialty sandwiches. at the north end of the trail, a wonderful spot for a leisurely outdoor picnic is rancho Sisquoc Winery, a historic ranch with a timeless ambiance, with picnic tables on the terrace and

Panino, located near the flagpole in los olivos, is another good choice for freshly prepared sandwiches. for lighter fare try the Panino caprese—layers of buffalo mozzarella, sliced tomato and fresh basil, drizzled with extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar and organic greens. If you prefer a salad, try the curried chicken—tossed with apple, sun-dried cranberries, pine nuts and honey mustard over a bed of greens, accented by balsamic vinaigrette.

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