vineyard green

By Jan Smith

The vineyards are dressed in green, symbolizing it’s the time to get out and go. Summer is a perfect time to plan a trip and resume those pent-up travel desires of the past year. Destinations are reopening and welcoming back visitors. California’s central coast Paso Robles and Santa Barbara wine regions are easily reached and destinations to consider.

Wineries Worth a Visit

Niner Wine Estates- Pure Green signifies sustainability. This winery is known for being the first winery on the Central Coast to earn a LEED certification for its commitment to sustainability. A farm-to-table restaurant is available on this Paso Robles property.

J Dusi Winery- Third generation winemaker Jannell Dusi leads in producing their well-known old vine Zinfandel. The expansive vineyards and canopied trees create a sea of green enjoyed best from the various patios.

DAOU Vineyards- DAOU Vineyards was well ahead of green technology when implementing the first gravity-flow winery in America in the early 1960s at their Paso Robles winery. The winery sits atop DAOU Mountain, offering green vistas and views for days. Enjoy the colorful panorama in one of the winery’s Adirondack chairs while sipping a few of their award-winning wines.

Sunstone Winery- This San Ynez Valley winery in Santa Barbara offers outdoor seating on its sprawling green lawn. The property (tucked away from the main roads) offers a tranquil spot for a picnic lunch. A food truck is available, or you can BYO and enjoy a bottle of the winery’s latest release. It is time to start traveling again. California wine regions are ready for you!

Nine Winery Heart-shaped Vineyard

Photos (L-R): Santa Barbara hillside vineyards ; Lunch Favorite Cello Ristorante at Allegreto; New vintages on their way

Ballooning in the Vineyards

Taste something completely new.

Hear the gentle lapping of the Gulf waves nearby as you dine al fresco. Taste a local favorite as you bite into fresh-caught grouper. Raise a toast with a glass of wine as the sun warms your shoulders. Discover the unbeatable open-air dining scene in St. Pete/Clearwater.

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