In honor of September being California Wine Month, tap into the variety of California wine regions to find your perfect wine pairing. Each destination’s history, culture, and overall “vibe” play a large part in the wine appeal. So, which wine are you and where are you going to embrace your wine vibe?
Syrah - Pairs Well With Warm Western Flairs
You’re giving sophistication. You dream of sipping a glass of red while being fanned by the desert palms in a serene oasis. If this is you, then Temecula is the place to be. Known for its award-winning Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, Southern California’s Temecula Valley is the wine region no one expected but the one everyone needed. Though the first commercial vineyard, Callaway Vineyard & Winery, didn’t begin development until the 1960s and opened to the public in 1974, the region has since boomed to encompass around 3,000 acres of award-winning wineries. Jump in one of the many hot air balloons for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the entire region. For the perfect sunrise escape, drift above the region with A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure in one of their sixteen colorful hot air balloons.
Orange Muscat - Pairs Well With an Artsy Mountain Town
So, you have an appreciation for the creative, artsy types. You have an unpredictable palette and are really up for anything. Tap into that energy in Lodi, the renowned “Winegrape Capital of the World.” Sitting between the San Francisco Bay Area and the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lodi grows nearly 40% of California's premium wine grapes, including unlikely vines, such as varieties like Albariño, Graciano, Kerner, Nero d'Avola, Picpoul, Tannat and Teroldego. The best part is that while in Lodi, you can get the high-quality California wine taste at a mouth-watering cost. For those new to wine, dip your toe in Lodi.
Pinot Grigio - Pairs Well With a Peaceful Ocean Breeze
You’re calm, cool and collected. You love wine, whether red, white, or rosé. You’re there for the ambiance with a chic mix of excellent taste. Just imagine - you’re sitting in a hand-crafted oak lawn chair with a chilled glass of white wine in hand at Oceano Wines. You’re struck by views of the Pacific Ocean, nestled less than two miles away in the valley of the vineyards’ rolling hills. Truly the best of both worlds. California’s Central Coast boasts wine country and beachside relaxation. Venture into SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County) to taste SLO Coast Wine vineyards, which are only five miles from the coast. With the region’s proximity to the beach, the cooler climate and rich soil make for a great home to aromatic white varieties such as Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Gewürztraminer. The SLO Coast AVA is also home to a rich Pinot Noir Trail if your red side is feeling excited.
Rosé - Pairs Well With Quintessential Wine Country
You’re timeless. You’re so classic. Just like California’s Napa Valley, you’re a people person who is ready for any occasion. Wedding, birthday, anniversary, or even a relaxed getaway - you are there! You have high-quality, vintage bottles in the cellar taste and have the lifestyle to match it. Fit with gorgeous rolling hills of vines of more than 400 wineries and tasting rooms, the region is no stranger to elevated dining, boasting seven restaurants across the gamut of Michelin ratings.