5 of the Best Wineries in California

 

 

Wine tasting can be a great activity, especially if in almost perpetually sunny California. And from Napa Valley all the way to Malibu — surprised, right? Southern California makes wine? — there are no shortages of beautiful vineyards. Here are five outstanding ones to visit.

 

 

 

 

Malibu Wines

 

Malibu Wines is one of the best wineries in Southern California, known for their Selmar and Saddlerock labels.

 

One of their events that you can participate in is a Malibu Safari ride, where you see exotic animals and beautiful countryside all while sipping their Pinot. But if you’re looking to just do a tasting, they have a great Wine & Beer Garden in West Hills, and that’s as much fun as any safari…

 

And if no one volunteers to be the designated driver, Pegasus Transit will take you to this winery, among others, on a comfortable bus.

 

 

 

Dashe Cellars

 

Located in Alameda, Dashe Cellars specializes in Zinfandel wine. It was founded by Micheal and Anne Dashe who began crafting Dry Creek Zinfandel in 1996. And today, they limit the use of chemicals and industrial growing techniques by partnering with small growers.

 

Some of their wine selections include 2017 Zinfandels from Todd Brothers Ranch, Florence Vineyard, and Louvau Vineyard.

 

 

 

Duckhorn Vineyards

 

Napa Valley is home to some of the best wineries in Northern California, Duckhorn Vineyards included. This is a luxurious winery, complete with stunning gardens and a large Estate house. They offer a selection of fine wines, specializing in Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. And if you sign up for their portfolio wine tasting, you’ll drink 5 of their current releases.

 

If you’re not in California, they’re now offering virtual wine tastings. They send you the wine. And then you get on zoom. Or, seriously, not — you have (and have paid for) the wine…

 

 

 

Roblar Winery

 

Located in Santa Ynez, it reflects the rustic feeling of the Santa Ynez valley. The vines are uniquely influenced by both surrounding mountains and rivers, which allows them to produce a variety of wines. If you choose to do your tasting on a Sunday, you’ll also have full access to their food menu, which is paired with their selection of wines. That doesn’t work as well virtually…

 

 

 

Monticello Vineyards

 

Monticello Vineyards-Corely Family is located in Napa Valley. They’re known for serving full-bodied wines that also have a fine balance of flavors. The current Estate tasting features a 2019 Rose of Syrah, 2018 Chardonnay, 2017 Pinot Noir, 2017 Cabernet Franc, and a 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon.

 

And while drinking these wonderful wines, you will be looking out across some gorgeous vineyard views.