{"id":84130,"date":"2012-04-06T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2012-04-06T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.sunset.com\/travel\/wine-country"},"modified":"2025-08-01T16:46:41","modified_gmt":"2025-08-01T23:46:41","slug":"travel-wine-country","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.sunset.com\/travel\/wine-country","title":{"rendered":"Wine Country"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n\n \n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The West is home to the country\u2019s best wine regions. Explore them all and taste their best offerings, from the cult cabs of Napa to the Pinots of Willamette Valley","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"landing-page.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":true,"_should_modify_publish_date":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[17,23],"tags":[],"layout":[67],"class_list":["post-84130","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-travel","category-wine-country","layout-article"],"acf":{"display_row_fields":"yes","page_subheadline":"The West is home to the country\u2019s best wine regions. Explore them all and taste their best offerings, from the cult cabs of Napa to the Pinots of Willamette Valley","display_row_1":"yes","stories_row_1_top":[{"ID":192320,"post_author":"98","post_date":"2025-07-30 03:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-07-30 10:00:00","post_content":"\n

Think a trip to a gorgeous, design-minded winery<\/a> is the ultimate tasting experience<\/a>? Adding a pool can make the entire outing even better. Come summer\u2014yes, when temperatures can reach the triple digits in buzzy regions like Napa<\/a>, Sonoma<\/a>, and Healdsburg\u2014a few properties open their on-site pools so guests can splash around and<\/em> enjoy a splash of vino.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you can believe it, the pool phenomenon was kickstarted by Francis Ford Coppola<\/a>. Yes, the<\/em> Francis Ford Coppola who racked up Academy Awards for films like The Godfather<\/em> and Apocalypse Now<\/em>. When Coppola purchased his Geyserville, California, property\u2014which would eventually become the Francis Ford Coppola Winery\u2014he didn\u2019t want to create just<\/em> a tasting room. Rather, he wanted to create a \u201cwine wonderland;\u201d somewhere everyone could enjoy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The property displays mementos from his biggest motion pictures year-round, but come summer, everyone\u2019s bee-lining it to the pool<\/a>, which was inspired by the Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. \u201cThe pool is a key part of carrying out this vision for a family-friendly destination for exploration, amusement and delight,\u201d explains James Luchini, the winery\u2019s director of hospitality. \u201cIt\u2019s a place where visitors can sip wine, swim, relax, and enjoy food all in one setting, which is something you can\u2019t find at traditional tasting rooms.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Francis

Courtesy of Francis Ford Coppola Winery<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Here\u2019s how it works: Guests can only access the pool if they reserve a cabine, which is $325 on weekdays and $350 over the weekend. Each booking grants you all-day pool access for up to four guests, four ridiculously comfortable lounge chairs, and towels. It\u2019s not a formal tasting, so children are allowed and you can readily order food and wine by the glass as you see fit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Curious to see what the hype was about, I packed my swimsuit and spent an afternoon at the winery\u2019s pool. While it\u2019s easy to write off the perk as a glorified, resort-style pool, I was pleasantly surprised by how relaxing it was. Despite having larger groups and children, the pool was a relatively quiet and serene spot to sip one of the winery\u2019s signature blends. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instead of sitting upright for a 90-minute tasting, I could float in the pool and flag down a nearby waitress when I wanted a glass of the medium-bodied Director\u2019s Cut Cinema<\/a>. Wine might be flowing at the property\u2019s pool, but things don\u2019t get too rowdy, which is a non-negotiable for the team. \u201cWe follow all state and local guidelines and all of our guest-facing staff are state certified in CA ABC beverage control regulations to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone at the winery,\u201d Luchini adds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Francis

Courtesy of Francis Ford Coppola Winery<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Enjoying winery via pool<\/a> is on the rise, but why? They might seem like a novelty\u2014and let\u2019s be honest, it is<\/em> a novelty\u2014but it feels more aligned with how people actually consume wine. Sure, it\u2019s certainly informative to analyze all the aromas and nuances with a wine educator. And, if you are a very serious wine drinker, that still might be the preferred way to taste. However, most people enjoy wine in a more natural setting. With people you love. Doing something fun<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In that setting, sussing out your favorite wines<\/a> can be rather simple: Do you like the wine? And, will it conjure up wonderful memories the next time you pop open a bottle?\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Francis Ford Coppola Winery\u2019s pool might be the most popular watering hole, but it\u2019s not the only one. In Southern California, Bottaia Winery<\/a> Winery in Temecula <\/a>offers a similar poolside experience<\/a>: Guests can purchase a day pass for $40 per person, meanwhile a five-person cabana will set non-members back $250 per day. And, if you ask Luchini, there will hopefully be even more<\/em> pool wineries to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe idea of pool and park came from the creative dreams of Francis himself and so we can only hope that one day there might be other dreamers who create a place as unique,\u201d he says. \u201cThe focus of the pool has always been to create a destination where families, from every generation, could come and spend the day to enjoy their time together.\u201d<\/p>\n","post_title":"The Best Way to Enjoy Wine This Summer? At a Vineyard's Pool","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"francis-ford-coppola-winery-pool","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-07-29 17:16:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-07-30 00:16:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.sunset.com\/?p=192320","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"stories_row_1_bottom":[{"ID":189445,"post_author":"98","post_date":"2025-07-10 03:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-07-10 10:00:00","post_content":"\n

Wine is more than a tasty beverage you order at a restaurant<\/a> or pair with seafood<\/a>. If you ask us, a great vino is essentially geography in a bottle: Factors like soil, elevation, and climate all work together to create the terroir, or the environment that the wine is grown in and which ultimately inform its notes and aromas. It\u2019s these small details that are why Pinot Noir from Oregon\u2019s Willamette Valley<\/a> tastes different from the same varietal grown in California\u2019s Russian River Valley. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Napa<\/a> and Sonoma<\/a> might be the go-to places to sip on the West Coast, but if you want to expand your palate, you might want to make the trek to an underrated wine region. Not only can you better understand all the nuances of your go-to grape, but you can also use this as an opportunity to check out some stunning, multi-sensory tasting rooms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But where to? With so many wineries to peruse, planning a cheersworthy itinerary might be easier said than done. To help, we\u2019ve found five lesser-known regions to consider\u2014plus wonderful wineries to check out while you\u2019re there.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Philo, California<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"

Navarro Vineyards & Winery<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re a regular in Napa or Sonoma Valley, keep driving all the way up to Anderson Valley. It\u2019s just under 100 miles north of Sonoma\u2014so it\u2019ll take you some time to get there\u2014but it\u2019s well worth the schlep. Here, a cool coastal climate and diverse soils are particularly good for sparkling wine as well as white varietals like Riesling, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Similar to Napa and Sonoma, the valley is packed with smaller towns, but Philo is dotted with some truly terrific tasting rooms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Taste:<\/strong> There\u2019s no shortage of wine at Navarro Vineyard & Winery<\/a>, the oldest original-family-owned vineyard in Anderson Valley. When husband-wife duo Ted and Deborah Bennett opened the property in 1973, they wanted to re-create the delicious wines they loved from Alsace, France, in California. Now? Navarro is rife with Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and more. Pro tip: Order a glass of the Gew\u00fcrztraminer,<\/a> which has a delightful, floral taste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Carmel, California<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Folktale

Folktale Winery & Vineyard<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Carmel<\/a> might be known for its robust marine life and champion-worthy golf course, but don\u2019t discount its wine scene. Located about 120 miles south of San Francisco<\/a>, this coastal area\u2019s mineral-rich soil delivers flavorful, full-bodied wines. Since Carmel is so close to the water, this cooler climate is an excellent match for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Taste:<\/strong> With a bounty of different wine types\u2014classics like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as well as blends, sparkling, and an aromatic Syrah\u2014Folktale Winery & Vineyards<\/a> has something to intrigue virtually every oenophile. You might come to Folktale for its variety, but it has so much more to offer. Nestled on 15 acres of sustainably farmed grounds and pristine gardens, the property has an idyllic, storybook feel from the moment you arrive. A stylish sip, if you will.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Paso Robles, California<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"DAOU

DAOU Vineyards<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

As the saying goes, variety is the spice of life\u2014which is why you\u2019ll want to beeline it to Paso Robles<\/a>. Sandwiched between San Francisco and Los Angeles, and about 14 miles from the Pacific Ocean\u2019s coastline, this new-to-many area is blessed with a bunch of microclimates. Not only is it possible to grow a handful of varietals like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, but the ocean breeze cools down the area\u2014and helps preserve the grapes\u2019 acidity in the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Taste:<\/strong> Perched on top of its eponymous mountain, DAOU Vineyards<\/a> is arguably the crown jewel of the area. First-timers can enjoy a tour of the grounds or sip directly from a barrel, while a proper tasting will give you access to beloved varietals like Chemin de Fleurs<\/a> or its marquee Soul of a Lion<\/a>. Hungry? Chef Spencer Johnson has a seasonal culinary program, which often features duck confit and pan-seared scallops.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moab, Utah<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Spanish

Spanish Valley Vineyard & Winery<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

We know what you\u2019re thinking: Utah<\/a>? Really<\/em>? Unlike many other regions on this list, the landlocked state isn\u2019t blessed with a coastal breeze. However, its higher elevation and volcanic soil creates some dynamic and slightly herbaceous vino. Plus, the high desert climate lays a delicious foundation for Tempranillo or Albari\u00f1o.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Taste:<\/strong> After a long day hiking at Canyonlands or Arches National Park, treat yourself to a tasting at Spanish Valley Vineyard & Winery<\/a>. Located a few miles from both outdoorsy sites, this tasting room offers small-batch varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and dry Riesling. Feeling adventurous? Grab a bottle of the winery\u2019s cherry wine. While Spanish Valley is open every day from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., go later in the day. That way, you can enjoy the sunset\u2014and, if you\u2019re lucky, live music\u2014with a glass of wine in hand.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cornville, Arizona<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Page

Page Spring Cellars<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Believe it or not, Arizona is yet another desert location that is a wine lover\u2019s diamond in the rough. Here, volcanic soil and higher elevation work together to serve up effortlessly earthy pours. It\u2019s also worth noting that the desert climate\u2014hot in the day, cold at nights\u2014helps the grapes retain their acidity. (Fun fact: That dramatic temperature change is very similar to Argentina\u2019s Mendoza wine region.)  While Cornville isn\u2019t exactly a household wine region, it has a bunch of revered wineries in case you want to indulge in a few tastings!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Where to Taste: <\/strong>Tucked along a shaded creek in Arizona\u2019s high desert, Page Springs Cellars\u2019s<\/a> sustainably minded winery offers a uniquely immersive experience. On occasion, this property does source grapes from New Mexico and California; however, most of the fruit is grown in three estate vineyards right in Arizona. Page Springs Cellars trades in the Pinots and Chardonnays for a roster of less well known varietals: Expect some yummy blends made with Barbera, Mourv\u00e8dre, and Grenache, among others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While you\u2019re there, enjoy an estate tour, guided wine tastings<\/a>, or curated lunch and dinner menu. For a more relaxed setup, picnic-friendly provisions are also available, offering a snack and sip set against a backdrop of vineyard views and creekside desert beauty.<\/p>\n","post_title":"These Under-the-Radar Wine Regions Deserve a Visit","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"underrated-wine-regions","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-07-10 15:44:19","post_modified_gmt":"2025-07-10 22:44:19","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.sunset.com\/?p=189445","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":184736,"post_author":"97","post_date":"2025-03-21 03:00:00","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-21 10:00:00","post_content":"\n

Paso Robles, long overshadowed by its famous northern neighbors, is having a serious moment\u2014and it\u2019s about time. Tucked between rolling golden hills and sun-soaked vineyards, this Central Coast gem is one of the most exciting (and still surprisingly under-the-radar) wine destinations<\/a> in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With innovative winemakers shaking up the industry with boundary-pushing natural wines, an up-and-coming food scene, new boutique hotels, and a blossoming arts community, it's a region that's both elevated and refreshingly unpretentious. Whether you're a die-hard oenophile<\/a> or just looking for the perfect weekend getaway, Paso Robles is where you want to be. Here's where to visit on your next trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Booker

Photo courtesy of Booker<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Where to Eat<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As it tends to be with wine country, there's no shortage of great food in this little town. A classic staple on the circuit is Les Petites Canailles<\/a>, where you'll find Chef Julien Asseo\u2014who has worked for the likes of Guy Savoy and Jo\u00ebl Robuchon\u2014cooking takes on classic French bistro fare. At Hatch<\/a>, you'll definitely want to opt in for their iconic rotisserie chicken. Pull up to Jeffry's Wine Country BBQ<\/a> for some brisket or pulled pork, then bring your tray next door to Indigen\u00e9 Cellars<\/a><\/strong> where they'll pour splashes of their award-winning wines to pair with them. As far as breakfast goes, it's tough to beat Twisted & Glazed,<\/a> where they make their donuts fresh every morning (and have a killer breakfast burrito to boot). If you're a fan of kitschy Polynesian cocktails, you'll want to stop into Cane Tiki Room<\/a>. And be sure to check out newcomers to the scene Parchetto<\/a> and S'Aranella,<\/a> also located in the center of town, making sure to stop into Brown Butter Cookie Company<\/a> for gifts to take home (or to nosh on your drive back).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Crystal

Courtesy of Tank Garage<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Where to Taste <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The defiant surfy vibes of Tank Garage<\/a> are an embodiment of the next generation of California winemakers, and their Paso Robles filling station is a great place to get a taste of their one-off experimental offerings. Think limited edition drops of Cab Sauv made via \"cosmic fermentation<\/a>\" or steely Riesling<\/a> inspired by a Jamaican dance hall. Similarly modern is Booker<\/a>, whose wines are reflected in their stunning California-style open floor plan<\/a> tasting room that opens up to the\u00a0Paso<\/a>\u00a0vineyards. For a one-stop-shop, go walkabout at Tin City<\/a> and explore works by local by artisans, distillers, and brewers. Or for a more traditional experience, visit the estate at Daou<\/a> or Austin Hope<\/a> for stellar Cabs. Epoch<\/a> is another great option that'll help you get a sense of the style in the area, as is L\u2019Aventure<\/a>. If you want to get a broad scope of what Paso is all about without going too far, do a tasting at Serial Wines<\/a>, a super stylish tasting room located right in the center of Downtown that also offers tapas and bites to keep you sated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"mw_piccolo_moet_v1.jpg\"

Photo courtesy of The Piccolo<\/p><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Where to Stay <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We\u2019re huge fans<\/a> of Nomada Hotel Group<\/a>\u2018s properties, and the two new Paso Robles haunts from owner Kimberly Walker are no exception. The River Lodge Motel<\/a>, located just off Highway 101, and the Farmhouse Motel<\/a> in downtown Paso were both renovated by Walker, each drawing in ultra-hip young travelers with their distinct designs and well-curated spaces. Guests at both properties have access to the River Lodge's pool, which is the ideal spot to kick back with a spritz after a day of tasting. The Piccolo<\/a> is another fantastic option, offering the only rooftop bar in downtown Paso and a Moet champagne vending machine in the lobby, all within stumbling distance of several wineries, restaurants, distilleries, and shopping of downtown.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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