California Wine Clubs
Briar Rose
Located at 41720 Calle Cabrillo, Temecula, CA 92592, Briar Rose Winery is a family-owned boutique wine estate that blends artisan winemaking with a whimsical, story-book setting. Setting & Ambience Tucked away in the gently rolling foothills of the Temecula Valley wine region, this winery offers a tranquil retreat from the more crowded wine trails. Islands+1 You’ll find charm at every turn: a life-size replica of a fairy-tale cottage (built by a designer who once worked on Disneyland), stone pathways, garden gnomes under one of the oldest olive trees in Southern California, and plenty of photo-worthy spots. Islands+1 Everything here is designed for a relaxed, personal experience: seated tastings by reservation, small production lots, and an intimate feel rather than a large “tourist” crowd. Winemaking & Wines Briar Rose produces small-lot, handcrafted artisan wines with an emphasis on quality and character. Their current annual production is around 2,400 to 3,500 cases. Key varietals include: • Reds: Signature cabernet sauvignon and zinfandel, along with Petit Verdot, cabernet franc, super-Tuscan blends and Sangiovese. • Whites: Viognier and gewürztraminer are featured stars, as well as Riesling, Fumé blanc and chardonnay. • Unique/fun offerings: For example, a blend called “Citronier” (viognier with Meyer-lemon zest) and “Talking Frog,” a hybrid of viognier and hefeweizen lager. Notably, their wines are vegan-friendly (i.e., produced without animal-derived fining agents). Visitor Experience • Tastings are by reservation only, ensuring each visit is relaxed and personalized. • Open typical hours: Thursday to Sunday (varies by season). Last tasting seating often around 4 p.m. • Charcuterie and gourmet deli snacks are available for purchase to complement the wines. • The estate is also used for special events, luxury picnics, and weddings, thanks to its story-book gardens and charming architecture. Why Visit? • Ambience: Unlike typical large wineries, Briar Rose has a tucked-away, magical feel — perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a quieter wine experience. • Craftsmanship: The focus on small production, hand-racked wines and a variety of interesting styles makes it appealing for serious wine lovers. • Uniqueness: From the fairy-tale cottage to the ancient olive tree and whimsical garden decor, the setting adds something special beyond the wine. • Less crowded: Being off the main drag of the Temecula wine routes means fewer crowds and a more relaxed pace. (Note: still make a reservation!) A Few Tips • Make a reservation ahead of your visit to ensure seating and service. • Allow about 45-60 minutes for your tasting to savor the wine and the setting. • Bring a camera — the grounds and setting are very photogenic. • Since it’s more intimate and less “walk-in” than big wineries, arrive on time and be ready for a personalized experience. • For special occasions (picnics, proposals, weddings) ask about their “Luxury Picnic Experience” for an elevated visit.
Danza Del Sol
Location & Setting Danza del Sol Winery is located at 39050 De Portola Road, Temecula, California 92592. Set on a 40-acre estate along the De Portola Wine Trail in the heart of the Temecula Valley wine region, the property combines rustic charm with vineyard vistas. History & Ownership • The vineyards were originally planted with Zinfandel and Sauvignon Blanc back in 1972, making the Sauvignon Blanc vines among the oldest in the region. • The winery carries forward the tradition of the property under the name “Danza del Sol”, and produces wines exclusively direct to customers via its tasting room or online. • It is owned by Ken & Tina Smith (part of the Kentina Hospitality Group) in more recent years. Wines & Viticulture Danza del Sol focuses on Mediterranean-style wines that reflect the warm climate and character of Temecula. Their vineyards are planted with varietals including (but not limited to): Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer and Viognier. Production is around 10,000 cases annually. Visitor Experience • The tasting room is open daily from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last call around 5:45 PM). • Standard tastings are available walk-in (with fees listed online). • The vineyard patio is a great spot to relax with a glass, enjoy the views, and unwind. • For groups or special experiences, they offer vineyard tours and unique options like a UTV vineyard tour to explore the estate. • The estate is used for events and weddings as well, offering ceremony and reception spaces amid the vines. Why Visit • The combination of scenic vineyard setting + relaxed tasting experience makes it a strong choice for both casual visitors and wine lovers. • It offers Mediterranean-style varietals which are somewhat less common in some wine regions, adding variety to the tasting trail. • The somewhat off-main-road location along the De Portola trail gives a bit more of a “vineyard escape” feel compared to busier tourist-spots. Good to Know / Tips • While walk-ins are okay, if you plan on a group tour or special experience (UTV, etc.) it’s wise to reserve ahead. • While the patio and outdoor spaces are lovely, arrive earlier in the day (e.g., around opening) for best seating and views, especially on weekends. • If you’re touring multiple wineries, note its location on the De Portola Wine Trail region — you might pair it with other nearby estates for a full afternoon. Temecula Wines • For events (weddings, etc.) ask about venue specifics (capacity, catering, etc.) since the estate doubles as an event space. • Check for food‐truck schedules or light snacks, since some weekends may have onsite vendors.
Chronic Cellars
Location & Atmosphere Chronic Cellars is located at 2020 Nacimiento Lake Drive, Paso Robles, California 93446. The tasting room opens daily roughly from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (last tasting around 3:45 p.m.) and they welcome walk-ins though reservations are encouraged. The vibe is relaxed, playful and decidedly less “stuffy vino country” and more “fun with wine”. They encourage you to kick back, enjoy the patio, bring your leashed pet (for patio/self-service) and take your time. Background & Philosophy Founded by brothers Jake Beckett and Josh Beckett (whose family is long-involved in Paso vineyard life), Chronic Cellars began around 2004-2007 with small lots and a “disruptive” label and brand identity: bold, graphic, irreverent and fun. Their goal has been to make serious wine but present it with personality, targeting visitors who might want something less traditional and more engaging. According to their brand overview: “killer quality wines with a consistent history of 90+ point accolades… bold, disruptive labels that command attention.” Wines & Winemaking Chronic Cellars focuses on creative, fruit-driven wines, many red blends, some bold varietals, and unique label identities. For example: • The 2021 Midnight Syrah: 100% Syrah from Paso Robles, with notes of dark chocolate, espresso, crushed berry and firm tannins; only 38 cases produced. • Their portfolio also includes sparkling, rosé, white Rhône-style blends, and a range of red blends. They source grapes from Paso Robles’ region, partner with local growers, and aim to deliver quality via approachable but still character-filled wines. Visitor Experience & Highlights • The tasting room interior features artwork, skate/surf culture artifacts, a pool table and lawn games, making it more entertainment-oriented than many traditional wineries. • Dogs are welcome on the patio (on leash) for certain self-service reservations. • Standard tasting fee is around $25 per person. • They have a picnic-style outdoor area, casual seating, and encourage you to stay a while — not just “come, taste, leave”. Why Visit? • If you’re looking for a wine experience in Paso Robles that’s less formal, more relaxed and full of character, Chronic Cellars is a strong pick. • Their wines are crafted with care but the setting is fun and low-pressure — ideal for small groups, friends, casual tastings or bringing a dog. • The label and brand have a distinctive visual identity, which makes for a memorable visit and photo-friendly moments. Good to Know & Tips • Reservations are a good idea, especially if you’re visiting with a group. They limit inside tastings to up to 6 guests. • Arrive by around opening or early afternoon to grab patio seating or take advantage of relaxed vibes. • If you have a pet with you and want them to join, ask specifically about patio/self-service options. • Since the brand is playful and the wine red-blend heavy, if your preference is very traditional—say very old-world style—you might ask for a tasting flight that highlights varietals you prefer. • They have limited production and some special bottlings, so if you find a neat bottle (like the Midnight Syrah), consider purchasing or asking about club membership for access to exclusive releases.
Grave Yard Vineyards
Location & Setting
Graveyard Vineyards is located at 6990 Estrella Road, San Miguel, California 93451 — in the rolling hills just east of Paso Robles.
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the historic Pleasant Valley Cemetery (established in the 1860s) and the surrounding vineyard-land, this winery enjoys a scenic and slightly dramatic vantage in the wine country of the Central Coast.
History & Name
Founded by Rob Campbell Taylor and Paula Campbell Taylor, the property was purchased in 2003 and the winery launched shortly thereafter. The unusual name “Graveyard” is a playful nod to the adjacent cemetery and an acknowledgement of the property’s history — the founders decided to embrace it instead of hiding from it.
Viticulture & Wines
Graveyard Vineyards cultivates vines on the steep slopes of the estate, working with low yields and careful hand viticulture to achieve quality and character. The varietals include Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel among others, reflecting the warm-dry summer and cool nights typical of the Paso Robles/Estrella region. Their wines have earned numerous accolades in wine competitions.
Visitor Experience
• The tasting room offers both indoor and outdoor seating; visitors can enjoy sweeping vineyard views and a relaxed ambiance on the patio.
• Walk-ins are welcome for smaller parties, and reservations are advised for groups or special events.
• The winery is known for its fun, somewhat spooky branding — names like “Tombstone Red,” “Dark Phantom,” and “SCREAM” (which reportedly glows in the dark) reflect the playful side of the winery.
Why Visit?
• If you’re exploring Paso Robles wine country and want a stop that blends serious wine with memorable character and setting, Graveyard Vineyards offers that balance.
• The hilltop location gives you great vistas, especially later in the afternoon as the light softens.
• For wine lovers who appreciate boutique production, careful viticulture and distinct branding, this winery stands out.
Good to Know / Tips
• Since the location is a bit off the main drag (Estrella Road), plan your drive accordingly and maybe pair your visit with other nearby wineries on the Pleasant Valley/Estrella trail.
• Visit later in the day if you want nice lighting for views/photos, but ensure you’re inside before they close.
• Ask about their wine club or special bottlings if you’re into collecting or getting access to limited-release wines.
• Don’t miss the fun décor and branding for photo opportunities — the contrast of the serious wines and playful theme is part of the charm.
• If you’re sensitive to branding or prefer a more purely traditional wine-estate ambiance, you may want to ask for a guided tasting to focus on the viticulture and tasting notes rather than just the gimmick.
Austin Hope Family Vineyard
Location & Setting
The Austin Hope & Treana Tasting Cellar is located at 1585 Live Oak Road, Paso Robles, California 93446.
It sits in the heart of the famed Templeton Gap District on the west side of the Paso Robles AVA wine region, benefiting from cooling marine breezes and a terrain of calcareous soils and well-drained loam.
History & Legacy
The winery is part of the Hope Family Wines portfolio—a family-run enterprise that has been cultivating grapes in Paso Robles since 1978.
Under the leadership of owner-winemaker Austin Hope, the “Austin Hope” label launched in 2000 and has become the flag-ship brand, showcasing the highest tier of the family’s vineyard-sourced wines.
Winemaking Philosophy & Wines
The guiding ambition of Austin Hope is to craft wines that “express everything Paso Robles has to offer — its pastoral beauty, perfect soils, maritime climate and limitless possibility.”
Key features of their winemaking and vineyard practices include:
• A focus on Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style varietals (as well as Rhô¬ne-style) that reflect the region’s strengths.
• Estate vineyards plus strategic sourcing from long-term grower partnerships—over 50 growers across the Central Coast region.
• Sustainable vineyard practices: the estate vineyards are SIP (Sustainability In Practice) certified; steps such as minimal tractor passes, limited spraying, and habitat conservation are emphasized.
• The wines are known for
, generous fruit, but also a sense of place and balance—reflecting Paso Robles’ warm days, cool nights and soil profiles.
Visitor Experience
At the tasting cellar you’ll find a welcoming environment with both indoor lounges and outdoor cabanas overlooking the estate vineyards.
They offer seated tastings (often by reservation) that include selections of the Austin Hope label, plus exclusive releases only available at the cellar or via their website.
The setting allows you to enjoy not just tasting wines but absorbing the vineyard landscape and the family-story behind the wines.
Why Visit?
• If you're visiting Paso Robles and want a premium, mission-driven wine experience anchored in quality and terroir, Austin Hope is a standout.
• The combination of well-planted vineyards, strong winemaking pedigree, and a visitor-friendly modern tasting room makes it accessible but elevated.
• It’s a great chance to taste some of Paso Robles’ best-known Cabernet Sauvignon as well as explore Rhône and Bordeaux varietals that show the region’s diversity.
Tips & Notes
• Reservations are recommended for their seated tastings—especially if you want access to the more exclusive wines.
• Plan to give yourself some time: the outdoor view and the estate feel are part of the experience.
• If your preference is for ultra-light, old-world style wines, ask for their lighter-handed offerings—Austin Hope wines tend toward bold and rich.
• Since this is a higher tier winery, expect the flights and bottles to lean premium relative to some more modest operations in the area.
Au Bon Climat
Location & Setting Au Bon Climat (ABC) is located in downtown Santa Barbara, California — their public tasting room sits at 813 Anacapa Street, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93101. While the tasting room is in Santa Barbara city, the vineyards and production are primarily in the cooler-coast portions of the Central Coast (notably the Bien Nacido Vineyard in the Santa Maria Valley) which gives their wines distinct “cool-climate” characteristics. History & Philosophy Founded in 1982 by winemaker Jim Clendenen (with early partner Adam Tolmach) with the central aim of crafting Burgundian-styled wines (especially Chardonnay and Pinot Noir) from the Santa Barbara County region. The name Au Bon Climat is derived from French, roughly meaning “a well-exposed vineyard” or “good climate,” reflecting the belief in site and exposure being crucial. The winemaking ethos has remained remarkably consistent: hand-picked fruit, small lots, restrained use of new oak, emphasis on age-worthiness and terroir expression rather than power for power’s sake. Wines & Style • The core of their acclaimed portfolio: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, with additional varietals over time (e.g., Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris) in a Burgundian frame. • Their Pinot Noir is sourced across multiple top-vineyards (such as Bien Nacido, Rancho Real, Los Alamos) and ages in French oak (often approx. 10% new) for about 12 months. • Their Chardonnay similarly emphasizes brisk acidity, minerality, balanced oak, and aging potential. • These wines are often lauded for being more “Old World in spirit”—lower alcohol, less overt in oak, more focused on elegance and length. Visitor Experience • The Santa Barbara tasting room is open to the public: Monday through Friday from 12:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. • Tastings include current releases and a selection of library (aged) wines, which is a highlight for collectors and enthusiasts. • Staff are described as knowledgeable and welcoming, with a focus on educating about vineyard sources, winemaking approach and legacy. Why Visit / Why It Stands Out • Au Bon Climat is widely considered a benchmark producer for the Santa Barbara County region in terms of quality and consistency. • Their commitment to craft over trends makes their wines ideal for those who appreciate wines with finesse, site specificity, and longevity rather than simply high power. • The tasting room in downtown Santa Barbara offers access to both the wine and the story behind it (no need to traipse out to remote vineyard sites). • For wine collectors, the availability of library selections and older vintages at the venue adds value. Good to Know / Tips • Because the wines are popular and seeing high demand in some markets, it’s wise to book ahead if you want to explore library/rare flights. • The style is more restrained; if you prefer super-rich, heavily oaked California wines, you may find ABC’s wines more subtle — which is often the point. • Visit the tasting room earlier in the day to ensure access to the more rare pours and secure seating. • For pairing, their Chardonnays (with crisp acid and mineral profile) go nicely with seafood, creamy pasta dishes; their Pinots (with balanced fruit and earth) pair well with roasted poultry, mushroom-based dishes. For example, the tasting notes for 2022 Chardonnay mention flavors of citrus, stone fruit, and nods of clove and nutmeg.