One of the best ways to end a weekend is to sit and take in the serenity around you as the sun melts into the horizon, sipping a buttery chardonnay or subtle pinot noir. The only thing that would make this vignette even more perfect is if you were watching the sun set amongst the gorgeous backdrop that is the California landscape. This month we look at the luxe world of California wines and suggest a visit to the iconic state to experience it firsthand- what a perfect way to ‘wine down’ the summer season!

Most certainly, a stay in Napa Valley is the first thing on the agenda. After arriving in San Francisco, your driver will whisk you away to your enchanting accommodations in the renowned region as you get ready to begin your tasting tour of one of the world’s most revered wine areas. A true wine lover’s paradise, a tour through Northern California wine country will delight new-to-wine drinkers as well as wine tasting aficionados. Be sure to make stops at beloved wineries as well as some that are further off the beaten path. Take the time to talk to winemakers- learn more about your favorite wines and the time and passion that goes into creating them. For a truly unique experience taste wines directly from the cask or visit a cave where the wine is aged. We think it will help you appreciate it that much more.

Once your time in Napa Valley is complete, begin your trip down the California coast, stopping of course for iconic photos along the way- as nature provides you with the greatest backdrop. Enjoy your drive down the famous 12-mile road through Pebble Beach, arriving at Carmel Valley. Set out and explore the charming European-style town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. As you wander the streets, be sure to take in the local culinary delights and perfect wine pairings in this unique town, where the houses have no street addresses and Clint Eastwood was once the mayor. While it will feel as if time has stood still and spending your days wrapped up in this picturesque location sounds like a game plan, there is still more to enjoy during your time in California.

Your final destination as you experience all things breathtaking is a visit to Santa Barbara. Get fitted for a bicycle which will allow you to take a leisurely ride through the rolling countryside as you take in the vineyards which surround you. In between sips of wine, be sure to visit Los Olivos for an olive oil tasting and then let your senses take you away as you immerse yourself in the visually stunning and olfactory pleasing lavender fields. Here you can learn about the process of pressing lavender into an oil. At the end of it all, fuel up with a farm-to-table picnic lunch with even more superb wine pairings. Spend your late afternoon exploring the shops and boutiques of Santa Barbara as you wrap up your wine tour of California.

Take your wine tasting experience to the next level with a luxury tour of California’s iconic wine regions. Our passion, partnerships and years of experience combine to ensure your vacation is perfectly curated for your tastes and interests! Visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/UniqueTrav or give us a call at 561.495.5775 and get inspired by your next unforgettable vacation!