Southern California

Southern California

Newport Beach Vineyards & Winery

Painting by Agata Zaborowski woman enjoying wine

Founded in 1998, Newport Beach Vineyards & Winery is one of the Best-Kept Secret destinations in Orange County, California. Newport Beach Vineyards & Winery is the first within the appellation to revitalize the tradition of making wine, well established in Anaheim at the turn of the nineteenth century. While not open to the public as a tasting room, Newport Beach Vineyards & Winer is open for private events and tastings by appointment only. *

Painting by Agata Zaborowski woman enjoying wine

Moraga Vineyards

people sharing wine

Moraga Vineyards, nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains within the prestigious Bel Air neighborhood of Los Angeles, is one of California's most unique wine estates. Perched at 550-900 feet of elevation, the vineyard benefits from a distinctive terroir that shapes its refined wines. The property, owned by Rupert Murdoch, has a rich history and a commitment to excellence.

Winemaking in the Los Angeles Basin dates back centuries, with wild grapes growing in the region since the 1700s. Moraga’s estate honors this history, and its wine label features wild roses, which still bloom on the property today. Originally owned by Victor Fleming, famed director of Gone with the Wind and The Wizard of Oz, the land was transformed into a horse ranch in the 1930s. In 1959, Tom and Ruth Jones purchased the property, and by 1980, they had planted grapevines inspired by their love of Bordeaux. Despite early setbacks from Pierce’s disease, they eventually replanted the vineyard with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, establishing Moraga as a serious contender in California winemaking.

The estate’s first commercial vintage was released in 1989, with winemakers such as Bruno D’Alfonso and Tony Soter contributing to its success. A state-of-the-art winery was completed on-site in 2005, cementing Moraga’s status as one of the first bonded commercial wineries in Los Angeles since Prohibition.

In 2021, winemaker Paul Warson joined Moraga, bringing extensive experience from Napa Valley, Australia, and Santa Ynez. Warson’s expertise in estate vineyards ensures that Moraga continues to produce wines of exceptional quality, staying true to the legacy established by the Joneses and carried forward by Murdoch. Alongside his work at Moraga, Paul also crafts his own wines under the Warson Wine Company label, drawing from the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Angeles County.

Painting by Agata Zaborowski

Mandeville Vineyards

Painting by Agata Zaborowski women enjoying wine

Larry Gilman, the hands-on owner and farmer of Mandeville Vineyards. His vineyard vision was born while navigating the challenging hills behind his house—an adventure that was almost impossible but undeniably inspiring!

Larry is not just a passionate vintner; he’s also an accomplished actor and director, having won awards for his direction of The Zoo Story featuring Woody Harrelson. His impressive resume includes performances and direction in New York, Los Angeles, and even on Broadway, alongside Off-Broadway productions, regional theater, television, and film.

In addition to his artistic talents, Larry leads workshops on self-expression, creativity, leadership, and out-of-the-box thinking. He helps others discover their authentic selves and refine their messaging for the media, all while sharing best practices for delivering impactful presentations.

With a zest for life, Larry is all about living fully rather than just observing. Though there are no guarantees of success in following his passion, he is committed to crafting the best wines possible by nurturing the finest grapes that the climate and soil can provide.

Join Larry on this exciting journey at Mandeville Vineyards, where he invites wine lovers to share in the experience of making exceptional wine.

John Alan Winery

 wine splashing in the glass - Pixabay

The Fords are renowned for their passion for family, friends, travel, and, of course, wine. John and his wife, Kimiko, have journeyed extensively throughout California, often favoring cozy bed-and-breakfast inns as they explore the local wine scene. With a degree in geology, John’s fascination with science and soil laid the groundwork for his deep interest in the history and technology of winemaking. As their appreciation for wine blossomed, John and Kimiko shared their enthusiasm with family and friends, who became regular companions on wine excursions to Northern and Central California.

By the early 1980s, John and Kimiko began dreaming of creating their own estate winery destination, complete with an elegant Tuscan-style bed-and-breakfast inn. This vision soon attracted the involvement of John’s brothers, Steve and Lance, who also embraced the dream. Captivated by the stunning landscapes of the Central Coast, the brothers were drawn to the rapidly growing wine region.

In 1999, the Ford brothers took a significant step by purchasing a 24-acre parcel of land in Templeton, California, which would become Moss Lane Estates and John Alan Winery. This picturesque property now features an 11-acre vineyard and a beautiful cut flower garden, providing a serene setting for wine lovers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich viticultural heritage of the area.

For those exploring California’s wineries, John Alan Winery offers a unique experience that reflects the Fords’ love of wine, family, and the enchanting landscapes of the Central Coast.

Antelope Valley Winery

Logo for winery, Anteope among grape vines

Join Antelope Valley Winery/Donato Family Vineyard for tasting, tours, shopping, and vineyard picnics Wed. through Sun., 11AM to 6PM. The winery also sell Grass Fed Buffalo and a large variety of game and exotic meats, like Venison, Pheasant, Wild Boar & Alligator to name just a few! Antelope Valley Winery produces a wide variety of wines to please every palate. *

Hours:

Weds-    11:00 to 6:00pm
Thurs-   11:00 to 6:00pm
Fri-        11:00 to 6:00pm
Sat-        11:00 to 6:00pm
Sun-       11:00 to 6:00pm

The Blending Lab Winery

Painting by Agata Zaborowski woman enjoying wine

Try a unique experience. The Blending Lab Winery is an off-winery tasting room in the heart of Los Angles, near the original Farmer's Market. While this little winery sources wine-grapes from around California they make sure the wine is being made right there in Los Angles. Have you ever wanted to try your hand at wine blending? The Blending Lab Winery offer classes in Wine Blending so that you can create your very own blend.*

Hours:
Mon      closed (private events only)
Tues     closed
Wed      5:00pm to 9:00pm
Thur     5:00pm to 9:00pm
Fri        5:00pm to 9:00pm
Sat       2:00pm to 9:00pm
Sun      2:00pm to 9:00pm

 

Painting by Agata Zaborowski woman enjoying wine

Boccali Vineyards & Winery

people drinking wine

DeWayne and Marilyn Boccali have been the heart and soul behind Boccali's Pizza & Pasta, a beloved home-style Italian restaurant in the picturesque Ojai Valley, for over three decades. Renowned for its traditional Italian dishes with a local twist, the restaurant uses farm-fresh produce sourced from their very own Boccali Ranch in Upper Ojai Valley. The rich, fertile soil combined with DeWayne's impressive five decades of farming experience results in a bounty of flavorful fruits and vegetables that give their menu a unique edge. DeWayne also serves as co-winemaker and vineyard manager for the family winery.

Joining him in this venture is his partner and fellow winemaker, Joe Boccali, who also happens to be a musician and educator in Ventura County. Raised in the farming tradition, Joe has been involved in developing the land that is now home to Boccali Vineyards since he was a child. As co-winemaker and cellar master, he continues to deepen his winemaking knowledge and skills.

In 2004, the Boccali family planted their first rows of vines where their Christmas tree farm and seasonal pumpkin patch once thrived. By 2006, they harvested their first crop, which was used to create a small batch of wine exclusively for family enjoyment. The following year marked a milestone with the production of their inaugural vintages: Topa Topa Syrah, Old Winery Zinfandel, and Shangri-La Grenache Blanc, all offered to the public for the first time. Each subsequent year saw the planting of new vineyard sections, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Viognier.

Today, Boccali Vineyards spans approximately 5 acres and produces between 1,500 and 2,500 cases of wine, depending on the whims of the growing season. For wine enthusiasts visiting the Ojai Valley, Boccali's Winery offers a delightful experience steeped in family tradition, local flavors, and the passion of two dedicated winemakers.

Read our guide to Ojai wineries                                                                                                                                                                       

Back Patio Cellars

Artwork by Wine Artist Agata Zaborowski – Agata Art Gallery   Gallery | Agata Art Gallery

Back Patio Cellars got it's start on the patio. It was a lot of work to process those first grapes into wine. This husband and wife team are passionate about wine. Starting out as a hobby it was soon a matter of "Go Big or Go Home." Fank and Jen believe that wine always tastes better when you are with friends and family, so you will feel the relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere at Back Patio Cellars

Hours:

Fri         4:00pm to 7:00pm      Or By Appointment
Sat        1:00pm to 7:00pm
Sun       1:00pm to 5:00pm

    

Castelli & Pizarro Family Winery

Painting by Agata Zaborowski - People sharing wine

Castelli & Pizarro Family Winery: A Legacy Rooted in Tradition

The journey of Castelli & Pizarro Family Winery began in 1995, when Emilio Castelli moved from his beloved Lake Como in Italy to the picturesque landscape of Sonoma County. With him, he brought not only a passion for winemaking but a deep family tradition that had shaped his life for generations.

For Emilio, wine has always been more than just a drink—it’s a part of life. Growing up in Italy, his childhood was filled with vibrant family dinners, where his father and uncles would passionately debate over the wines on the table. As more bottles were uncorked, the discussions grew livelier, filling the room with laughter and memories that stayed with him long after the evening was over.

But the family’s connection to wine goes back even further. During World War II, Emilio’s grandfather’s villa in Como was ransacked, yet the family managed to save a precious collection of wines from Piemonte, Valtellina, and Burgundy—some even crafted by Emilio’s grandfather himself. These bottles, stashed away in their new home, became treasured family heirlooms, and over the years, the men in the family would ceremoniously open them, sparking guessing games about the wine’s origin and how well it had aged.

It’s those early moments—filled with mystery, joy, and tradition—that inspired Emilio’s passion for winemaking. Today, with the Castelli & Pizarro Family Winery firmly rooted in Sonoma County, he and his family are dedicated to crafting wines that capture the essence of this beautiful region. Each bottle is a reflection of their commitment to the land and the shared memories that inspire their work.

Nebbiolo: The Wine of Kings

At Castelli & Pizarro Family Winery, Nebbiolo takes center stage. Though not commonly grown in California, this noble grape thrives in the Russian River Valley’s Green Valley AVA. Native to Northern Italy, Nebbiolo is the grape behind the famous Barolo and Barbaresco wines, known for their elegance and complexity. The grape’s name, "nebbia" (Italian for fog), speaks to the misty climate of its homeland, which mirrors the conditions in Sonoma County.

Growing Nebbiolo is no simple feat. It’s an early budder and a late ripener, making it susceptible to frost and requiring close attention to the vineyard’s microclimates. But the effort pays off with a wine that’s light in color yet rich in character. Nebbiolo’s intense aromas, balanced by firm tannins and acidity, make it a perfect choice for aging and an excellent companion for meals. It pairs beautifully with classic Northern Italian dishes like mushroom risotto, braised meats, polenta, and aged cheeses.

At Castelli & Pizarro Family Winery, every bottle of Nebbiolo tells a story—a story of tradition, family, and the timeless connection between the land and the people who nurture it. With each sip, wine lovers are invited to share in the passion and history that define the Castelli family’s winemaking journey.

Sagebrush Annies

cluster of wine grapes

Sagebrush Annie's is more than a glass of wine; it's an experience. A true journey resulting from a leisurely day's drive exploring the beautiful countryside, away from the crowded city's traffic and smog. Located west of where the Southern San Joaquin Valley merges with Southern California, this beautiful and quiet destination delivers all you would ever expect for a weekend of superb wine tasting.  The winery is located in the southeastern corner of the Cuyama Valley, giving beautiful nightly views of the incredible Cuyama sunsets to the west as the sun dips below the Sierra Madre mountains.

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