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Picnic Perfect By gabrielle

July 27th, 2008

Just when you thought wine tasting amidst the quiet serenity and picturesque scenery of Santa Barbara wine country couldn’t get more perfect, take a detour into one of the tranquil hillsides within the heart of it all. Tucked between the quaint towns of Los Olivos and Santa Ynez, Bridlewood Winery is a site to be seen, with lush, rolling pastures which make way for tours via horse-drawn carriages, and seem to spill endlessly across the land. Tiny, serene ponds are seamlessly folded into the property and are complimented by delicately placed weeping willow trees throughout. It’s the absolute perfect setting for a picnic of any occasion, especially if you are lucky enough to snag a coveted table placed perfectly beneath a weeping willow tree with it’s leaves folding over the table and trickling into the pond (trust me… its worth the wait).

Before venturing over to Bridlewood, I would recommend scouting out the local market and gathering a loaf of bread, your favorite cheese and any other morsels you’d like to savor during your picnic, for as much as Bridlewood has to offer, they unfortunately do not serve food. Once you arrive, enjoy a few tastings inside the winery and select a bottle to enjoy outside. Offering seven blends of a syrah, Bridlewood should have the ideal, distinct wine that peaks your palate. As you sit underneath the weeping willow, sipping on your wine and enjoying the unbeatable ambiance… you’ll wish you never had to leave.

Tasca, Tapas and Wine…Oh My! By bearic

July 27th, 2008

In a town where quaint wine bars are far and few between, Los Angeles is home to my newest discovery Tasca. Upon entering, romantic candlelight enchants this cozy atmosphere with alluring pieces of art and sleek mahogony mirrors adorn the walls. It’s a place where swank meets charm in the same way that wine lovers and tapas-takers alike gather to soak in the inviting ambience with a well deserved glass of wine. Want to test before you drive? Order a taste before committing to the glass and make sure the distinct flavor you’re pining for is exactly what you’re getting. The wide array of tapas featuring plates from spanish tortillas to braised shortribs allows for the perfect wine pairing for your craving of the night. With Tasca’s array of wine offerings paired with intimate seating aligning the main bar as well as cozy tables nestled along the wall, there’s not a bad - or dry - seat in the house.

8108 W 3rd St
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 951-9890