You don’t have to go to France to find great wine. California’s Central Coast offers spectacular views, cool, breezy weather, and excellent wineries. Many of the wineries are open to the public for tours, events and wine tastings, so be sure to stop by and have a sip next time you’re visiting central California.

Alban Vineyards

8575 Orcutt Road, Arroyo Grande, CA

(805) 546-0305

This vineyard was created specifically for Rhone varieties, including Viognier, Roussanne, Syrah, and Grenache. It is the first in California to produce Rhones. Call for tours and tastings.

Baileyana

5880 Edna Road, San Luis Obispo, CA

(805) 544-9080

Stop by for a complementary tasting from 10am - 5pm any day of the week. This winery specializes in Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah. Be sure to try the 1996 Edna Valley Chardonnay.

Claiborne & Churchill

2649 Carpenter Canyon Road, San Luis Obispo, CA

(805) 544-4066

The tasting room is open from 11m to 5pm daily. This winery specializes in premium dry wines made from Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris grapes, as well as handcrafted Pinot Noir from several nearby vineyards. They also produce small lots of other wines.

Domaine Alfred

7525 Orcutt Road, San Luis Obispo, CA

(805) 764-0615

This winery produces award winning estate bottled wines including Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Other new and recently introduced varieties are being added. The tasting room is open 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm.

Corbett Canyon Vineyards

2195 Corbett Canyon Road, Arroyo Grande, CA

(805) 544-5880

Probably the most recognizable name in Edna Valley wines, this award winning winery produces Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, White Zinfandel, Shiraz, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sauvignon Blanc. At this time there is no tasting room, but I suggest calling them to see if tours or tastings are being offered.