Top California Wine Making Workshops

Cruise off the coast of Orange County in search of whales on this excursion from Newport Beach. Watch the rugged, beautiful scenery of the Pacific Coast glide by as you listen to interesting commentary from your crew about the native California marine life. Watch for blows and tail slaps; these signal that humpback, minke, grey, finback or giant blue whales are near. Dolphins and other marine life are also in abundance during this family-friendly, year-round whale watching tour.

Look for whales as they migrate through the waters of the Pacific Ocean off of California on this half-day whale-watching cruise from Monterey. Your naturalist guide shares commentary about the whales and their habitat as you search for gray whales (most common), humpback and blue whales, and other marine life such as dolphins and sea lions during your cruise. Get tips for great photo ops and learn all about the mighty creatures at one of California's most famous whale-watching destinations.

At Meadowcroft Wines, learn about the art and science of winemaking by blending and bottling your very own bottle of wine. We’ll start with a stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens of Cornerstone Sonoma and an idyllic vineyard for a firsthand look at the vines. As we walk the rows, We’ll share why the iconic Sonoma Valley is the perfect No previous wine experience is necessary - perfect for all levels of wine experience and interest.

Explore two popular San Francisco neighborhoods and visit craft beer locations on this walking tour of Fisherman's Wharf and North Beach, adjacent districts in the northeast end of the city. With a guide, you'll stop at three bars to taste and learn about California craft brews.

Enjoy a fun experience while you make candles and sip wine in a relaxing atmosphere. You’ll be provided with a candle kit and some instruction, and then you can just enjoy the experience, sipping wine and making new friends in this small group setting. You’ll be able to take home your candles so you can enjoy them at home, or give them away as gifts.

It's not often that you can visit a winery in the heart of a city! Berkeley has been home to what we call 'urban wineries' for almost 20 years. Although these producers don't own any vineyards of their own, they work directly with grape growers from all around northern California. It is important to note that I am very selective about my choice of wines and wineries. With thousands of wineries in the state, many small, fine wine oriented producers are overlooked by large scale industrial operations. I like to champion true artisans and support small businesses!

We carry unique wines from around the world with varietals you may have never heard of and from regions that have never encountered such as Mexico, Uruguay, or South Africa. All our wines are expertly curated, sustainably grown, and crafted in small production methods that are not only natural, but provide the best quality and health benefits.

After 10 years in Italy and a Master’s in Food Philosophy and Sustainability, I’ve come back to my hometown to delve into the food scene here. It is truly a pleasure and an honor to educate people about the best of what California can produce. My family began making olive oil 20 years ago on our home property. It has since grown to a full fledged business and our oils regularly win awards at domestic and international competitions. You will taste olive oil like the professionals do, learn the basics of cheese tasting, and sip some of my favorite Californian wines coming from small artisanal producers, many of whom I call friends. All while enjoying the beauty of our working farm nestled in Suisun Valley!

It is important to note that I am very selective about my choice of wines. With over 500 wineries in the valley, many small, fine wine oriented producers are overlooked by large scale industrial operations. We will taste some of Napa’s most heralded wineries (likely ones you’ve never heard of), as well as international wines. I like to champion true artisans and support small businesses!

This is a unique way to experience the wine culture in California. Over the three days, you will learn first hand from our vineyard manager and our winemaker. Your hands on experience will include a vineyard tour, harvesting grapes, a grape stomping competition, touring the winery where our winemaker educates and answers questions, a cooking class from our executive chef and finally a seminar on the craft of home winemaking. In true Paso Robles wine country tradition, the days are marked by unique dining experiences featuring gourmet food and award winning wine. Come disappear for bit on the vineyard with us!

Sip and savor white, red and rose varietals while a sommelier teaches you how to describe the different notes and flavor profiles of your tasting. Learn about the eight acres of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Viognier and Albariño that were recently planted on the property. Discover the different types of fruit trees that grow on site and the types of cattle that room on over 800+ acres of land.