The California Directory of Fine Wineries Central Coast Edition

This hard bound, beautifully illustrated book hits all the high notes for those interested in wineries of the Central Coast regions of Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo County. It is not an all-inclusive guide, but a selection of prominent wineries that are among the best California has to offer. Many of the wineries chosen among the fifty featured are those with picturesque winery facilities and tasting rooms, beautifully photographed by noted travel and wine country photographer, Robert Holmes.

The authors give a detailed history of each winery and extensive valuable information including location, hours, tours, varietals produced and specialty varietals offered, winemaker, and other special features of each winery. No wine reviews are offered or judgments extended concerning wine quality, just inviting, succinct and colorful vignettes of each winery.

Maps are included for those inclined to bring this reference along on their wine touring escapades. For those who want to hone in on one or several varietals, there is a comprehensive listing of the varietals produced by each of the included wineries, a valuable summary that is difficult to find from any other source.

If you are a Pinot Noir lover, you will find wineries such as Alma Rosa Winery & Vineyards, Cambria Estate Winery, Carr Vineyards & Winery, Chamisal Vineyards, Laetitia Vineyard & Winery, and Presqu’ile Winery described inside the Directory.

If you have ever longed to visit the wine country in the Central Coast of California, this book will provide the impetus to find a babysitter, pack some comfortable, casual clothes and sunscreen, jump in the car, and head out for a joyous road trip. Be sure to have this handy guide by your side.

The California Directory of Fine Wineries Central Coast Second Edition, K. Reka Badger and Cheryl Crabtree, writers, Tom Silberklett, editor and publisher, Wine House Press, 2013, 144 pp. $13.57. Available at Amazon.com.