Imagine stepping into the world of the beloved film Sideways, where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, and your favorite characters once roamed. This tour, priced at $295 per person and lasting about 8 hours, promises an escape into the scenic Santa Ynez Valley with a focus on the wine trail featured in the movie. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit four carefully selected wineries, stop at iconic filming sites, and enjoy a relaxed lunch at the historic Wine Merchant.
What makes this experience stand out? First, you’ll get to sip wine at two wineries that starred in the film, feeling a little like a movie star yourself. Second, the chance to see real filming locations from Sideways adds a layer of fun and nostalgia. The visit to the Ostrich Farm, where Jack was chased in a hilarious scene, is the perfect quirky touch. The small group setting (limited to 8 participants) ensures a personal, intimate atmosphere—ideal for wine lovers and movie buffs alike.
One possible consideration is that lunch isn’t included in the price, which allows for personal choice but also means you’ll want to budget extra for a meal at the Wine Merchant. Also, this tour is geared toward adults, so families with children under 18 might want to look elsewhere. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a blend of wine tasting, movie magic, and beautiful vineyard scenery.
If you love film-related adventures, enjoy tasting exceptional wines, and appreciate a well-organized, small-group experience, this tour will likely be right up your alley.
Key Points
- Movie-Inspired Route: Focuses on locations from the film Sideways.
- Wine Tastings: Includes tastings at two wineries, showcasing excellent wines.
- Filming Locations: Stops at key sites from the movie, adding nostalgic value.
- Quirky Visit: Includes a stop at the Ostrich Farm, famous for the chase scene.
- Flexible Lunch Option: Dine at the Wine Merchant, with plenty of personal choice.
- Small Group: Limited to 8 people for a more personalized experience.
Exploring the Santa Ynez Valley: A Closer Look
This tour offers a rare chance to combine wine connoisseurship with movie history. Starting with a hotel pickup in Santa Barbara, the journey takes you into the rolling hills of Santa Ynez, where vineyards are everywhere you look. The guide, whose insights include trivia about the film and its filming locations, helps connect the dots between the story and the scenery.
Visiting the Wineries
The two wineries where tastings are included are carefully chosen to reflect the film’s setting and reputation for quality. While the specific names aren’t listed, the experience of tasting wines in their original vineyard environments is something we particularly appreciated. We loved the way the guide shared behind-the-scenes tidbits, making each tasting more than just sipping—more like stepping into the movie’s world.
Filming Locations and Movie Trivia
The tour’s highlight is visiting the actual filming sites. We found it fascinating to stand in the same spots where scenes from Sideways were shot. Our guide shared stories about the production, sprinkling in fun facts that made the experience more engaging. For instance, the stop at the Ostrich Farm, where Jack was chased, is a quirky addition that appeals to fans and curious travelers alike.
Lunch at the Wine Merchant
The lunch stop at the Wine Merchant offers a relaxed break. Since the meal is not included in the tour price, you can choose exactly what you want—be it a light snack or a more substantial meal—giving you flexibility to suit your taste and dietary needs. The historic setting adds charm to the midday pause, and it’s a perfect spot for reflecting on the morning’s adventures.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Ostrich Farm
A visit to the Ostrich Farm is a highlight for those who enjoy offbeat experiences. It’s not only a fun photo opportunity but also an insight into a less common farm animal. Watching the ostriches up close, especially knowing their role in a memorable film scene, adds an unexpected twist to your wine-and-movie day.
Practical Details
The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a full but comfortably paced day. Transportation is provided, and with small group size, you’ll find it easy to ask questions and connect with the guide. The price of $295 includes all tastings and the Ostrich Farm visit, but keep in mind that drinks in the vehicle are not allowed, so bring a water bottle and stay hydrated.
Why This Tour Is Worth Considering
This is an ideal experience for film buffs who love wine, travelers seeking a personalized small-group setting, or anyone interested in the scenic beauty of Santa Ynez. It offers a perfect blend of cultural pop references and wine education, all wrapped up in a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.
The value comes from the combination of four stops, two tastings included, and the unique theme tied to a beloved film. Plus, the guide’s insights enrich the experience, making each vineyard visit more memorable than just a standard tasting tour.
Final Thoughts
For those looking to combine a love of wine with a bit of Hollywood nostalgia, the Santa Ynez Sideways tour offers an engaging, well-organized day. The stops at famous vineyards and filming locations create a sense of storybook charm, especially if you’re a fan of the film. And the inclusion of an offbeat visit to the Ostrich Farm adds a touch of whimsy.
The 8-hour duration balances sightseeing, tastings, and relaxation, making it suitable for a good day out without feeling rushed. The small-group setting ensures a personal touch, allowing for more in-depth conversations and questions.
If you value authentic experiences that combine scenery, storytelling, and wine, then this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s perfect for movie lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a taste of Santa Ynez’s scenic charm, with a fun film twist.
FAQ
Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides transportation from Santa Barbara to Santa Ynez and back, making it easy and convenient.
How many wineries will we visit? You will visit four wineries during the tour, with tastings at two of them.
Can I choose what to eat for lunch? The tour does not include lunch, so you can pick your meal at the Wine Merchant according to your preferences.
Is this tour suitable for children? No, this tour is geared toward adults over 18, primarily because of wine tastings and the mature content.
How long does the tour last? Expect about 8 hours, including travel time, tastings, and visits.
What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, a camera, and water are recommended.
Are drinks allowed in the vehicle? No, to maintain safety and comfort, drinks in the vehicle are not permitted.
Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the guide fluent in English? Yes, the tour is conducted in English.
How many people typically join this tour? The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small, intimate experience.
This Santa Ynez Sideways wine tour offers much more than just tasting wine; it’s a chance to step into a beloved movie’s world while enjoying some of California’s best vineyards. Whether you’re a fan of film, wine, or scenic drives, this experience is sure to be memorable.
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