The Grapes of Malibu

There are more than 50 vineyards hidden in the Malibu canyons and with a coastal climate like Rhone or Burgundy, these vintners produce serious wines that celebrate the area’s grape-growing potential. As the region is still evolving, several tasting rooms throughout the Santa Monica Mountains and along the coast are run by wealthy entrepreneurs, developers and restaurateurs who can afford to grow grapes and make wine on some of the most expensive real estate in America. Malibu Wines is a cozy and chic destination located about 25 miles north of Santa Monica, and 6 miles into the mountains from Pacific Coast Highway. Completely outdoors- this being Southern California- the tasting room pours two wines. Semler is their estate wine grown in their vineyards in Malibu- love the Rose- while Saddle Rock sources grapes and juice from different vineyards throughout the central California coast.

Featuring fine wines from Malibu Family Wines- best known for integrating new-world technology with old-world artistry- their location is the ideal environment for growing premium wine grapes due to the ocean air, luscious sky, rocky soil and pristine weather conditions. Featuring Tuscan architecture on a sloping hillside, Malibu Wines is open year round to host events such as engagement parties, bridal showers, bachelorette parties and birthdays. The narrow, stone building has three open-air counters shaded by a Spanish tile overhang, and beautiful olive trees surround the property. Aside from booking the gazebo for a private party or packing a picnic on the lawn, you can also partake in their weekend evening music series or Thursday movie nights during summer months. Wine tasting tours like Malibu Wine Safaris can also be a fun way to troll the mountains in search of some good vines- and vibes- while cruising in a Land Rover. Perhaps you may catch some wild life along the way…or at least a limo sighting. www.malibuwines.com