Wines of the central California coast don’t boast the brand recognition of the Napa and Sonoma valleys, yet the many small vineyards reputedly produce some of California’s most intriguing wines. Join Joe Petro’s newest wine tasting adventure as he uncovers one of wine making’s best kept secrets: California’s Central Coast.

The cast and crew of Academy Award nominated movie “Sideways” discovered the many boutique wineries of this California wine region — which are responsible for over 15% of the state’s wine production.

The San Andreas Fault contributes significantly to the soil types in Central Coast American Viticultural Area (AVA) which stretches about 250 miles from San Francisco Bay south to Santa Barbara. Climate and topography support excellent production of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Petite Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc.

The majority of the boutique vineyards of California’s Central Coast area are found in the valleys that open up to the Pacific. The benefit of being along the coast is that the cold, moist air gets pulled in and creates a layer of morning cloud cover which reduces temperatures and sun exposure on the grapes. This is why cool climate varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from this area tantalize your palate. Further inland, there’s no morning cloud cover and it’s a different wine scene. Inland regions and ridges receive ample sunshine and a long, hot, dry growing season, so there’s a prevalence of warm to hot climate grapes ranging from Syrah to Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel.

What to expect: When you’ve completed this wine tasting, you’ll understand why the Central California Coast wine secret should be declassified. (But only if you want to share the secret!)

Please note: we originally scheduled this event for March 23. Due to events beyond our control, we have changed the date from what was originally published in the mailer to Friday, February 3. Same time, same place otherwise.

IN PERSON at Snifters (219 Marlboro Ave #52a, Easton, MD 21601-across from Kohl’s)

Friday | Feb 3 | 3 – 4:30 pm | $35

Feedback from past courses Joe has led: 

“The wine selection was excellent, as was the hospitality at Snifters and the knowledge of the wines shared by Joe Petro.”

“The wine tasting was delightful in every way. Not only did we sample six quality wines, Snifter’s owner, Joe Petro, provided excellent descriptions of the various wines and the regions that produced them. It was a perfect opportunity to meet new members of our community as well as reuniting in person with many Chesapeake Forum members. We encourage the Forum to provide more wine tastings in the future and bravo to Snifters!”

“Very enjoyable for meeting new friends and very informative. Great location.”

“Great event. Would like to do it again!”