US: Explore the Pacific Coast Wine Trail

(Wines&Vines) - Seven tiny wineries clinging to the scenic Pacific Coast north of Morro Bay, Calif., have taken wheel in hand to steer visitors in their direction. Accessed by California’s historic Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway), they’re staking claim to a larger share of the half-million tourists who visit the area every year with the launch of Pacific Coast Wine Trail (PCWT). 

San Luis Obispo County is a major component of California’s sprawling Central Coast American Viticultural Area, but virtually all of the biggest, best-known wineries are concentrated inland, starting with the eastern slopes of the Coastal Range.

Cambria and its neighboring hamlets are on the road less traveled. Highway 1 hugs the coast northward through Big Sur to reach Carmel and Monterey. With sparse commercial accommodations, the two-lane PCH is designed more for moseying than high-speed travel, affording postcard views at every turn.

Last week, the informal collective including Hearst Ranch Winery, Black Hand Cellars, Stolo Family Winery, Moonstone Cellars, Harmony Cellars, Cayucos Cellars and Twin Coyote Winery sent out its initial release and press package to officially launch the PCWT.

“Stretching from San Simeon to Cayucos, with stops in between in Cambria and Harmony, The Pacific Coast Wine Trail offers guests a wine experience as unique as the coastal communities themselves,” the release stated. Given the challenges of the PCH, the group encourages a relaxed approach to wine touring: “Complement wine tasting with hiking, antiquing, beach time, a visit to Hearst Castle or viewing the elephant seal rookery,” member wineries recommended.