Summer Getaways: 7 Escapes in Wine Country

(HollywoodReporter) - Head north from L.A. to check out some of the best tasting rooms in California, from a spectacular Sonoma sipping spot loved by Patrick Dempsey to Mendocino's under-the-radar gem.

SONOMA 

Ram's Gate Winery, 28700 Arnold Drive

The luxuriously furnished Ram's Gate has the feel of a friend's weekend house. Sit in the pavilion near the pond, by the outdoor fireplace or inside at the bar or library. The 30-foot ceilings and massive glass walls with vineyard views are in concert with its pinot noirs, chardonnay and excellent syrah -- expansive and remarkable. Patrick Dempsey is a fan.

SANTA BARBARA

Riverbench Vineyard and Winery, 137 Anacapa St.

Riverbench has a new tasting room a block from the coast in downtown's trendy Funk Zone. Known for its silken pinot noir and chardonnay, it also makes sparkling wine. There is an entire wall made from the wood of the San Ramon Chapel in the Santa Maria Valley, built in 1908.

PASO ROBLES

Paso Underground, 1140 Pine St.

This converted garage co-op, near the Norman Rockwell-ish downtown, is bare bones. But the minuscule production (less than 500 cases each) from the four terrific wineries is why you've come. Considered "the next Napa" by critic Robert Parker, Paso (about three hours north of L.A.) is best defined by these lush, ripe Rhone whites and reds from Edmond August, Aaron, Clos Solene and Turtle Rock.