Embarking on a wine trail adventure is a delightful way to spend a day, and while thirsty travelers typically head to Northern California’s renowned wine regions, Ojai (located in Ventura County, about 35 miles east of Santa Barbara) offers exceptional wines in a picturesque setting. Ojai is known as a spiritual vortex and offers an enchanting backdrop for wine tasting. For those who view wine tasting as a spiritual experience (as I do), Ojai's wine trail is a must-visit destination.
Nicole Leonetti
Start the trail at Walson Holland, a small family winery that offers intimate tastings by appointment. Here you can sip on five wines while snacking on cheese and charcuterie provided by Paradise Pantry in Ventura. Winemaker Benny Holland personally leads many of these tastings, where you can learn about his approach to winemaking. Benny describes his style as being “as low-intervention as possible.” Benny has experience working at iconic California wineries and has since found his home in Ojai. Rhône blends are Benny’s specialty, but you will also find his beloved pinot noir and chardonnay with grapes sourced from Santa Barbara County. Walson Holland is set to open a charming new tasting room in downtown Ojai in summer 2025, offering a cozy, welcoming space where wine lovers can gather and savor their exceptional wines.
Next up (and I do mean up), Ojai Mountain Estate is nothing short of breathtaking. The experience begins on the drive up the mountain, which evokes a feeling of being transported to heaven. Stroll through the vines and then settle in for a tasting of their wines, lovingly crafted by their team. Winemaker Erich Bradley and Head Viticulturist Martin Ramirez have created beautiful wines at close to 3,000 feet. Erich says, “If you think of the analogy being music, we’re going to hit notes growing grapes at this elevation that you can’t hit anywhere else.” Their appointment-only experience includes a tasting of four wines accompanied by light snacks. This high-end tasting accommodates up to twelve guests and includes their Estate White, a beautiful Rhône blend and their Estate Red, a modern blend of both Bordeaux and Rhône varietals. While it is clear they have a knack for creating exceptional blends, their 100% Syrah is a stand-out. With a rich, deep color that reflects the thick skins of the mountain-grown grapes, it offers a clear expression of this varietal at its finest. Take a few bottles home, and these wines will bring you back to the mountain top with each sip.
Ojai Mountain Estate
The perfect spot to wrap up your Ojai wine journey, Side Street Wine, is conveniently located just off the main drag of downtown. With its bright, sun-soaked patio, it’s the ideal place to relax and enjoy their wines while reveling in a leisurely afternoon. Winemaker Fabien Castel’s love of Ojai comes shining through as he tells you his stories of how Ojai is a viable wine destination. Fabien grew up in France and has lived in Ojai for over 20 years. Fabien shares, “I want to be a champion of Ojai Valley and Ventura County wine.” Side Street focuses on organic wine with grapes sourced from local vineyards. Their wines are super unique with offerings such as Anarchy, their sparkling Pet Nat that is available on tap in their tasting room. They also have their Liberté, a Mourvèdre/Malbec blend with incredibly balanced fruit and acidity. Side Street Wine has something for everyone and their Piquette—a low alcohol, lightly sparkling wine—is a refreshing option on a warm Ojai day.
Ojai's wine trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, exceptional wines, and truly unique tasting experiences. When you are seeking a relaxing day surrounded by stunning landscapes, Ojai provides the ideal setting to taste world-class wines. It’s a destination worth discovering, where each sip takes you deeper into the magic of this remarkable region.
Plan your Ojai Wine Trail trip at ojaivisitors.com.