Courtesy Wandering Dog Wine Bar

A spirited toast to all things alcoholic! By Leslie Dinaberg

Looking for something fun and unique to do on a Friday night? Why not “wine down” your week at one of Solvang’s Wandering Dog Wine Bar‘s monthly events.

The April class, “Vinification Techniques with Syrah,” on Friday, April 4, is led by local winemaker, Michael Larner of Larner Vineyard. He’ll cover different winemaking techniques and how they affect Syrah and will offer up samples from his own label as he explains the processes, as well as other Syrahs both local and imported.  The class takes place from 6–7 p.m. A great way to start your weekend.

May’s class, “All About Pinot Noir,” on Friday, May 2, features Mark Horvath, owner/winemaker of Crawford Family Wines. Guests will sample three Pinots from his new label, as well as a selection of other style of Pinot from wineries outside of the Santa Barbara area.  This class also takes place from 6–7 p.m.

The family-owned Wandering Dog Wine Bar is known for carrying under-the-radar labels, and specializes in boutique wines, craft beers and gourmet cheeses. They offer a dozen wine flights every day, including everything from local favorites, sparkling and sweet wines, to reserve flights featuring wines that run $50+, as well as tastings of premium beers.

In addition to the Friday night fetes, every Thursday, Wandering Dog Wine Bar hosts a Blind Tasting from 4– 7 p.m., when guests are challenged to match up regions, varietals, price points and vintages of four featured wines.

Wandering Dog Wine Bar is located at 1539-C Mission Dr. (next to Paula’s Pancake House), in Solvang. To make a reservation for any of the Friday night classes, please call 805/686.9126 or email wines@wanderingdogwinebar.com.

Cheers!

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Originally published in Santa Barbara SEASONS on April 4, 2014.

Leslie Dinaberg

When she’s not busy working as the editor of Santa Barbara SEASONS, Cocktail Corner author Leslie Dinaberg writes magazine articles, newspaper columns and grocery lists. When it comes to cocktails, Leslie considers herself a “goal-oriented drinker.”