Big Bear Backyard Tasting with Wine, Beer, Charcuterie Fun Vibes

Exploring Big Bear’s Backyard Tasting: A Casual Spin on Wine, Beer, and Charcuterie

If you’re looking for a laid-back, authentic way to enjoy Big Bear’s charming vibe, the Big Bear Backyard Tasting with Wine, Beer, and Charcuterie offers just that. This isn’t your typical tasting in a fancy restaurant or crowded bar—it’s a relaxed gathering in a local’s backyard that promises good drinks, tasty snacks, and a genuine sense of community. Whether you’re a wine lover, a craft beer enthusiast, or just in search of a cozy pre-dinner hangout, this experience might become your new favorite way to unwind.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s a small-group setting limited to just 15 people, ensuring a more intimate and friendly atmosphere. Second, the focus on local flavors and personal touches—like organic fruits from the host’s garden—adds a memorable, authentic touch to the evening. That said, it’s important to note that since the experience is outdoors, it’s subject to weather conditions, which might require a flexible attitude.

Ideal for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging evening, this backyard tasting is designed to feel more like hanging out with friends than being on a tour. If you’re craving a break from the usual tourist spots, an experience that combines good drinks with great views in a cozy setting, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Authentic Big Bear experience: Set in a local’s backyard, away from crowds and commercial venues.
• Flexible start times: Book as early as 4 p.m., with popular sunset hours from 7-9 p.m.
• Diverse tasting options: Choose between curated wine flights or craft beers from California breweries.
• Tasty, thoughtful snacks: Charcuterie spreads with cheeses, fruits, and options for dietary needs.
• Relaxed atmosphere: Enjoy sunset views, a fire pit, and a vibe that feels like hanging out with friends.
• Great value: For $70, you get quality drinks, snacks, and a memorable setting, perfect for a pre-dinner or casual evening.

The Experience in Detail

Location and Accessibility
Starting at 506 E Fairway Blvd, in Big Bear’s resort town, this experience benefits from easy access and a cozy, welcoming setting. The outdoor backyard is designed to feel inviting, with sunset views and a fire pit adding to the relaxed ambiance. It’s suitable for most travelers, including service animals, and sits within reach of public transportation.

The Core of the Tour: Tasting Flights and Snacks
Once you arrive, you’re greeted with the choice of a wine flight or craft beer. The wine options typically include four pours of 3 ounces each, often featuring diverse selections like South African Delicious Monster or California rosé. Beer options rotate weekly but highlight local California breweries such as Stone and Hangar 24.

The charcuterie platter accompanying the drinks is thoughtfully assembled, with cheeses, salami, and organic fruits—some grown right in the host’s garden—plus crackers and other snacks. If you have dietary restrictions, just message ahead, and options for keto, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan snacks are available.

Additional Offerings
For those wanting to enhance their experience, the host offers add-ons like gourmet salads, home-baked cookies, or muffins. These little extras can turn a simple tasting into a small feast, perfect for sharing or making the evening more special.

Timing and Group Size
The 2-hour duration feels just right—long enough to relax, chat, and savor your drinks without feeling rushed. With a maximum of 15 guests, the atmosphere remains intimate, allowing for personal conversations and a more genuine community feel.

Why Travelers Love This Experience

Reviews—and our understanding of the setup—highlight some key positives. Many appreciate the stunning sunset views that provide a picturesque backdrop to the tasting. The quality of the wine and beer also receives praise, especially given the reasonable price point of $70.

One reviewer mentioned, “We left feeling relaxed, full of good snacks, and with a new favorite wine,” which sums up the experience’s laid-back charm. The casual backyard setting is a clear hit, making it more of a social gathering than a formal tasting.

Others have noted that the local, authentic vibe helps them feel more connected to Big Bear’s community. The availability of keto, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options also makes it accessible for a variety of dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the snacks alongside their drinks.

The Value and Suitability

At $70 per person, this experience offers a fair and enjoyable value. You get a curated tasting, a charcuterie spread, beautiful sunset views, and a relaxed environment—all in an outdoor setting that encourages informal mingling. Compared to the cost of restaurant drinks and snacks, it provides a more intimate, personalized alternative.

If you’re in Big Bear for a weekend or a longer stay and want a low-pressure way to kick off your evening, this backyard tasting fits nicely into a laid-back itinerary. It’s also perfect as a romantic date or a fun outing with friends before heading out to explore Big Bear’s nightlife or dining scene.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book in advance, especially for the popular sunset hours (7-9 p.m.), as spots tend to fill up about 6 days ahead.
• Check the weather forecast—since it’s outdoors, rain or wind could cause cancellation or require rescheduling.
• Think about adding extra treats if you want to turn this into a more substantial meal, like gourmet salads or baked goods.
• Arrive on time to enjoy the full experience—early start times are available from 4 p.m.
• If you have dietary restrictions, communicate ahead of time to ensure suitable options are prepared.
• Remember, most participants find this experience to be more about the vibe than the formal tasting, so relax and enjoy the views and company.

The Sum Up

The Big Bear Backyard Tasting with Wine, Beer, and Charcuterie offers a refreshing twist on the typical vineyard or bar experience. It’s about savoring quality drinks in a cozy, local setting, surrounded by beautiful views and good company. The intimate group size, flexibility in timing, and focus on authentic, local flavors make it a standout option for those wanting to sample Big Bear’s community spirit without the hassle of crowded venues.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy casual, social settings and are OK with outdoor arrangements. It’s ideal for couples looking for a romantic evening, friends seeking a fun local outing, or anyone wanting a more genuine taste of Big Bear beyond the usual tourist spots.

If you’re craving a simple yet memorable way to enjoy Big Bear’s beautiful evenings, this backyard tasting may quickly become a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Can I choose between wine or beer?
Yes, you can select either a curated wine flight or a craft beer flight when booking.

What is included in the price?
For $70, you get a tasting flight (wine or beer), a charcuterie platter with cheeses, fruits, and crackers, and access to sunset views in a relaxed setting.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, options for keto, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan snacks are available if you message in advance.

What if the weather is bad?
Since it’s outdoors, poor weather could lead to cancellation. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled due to weather.

How long does the experience last?
The tasting lasts approximately 2 hours, providing ample time to relax, chat, and enjoy the surroundings.

Is this activity suitable for families or service animals?
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, but check with the provider if you have specific needs.

In summary, the Big Bear Backyard Tasting delivers a genuine, enjoyable experience that combines good drinks, tasty snacks, and beautiful views—all in a friendly, informal setting. It’s a smart choice for those wanting to experience Big Bear’s local charm in a relaxed way, making for memorable evenings and new favorites.