Los Angeles: Wine Experience at Fess Parker Winery by Helicopter

This tour promises a combination of luxury, adventure, and culinary delight, offering an experience truly fit for royalty. For $3,999 per person, you’ll enjoy a scenic helicopter flight, a private wine tasting at the renowned Fess Parker Winery, and a picturesque journey through California’s Santa Ynez Valley. It’s a hefty price tag, but for those craving a mix of thrill and sophistication, this experience ticks all the boxes.

One aspect we particularly like is the personalized nature of the tasting, which includes five highly acclaimed wines plus a bonus pour of a limited Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. The setting—either a private wine library room or outdoor patio—adds an intimate, exclusive feel. However, an important consideration is the cost, which might be steep for casual wine lovers or travelers on a tighter budget. This tour suits those with a taste for luxury, a desire for unique experiences, and a love of scenic flight views.

If you’re after a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines aerial sightseeing with fine wine, this tour likely ranks high on your list. It’s especially appealing for those celebrating a special occasion or looking to indulge in Los Angeles’ surrounding wine country in style.

Key Points

• Luxury experience: Combines helicopter flight with exclusive wine tasting.
• Scenic views: Flight offers stunning vistas of Santa Barbara coast and California’s wine regions.
• Private and intimate: Small-group or private setting enhances the sense of exclusivity.
• Premium wines: Tasting includes five acclaimed wines and a special Napa project.
• Convenience: Includes transportation from Burbank airport and shuttle service.
• Cost consideration: Price reflects the high-end, exclusive nature of the experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The experience kicks off at the Hollywood Burbank Airport, where a private helicopter awaits to whisk you away on a roughly two-hour flight. The scenic aerial route offers sweeping views of the Santa Barbara coast, providing a memorable start to the day. Expect to see the coastline, rolling hills, and perhaps even distant mountain peaks, all from the comfort of a private helicopter with outside viewing windows. The flight itself is a highlight—those panoramic vistas are unbeatable and make the high price point worthwhile for aerial enthusiasts.

Upon landing at Santa Ynez Airport, you’ll be greeted by a Fess Parker Winery’s Mercedes Sprinter van. This shuttle whisks you directly to the winery itself, where the main event begins: a luxurious wine tasting session. You’ll be offered a glass of Festivity, Fess Parker’s sparkling wine, to kick things off in style. The tasting room options are flexible—either outdoors on the patio or inside in a cozy wine library—allowing you to choose your preferred ambiance.

The Wine Tasting Experience

The tasting itself is designed to give you a true appreciation of Fess Parker’s craftsmanship. The selection includes five of their most highly acclaimed, single vineyard wines, each carefully curated to showcase the winery’s best. These wines are not only highly rated but also representative of the distinct terroirs of the Sta. Rita Hills and Santa Ynez Valley regions.

A standout feature is the bonus pour of Addendum, a limited and high-scoring Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon project, exclusive to this experience. This makes the tasting feel more special and exclusive, emphasizing the luxury aspect of the tour. Guests can choose to sit inside the private wine library room, which offers an intimate setting, or outside on the patio, where the scenery and fresh air enhance the experience.

Cheese and charcuterie are included, making the tasting more than just wine—it’s a full sensory experience. As one reviewer noted, these snacks perfectly complement the wines, allowing you to savor flavors more deeply and feel more relaxed.

Transport and Logistics

The entire experience is approximately four hours long, which includes the flight, transfer, and tasting. The tour is designed to be seamless; from the moment you leave Burbank to your return, everything is arranged. The included shuttle service ensures you’re comfortably transported between the heliport and the winery.

The total weight per passenger cap of 300 lbs is a practical detail, but most travelers will find this manageable. Confirmation of the booking is quick, and the experience promises a private, non-shared tour—ideal for those wanting a personalized touch.

What Travelers Might Expect

Based on the available reviews and details, travelers can expect a well-organized, high-end experience. The helicopter rides are likely to be smooth, providing unobstructed views of the coast and vineyards, which is a significant part of the appeal. The pilot’s professionalism and the private nature of the flight contribute to a feeling of safety and exclusivity.

On landing, the wine tasting is where the tour shines. The fact that the winery created a special tasting menu solely for this experience indicates their commitment to making it memorable. Guests typically comment on the “exquisite wine selection” and the “beautiful setting,” which elevates the entire outing.

The inclusion of snacks further enhances the tasting, making it more of a leisurely, social event. The option to sit indoors or outdoors allows for a flexible experience, catering to weather or personal preference.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While the reviews are limited, one reviewer mentioned, “The views from the helicopter were breathtaking, and the wines were some of the best I’ve tasted.” Another appreciated the personalized approach, noting, “The private library setting made it feel like a special, exclusive event I’ll remember forever.”

Some travelers pointed out the premium price, but recognized that the combination of flight and tasting created a truly unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience. The tour’s luxury aspect and scenic views are frequently highlighted as worth the investment for special occasions.

The Practicalities

Pricing and Value

At nearly $4,000 per person, this isn’t a casual outing. However, when you break down what’s included—a scenic helicopter flight, premium wine tasting, private transportation, and a luxurious setting—it’s more than just a wine tour. It’s an experiential package that combines adrenaline, indulgence, and exclusivity.

This experience is best suited for luxury travelers, special occasion celebrants, or those eager to splurge on a memorable adventure. It’s unlikely to appeal to budget-conscious travelers but offers excellent value for those wanting a full sensory immersion into California wine country from a unique vantage point.

Transportation and Duration

Starting at Burbank Airport, the helicopter flight and subsequent winery visit make for a well-structured four-hour experience. The timing allows for a relaxed pace—enough time to enjoy the scenery, savor wines, and take in the surroundings without feeling rushed. The planned shuttle transfers ensure comfort and ease throughout.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those seeking a high-end, memorable outing with a touch of adventure. If you enjoy aerial views, premium wines, and exclusive settings, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s suitable for celebrations, romantic getaways, or just a special treat for wine lovers wanting to see California from a different perspective.

However, travelers should be prepared for the price point and consider whether the combination of flying and wine tasting aligns with their expectations. It’s best for those who value luxury and unique experiences over a casual sightseeing day.

FAQs

Is the helicopter ride safe and comfortable?
Yes, the helicopter ride is conducted by professional pilots, and the aircraft are equipped with outside viewing windows for an optimal experience. Reviews indicate that the flight is smooth and the views are spectacular.

What is included in the tasting?
The tasting features five highly acclaimed, single vineyard wines curated by Fess Parker Winery, plus a limited Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon project called Addendum. Cheese and charcuterie are also included.

Can I sit outside or inside during the tasting?
Yes, guests have the option to sit either outside on the winery’s patio or inside in a private wine library room, depending on your preference and weather conditions.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total duration is approximately four hours, including the flight, transit, and tasting. The helicopter flight itself lasts around two hours.

Is this experience suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, provided they meet weight restrictions (300 lbs max per person). It is designed for those who enjoy luxury experiences and are comfortable with flying.

What is the cancellation policy?
The experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, making it important to confirm your plans beforehand.

Final Thoughts

For those craving a luxurious escape from Los Angeles into California’s stunning wine country, this helicopter and wine tasting tour offers a compelling mix of adventure and indulgence. The flight alone provides spectacular views, but pairing it with a private, high-end tasting makes the day truly exceptional.

While the price may be high, the combination of scenic aerial sightseeing, exclusive tasting, and a refined setting justifies the investment for many. It suits travelers celebrating a special occasion, wine aficionados looking for a unique experience, or anyone eager to combine their love of adventure with refined pleasures.

If you’re after an experience that blends thrill, luxury, and authenticity in California’s iconic wine region, this tour promises to deliver a memorable day from start to finish. Just remember to book in advance, as the exclusive nature of the tour makes it popular among those in the know.

Note: All details are based on the provided information and reviews; please confirm with the tour provider for the latest updates and availability.