Santa Ynez Valley: Sideways Movie Inspired Wine Tour

If you’re a fan of the beloved film Sideways, or simply love discovering scenic wine regions, this tour offers an intriguing blend of both. Designed to follow the wine trail made famous in the movie, it promises a full day of tasting, sightseeing, and storytelling, all led by an expert guide. With visits to four wineries, stops at filming locations, and a delightful lunch, it’s a well-rounded experience for those looking to combine cinematic nostalgia with authentic wine country charm.

What really draws us in are the chance to visit wineries featured in the film—a fun trip down memory lane—and the beautiful vineyard vistas you’ll enjoy along the way. We also appreciate the small group size, which tends to foster a more personal, engaging atmosphere. On the flip side, the price point of $295 per person might feel steep for some, especially considering lunch isn’t included in the ticket price. But if you’re eager for a curated, insider glimpse into the Sideways universe, this tour offers excellent value.

This tour is ideal for movie buffs, wine enthusiasts, and travelers craving a relaxed yet engaging day immersed in California’s wine culture. It’s perfect for those who prefer a structured itinerary with storytelling, but want to avoid overly commercialized experiences. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for children under 18, so it’s primarily geared toward adult visitors who enjoy good wine and good stories.

Key Points

• Follow the Sideways film trail through Santa Ynez Valley’s well-known wineries
• Visit 4 wineries, with tastings at 2 of them, plus film location stops
• Enjoy a well-regarded lunch at the Wine Merchant, where the movie’s famous double date took place
• Visit the Ostrich Farm, where Jack was chased in a memorable scene
• An informative guide shares trivia and behind-the-scenes insights about the film
• Small group size (up to 8 people) fosters a more intimate experience

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An In-Depth Look at the Sideways Wine Tour

How the tour begins and what to expect

The journey kicks off with hotel pickup in Santa Barbara, which is convenient if you’re based nearby and want to avoid the hassle of driving. From there, you quickly leave the city behind and find yourself in the rolling vineyards of Santa Ynez Valley—an area known for its scenic beauty and charming towns.

The guide, who is well-versed in both wine and film trivia, sets the tone with stories about the Sideways movie’s filming locations and its impact on local tourism.

Visiting the film’s wineries and locations

The core of this experience is the visit to four wineries that were featured in the movie. While the specific wineries aren’t named in the summary, you can expect to explore some of the most iconic spots that helped bring the film’s vineyard scenes to life. Tastings at two wineries are included, giving you a chance to sample local wines—probably some of the region’s best offerings—while learning about the different varietals and what makes Santa Ynez wines special.

Beyond the vineyards, you’ll stop at filming locations that may include classic scenes from Sideways, making the experience both scenic and cinematic. Having a guide explain the behind-the-scenes stories adds an extra layer of fun—especially if you’re familiar with the movie.

Lunch at the Wine Merchant

The highlight for many is the lunch break at the Wine Merchant. Here, the cast of Sideways shared a memorable double date, and you’ll have the chance to dine in a relaxed, charming setting. Since lunch is not included in the price, you have the freedom to choose from the menu, which likely offers hearty, wine-friendly options that pair well with the region’s wines.

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The Ostrich Farm visit

One of the more quirky aspects is the stop at the Ostrich Farm, where Jack was famously chased by ostriches in the film. It’s a lighthearted break from wine tasting, and many reviews mention it as a fun photo op and some comic relief—an unexpected delight that keeps the day lively.

The tour’s length, transportation, and group size

The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, making it a full but comfortable day out. The small group size of up to 8 participants ensures more personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The transportation is private and comfortable, helping you focus on the scenery and stories rather than navigating crowds.

Pricing and value

At $295 per person, the tour isn’t cheap, but considering the guided visits, tastings at two wineries, and unique film stops, it offers good value for those wanting an immersive experience. Remember, lunch is extra, which allows you to pick exactly what suits your tastes and budget. The included trivia and insights about the film and wine trail enrich the experience, making it more than just a tasting tour.

Practical tips

• Bring comfortable shoes for walking around vineyards and filming locations.
• A sun hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended, especially if the day’s sunny.
• Because drinks are not allowed in the vehicle, pace yourself accordingly during tastings.
• Check availability and reserve in advance, especially since the tour runs with limited spots.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to film enthusiasts and wine lovers alike. If you enjoyed Sideways and want to see the real locations where the movie was shot, this is a charming way to do so. It’s also great for travelers who prefer a small-group, intimate setting over large bus tours, allowing for conversation and personalized insights.

It’s perfect if you want a balanced day of sightseeing, tasting, and storytelling, with enough flexibility to customize your lunch and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

However, if you’re traveling with children or seeking a purely wine-focused experience without the film theme, this might not be the best fit. Also, those who prefer free-flowing tours should note that this is a pre-planned, guided experience with a fixed itinerary.

The Sum Up

The Santa Ynez Valley Sideways Movie Inspired Wine Tour offers a well-curated and engaging way to combine your love of film with California’s wine region. You’ll enjoy visits to famous wine spots, get a taste of local wines, and hear stories behind one of the most beloved wine movies of recent years. The small group size and knowledgeable guide make this a personal and memorable experience, perfect for those who want more than just a standard tasting.

While the price might seem high, the value lies in the storytelling, exclusive access to filming locations, and the overall ambiance of the beautiful Santa Ynez landscape. Whether you’re a Sideways fan or simply looking for a scenic, wine-filled day, this tour offers a good balance of fun, education, and authentic vineyard visits.

FAQ

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the vineyards, the film stops, and the lunch.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have the opportunity to choose your meal at the Wine Merchant, allowing flexibility and personal preference.

How many wineries do we visit?
You visit four wineries in total, with tastings at two of them. The focus is on those featured in the film and the scenic views.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 18 years.

How many people will be in the group?
The group is limited to 8 participants, creating a cozy and personal atmosphere.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, a camera, and water are recommended. Remember, drinks are not permitted in the vehicle.

What’s special about the filming locations?
They include iconic scenes from Sideways, and your guide provides interesting stories behind each spot, enhancing your appreciation of the movie and scenery.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Keep in mind that reservations can be flexible with the “Reserve now & pay later” option.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included, and it’s a private, comfortable vehicle suited for small groups.

Whether you’re steeped in Sideways lore or simply eager to explore Santa Ynez’s vineyards, this tour offers a unique blend of film, flavor, and scenery. It’s a thoughtful way to spend a day soaking in the charm of California’s wine country while reliving some cinematic magic.

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