A few miles up idyllic Palomares Road, you come to the small canyon where Chouinard Vineyards is located. Its home is a lovely 75-year-old converted barn eclectically crafted by retired architect, owner and winery president George Chouinard. The country setting, with the red barn and friendly family atmosphere, is a real treat. The wines are made by the UC Davis-trained son, offering up a wide variety of choices to taste.

Adjacent to the winery and running up the steep hillsides is a small vineyard hemmed in by the surrounding forest. Both Chardonnay and Cabernet are planted here. Much of their fruit, though, is sourced from other California regions, including Paso Robles for their Petite Sirah, a sweet Orange Muscat and Paso Cabernet; Lodi for their Zinfandel, Zinfandel Port and Alicante Bouschet; and Monterey for their Chenin Blanc, Gewürztraminer and White Riesling. They also offer Granny Smith Apple Wine and a sparkling wine.