Bridlewood Estate Winery - Bridlewood Gallery Opening

When I got an email inviting me to Bridlewood Estate Winery to check out their gallery opening, I knew I couldn't turn it down. In spite of a weekend filled with dancing, vegan beer, and general insanity, I made sure I was up early on Sunday morning to board the shuttle to Santa Ynez.  Bridlewood is an wonderfully picturesque winery and it's not just everyday visitors who get inspired by the tranquil surroundings. A handful of artists have made everything from paintings, to pottery, to photographs all based on the art of wine making. To celebrate the opening of Bridlewood Gallery the winery opened their doors for a day of food, wine, and art.









We were offered several appetizers and I was too busy shoving them in my mouth to get pictures of them. The mini truffle grilled cheese sandwiches and chicken skewers with plantains were among my favorites.We missed out on the dessert selection because were kept going back for extra servings of the 2008 Block 5 Syrah. It was definitely the best wine we tasted that day, but the 2010 Viognier Reserve was a close second. We were also able to taste a few wines that were still in barrels. I was fascinated by the pouring process. More so than the actual wine which definitely needed to be aged some more, but had potential.





Wine glasses in hand, we went for a self-guided tour of the grounds.











The place is so beautiful, it's not difficult to see why my friends chose to get married there a few years ago. It was hard to say goodbye, but after a few hours, we packed up our to-go lunches and boarded the shuttle back to the city of angels. It was such a wonderful day, I didn't want it to end. Click here to see my full picture gallery from the day.