When Harry and Meghan had to find a bolthole out of Britain then Santa Barbara hoved into view.
And if you’ve been hanging on the Sussexes’ every word these past months then it no doubt piqued your curiosity for the American Riviera.
Pique no more.
We all know Meghan likes her vino and this is no doubt another reason why she has chosen Santa Barbara, Sideways country.
A Sideways glance
Sideways: The greatest film about grapes ever – the towering Sideways.
Santa Barbara is the backdrop for Miles (Paul Giamatti) and Jack’s (Thomas Haden Church) Bachelor’s Party road trip.
Our friends in Santa Barbara have helpfully put together an itinerary which follows in the footsteps of the odd couple.
You’ll start your day with breakfast at Solvang Restaurant.
Where Sideways nuts will tell you that it was here that Jack insisted Miles’ ‘gloominess not thwart his attempts to get lucky before the wedding.’
Try the Aebleskiver, a waffle-like breakfast ball filled with apple slices.
Wine O’clock rolls around soon on a Sideways tour.
See if you get the same tasting notes as Miles from the Vin Gris at the Sanford Winery…
‘Citrus, strawberry, the faintest soupcon of asparagus and just a flutter of edam cheese.’
Next up Kalyra Winery is where we first meet vivacious Aussie wine pourer Stephanie whom Jack falls for.
Now I’ll need to dig out the film again to see Ostrich Land which you’ll also visit.
While our two heroes lunched at Los Olivos Cafe & Wine Merchant with Stephanie and Maya. You too can choose from the Sideways menu.
Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard is where a pent-up Miles guzzles from the slop bucket after the pourer refuses to give him a full glass..m
We’d opt for a glass of Pinot Noir.
Firestone Winery offers tours and a guide, and it is from here that our fab four sneak out of a lecture tour for a romantic walk through the Barrel Room.
The Hitching Post II is, of course, where Maya waits tables and their Santa Maria Style barbecue is to be recommended.
The definitive wine road trip tour… And, of course it’s your call on the Merlot!
Two Glasses In
Vino California: And a toast to the Golden State.
Two Glasses In is a nine-episode podcast and video series that celebrates SB’s grapes over two glasses.
We prefer two bottles! And from Roberson’s too.