Solvang Wine Tour: The Sequel – March 21–24, 2026
Day One – Saturday, March 21
Our San Diego crew—Alex & Gloria Best (trip organizers), Hans & Kathy Crail, George & Diane Dauphine, and Lorin & Victoria Stewart—gathered bright and early at Krispy Kreme in Carmel Mountain. With coffee in hand and fresh donuts fueling the start, Alex walked us through the plan for the drive before we rolled out on schedule.
Although everyone had made this trip before, this year’s smaller group of four couples created something special—more time to connect, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. The weather could not have been better, and the roads were fairly clear as we made our way north.
Driving through Los Angeles, we took Pacific Coast Highway through Santa Monica and Malibu. For many of us, it was our first time seeing the aftermath of the devastating Palisades Fire—a sobering moment that stayed with us as we continued along the coast.
Despite a logjam on PCH, we arrived on time for our lunch reservation at Spruzzo Restaurant & Bar, where we enjoyed a relaxed Italian meal with ocean views—slightly softened by a gentle coastal fog this time around. After lunch, we continued toward Solvang, taking Highway 154, which offered a beautiful transition into rolling countryside and wine country scenery.
George and Diane peeled off to stay with family nearby, while the rest of us checked into Hotel Corque. We regrouped later that evening at The Craft House for a light meal, drinks, and plenty of conversation. It was the perfect close to a day that reminded us why driving our Corvettes is as much about the journey as the destination.
Day Two – Sunday, March 22
The morning began with a lively “Cars & Coffee” gathering in the hotel parking lot. Alongside our club, Corvette enthusiasts from Bakersfield, Discovery Bay, Pacific Coast/Orange County, and Palm Springs joined in. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow Corvette owners from across California—this year’s sense of camaraderie felt especially strong.
As the morning fog lifted, the sun revealed a stunning sight—rows of Corvettes gleaming in the light. By late morning, the gathering naturally wound down, and the rest of the day was ours to explore.
Each couple took their own path. Alex and Gloria headed toward Cachuma Lake and discovered the historic Cold Spring Tavern, a rustic 1860s stagecoach stop with a unique atmosphere. Hans and Kathy visited Mission Santa Inés before continuing north to meet friends. Lorin and Victoria took advantage of the open road and perfect weather to drive up to San Luis Obispo, enjoying a stroll through town and a relaxing lunch.
That evening, everyone reconvened for an “all-club” dinner at AJ Spurs. With hearty food, live music, and great company, the night quickly turned into a lively and memorable gathering—full of laughter, stories, and new friendships.
Day Three – Monday, March 23 (Wine Tour Day!)
The highlight of the trip had arrived—and it exceeded expectations in every way. A big thank you to Alex Best for organizing such a seamless and enjoyable day for all participating clubs!
We met in the lobby mid-morning and boarded our buses—ours proudly displaying “Corvette Owners Club of San Diego.” Joined by the spirited Discovery Bay Corvette Club, the energy was high as we set off.
Our first stop was Babcock Winery. With the courtyard open this year, we enjoyed both indoor and outdoor tastings of Pinot, Grenache, Syrah, and Chardonnay. The rock & roll-themed living room spaces added a relaxed and distinctive touch. Winemaker Bryan Babcock, a pioneer since the 1980s, continues to innovate with his gravity-assisted canopy system, helping his vines thrive in a truly unique way.
Next, we headed to Vega Vineyard & Farm for lunch. This was a standout experience—every vegetable served was grown on the property, and each course was paired beautifully with their wines. It was one of those meals that felt both elevated and grounded. After lunch, some members wandered over to visit the farm animals.
As the day wrapped up, some returned to the hotel to relax or enjoy the pool, while a smaller group—including Alex, Hans, and Lorin—made an optional stop at Figueroa Mountain Brew Company to enjoy a well-earned cold beer with some of the other participants.
That evening was left open for everyone to explore Solvang at their own pace. A few of us—Hans, Kathy, Lorin, and Victoria—headed to Fitzpatrick’s Tavern, where their famous Reuben sandwich more than lived up to its reputation, backed by a book of glowing reviews from visitors around the world.
Day Four – Tuesday, March 24
Our final morning greeted us with perfect weather for the drive back to San Diego. Everyone departed on their own schedule, taking different routes but sharing the same sentiment—a deep appreciation for the time spent together.
Final Thoughts
This trip truly had it all—beautiful drives, exceptional food and wine, and, most importantly, great company. With a smaller group this year, the experience felt even more personal and connected.
It was, without question, 100% awesome—and filled with memories we’ll carry forward for years to come.