SPICY CLASSIC: Like many a food-loving Californian, we'd never turn up a nose at anything that has "wine" in the title. But sometimes we crave a more specific vino experience, especially a wine that doesn't always get the spotlight. (Okay, we might be looking at you, merlot and pinot.) Zinfandel gets the love, but events and deals specifically tailored to the joys of zin aren't as common as a zinphile might like. The Cambria Inns, though, are here to address that question, and in a nicely money-saving way, too. The boutique inn group just launched its "Zinful Escape Package," a deal that pays tribute to the area's zinny character.
WHAT'S IN THE DEAL: A two-night stay-over at either the Sand Pebbles Inn or the Blue Dolphin Inn plus a bottle of Adelaida Cellars 2010 Michael's Vineyard Zinfandel. (Plus the inns provide some cheeses and crackers to enjoy it with; you're totally sipping it in your hotel room, right?) You'll get a guide to California wineries and two tickets to a Wine Wrangler tour, too. Four wineries are on the route.
HOW LONG IS THIS RUNNING? Through Oct. 19. Have you ever been in Cambria on a perfect September afternoon? Those over-the-top travel brochures are not exaggerating. In fact, they may not be going far enough. It's gorgeous.
COST? The Zinful Escape starts at $483.
HELLO, CAMBRIA: Beyond being a short toddle from the Paso Robles wineries and Hearst Castle, the burg has some sweet annual haps. Here's the list.
