Cowgirl Winery

Photo Credit: Cowgirl Winery

This past weekend, my sister and I had a girls day out in the Carmel Valley wine region.  It’s about an hour and half drive from where we live, approximately two hours south of San Francisco located in Monterey County.  We decided to go wine tasting and try out a few places we hadn’t visited yet.  For those of you who don't know, Monterey County is one of the largest wine growing and producing regions in California. We previously visited Folktale Winery which I wrote about in this post here.  Today, we set our sights on Cowgirl Winery located in sunny Carmel Valley!




What I'm wearing:

1. Straw Hat: similar here and here
2. Embroidered Tank Top: similar here and here
3. White Shorts: similar here and here
4.  Red Sandals: similar here and here
5. Aviator Mirror Sunglasses: similar here and here

Upon arrival, we immediately noticed the laid back, casual, and rustic farm vibe atmosphere.  The tasting room is located in an old fashioned redwood barn (pictured above).  We were welcomed outside by friendly free range chickens and roosters who just roam about the outside patio. We also met the most adorable cat who lazes around and loves to snuggle on your lap while sipping your wine! Cowgirl Winery is a family and pet friendly place, just make sure your fur baby is on a leash as the last thing you want is feathers flying!

We decided to sit in the outdoor patio area as it was a beautiful sunny and warm day.  We ordered a wine tasting flight which was served with generous pours and information about each varietal.  The wine tasting flights were very reasonably priced between $15-30.  My sister and I enjoyed the wine, soaked in the beautiful views, and played a game of bocce ball.  If you want to keep the kids occupied while you relax and enjoy wine, they can play a few games of corn hole.  If you're feeling adventurous, why not practice your roping skills?  This is a winery made for cowgirls after all!       

   

For those of you who love to get cool shots for the 'gram, grab your best cowgirls and boots and check out these insta-worthy backdrops!  

The old farm truck with a flat tire parked out front is no eye sore here!  

 

Who Needs some wine?  You can find this spot right in front of the vintage redwood barn!  

If it starts to get a little hot outside, the tasting room inside the barn has plenty of casual couch seating in old Americana western style  You can cool off and relax on the comfy leather couches and order a bite to eat.  Cowgirl Winery offers seasonal gourmet pizzas delivered hot out of a wood burning pizza oven from The Corkscrew Cafe as well as artisan cheese boards with fresh bread. Grab a blanket and snuggle up with the resident cat - I forgot his/her name!!

We had a great time wine tasting and relaxing at Cowgirl Winery and can't wait to visit again this fall!  Carmel Valley is peppered with some of the most unique, quaint, and beautiful vineyards and wineries.  Being nestled in the valley, the weather is mostly sheltered from the coastal fog and cool air found at Carmel by the Sea just a few miles west.  It's a perfect destination for a day trip out with your girlfriends, a romantic weekend with your significant other, or a quick stop with the family to enjoy the cowgirl vintage vibes.

If you would like to try some of the wines before coming, you can check out their wine shop here. For more information about the winery including hours, planning a visit, or learning about the vintners, check out their website here   

Happy Travels!

Hayley

SHOP:

Folktale Winery

On our recent visit to Carmel, we had some time to waste waiting for our hotel room to be ready for check in.  We decided to leave our luggage with the bell hop and jump in the car to go exploring.  Within the first few minutes of our drive, we stumbled across Folktale Winery which is located 5 miles inland from the Pacific Ocean along the Carmel River in beautiful Carmel Valley.  

As you drive up to the entrance, you immediately notice a beautiful old-world French Chateau.  Folktale Winery & Vineyards was originally founded in 1982 by Bob and Patty Brower, as Chateau Julien Wine Estate. Inspired by their trips to the Bordeaux region of France, the winery was the realization of their dream to bring that experience of wine and hospitality to Carmel.

In 1996, the property was expanded.  In addition to building a new estate residence and expanding the vineyard, a 10,000 sq. ft. barrel hall was built to to house over 2000 wine barrels. In 2015, the property was acquired by local winemaker, Gregory Ahn, and renamed Folktale Winery & Vineyards. The name is inspired by the thrill of discovery, the joy of gathering, and the idea that every great bottle of wine holds a story.

We were happily greeted at the entrance with a complimentary glass of NV Folktale Brut which was perfect for the sunny spring weather we were having and a great way to kick off our mini vacation!  The regular tasting hours at Folktale are 11am - 8pm daily but may fluctuate depending on winery events and activities.  We were pretty hungry when we arrived and I was pleasantly relieved when we learned there was a kitchen at Folktale!  

They offer a variety of light bite selections on their menu including Artisan Cheese and  Charcuterie boards, salads, seasonally inspired small plate appetizers, and a variety of shared plates to accommodate all tastes.  In addition, there are a few yummy desserts to choose from if you have a sweet tooth and all of the food listed on their menu comes with a recommended wine pairing!  We nibbled on the Artisan cheese board which went really well with the NV Brut followed by the the Niman Ranch Beef, Veal, and Pork Meatballs which are gluten free and so delicious!  We also ordered a Folktale flight which included tastings of their signature wines!  Here are a few pictures from the enclosed patio area which provided a cool and relaxing atmosphere to sit and enjoy our food and wine and enjoy each others company!    

Cheers!  

Here are a few of the wines we tasted with our flight and here is the full list of wines for your reference.  

After filling up on food and wine, we took a walk to explore the beautiful grounds.  The picture above is a view of the 10,000 sq. ft. barrel hall that was built to to house over 2000 wine barrels.   

Adjacent to the enclosed patio area is large atrium with sky high ceilings and a gorgeous view to the outside through the majestic dome shaped windows and french doors you see pictured below.  This space includes a smattering of cafe styled seating options for intimate occasions.  There's also a long bar with colorful cocktail bar chairs and a living room area with cozy couches and a fireplace for friendly gatherings.   

In addition to the indoor gathering areas, there is plenty of space to spread outside as well.  We spent some time soaking up the spring sunshine on these wooden benches pictured below.  They are centered around a cozy fire pit which would be ideal at sunset when the air gets a little chilly or on a cooler crisp autumn or winter day when the central coast fog gets a little cold!  

I should also mention that Folktale is a family and pet friendly winery.  Although not pictured, Jack and Collin (who are 11 years old) came with us for the visit and were happily occupied playing with the giant domino set, corn hole boards and a giant Jenga set located in the outdoor courtyard!  It's always nice to find family and pet friendly wineries because our kids go with us everywhere and dogs make everyone happy!

  

Folktale Winery is surrounded by vineyards and rests on a total of 16 acres with views of oak trees and mountains in beautiful Carmel Valley.  The vineyards on the property at Folktale cover 5 acres and are 100% organically farmed.  Committed to sustainable farming practices for all of their wines, they naturally manage pests like ground squirrels and gophers with the installation of owl boxes and raptor perches around the property.  Focusing on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, Folktale wines express beautiful acid and minerality of Monterey’s cool climate and rocky soils. 

We really enjoyed our wine tasting and visit to Folktale Winery and plan to go back this June!  If you are planning a visit, it's conveniently accessible from the Monterey Airport and the Monterey Peninsula, and an easy drive from Silicon Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area. The winery offers daily tours and wine tastings , live music every weekend, and concerts and special events each month including Yoga in the Vines!  

For more things to see and do in and around Monterey and Carmel, check out the posts below or visit my Travel page. Also, if you haven't had a chance to sign up for my newsletter you can subscribe here!  It's a great way to connect with all of you about new posts, great sales you don't want to miss, Q&A on various fashion, beauty, home decor, and travel topics, and so much more!  Don't worry, I won't overcrowd your inbox!  Also, don't forget you can shop all of the looks from my blog on my shop page!

Happy Spring Break!

🍷🍷🍷

Hayley

Related Posts:

Starmont Winery

We recently headed out for a quick day trip to Napa to celebrate my birthday!  My husband was traveling, so I brought along the girls with my two 9 year twin boys.  (Pictured below from left to right: my niece Brianna; my sister Heather, my aunt Diana, and me).

I saw a Groupon (details to follow below) for Starmont Winery and before I purchased it, I called ahead to confirm availability.  I wanted to ensure the winery offered a family friendly environment as I was traveling with kids!  I spoke with Spencer on the phone and he assured me that kids were welcome to Starmont and even had some fun activities to keep them busy such as puzzles, games, jump rope, cards, snacks and drinks.  



Starmont recently opened their tasting room this past summer.  The scenery was breathtaking from the moment we drove in.  Starmont is located on a portion of the historic Stanly Ranch and sits between Carneros and Napa Valley, a region known for it's Chardonnay and Pinot Noir varietals.  Spencer enthusiastically greeted us when we arrived and created a most enjoyable experience for my entire family.      

Just outside the open, airy, and modern tasting room is a beautiful outdoor courtyard.  This was our favorite place to relax by the fire pit and sip wine.  There are many different wine tasting experiences to try out.  You can check out Starmont's full list here.  

We enjoyed a portion of our wine flight in the courtyard but then decided to go inside to check out the new tasting room.  The indoor space was just as beautiful as the outside.  The interiors were modern and sleek with pops of color but still maintained that rustic Napa charm.   

Spencer's detailed knowledge and expertise of each wine in our flight was very educational. 

We tasted a number of different wines in our flight including:

2013 Viognier - flirty and crisp

2012 Chardonnay Stanly Ranch Estate - a hint of tropical fruit flavor, lemon, cinnamon & orange

2013 Pinot Noir Stanly Ranch Estate - suave, smooth, and sultry

2013 Syrah Stanly Ranch Estate - my favorite!

2012 Forward Kidd Napa Valley Red Wine - red blend with hints of raspberry, plum, and blueberry 

I love the red stools!  It's a perfect pop of color against the bright white tables and chairs and rustic wood plank walls.  

We thoroughly enjoyed our time at Starmont Winery.  If you are planning a trip to Napa Valley, I would highly recommend a stop here.  The experience was the highlight of our day and we look forward to visiting again!  Of course before we left, we picked up a few bottles to take home and enjoy!  

Thanks for having us Starmont!

Happy Travels!  

Hayley

What's in Hayley's weekend Napa bag?  See see below and remember to bring layers because it gets chilly in Napa in the winter!  Oh by the way, here is the Groupon we used for our wine tasting at Starmont!  Enjoy!

OUTFIT # 1

OUTFIT #2

OUTFIT #3