Best 7 Wineries in Malibu CA: A Guide to Tasting and Touring
The Malibu region of California is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning coastline, and now, its wineries. With a Mediterranean climate that is perfect for grape growing, Malibu has become a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. Malibu wineries offer a unique experience, with many located in picturesque settings, such as the Saddlerock Ranch, which offers wine tastings in the middle of a wildlife safari.
Visitors to Malibu wineries can enjoy a variety of varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir, as well as whites such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Many wineries also offer wine-tasting flights, allowing visitors to sample a range of wines. Malibu wines are made using grapes grown in the region’s slate, sandstone, and shale soils, which give them a unique flavor profile.
Despite the recent Woolsey Fire that devastated the area, many wineries have bounced back and are welcoming visitors again. Reviews of the best wineries in Malibu can be found online, with many visitors praising the quality of the wine and the beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re looking for a wedding venue or a relaxing day out, Malibu wineries offer something for everyone.
The History of Malibu Wineries
Malibu, a coastal city in Southern California, is known for its picturesque beaches, stunning views, and wineries. The history of Malibu wineries dates back to the early 1800s when Jose Bartolome Tapia, a Spanish General, planted the first vineyard. The vineyard was located in what is now known as Serra Retreat and was the first of its kind in the region.
Over the years, the number of vineyards in Malibu has grown significantly. Today, there are over 50 vineyards in the area, each with its unique history and story to tell. Many of these vineyards are family-owned and operated, and they take pride in producing some of the best wines in the region.
The wine industry in Malibu faced several challenges in the past, including wildfires and prohibition. However, the wineries in Malibu have persevered and continue to thrive today. The wineries in Malibu are known for producing a range of wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and more.
In recent years, Malibu wineries have gained popularity among wine lovers from all over the world. Many of these wineries offer wine-tasting tours, where visitors can sample some of the best wines in the region while enjoying the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
The history of Malibu wineries is rich and fascinating. From the first vineyard planted in the early 1800s to the thriving wine industry of today, Malibu wineries have come a long way. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, visiting one of the many wineries in Malibu is a must.
The Best Wineries in Malibu
Malibu, California is home to some of the best wineries in the United States. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy the stunning scenery while sipping on some of the finest wines in the world. Here are some of the best wineries in Malibu.
Saddlerock Ranch
Saddlerock Ranch is one of the most popular wineries in Malibu. This winery is known for its unique wine-tasting experiences, including tours of the property’s exotic animal safari. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine while admiring the stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains.
Website: https://www.saddlerock-ranch.com/
Address: 32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
Malibu Wines
Malibu Wines is another popular winery in Malibu. This winery offers a variety of wines including cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, viognier, merlot, syrah, and sauvignon blanc. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine in the tasting room or relax in the outdoor seating area while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Website: https://www.malibuwines.com/
Address: 23130 Sherman Way West Hills, Ca 91307
Malibu Rocky Oaks
Malibu Rocky Oaks is a boutique winery specializing in handpicked, small-batch wines. This winery is known for its stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains and its award-winning wines, including grenache and pinot noir.
Website: https://www.maliburockyoaks.com/
Address: 340 Kanan Road Malibu, CA 90265
Rosenthal Wine Bar and Patio
Rosenthal Wine Bar and Patio is a popular winery that offers a variety of whites, reds, and rosés. This winery is known for its relaxing atmosphere and beautiful outdoor seating area. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Website: https://rosenthalestatewines.com/
Address: 18741 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
Cielo Farms
Cielo Farms is a family-owned winery that offers a variety of wines, including cabernet franc, petite sirah, and Syrah. This winery is known for its stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains and beautiful tasting room.
Website: https://www.woodstockmalibu.com/
Address: 31424 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265, USA
Cornell Wine Co.
Cornell Wine Co. is a small winery that specializes in handcrafted wines. This winery is known for its high-quality wines, including cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the beautiful views of the Malibu countryside.
Website: http://www.cornellwinery.com/
Address: 29975 Mulholland Hwy, Old Agoura, CA 91301, USA
Malibu Family Wines
Malibu Family Wines is a popular winery that offers a variety of wines, including chardonnay, pinot noir, and Syrah. This winery is known for its beautiful outdoor seating area and relaxing atmosphere.
Website: https://www.malibufamilywines.com/
Address: 23130 Sherman Way, West Hills, Ca 91307
Top Wine-Tasting Experiences in Malibu
Malibu, California is known for its beautiful beaches, but it is also home to some of the best wineries in the state. Wine tasting in Malibu is a must-do experience for wine lovers. Here are some of Malibu’s top wine-tasting experiences that you don’t want to miss.
The Barn
The Barn at Cielo Farms is a popular wine-tasting room in Malibu that offers a unique experience. The Barn is a rustic, yet elegant, space that is perfect for wine tasting. Visitors can enjoy a variety of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir. Wine-tasting flights are available, and visitors can also purchase wine by glass or bottle. The Barn is also a popular wedding venue, with its beautiful views and charming atmosphere.
Malibu Wine Hikes
Malibu Wine Hikes is the perfect experience for those who love wine and hiking. Visitors can take a guided hike through the vineyards and taste some of the best wines in Malibu. The hike includes visiting Saddlerock Ranch, where visitors can taste Malibu Wines and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The hike is led by knowledgeable guides who provide information about the vineyards and the wines.
Private Events at Malibu Wineries
Many of the wineries in Malibu offer private events, such as weddings, corporate events, and private tastings. These events are perfect for those who want a more intimate wine-tasting experience. Visitors can enjoy the wines and the beautiful scenery in a private setting. Many of the wineries also offer catering services, making it easy to plan the perfect event.
In conclusion, Malibu is home to some of the best wineries in California. Wine tasting in Malibu is a unique experience that visitors should not miss. Whether you’re looking for a rustic wine-tasting room, a wine and hiking experience, or a private event, Malibu has something for everyone.
The Impact of the Woolsey Fire on Malibu Wineries
The Woolsey Fire that ravaged Malibu in November 2018 significantly impacted the local wineries. The blaze covered nearly half of the Malibu Coast appellation, scorching acres of vineyards and damaging or destroying wineries and other structures. Many vintners had to evacuate their homes and wineries, leaving behind their livelihoods.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache, and Pinot Noir are popular grape varietals in Malibu. The fire destroyed many of the vineyards, significantly reducing the production of these wines.
Despite the devastation, several Malibu wineries reported that their vineyards, which do not burn easily, helped to mitigate fire damage. “Without a doubt, being surrounded by 10,000 vines saved my house and barn,” said Richard Hirsh, owner of Semler Wine.
Saddlerock Ranch, home to Malibu Wines, was one of the wineries severely affected by the fire. The fire destroyed their tasting room, but they were able to save their animals and most of their vineyard. They have since rebuilt their tasting room and are now open for visitors.
The Malibu Coast was granted AVA (American Viticultural Area) status in 2014. Despite the Woolsey Fire, the area remains a robust and beautiful wine-touring destination. Visitors can still enjoy wine-tasting experiences at several Malibu wineries, although some have limited production due to the fire’s impact.
Other Activities in Malibu Wine Country
Malibu Wine Country is not just about wine tasting. There are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the area. Here are some of the options visitors can explore:
Hiking Trails
Malibu Wine Country is located in the Santa Monica Mountains, which offer plenty of hiking trails with breathtaking views. Some popular trails include the Malibu Creek State Park Trail, the Escondido Falls Trail, and the Solstice Canyon Trail. These trails range in difficulty, so visitors can choose the one that best fits their skill level.
Live Music and Craft Food Trucks at Malibu Wines
Malibu Wines is a popular winery that offers live music and craft food trucks on weekends. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine while listening to live music and sampling food from local food trucks. The winery also offers outdoor games such as cornhole and giant Jenga.
Malibu Wine Country Surfing and Yoga
Malibu Wine Country is also home to some of the best surfing spots in California. Visitors can catch some waves at Surfrider Beach or Zuma Beach. For those who prefer a more relaxing activity, plenty of yoga studios in the area offer classes with breathtaking ocean views.
Malibu Wine Country Weddings
Malibu Wine Country is a popular wedding destination. One of the most popular wedding venues in the area is the Tuscan-style stone barn at Saddlerock Ranch. The venue offers stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains and can accommodate up to 400 guests.
Overall, Malibu Wine Country has something for everyone. Whether visitors want to enjoy a glass of wine, go hiking, listen to live music, surf, practice yoga, or get married, Malibu Wine Country has it all.