Believe what you may, but Ojai’s spiritual vortex is very real, super calming and guaranteed to soothe the soul. A 14-mile trek up Highway 33 from Ventura connects nature and casts good vibes to all those who visit and live there. The actual town of Ojai is nestled along a winding country road lined with old oaks and majestic redwoods in the Topatopa Mountains. A known burial ground for the Chumash Indians, the translation for Ojai is ‘moon’, which probably explains the immense spiritual energy present connecting nature and visitors alike. Artsy shop owners in downtown’s Arcade warmly welcome visitors after a long year’s closure, and eclectic spiritual boutiques on the back streets wistfully display their colorful clothing and spiritual wares.
As a curious enophile though, Topa Mountain Winery was a natural point of interest. Excited to experience Topa Mountain Winery’s wine tasting featuring Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo AVA wines, we settled in for a relaxing afternoon of sunshine and stellar wines.
The mixed flight kicked off with a 2019 Rosé of Grenache from Santa Barbara Highlands and the warmer Happy Canyon AVA. Followed by a zesty oaked 2017 Viognier from Santa Barbara County’s White Hawk and Camp Four vineyards.
Topping the score sheet was the 2017 Blend 150, scoring 93 points from Wine Enthusiast, a Rhone blend of Grenache and Syrah from Demetria Vineyards in Santa Ynez. Expertly paired, I might add, with the fig and olive tapenade and organic crackers. And not to be overshadowed by the opulent 2016 Syrah Bien Nacido from Santa Maria AVA.
All of the wines along with the gracious service proved to be a memorable experience at Topa Mountain Winery. Also noteworthy is, that the winery is dog-friendly and encourages a BYOPL (Bring Your Own Picnic Lunch) vibe. An excellent way to while away the hours in sunny peaceful Ojai.
