Our Wine for Wilderness Passport is growing. In 2027, this Central Coast wine tasting passport expands from 24 to 30 participating wineries and reaches north into Carmel Valley for the first time. Now in its second year, the passport invites you to discover the region’s diverse wine country, explore nearby hiking trails, and support conservation throughout the Los Padres region.
“Los Padres National Forest stretches roughly 220 miles, connecting an incredible diversity of landscapes and communities,” said Adam Morrison, Director of Development at Los Padres ForestWatch. “We’re particularly proud that this year’s Wine for Wilderness Passport now reaches from Carmel Valley to Ventura, reflecting just how connected this region really is.”
What’s Included in the Central Coast Wine Tasting Passport
For $85, the 2027 Wine for Wilderness Passport gives you:
- A complimentary tasting at each of 30 participating wineries, a combined value of more than $800
- A full year to use it, from January 1 through December 31, 2027
- A nearby hiking trail paired with every winery, in Los Padres National Forest or on surrounding public lands
- An interactive winery and trail map to plan your trips
Every passport supports ForestWatch’s work protecting wildlife, water, wilderness and sustainable access across the Los Padres region.
New Wineries from Carmel Valley to Ventura
The 2027 lineup welcomes 11 new winery partners, extending the passport north into Carmel Valley and adding stops across the Central Coast:
- Carmel Valley: Bernardus and Tira Nanza
- San Luis Obispo County: ídola wine co. in downtown San Luis Obispo and Sinor-LaVallee in Avila Beach
- Santa Barbara County: Feliz Noche Cellars and Lincourt Vineyards in Solvang, St. Avalo Wines and Strange Family Vineyards in Los Olivos, Sandhi Wines in Lompoc, and Whitcraft Winery in Santa Barbara
- Ventura County: Trois le Fou Winery in Ventura
See all 30 participating wineries
Returning Partners Committed to Sustainability
The new wineries join returning partners such as Tablas Creek Vineyard in Paso Robles, the world’s first Regenerative Organic Certified® vineyard. Its commitment to soil health, biodiversity and regenerative agriculture reflects the environmental values at the heart of Wine for Wilderness.
“At Tablas Creek Vineyard, we farm with the intention of supporting the longevity and integrity of our ecosystem as a whole,” said Austin Collins, Director of Vineyard Operations at Tablas Creek Vineyard. “We’re proud to return as a Wine for Wilderness participant and support ForestWatch’s work to protect the landscapes, wildlife, and natural resources that make the Central Coast such a special place.”
Tips for Planning Your Trail-to-Tasting-Room Visits
- Make a reservation: most participating wineries require one.
- Check ahead: confirm tasting room availability and current trail conditions before you go.
- Pack water: bring plenty for your hike.
- Plan your ride: arrange safe transportation after wine tasting.
Get Your 2027 Wine for Wilderness Passport
Ready to explore the Central Coast from trail to tasting room? Purchase your passport, browse all 30 participating wineries, and explore the interactive winery and trail map at forestwatch.org/passport.
