California Wine Festival prepares to uncork California wines and coastal views in Huntington Beach

Founded in Santa Barbara in 2004, the California Wine Festival is known for hosting wine-tasting events at coastal locations designed to introduce wine enthusiasts to regional wines from Napa Valley, Sonoma, Paso Robles and beyond. In April, Dana Point hosted the spring California Wine Festival at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa. This month, the popular festival prepares to uncork select California wines in Surf City USA.

“Huntington Beach brings together everything guests love about the California Wine Festival — exceptional wines, delicious food and an unforgettable coastal setting,” Emily Kaufmann, executive director of California Wine Festival, stated in a news release.

The weekend begins with a Sunset Rare & Reserve tasting at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16 in the Sapphire Ballroom at Paséa Hotel. Guests will be welcomed with a sparkling wine reception, followed by samplings of limited-production wines from the California wine region. The rare pours will be paired with a selection of hot and cold appetizers from local chefs, accompanied by live music.

California Wine Festival returns for two days of oceanfront wine to Huntington Beach. (Courtesy of California Wine Festival) On Oct.17, the Beachside Wine Festival kicks off at 1 p.m. (12 p.m. for VIP ticket holders) at Paséa Hotel’s indoor/outdoor dining area, which offers coastal views. Guests will enjoy pours from hundreds of premium California wines, like Barlow Vineyards, Dry Creek Vineyards, Lloyd Cellars, Priest Ranch and others, along with regional craft beer.

Local food purveyors and restaurants, like Cucina Alessa, Duke’s Huntington Beach, Graze Craze Charcuterie Boards & Boxes, Jeni’s Ice Cream and Miss Mini Donuts will provide sample-sized culinary offerings, from artisan cheeses to seafood and desserts.

In addition to early entry, VIP tickets include exclusive access to the VIP Pavilion, offering reserve-level wines, gourmet bites and oceanfront seating.

California Wine Festival raises awareness and funds for California-based charities. Past events have raised money for organizations like the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County, Surfrider Foundation and Golden Rule Charity.

The fall California Wine Festival will benefit Sandy Feet Initiative, a nonprofit the festival has partnered with in the past that supports siblings of children with special needs with beach-based programs including yoga and surfing.

Kaufmann said the festival’s work connects back to showcasing all the Golden State has to offer.

“We look forward to returning to Paséa Hotel & Spa and welcoming guests for a vibrant weekend celebrating California wine culture by the ocean,” Kaufmann said.

The California Wine Festival takes place Oct. 16-17 at Paséa Hotel & Spa. For further details and tickets, go to californiawinefestival.com.

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Sarah Mosqueda covers Orange County food, art and culture for TimesOC. She previously worked as a staff writer in Food for the Los Angeles Times. She also has several years of experience in the restaurant industry, including as a proprietor. Mosqueda earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Cal State Fullerton.