Vineyards dot Central Coast hillsides & valleys.  Stop to taste local offerings such as the Muscat Canelli, available at Edna Vineyards. A demonstration center (above) shows the progression of grape and vine growth as applied to wine production. A beautiful, new tasting room with a gift shop and special seasonal events keep guests returning.  

There are over 400 California wineries and many of them  export to 165 markets worldwide. The U.S. ranks as the fourth leading wine producer in the world with the  United Kingdom #1 consumer of California wines internationally. 

See full list of California Wineries  

Increased winery marketing efforts and consistent vintages have generated interest in California's growth industry.   

Annual wine consumption in gallons, per capita: 

 1.  France.............15.85 
 2.  Italy.................15.68 
 3.  Portugal............15.44 
4.   Luxembourg.....13.31  
30. United States.....1.9 

   Photos ©Debbie Stock  

As for prices, you sometimes can find the same wines sold in local grocery stores for a similar price or even less. If you are a member of Costco, stop at the one visible off Highway 101 in Santa Maria to check out their local inventory and prices. Costco annual membership is around $40. BUT, if you like something and are just passing through, don't count on it being available outside the vineyard.