Destination weddings are certainly gaining in popularity, and why not? It’s the perfect opportunity to combine a love for travel and new experiences with your wedding day. Plus, it’s a great way to cull through the guest list a bit for those who prefer a more intimate affair. And, if you love the beauty of California wine country, you may want to consider a wine pairing – in a whole new way!
Special thanks to Hotel Los Gatos and the SMCCVB for hosting me on media trips.
Unexpected Wine Pairings in California Wine Country
Of course, you can offer wine pairings at your reception – but this pairing list is all about where to have your destination wedding. No matter your reasons for wanting a wedding in a different locale, California’s San Mateo County and Silicon Valley area has the perfect place for you to do so by including one of these wineries in your nuptial plans.
Los Gatos –Testarossa Winery & Hotel Los Gatos
When you hear “Silicon Valley” thoughts may turn to technology, yet tucked away in the southern tip is the quaint town of Los Gatos, a thriving area filled with locally owned boutiques, fabulous restaurants, and the lovely Hotel Los Gatos. Seemingly straight out Tuscany, this location boasts spacious rooms and many amenities.
Up the hill from the hotel is Testarossa Winery, which offers wine caves for hosting your guests for a tasting, wedding and/or reception. The night before your wedding, guests can dine on cuisine inspired by Greece and the Mediterranean at Dio Deka, which is located at Hotel Los Gatos.
- Marry – Testarossa Winery
- Stay – Hotel Los Gatos
- Dine – Dio Deka
photos by Orange Photographie
Woodside – Thomas Fogarty Winery & Dinah’s Garden Hotel
If you crave vineyard views, Thomas Fogarty Winery is the place to be. Located high on a ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the property is peppered with vines that are curated to produce carefully crafted wines. The events facility is well thought out and includes multiple locations for events and can accommodate up to 216 guests. Bonuses are a bridal changing area and covered pavilion, which is perfect for a reception or a backup plan if it rains in California wine country.
- Marry – Thomas Fogarty Winery
- Stay – Dinah’s Garden Hotel
- Dine – The Mountain House
photos by Danny Dong Photography
San Carlos/Redwood City – Domenico Winery & Residence Inn
For those that prefer more of an urban vibe, the facilities at Domenico Winery are delightful. Their spacious event area is connected to their winemaking space and can accommodate up to 300 guests. It’s quite impressive with its hundreds of wine barrels and 30-foot marble bar. Domenico also offers on-site catering and a fabulous selection of house-made wines. Nearby LV Mar offers tapas style dining and a diverse selection of cocktails all perfect for an intimate rehearsal dinner.
- Marry – Domenico Winery
- Stay – Residence Inn Redwood City/San Carlos
- Dine – LV Mar
photos by CM Sours Photography
Coastal – LaNebbia Winery & Oceano Hotel & Spa
Craving a waterside wedding? Oceano Hotel & Spa has a lush outdoor space coupled with a lovely indoor area that is perfect for a wedding/reception combination or a rain plan if need be. A big plus is that guests can stay at the hotel, which has gorgeous rooms that overlook Pillar Point Harbor. Of course, getting wine from La Nebbia is a must, and Sam’s Chowder House, which offers fresh seafood, is less than a mile away.
- Marry & Stay – Oceano Hotel & Spa
- Drink – La Nebbia Winery
- Dine – Sam’s Chowder House
photos by Annie Hall Photography
No matter your tastes, you really can’t go wrong by having your wedding in wine country. From seaside venues to mountaintop vineyards, we hope you find the perfect place to say, “I do.”
