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Wine and Dine in OC: Best vineyards and wine bars near Baker Block

December 21st, 2018

No matter the time of year or the reason, an adventure to a winery is always a good time. And just like all the beaches in town, there are tons of vineyards to wine and dine at near Baker Block.

Vineyards

NB Wine

First up is NB Wine in Newport Beach. Founded in 1998, this vineyard includes over twelve hundred vines of grapes. Additionally, this hidden vineyard has a very modern look to it and is surrounded by a beautiful garden. It also includes the only underground wine cave in Orange County! Some great events are held here as well. That includes their Christmas at the Vineyards event. And you can be sure they host weddings, anniversaries, and private events here too. We also cannot go without mentioning their Tour & Tastings. A great idea for a day out with friends, parties are required to be 8 people or more. The two-hour tour includes a trip around their 3.5-acre vineyard with 4 current wines in the underground wine cave.

Giracci Vineyards and Farms

Up next is Giracci Vineyards and Farms. Unlike NB Wine, this vineyard has a more classic, homey vibe to it. Now going into its 10th year, Giracci Vineyards was founded by Chad Kearns and Linda Grace. They are open Fridays from 3 PM to 9 PM as well as weekends from 11 AM to 5 PM. As mentioned above, this vineyard is also a farm. That means that you have the chance to ride horses here too!   

Rancho Capistrano Winery

Last up in our list of vineyards is Rancho Capistrano winery in San Clemente. This more rustic vineyard includes one of the best restaurants in all of San Clemente. And of course, they have a wonderful variety of wine clubs to join. That includes their free to join RCS Family Wine Club with 10% to 15 % off wine purchases. This vineyard is also dog-friendly! In fact, there is a 3,000 square foot patio for them to run and play.

Wine Bars

For anyone short on time or money but yearning for a delicious wine tasting, make your way over to any of the following wine bars:

• Five Vines Wine Bar: There is Five Vines Wine Bar over in San Juan Capistrano. While it a bit out of your way, they have a great social bites menu to accompany your glass of wine. And for anyone looking for a solid beer on tap, Five Vines has it.
• The Twisted Vine: Meanwhile, over in Fullerton, is Twisted Vine. Established in 2006, they have a fantastic selection of wine, craft beer, and dining. Also, they cater!
• The Wine Lab: Of all the wine bars listed, this is the closest to Baker Block. Our favorite part about this wine bar is the test tubes they give out to along with your charcuterie plate.

From vacations at the local vineyard to a happy hour at the Wine Lab around the corner, a delicious glass of wine is always nearby.