Eat, Drink, Explore California’s Oldest Wine Region
Did you know San Diego is the birthplace of California’s wine industry? Most people have no idea this thriving wine community exists right in their backyard.
Join me, Monique Soltani, on a journey through San Diego’s hidden vineyards, where history, diversity, and passion come together in every bottle.
From family-owned wineries surviving Prohibition to pioneering women and BIPOC winemakers redefining the craft, this is more than just wine, it’s about connection, culture, and community.
Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, or just curious, you’ll discover why San Diego wines deserve the spotlight. So grab a glass, and let’s toast to the untold stories of Southern California’s wine legacy.
In this very FULL episode we meet a WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) trained wine expert who is serving his mission at California’s oldest mission.
Vineyard planting in the state began with the Spanish Franciscan Missionaries starting with California’s first mission: Mission San Diego de Alcalá in 1769.
We share the story of Southern California’s oldest (and still family owned) winery, learn how to make a perfect Cup O Joe at home.
We hear how a fire in 2007 inspired San Diego County farmers to turn avocado groves into vineyard rows, bringing it all back to the thriving wine community it was born to be.
We reunite over fish tacos and premium canned wine with a familiar face and one of our favorite winemakers.
We shine a light on San Diego’s craft beer scene with an industry leader who is raising a glass to women and opening doors for all!
Then it’s time to put fears aside and attempt to hang ten (a surf expression that means hanging ten toes off the boards, best left to the experts). We learn from a surf pro who is helping children of all ages get in touch with nature.
We introduce you to a ballet academy who brings the magic and shows perseverance outperforms God-given gifts. The cherry on top? A sweet spot dripping with history.
