Vampire Vineyards Wine Tasting Dinner at Fritto Misto, Hermosa Beach
2026-03-05 19:00 - 21:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Fritto Misto- Hemosa Beach, 316 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach, CA, 90254, United States
Fritto Misto Hermosa Beach & Gourmet Wine Getaways
Proudly present
A GOURMET WINE TASTING DINNER
Featuring the wines of
Vampire Vineyards (formerly of Transylvania)

Host: Peter D. Kerr, Gourmet Wine Getaways’ Wine Expert
Special Guest: Michael Machat, owner
Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 7:00 PM
$89 pp plus tax & gratuity
This winery literally has roots in Transylvania! The first wines they made, back in the early 90’s, were from grapes sourced in Romania. In 2007, they made a trans-oceanic leap and set up operations in California, sourcing grapes from Napa Valley and Santa Barbara County (and a few from Italy). That geographic leap did not bring about a name change- Vampire remained on the front door. It sounds like the name of a wine you would serve only in late October, but once you taste these wines, you’ll understand that these are wines you will want to enjoy all year long. Tonight, we will have the opportunity to enjoy four of their wines paired with the delicious Italian cuisine of Fritto Misto. Winery owner Michael Machat will join Peter to discuss the long and intriguing journey he has been on for the last 40 years. All the wines will be available for purchase at very attractive prices should you desire to add them to your collection or share them with your friends. In fact, why not bring some friends along (or come alone and make some new wine-loving buddies). This is our first dinner of 2026 so let’s get the party started!
MENU
Fried artichoke gnocchi with Fritto Misto’s special dipping sauce
2023 Vampire “Dracula’s Daughter” Rose Prosecco
Salmon Checca over black linguini, fresh side salad
2024 Vampire Chardonnay
Short Rib Ravioli in a caramelized onion sauce
2023 Vampire Merlot
Fritto Misto’s Tenderloin of Beef with mushroom caps, served over sauteed spinach
2023 Vampire Cabernet Sauvignon
House-made Sweet ending
Gourmet Wine Getaways (GWG) strongly encourages guests to utilize Lyft, Uber & other safe methods of transport in getting to and from wine events. We want you to be smart and safe, and as such, we ask that you do the responsible thing. GWG or the venues are not liable or responsible for arranging transport & the methods by which guests get to & from our wine events.
Photo credit: Vampire Vineyards

Wilson Family Vineyard Wine Tasting Dinner at El Rincon Criollo, Playa del Rey
2026-03-25 18:30 - 21:30 | El Rincon Criollo, 8501 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey, CA, 90293, United States
El Rincon Criollo & Gourmet Wine Getaways
Proudly present
A GOURMET WINEMAKER DINNER
Featuring the wines of
Wilson Family Vineyard
Paso Robles,California
Host: Peter D. Kerr, Gourmet Wine Getaways
Special Guests: Kevin Wilson, owner & Joe Farley, winemaker
Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 6:30 PM
$115 per person, plus tax and gratuity
How can a single phone call change your life? Just ask Kevin Wilson (above, right) and he will tell you the story. Kevin’s friend of over 40 years, Joe Farley (above, left, phoned him 14 years ago about a great little vineyard (planted some years earlier) in Paso Robles that had just become available. The Wilsons jumped on it and created the Wilson Family Vineyard where they grow all their estate grapes for their small production wines made by Joe Farley, their winemaker. Tonight, we will have the opportunity to enjoy four of their great wines (including two great seven-year-old reds) paired with the delicious Cuban-influenced cuisine of El Rincon Criollo. Winery owner Kevin & winemaker Joe will join Peter to discuss the Paso wine region, the wines and the wine/food pairings. All the wines will be available for purchase at very attractive prices should you desire to add them to your collection. Attendance is limited to 30 guests so book early to ensure your seats. Bring some friends along or come alone and make some new wine-loving buddies. See you there!
MENU
Fresh Plantain Chips
NV Dignitat Cava Brut
Roasted pumpkin, Goat Cheese & Arugula Salad with mint vinaigrette dressing
2020 Wilson GSM (Grenache/Syrah/Mourvedre blend)
Homemade Chicken Tamale with Isabel’s famous Mole Sauce
2019 Wilson Hilltop Syrah
Tuna steak with tropical Latin salsa
2020 Wilson Estate Red
Duck Confit a la Rincon
2019 Wilson Petite Sirah Reserve
A Sweet Ending
Prepaid reservations are essential, as seating is limited. Cancellations will only be accepted up to 48 hours in advance. No Open Table reservations.
Reservations: 310-391-4478
El Rincon Criollo, 8501 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey
Picture credit: Wilson Family Vineyard
Gourmet Wine Getaways (GWG) strongly encourages guests to utilize Lyft, Uber & other safe methods of transport in getting to and from wine events. We want you to be smart and safe, and as such, we ask that you do the responsible thing. GWG or the venues are not liable or responsible for arranging transport & the methods by which guests get to & from our wine events.

Antinori Collection Wine-Tasting Dinner at Spumoni-Hermosa Beach
2026-04-18 18:30 - 21:30 | Spumoni- Hermosa Beach, 1101 Aviation Blvd., Hermosa Beach, CA, 90254, United States
Spumoni-Hermosa Beach & Gourmet Wine Getaways
Proudly present
A GOURMET WINE TASTING DINNER
Featuring the wines of

Antinori Collection
Italy
Host: Peter D. Kerr, Gourmet Wine Getaways’ Wine Consultant

Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 6:30 PM
$105 per person, plus tax and gratuity
The roots of Antinori Winery reach back over 6 centuries, when the family began their commitment to the art of winemaking. Currently lead by Marchese Piero, the winery has estates in many of Italy’s top grape growing regions including Tuscany, Chianti, Orvieto, Montalcino and Bolgheri. Tonight, Spumoni’s culinary team has created a 4-course wine paring menu to complement four Antinori wines, providing a journey around Italy without the need to leave your seat. Gourmet Wine Getaways’ Peter Kerr will be on hand to discuss the wines, the pairings and share his vast Italian wine knowledge. All of the wines will be available for ordering at very special “Tonight only” prices. Grab a few wine-loving friends and join us for a great evening of wine, food and conversation. Call today to make your reservations: 424-304-2421
Welcome Reception- 2024 Calafuria Rose
MENU
Fresh beet salad with Goat Cheese, Raspberry Vinagrette
2024 Conte Della Vipera Sauvignon
Orecchiette with fresh black truffle, prepared in a Pecorino wheel
2022 Prunotto Nebbiolo Occhetti, Lange
Prime Filet mignon medallons, Homemade Gnocchi, charred Broccolini
2024 Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato
Panna Cotta with Dubai Chocolate crumbles
NV Santa Cristina Vin Santo
Photo credit- Antinori Wines
Gourmet Wine Getaways (GWG) strongly encourages guests to utilize Lyft, Uber & other safe methods of transport in getting to and from wine events. We want you to be smart and safe, and as such, we ask that you do the responsible thing. GWG or the venues are not liable or responsible for arranging transport & the methods by which guests get to & from our wine events.

Paul Hobbs Collection Wine Tasting Dinner at Akbar, Marina del Rey
2026-04-25 19:00 - 21:30 | Akbar, 3115 Washington Blvd., Marina Del Rey, CA, 90292, United States
Paul Hobbs is wise beyond his years. He has been making wine for 35 years and has consistently produced wines of high quality that are terroir-driven & extremely food-friendly. What is his secret? Clues surface by entering his website and reading the tag lines. Forbes magazine called him the “Steve Jobs” of wine. Paul says “the key to good winemaking is paying attention”. And to that end, it continues…if you are looking for Paul, you will most likely find him in a vineyard.
Tonight, we’ll have the pleasure of enjoying four of Paul’s outstanding wines paired with the gourmet cuisine of Owner/Chef Avinash Kapoor. One of the wines comes from his Spanish partnership with Antonio Lopez (Alvaredos-Hobbs) and another, the ALH Cabernet, is a joint effort of Paul and his daughter, Augustina. Each of the wines tasted will be available for ordering at special “Tonight only” prices. Join us to make this a Saturday night you will long remember. Space is very limited so reserve early!
$109 pp plus tax and gratuity
Welcome Reception- a refreshing bubbly to begin
MENU
Masaledar Scallops
2023 Alvaredos-Hobbs Godello
Tandoori Grilled Chicken Breast with tart cherry sauce
2023 Paul Hobbbs Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley
Rack of Lamb with Crimini Mushrooms
2022 ALH Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
2022 Paul Hobbs Coombsville Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Photo Credit: Paul Hobbs Winery

Tercero Wines Winemaker Dinner at Orto
2026-06-04 19:00 - 22:00 | Orto Santa Monica, 502 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, CA, 90401, United States
Orto Santa Monica & Gourmet Wine Getaways
Proudly present
A GOURMET WINEMAKER DINNER
Featuring the wines of
Tercero Wines
Los Olivos, California
Host: Peter D. Kerr, Gourmet Wine Getaways’ Wine Consultant
Special Guest: Larry Schaffer, Owner/Winemaker
Thursday, June 4, 2026 at 7:00 PM
$110 per person, plus tax and gratuity
Larry Schaffer started the new millennium with a major career change; from the music industry & publishing to the winemaking world. After completing his Masters in Viticulture at UC Davis, he relocated to the Santa Ynez Valley in 2005 and joined the winemaking team at Fess Parker Winery and Epiphany Cellars. Tercero Wines was born the following year but was merely a sidelight for the initial 5 years. In 2011, Larry dove full-time into Tercero and to use his favorite phrase, ‘the best was yet to come’. Tonight, we will enjoy four of his outstanding wines including two 10-year-old reds, perfectly paired with a gourmet meal created by Orto’s culinary team. Tercero’s wines are all small production and therefore, see limited retail exposure. Take this opportunity to discover this outstanding, boutique winery from Santa Barbara County and purchase some to share with friends. Gourmet Wine Getaways’ wine expert Peter Kerr will join Larry to discuss the wines, the pairings and answer your wine-related questions. Please come, learn and enjoy!
Picture credit- Tercero Wines
MENU
Crudite of Fresh Veggies
2018 Tercero Verbiage Blanc (Rhone blend)
Smoked Salmon Crostini, mascarpone, chives, lemon zest
2023 Tercero Picpoul Blanc
Mezzi rigatoni, Gorgonzola cheese, walnuts
2016 Tercero Mourvedre
Black Angus Filet Mignon, balsamic reduction, Farmers Market veggies
2016 Tercero Syrah, Thompson Vineyard, Alisos Canyon AVA
Freshly brewed Coffee or Tea
Advance, guaranteed reservations required via the Open Table App. Click on RESERVATIONS button below to book. Cancellations will only be accepted up to 48 hours in advance. No Open Table or phone reservations.
Orto Santa Monica, 502 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90401
RESERVATIONSGourmet Wine Getaways (GWG) strongly encourages guests to utilize Lyft, Uber & other safe methods of transport in getting to and from wine events. We want you to be smart and safe, and as such, we ask that you do the responsible thing. GWG or the venues are not liable or responsible for arranging transport & the methods by which guests get to & from our wine events.

Champagne Tasting Dinner at Akbar, Marina del Rey
2026-06-27 19:00 - 21:30 | Akbar, 3115 Washington Blvd., Marina Del Rey, CA, 90292, United States
What better way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than to drink amazing French champagne! France has long been known for its iconic Champagne region and the amazing bubbly that is produced there. A dinner that contains one champagne is a treat. A dinner where you can enjoy five different Champagnes is a dream come true. So, why not come dream with us! Akbar’s Owner/Chef Avinash Kapoor has collaborated with our mystery guest chef to create a delicious menu that will compliment these incredible bubblies. GWG’s Peter Kerr will discuss each champagne and the region itself along with exploring the pairings. All the champagnes will be available for ordering at great prices so come enjoy the evening, discover the mystery chef’s identity & get your July 4th celebration started. Space is very limited! Call today to reserve- 310-574-0666
$135 pp plus tax and gratuity
Welcome Reception- Roederer L’Ermitage Brut
MENU
Guest Chef’s Canope
NV Henriot Brut
Guest Chef’s White Fish Crudo
NV Legras-Haas Les Visions Blanc de Blancs
Chef Avi’s Fish Vindaloo with Dum Aloo
NV Ruinart Rose
2018 Billecat-Salmon 250th Anniversary Cuvee (200th Estate Harvest)
Photo Credit: Cellar Tracker

Justin Winery Wine Tasting Dinner at Spumoni-Hermosa Beach
2026-07-09 18:30 - 21:30 | Spumoni- Hermosa Beach, 1101 Aviation Blvd., Hermosa Beach, CA, 90254, United States
Spumoni-Hermosa Beach & Gourmet Wine Getaways
Proudly present
A GOURMET WINE TASTING DINNER
Featuring the wines of

Justin Winery & Vineyards
Paso Robles, CA
Host: Peter D. Kerr, Gourmet Wine Getaways’ Wine Consultant

Thursday, July 9, 2026 at 6:30 PM
$TBD per person, plus tax and gratuity
Justin is a name synonymous with Paso Robles and their amazing wine region. One of the original wineries to discover this area, Justin has been producing excellent wines for decades. Tonight, we will be tasting a selection of their current releases paired with the always excellent Italian cuisine of Spumoni. The menu and other details are under construction and will be posted here very shortly. Check back to get all the info and then join us for a night where we will celebrate the beauty of another great wine dinner featuring one of the Central Coast’s iconic wineries.
Photo credit- Justin Winery
Gourmet Wine Getaways (GWG) strongly encourages guests to utilize Lyft, Uber & other safe methods of transport in getting to and from wine events. We want you to be smart and safe, and as such, we ask that you do the responsible thing. GWG or the venues are not liable or responsible for arranging transport & the methods by which guests get to & from our wine events.

Fallendown Tree Vineyards Wine Tasting Dinner at El Rincon Criollo, Playa del Rey
2026-07-30 18:30 - 21:30 | El Rincon Criollo, 8501 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey, CA, 90293, United States
El Rincon Criollo & Gourmet Wine Getaways
Proudly present
A GOURMET WINEMAKER DINNER
Featuring the wines of
Fallendown Tree Vineyards
Monterey County,California
Host: Peter D. Kerr, Gourmet Wine Getaways
Special Guests: Jeanne & Mark Burmeister, owners
Thursday, July 30, 2026 at 6:30 PM
$130 per person, plus tax and gratuity
Everyone has a dream and Jeanne and Mark Burmeister were no different- they wanted to retire on a beautiful, small vineyard. However, rather than purchasing an existing vineyard, they chose to buy some land in Monterey County’s wine region and literally start from scratch in 2013. The amount of work involved soon overwhelmed them and they realized they needed to turn this into a “family affair”. Luckily, their kids and grandkids joined in and from 2016-2021, their land became a planted vineyard. The small production wines began to be bottled in the early 2020’s and over the last 5 years, have continued to win awards and accolades in virtually every tasting/competition they take part in. It turns out that dreams can come true, especially when family and friends pitch in! Tonight, you’ll have the opportunity to taste 5 of their lovely wines, each perfectly paired with amazing cuisine from El Rincon Criollo’s culinary team. Wines will also be available for ordering at special “tonight only” prices so you can add them to your wine fridge/closet. Gourmet Wine Getaways’ Wine Expert Peter Kerr will be joined by Jeanne and Mark to talk about their wines and how they are “living the dream”. Attendance is limited so book early to ensure your seats.
MENU
Peach & Burrata Salad
2025 Fallendown Tree Sauvignon Blanc
A Roasted & Stuffed Portobello Mushroom Cap
2023 Fallendown Tree “le Christophe” (Sangiovese/Cabernet blend)
Squid ink Risotto
2023 Fallendown Tree 2023 “Querencia” Malbec Reserve
Roasted root veggies with Gorgonzola
2023 Fallendown Tree Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
Braised Oxtail with fresh summer corn
2022 Fallendown Tree “Parallel Vines” Syrah
A Sweet Ending
Prepaid reservations are essential, as seating is limited. Cancellations will only be accepted up to 48 hours in advance. No Open Table reservations.
Reservations: 310-391-4478
El Rincon Criollo, 8501 Pershing Dr., Playa del Rey
Picture credit: Fallendown Tree Vineyards
Gourmet Wine Getaways (GWG) strongly encourages guests to utilize Lyft, Uber & other safe methods of transport in getting to and from wine events. We want you to be smart and safe, and as such, we ask that you do the responsible thing. GWG or the venues are not liable or responsible for arranging transport & the methods by which guests get to & from our wine events.
