Colony Wine Merchant
This gem in the heart of Anaheim’s Center Street Promenade serves hand-selected wine from small producers using sustainable farming practices, local craft beers, artisan cheeses and other small bites. Shop for wines while connecting with the vintner’s story and passion that goes into each bottle. 280 S. Lemon St., Anaheim, 657.208.1860. colonywinemerchant.com
Pinot’s Palette
Color me wine! At the upscale destination at The District in Tustin, participants recreate paintings such as Van Gogh’s Starry Night as they swirl, sniff and sip at classes including Merlot Melodies; then paint what you like on open-studio days. 2479 Park Ave., Tustin, 714.400.9016. pinotspalette.com
Calivino Wine Pub
The list at this Anaheim wine pub is intended to “give the novice taster an experience typically reserved for professional palates.” Pair your flight with menu specialties like duck-confit pot pie and a short-rib poutine. 2410 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim, 714.939.7735. calivinowinepub.com
Bacchus Bar and Grill
Find 350 wines, 60 by the glass, 12 flights, 20 microbrews and six on tap–plus pork-belly tacos, a chorizo-and-lobster fondue and a cigar patio–at the relaunched spot in Irvine. It’s a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner. 6735 Quail Hill Parkway, Irvine, 949.502.4600. bacchusbarandbistro.com
Orange Coast Winery
The Newport winery uses grapes from the Temecula and Lodi areas to make a dozen red varietals. A second location recently opened in Corona del Mar. Winemaker/co-owner Doug Wiens is also a partner at Wiens Family Cellars in Temecula. 3734 E. Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar, 949.877.0336; 869 W. 16th St., Newport Beach, 949.645.0400. orangecoastwinery.com