Introducing the West Coast 101 Series

There is something magical about summer on the West Coast.

Here at BWG, some of our favorite childhood memories are of long drives up the California coast. Windows down, ocean to the left, endless possibilities ahead. Every stretch of highway seemed to reveal something new, whether it was a hidden beach or a view that made you pull over just to take it all in.

That spirit of discovery is what inspired our new series: West Coast 101.

Over the coming months, we’ll be taking a journey up the coast, starting in Southern California and making our way north through California, Oregon, and Washington. Not literally, of course, but through the wines, vineyards, and regions that define this remarkable corner of the world.

Why the West Coast?

Because it’s our home!

Not only is BWG based in Napa, but many of our employees are from the Golden State, and have fond memories travelling up and down its hallowed roads. Brenna, our lead Marketing Coordinator, speaks highly of the state she loves so much and the memories she cherishes most. “I love California, and many of my summers have been spent driving up and down the state. The ruggedness of the coast, the dry golden hills, the romantic little towns, all rolling and bobbing and passing my family’s car as we cruised up our many freeway options is a frequently visited memory of mine. Summers in California are my very favorite, and a road trip down the 5, up the 1, or anything in between is très nostalgique!”

This coastline has shaped some of the most exciting wine regions in the world. From the rugged hills of Santa Barbara County to the cool reaches of the Willamette Valley and beyond, the West Coast offers an incredible diversity of climates, terroirs, and winemaking philosophies.

It is a place where innovation and tradition coexist, and where world famous producers sit alongside small, family run wineries making extraordinary wines. Most importantly, it is a region that continues to surprise even the most seasoned wine lovers.

How We’ll Explore

Each installment will focus on a specific region, taking a deep dive into what makes it unique.

We’ll explore the history of the area, the grapes that thrive there, the producers who have shaped its reputation, and the wines that best capture its character.

Think of this as part travel guide and part wine education. Our goal is not simply to tell you what wines to buy. It is to help you understand why these regions matter and what makes them worth exploring.

What to Expect

Of course, we’ll be featuring some of the West Coast’s most celebrated wines along the way. Expect iconic names like Sine Qua Non, Kistler, and Antiquum, along with many other iconic producers that have helped define their respective regions.

But the real fun will come from uncovering the wines that fly under the radar. Every stop on this journey will include discoveries that deserve a place in the conversation, whether they come from a rising star winery, an overlooked vineyard, or a producer making exceptional wine without the spotlight.

Join Us on the Road

The best road trips are never just about the destination.

West Coast 101 is our opportunity to celebrate a beloved coastline, explore some of the world’s most compelling wine regions, and hopefully discover a few new favorites together.

We hope you’ll come along for the ride.

-The BWG Team