Carmel Valley Village offers a unique wine tasting experience that transports visitors through the scenic countryside in a vintage 1970 VW bus. This 4.5-hour tour takes small groups to three local wineries, where they can sample exceptional wines like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. With a perfect five-star rating, the tour promises an unforgettable adventure filled with beautiful landscapes and engaging commentary. For those seeking a charming and immersive way to discover the region’s winemaking culture, this vintage bus tour might be the perfect fit.
Key Points
- Scenic vintage 1970 VW bus, "The Sweet Pickle", provides transportation to Carmel Valley Village for a 4.5-hour wine tasting experience.
- Tour includes visits to three local winery tasting rooms, with tasting fees included in the price.
- Wines sampled feature varietals like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc from the Santa Lucia Highlands A.V.A.
- Tour is priced at $139 per person, with a "Reserve now & pay later" option and availability for different start times.
- Tour includes transportation, bottled water, and gratuities, but is not suitable for wheelchair users, smokers, or those with mobility scooters.
Tour Overview
The tour starts with a scenic ride to Carmel Valley Village in a vintage 1970 VW bus, affectionately known as "The Sweet Pickle".
The 4.5-hour experience includes pickup from local hotels and Airbnbs. The small group size is capped at 6 participants.
A cozy 4.5-hour experience with a capped group size of 6, complete with hotel and Airbnb pickup.
Customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The VW bus tour showcases points of interest along the way, providing a unique and memorable experience.
Guests must bring a driver’s license, comfortable clothes, and personal medication, as the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, smokers, or those with mobility scooters.
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Wine Tasting Experience
Visitors partake in wine tastings at three distinct winery tasting rooms located in Carmel Valley, home to 18 tasting rooms established by local vineyards within the Santa Lucia Highlands A.V.A. The tasting room fees are included in the tour price, allowing guests to savor wines grown, produced, and bottled near the California Coast. The scenic drive showcases points of interest along the way, complementing the wine tasting experience.
| Tasting Room | Wines Sampled | Highlights |
| — | — | — |
| Boekenoogen Vineyards | Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon | Award-winning estate wines |
| Bernardus Winery | Sauvignon Blanc, Rosé, Merlot | Renowned for their elegant, balanced vintages |
| Holman Ranch Vineyards | Pinot Gris, Syrah, Sangiovese | Family-owned winery with stunning vistas |
Pricing and Booking
The wine tasting tour is priced from $139.00 per person. Guests have a "reserve now & pay later" option available, making booking convenient.
Visitors can also check availability for starting times to ensure their preferred tour schedule.
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The tour price includes transportation in a vintage VW bus, bottled water, and gratuities.
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Guests must bring a valid driver’s license, comfortable clothing, and any necessary personal medication.
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The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, smokers, or those with mobility scooters.
Transportation and Amenities
One of the key amenities included in the wine tasting tour is the transportation provided in a vintage 1970 VW bus, affectionately known as "The Sweet Pickle". The tour also includes bottled water and gratuities, ensuring a hassle-free experience. However, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, smokers, or those with mobility scooters. Guests are required to bring a valid driver’s license, comfortable clothes, and any necessary personal medication.
| Transportation | Amenities | Requirements |
| — | — | — |
| Vintage 1970 VW bus | Bottled water | Driver’s license |
| | Gratuities | Comfortable clothes |
| | | Personal medication |
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
According to customer reviews, the wine tasting tour has received an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 2 reviews.
Reviewers highlighted several positive experiences, including:
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The excellent condition of the vintage 1970 VW bus, affectionately known as "The Sweet Pickle".
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The informative and fun nature of the tour guide, who provided engaging commentary throughout the journey.
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The scenic beauty of the drive and the welcoming atmosphere at the friendly wine tasting venues.
Customers have enthusiastically recommended this tour to family and friends, eager to share the unique and memorable experience.
Discovering Carmel Valley’s Charm
As visitors embark on the wine tasting tour, they’ll discover the charming allure of Carmel Valley Village. This quaint community nestled in the Santa Lucia Highlands boasts a picturesque setting, with rolling hills, lush vineyards, and a relaxed pace.
The drive through the valley showcases the region’s natural beauty, offering scenic views that captivate the senses. Within the village, visitors can explore the local tasting rooms, each offering a unique wine experience.
From the historic buildings to the friendly locals, Carmel Valley Village exudes a welcoming atmosphere that invites visitors to savor the charms of this California gem.
Taking in the Local Winemaking Culture
Although the scenic drive through Carmel Valley sets the stage, it’s the wine tasting experience that immerses visitors in the local winemaking culture.
Guests visit three wineries, sampling vintages grown, produced, and bottled right in the Santa Lucia Highlands. The tasting room fees are included, allowing guests to focus on savoring the flavors without worrying about the cost.
The experience also highlights:
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The region’s unique microclimate and terroir that lend distinctive characteristics to the wines
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The passion and expertise of the local winemakers
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The opportunity to bring home a taste of Carmel Valley’s vibrant wine scene
The Vintage VW Bus Adventure
The vintage VW bus is the heart of this immersive wine tasting tour. Lovingly called "The Sweet Pickle", this 1970 classic transports visitors on a scenic journey through Carmel Valley.
The small group size ensures an intimate experience as the bus winds through the countryside, showcasing points of interest along the way. Inside, the well-maintained vintage interior creates a nostalgic ambiance.
At the three local tasting rooms, guests savor the region’s renowned wines while learning about the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. With complimentary transportation and tasting fees, this tour offers an unforgettable way to discover Carmel Valley’s vibrant winemaking culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
While the tour provides bottled water, bringing your own food and non-alcoholic drinks is permitted. However, consuming alcohol outside the designated wine tasting rooms is not allowed for safety reasons.
Is There a Designated Restroom Break During the Tour?
Yes, there’s a designated restroom break during the tour. The tour itinerary includes a stop at one of the wine tasting rooms, where participants can use the restroom facilities before continuing the wine tasting experience.
Can I Request a Specific Wine Tasting Order or Sequence?
Customers can’t request a specific wine tasting order or sequence. The tour follows a set itinerary to visit 3 local wine tasting rooms. However, the driver may accommodate individual preferences if possible during the tour.
What if I Have Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
If guests have dietary restrictions or allergies, they should notify the tour operator in advance. The tour can accommodate most needs, but the operator must be made aware to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Can I Extend My Stay in Carmel Valley After the Tour?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Carmel Valley after the tour. The tour operator provides recommendations for local accommodations and activities, allowing you to further explore the area at your own pace following the scheduled tour.
The Sum Up
Carmel Valley Village’s wine tasting tour in a vintage 1970 VW bus, "The Sweet Pickle," offers an unforgettable experience. With a 5-star rating, this 4.5-hour adventure takes guests to three local wineries, where they can savor exquisite wines while enjoying scenic drives and learning about the region’s vibrant winemaking culture. It’s a charming way to discover the valley’s allure and take in the local wine scene.
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