Wine Tasting Room a Pleasant Addition to Main Street

On a Friday night in July, the huge sign on Main Street, with billowing flags, caught the eyes of several visitors who strolled curiously into tasting room to see what it was all about.

Among them was a Ramona couple in shorts on their way home from the beach, a couple from down the hill whose son was gearing up to perform at across the street that night, a professional photographer and ... Patch.

"Sorry I'm not really dressed for wine tasting," I offered meekly as I poked my head in the door after doing fire coverage from the field.

"Yes, you are!" said the couple in shorts, with big beaming smiles.

Winery owner Jennifer Jenkin came from behind the counter, extended her hand and said with a quiet, warm smile, "I don't believe we've met."

What a pleasant welcome. And genuine. That's what I like about the tasting room. The atmosphere is quietly friendly, the decor is cosy yet elegant, the conversation is relaxed and interesting, and the wine, well, that's a plus. The small establishment also offers an eclectic array of wine-themed gifts.

If you need your supply of unconditional love recharged, just park yourself on the sofa for 30 seconds and two small dogs—Roxy and Teacup—will leap to your side and pout competitively for attention as they snuggle into your thigh. Jenkin's partner, Mike Celaya, jokes that the dogs want nothing to do with him but they adore Jenkin.

Back to the tastings ... the 2008 Indian Princess and 2008 JJJ Cellars Sunset Passion were among my favorites.

is a great addition to Main Street. It gives travelers a reason to stop. It offers a product that people want. And the wine is served up with a genuine smile.