Quiet times at Avila Beach detailed by Modesto wine columnist

After the holidays we look forward to our week at Avila Beach, which is the third week in January. Before we go, the Navigator says, all Christmas decorations, including the tree, must be put away. She somehow knows, a week at the ocean is an amazing motivator.

The cool thing about Avila Beach is you can leave your car parked for your entire stay. You can walk to almost everything. Of course the best walk is on the beach, at sunrise and again at sunset. If you think the Harford Pier, the Avila Barn, the hot springs or the Kelsey See Canyon Winery are too far, rent a bike. Or better yet, an e-bike. Remember, you’re on vacation, have some fun.

Peloton Cellars, located off Front Street, opened in 2005 and produces 1,200 cases. Tasting is $20 for reds and whites. The room is comfortable with knowledgeable hosts and outstanding Pinot Noir.

The Avila Wine Company is not a winery but a very eclectic wine shop. The owner pours tastes of limited production wines from the Central Coast. He has racks of rare wines at very competitive prices. If your wine cellar needs a boost, this is the place to go.

Alapay Cellars opened in 2001 and produces 5,000 cases by sourcing quality grapes from Paso Robles to the Santa Ynez Valley. They have just enlarged their tasting room. The new addition is called the 12:01 Lounge. Alapay recently acquired its own wine facility in Santa Maria. All of this is good news for its 2,000 wine club members. Tasting is $20 and waived with bottle purchase.

Sinor-LaValle produces award-winning wines from the Bassi Vineyard, which is organically farmed and just 1.2 miles from the ocean. Highly acclaimed winemaker Mike Sinor makes 2,500 cases of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Syrah under the Bassi Black and White Labels. The tasting is $20 and oysters are available. Hey, what’s not to like?

Libertine Brewing Company and the Pierfront Wine and Brew are very cool places to sip a beer, kick back, listen to music, play cards, look like a local and watch that sun go down. Everything you need to know — for example where to find the best Happy Hour (Mulligan’s Bar) — you’ll find at www.avilabeach.com.

Questions? Comments? Find me on Facebook or at rgwinton@yahoo.com.