Adventure Excursions With A Touch Of Class
California Overland Introduces Wine Tours in Julian

By Jim Evans

Joe Rafetto, owner of California Overland prepares to take a group from Julian on a wine tour at his recent grand opening held at Menghini Winery. Photo by Carol Kinney

California Overland Tours is partnering with several area wineries to offer San Diego County's first wine tours, exploring the Julian backcountry with stops at local historical sites in Julian and Santa Ysabel.

"We were looking for something to fill the seasonal gap of our regular desert tours that usually start slowing down around May,"

said California Overland's Joe Rafetto. "It just made sense to work with the developing wine industry in the area and co-op with neighboring businesses."

Tours are expected to begin on Sept. 2.

"We will probably extend our wine tours through the end of October," explained Rafetto, adding that the season will typically run from May 1 through Nov. 1.

During the tour, patrons ride in a 12-passenger, open-air M35A2 Troop Carrier vehicle and venture into the backcountry, exploring western scenes, historical sites and winery grounds along the way.

A typical wine tour will consist of free wine tastings at four wineries - Menghini Winery, Witch Creek Winery, J. Jenkins Winery and Orfila Winery.

In addition, there will be complimentary snacks and Julian Apple Cider during the four-hour educational tour. A stop at Menghini winery for lunch will be included. Patrons also will receive a California Overland wine glass and discounts on Overland's desert tours will be available.

Tours will depart from the Julian Town Hall Saturdays and Sundays at noon and free pickups are available from Julian-area hotels and B&B's.

"Large groups may book private tours on weekdays," added Rafetto. Reservations are recommended.

For more information, call 866-6-EXPLORE or 760-767-1232 or visit www.californiaover land.com.