Imagine… it’s a picturesque summer day. The sun is shining, with an occasional breeze that makes you sigh and think, Ahh, this weather is perfect. You’re in the mood to sip on fine, fine wine in a beautiful outdoor setting. Suddenly, a thought enters your mind – one that’s inspired by that classic Katy Perry song.
“I wanna see a peacock.”
If you’re in the mood for all that’s listed above, I know where you need to go: Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards in San Luis Obispo, where over 150 wild peacocks roam the premises.
A short drive from where we were staying in beautiful Avila Beach, Kelsey Vineyards is open to the public daily for wine tastings. This includes limited hours on major holidays. So, you know what that means… you can get New Year’s off to the best start ever, surrounded by wine and peacocks.
Curious? Don’t blame you. Read below for all you need to know before you go.
Kelsey Vineyards… All You Need to Know Before You Go
Where to Find It
1947 See Canyon Road
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
A winding, tree-lined road leads to Kelsey Vineyards, a short drive from the local beaches as well as downtown San Luis Obispo. Parking is available for visitors, conveniently right in front of the tasting area.
When to Go
- Regular Hours: 11 AM – 5:30 PM
- Holiday Hours: 11 AM – 3 PM (New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day)
We visited during late July, and the weather was perfect. Low 80’s and sunny, with a cool breeze.
I recommend pulling up early. Our group arrived shortly after 11 AM when the vineyards were just opening, and we had our pick of whichever table we wanted. We chose a cozy spot in the shade, and being as close to the wild peacocks as possible. An hour later, the seating area was filling up at a rapid pace.
Wine Tasting Details:
Tasting fee is $15, which is waived with a purchase of two bottles. You won’t have trouble finding bottles of wine worthy of taking home – promise!
You’ll receive a wine glass and tasting chips, which are decorated with an illustration of the vineyard (complete with a peacock, front and center). Each chip earns you one sample of wine. I can’t remember exactly how many we got as part of the standard tasting. Maybe 5? Let’s go ahead and blame the wine for my bad memory… In any case, choose wisely! The supply is not endless – but wouldn’t that be the dream?
Ahem, moving on. Must not get greedy.
My Top Three Kelsey Vineyard Tasting Options
Oh, how to choose? Well, if you must make me decide…
- The Trinity Red Blend, a mix of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre
- Golden Delicious, an apple and Chardonnay blend (!!!)
- Kelsey’s Scrumpy Hard Cider – this earns a spot in my Top 3 hard ciders of all time
Can You Feed the Peacocks?
I thought you would never ask.
YES, you can feed the peacocks. Peacock food is available for sale at the vineyard. This is not a drill!
Bonus Points…
- There are no tours, but you’re free to roam around the wine barreling room and production room.
- Peek between a couple of the grape vines, and you’ll notice a cute spot to play cornhole. It’s a must!
- Everyone at the vineyard is very friendly – including the resident vineyard dog.
- Did I mention it’s a wine tasting with peacocks roaming all around?? Seriously, is this real life???
Bottom Line: One of the Best Things to Do in San Luis Obispo
If you’re visiting SLO (as the locals call it), a trip to Kelsey Vineyards is a must. It’s an experience that is equally parts unique, relaxing and insta-worthy. Great for so many different types of crowds. Couples? Definitely. Families? Heck yeah, there were even a couple well-behaved kids roaming around. Group of girl friends? Of course. Or do you just wanna go there by your damn self and live your best peacock loving life? Just say yes.
What do you think – is this on your bucket list yet?
Let me know in the comments below!
