Enjoy a tasting of seven wines while overlooking the scenic hillside
—Harmony Cellars is a special place located close to near secret beaches, beautiful hikes, and a famously opulent castle. Take a relaxing drive along California’s striking coastline to Harmony, the perfect little place to take in scenic views and enjoy award-winning wines. Sandwiched between Cambria and Cayucos, this charming destination along Hwy 1 is the perfect place to savor a glass of excellent wine and soak up the small-town culture.
Harmony, population 18, is quite possibly the smallest town in California, and once had its very own little post office. The town is only about a block wide and has always been a popular place for travelers to stop by and enjoy a breath of fresh air. The town celebrates art and nature on a daily basis. Visitors who come can unleash their creative side and try some glass blowing, wander the pottery shop, and enjoy a taste of wine made in Harmony! Stroll over to Harmony Chapel, a little church that is perfect for an intimate wedding or follow the brick pathways that meander through the outdoor gardens.
Founded in 1869 by several ranchers, Harmony originally served as a stopping point for many locals who came to purchase fresh dairy. Even William Randolph Hearst was known to stop in on his trips up the coast.
Recently, the owners of Harmony Cellars celebrated their 30th anniversary. The Mulligans began their journey into winemaking after a life-changing wine tasting in Santa Ynez. Winemaker and co-owner Chuck Mulligan studied Enology at Fresno State and went on to work as assistant winemaker at Estrella Winery until he and his wife, Kim, opened Harmony Cellars in 1989.
You won’t find the vines growing in Harmony, because Harmony wines are made with fruit hand-selected from vineyards all over the Central Coast. Harmony Cellars offers a diverse tasting list that includes chardonnay, riesling, zinfandel, cabernet, port, sangiovese, and tempranillo. The winery produces 7,500 cases annually and has a wine club that offers their wines at a discounted rate, shipped to your door. Visitors love the warm welcome and dog-friendly tasting room, as well as a fully stocked gift shop. Scour the many kitchen accessories, books, snacks, art, and much more.
The Mulligans are always hosting something unique at the winery. Pair one of their flavorful wines with an educational cheese charcuterie workshop, or create your own memento at one of their pop-up art classes. Snuggle up with your honey under the sky at their stargazing parties, where the night sky is clear and breathtaking.
Harmony Cellars is located at 3255 Harmony Valley Rd, in Harmony, CA. Open 7 days a week, from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. $10 tasting fee. For more information, call (805)927-1625 or visit www.harmonycellars.com.
–Cassandra Frey
