I had the opportunity to visit Addamo Vineyards Tasting Room today and I am very pleased that I did. I first became aware of Addamo Vineyards in 2001 or 2002 at Starbucks on South Broadway. David Addamo's mother, who introduced herself as Lisa visited the cafe each morning and eventually we shared a few cups of coffee with this lovely lady. She proudly told the story of her son bringing his family to the Central Coast to start a vineyard and said they specialized in Estate Bottled Pinot Noirs. I have long had an appreciation for Pinot Noirs, long befor they became popular, and looked forward to the firstfruits of this new local vineyard.

One day, Lisa was in my store purchasing flowers for her granddaughters birthday and asked if I had visited the tasting room yet, I had to admit that I had not. I had not even realized it was open. As it happened the tasting room opened and I never got a chance to visit until today. It seems they have just expanded the menu and are now open both lunch and dinner. The menu is Santa Maria and more, they serve some of the traditional Santa Maria fare but also offer a number of items for the rest of us. I enjoyed the Baked Brie en croute with walnuts and honey. The brie was wonderful, a bit too much honey and I would have toasted the walnuts but all in all it was a delightful lunch. The brie was delicious with the recommended 2005 Estate Pinot Noir of which I enjoyed a second glass. I found the Pinot to be lightly fruity with notes of berry and oak. It held up well throughout my meal.

The atmosphere at the Addamo Tasting Room was charming and we were served by Debbie who was simply wonderful. It was clear that Debbie was not a professional food server but her charming, welcoming personality made our luncheon one of the highlights of the week. Whatever you do, keep Debbie!

I am very happy to recommend the Addamo Vineyard Tasting Room for lunch, dinner or wine tasting. The menu is full, the wines delicious, the decor pleasing and the staff was truly wonderful.