In 2008, a handful of local wineries joined forces to produce the first Ventura County Wine Trail map to help raise awareness of artisan, handcrafted wines throughout California's Ventura County, just north of Los Angeles.

     The news has been spreading... fast!
 
     The map was designed as a full-service tool for tourists and locals, highlighting some of the best the county has to offer. Visitors can plan an entire trip in the area, complete with wine tasting tours, local attractions, dining suggestions and accommodations.

     The Ventura, Oxnard and the newly formed Ojai Visitors Bureaus also are supporting the Ventura County Wine Trail. The bureaus in Ventura and Oxnard offer weekly wine tasting tours on Saturdays and Sundays.
 
     For a third time, a celebration showcasing all of the wineries, restaurants, local attractions, visitors bureaus and wine tours has been scheduled. It's set for Thursday, June 17 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the historic Heritage Square in downtown Oxnard (715 South A Street). Advance tickets are $25 per person, or $30 at the door.

     The event is open to the public, and coincides with the release of the new Wine Trail map, which includes five additional wineries. Attendees will experience tastings of artisan wines, appetizers from local restaurants, local attraction displays and live music.

     If you're interested, advance tickets may be purchased online at www.VenturaCountyWineTrail.com.