During these chillier winter months, many of us can’t help but dream about summer time when the warm sun invites family and friends to gather on the patio for a BBQ. A 3-day retreat at Alisal Ranch in Santa Ynez helps get both first timers and seasoned pitmasters ready for a summer behind the grill.

BBQ Bootcamp: From the Vine takes place March 5-8 in the heart of Santa Barbara wine country. Guests are invited to stay on the property and partake in a mid-week excursion that includes cooking tutorials, samplings of food and wine, tours of the property and more. Some of the nation’s top chefs and grill masters will be on hand to prepare indulgent grilled feasts and share their barbecue secrets during exclusive demonstrations.

Visiting chefs include:

• Legendary local winemaker, chef, and owner of Hitching Post II – Frank Ostini.
• Govind Armstrong, recognized for his appearances on “Top Chef” and “Iron Chef America”.
• Sommelier Helen Johannesen, owner of four wine shops focusing on naturally-driven and organically farmed labels and celebrated for her “WineFace” podcast.
• Wine tasting at Folded Hills, Alisal’s neighboring ranch and vineyard, using old-world practices in their certified organic vineyards.

Space is limited but additional events will be held in May (spring classic) and October (world BBQ). You can click here to reserve your space.

Alisal Ranch’s roots reach all the way back to 1810, at which time the land was inhabited by the Chumash people. They called the land “Nojoqui,” or “Honeymoon Place.” Even then, the Santa Ynez Valley was associated with romance for its rolling hills and peaceful yet abundant wildlife.

Settlers later moved into the valley to raise cattle for the Mission Santa Inés and the Mexican Government. They renamed the region “Alisal,” meaning “grove of sycamores.”

The ranch’s sprawling 10,500 acres include 50 miles of trails, fishing in a spring-fed lake, hiking through Deer Canyon, and more.