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Explore the Hilltop Gem DAOU Vineyards in Paso Robles, California
Head to the top of DAOU Mountain and explore the hilltop gem DAOU Vineyards! Experience absolutely breathtaking views, unparalleled hospitality at your own private table, delectable tastings and the most sweeping, stunning views of the Paso Robles, California wine region. Our expert guide Ken led us through a delectable tasting of the culinary world that is DAOU including some very rare pours. This Spanish influenced space is gorgeous in every direction and becomes even dreamier after a couple of glasses. From caviar to lobster rolls to fresh made truffle and bacon pizza, it was a delightful experience and will forever remain as a fantastic memory! And yes, they also have…
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Fellow Penn State University Alumni Makes His Mark in Paso Robles, CA with Eberle Winery
Story, photos and video by Cassie Hepler Eberle Winery is a family-owned jawn from Penn State University alumni! If you didn’t know, I am as well… go lions! Gary Eberle grew up in a small town in Pennsylvania (also like me) and went to PSU on a football scholarship. After graduating with a Bachelor’s of Science in biology, he went to Louisiana State University where he continued his graduate work studying cellular genetics. While attending LSU, Gary developed an appreciation for wine and changed his academic path to become a winemaker. Gary launched his career as a winemaker and as the “Pioneer” of Paso Robles Wine Region by helping to…
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Taste a Sip of Tuscany at Allegretto Vineyard Resort in Paso Robles, California
Story, videos and photos by Cassie Hepler On the road again to Paso Robles, California! Just off Highway 46 East, these rolling hills have evolved into a buzzing area full of new wineries and tasting rooms. And I was so excited to begin the journey by staying at Allegretto Vineyard Resort. You can get the taste and vibes of Italy without the airline price tag with its Tuscan-style architecture, museum-caliber artwork, spa, restaurant, lamas, sheep, vineyard tour and gardens. Owned by the Ayres family, we put it to the test to see if it does indeed compare to Tuscany as I was just there in Spring. With its upscale tasting…
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Drink the Pope’s Wine at Châteauneuf du Pape near Avignon, France
Story, photos and video by Cassie Hepler Taste one of the best wines in France at Châteauneuf du Pape! We started with a leisurely lunch at Château des Fines Roches with an outstanding selection of fine French cuisine paired perfectly with each outstanding glass of wine. The red with the chocolate dessert was so decadent, it’s almost felt naughty eating it and enjoying the wine pairing! Only a half hour from Avignon, it makes a great day trip to explore more of the French vineyards and countryside in South of France. Using rocks on top of the soil, it is how they capture the unique and rich earthy flavors in…
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Weft and Warp Transports Guests to Portugal Passport Wine Dinner at Andaz Scottsdale
Story, photos and video by Cassie Hepler I almost married the mayor of Lisbon, Portugal‘s son. Before you come at me, yes I am aware they don’t have “mayors” per say like in the USA but close enough translation without going into a Portuguese political rant. Anyway, I met this gentleman fresh after a breakup and visit to New York City to hang with my fashion designer friend. He had an accent – and abs of steel and came to the Big Apple to chase his dream of becoming a model and actor, leaving an almost finished law degree and his pissed off family behind him. He chased me for…
- Day Trips, Destinations, Education, Entertainment, Explore with Cassie, Food & Beverage, Latest News, Lifestyle
Exploring Overland Expo West as a Woman Who Wanders
Photos, video, story by Cassie Hepler My first experience at Overland Expo West in Flagstaff, Arizona was overwhelming and awesome! Sponsored by Subaru, I had no idea what I was getting into expect for camping in the woods at the Flagstaff Extreme campgrounds where I previously climbed around in the trees like an Ewok. With over 400 vendors and created by a woman, it’s “educating and inspiring through overland and adventure travel events” which means you will learn literally every camping thing, gadget, gear, RVs, trucks, off-roading and more at this massive moving outdoor convention. After this Overland Expo West 2025, it shifts across the USA to the Pacific Northwest…
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Supporting Small Businesses at Pecan and Wine Festival in Camp Verde, Arizona
Story, photos and video by Cassie Hepler I come from a family of entrepreneurs who owned small businesses. My grandfather Hepler owned his own carpentry company and my father started Hepler Geothermal heat pumps and air conditioning in central Pennsylvania before being green was considered cool. My brother now runs it and is slaying – without any advertising needed. My grandmother on one side was a nurse and the other was working for a bit as a paralegal, without the formal education. We’re natural born hustlers and even my niece when she was in elementary school started a side hustle selling slime! Pecan And Wine Festival So supporting small…
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Dramatic Fine Dining at Elvira’s DC Ranch in North Scottsdale
Story, photos and video by Cassie Hepler Family owned since 1927, Elvira’s has been a staple in Tubac, Arizona located 30 minutes south of Tucson which is a long hike for even the most eccentric foodie from Phoenix! Now open in DC Ranch Scottsdale, Chef Ruben Monroy takes the lead as the grandson of the original founder, keeping this family-run fine dining establishment running like a smooth sailing ship. Master Sommelier Thomas Kaufman is in charge of the beverage program and even with some mocktails, we were impressed with the taste. Opened in January of 2025, it features signature dishes from the Tubac menu, including its iconic Chile en Nogada.…
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Corduroy Lodge Offers Cabins, Airstreams and Motel in Pinetop Lakeside, Arizona
Where to Stay in Pinetop-Lakeside Story, photos and video by Cassie Hepler I stumbled upon Corduroy Lodge years ago when I booked a random night in-between blogging adventures in Pinetop-Lakeside and honestly just loved the vibe! So I kept in touch and we kept hoping for snow but it didn’t seem like Northern Arizona wanted to this year so I just booked random dates. Well… I got what I wished for! But fortunately the tail end of the snow as my Honda Civic is not the best low-to-the-ground car for icy roads. I wish I could tell my younger self to buy something more rugged but I was thinking fast…
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Fine Dining Slays at Steak 44 at Camelback Mountain, Arizona
Story, photos and video by Cassie Hepler Everyone in Arizona knows that Steak 44 is one of THE best steakhouses in all of Phoenix. It’s a rite of passage to go there and has been on my bucket list for… 7 years now! I know some foodie out there wants to throw hands about who has the best steak in Phoenix and I’m all ears if you can find a better, endless selection. Good luck with that! First, let’s clarify the names of this meaty brand as it can – and does – get confusing. This iconic Phoenix steakhouse is named Steak 44, part of the Ocean 44 and Dominic’s…
