Ever wonder what it’s like to win the best California wine getaway? Just ask Steve and Debbie, the Club Kay Grand Prize Winners who have turned wine touring into a full-on lifestyle. With 20 Grapeline Wine Tours under their belt (yes, you read that right—twenty), these two are living proof that love, laughter, and a great bottle of wine really do make the perfect pairing.
As longtime Club Kay members, Steve and Debbie have explored California’s top wine regions with Grapeline, from Temecula’s sun-soaked vineyards to Paso Robles’ bold reds, Santa Barbara’s coastal charm, and Sonoma’s rustic beauty. Their story is one of celebration, discovery, and a whole lot of corks popped along the way.
From Newbies to Wine Country Connoisseurs
It all started back in 2013 with a trip to visit Debbie’s sister near Napa. At the time, Steve was more of a beer guy who had never tasted wine. (We know. We gasped, too.) But after one tasting at PEJU Winery, he was hooked. The following year, to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary, they booked their first-ever Grapeline tour in Temecula. They’ve been part of the Grapeline family ever since.
Fast forward to today, and they’ve taken 20 Grapeline wine tours across our different regions, making them unofficial wine region royalty. And thanks to their loyalty, they were selected in the very first Club Kay Grand Drawing and won a Vineyard Picnic Tour for two, along with a hotel stay in the region of their choice.
Why Grapeline? Just Ask the Pros.
When asked why they’ve returned to Grapeline time and time again, the answer was simple: “To us, you just save money by doing Grapeline because everything is included and you don’t worry. You just get up, get on that bus at 10 o’clock and you have a great day.” Whether it’s the tastings, the delicious picnic lunches, or the hosts who go above and beyond, Steve and Debbie say every detail makes them feel welcomed, valued, and ready to sip through California’s finest.
They’ve even had a host return forgotten wine bottles to their hotel—on their own time. Now that’s what we call wine country hospitality.
Every Wine Region, a New Love Story
Steve and Debbie are proof that every Grapeline wine tour is a chance to fall in love all over again—with wine, with each other, and with California wine country.
- Temecula: Their go-to for last-minute escapes and Big Red Fest, including bubbly tastings and sun-kissed views.
- Paso Robles: A favorite for its bold reds and laid-back vibes. One special birthday tour included a surprise visit to JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery, where their guide extended the experience to five wineries instead of three—just because.
- Santa Barbara: They adore the coastal climate and that cool ocean breeze that pairs so well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
- Sonoma / Napa: The sentimental favorite. For Debbie’s 50th birthday, Grapeline arranged a picnic lunch, complete with a birthday shirt, a Wandering Wino glass, and a personalized experience that brought the whole family together. She says. “They made the experience so special for me and my family.”
They’ve even picked up some pretty refined wine knowledge over the years—from soil types to growing conditions, grape varietals to perfect pairings. And they’re not shy about putting it to good use at holiday dinners and family get-togethers. (Steve’s bringing JUSTIN wine this year, FYI.)
Unexpected Moments and Lifelong Friendships
Some of the best parts of wine touring? The unexpected surprises. Like the couple Steve and Debbie kept running into on different tours—who eventually became their go-to dinner buddies in Temecula. Or the moment they reconnected with host Michelle, long after she left Grapeline—because let’s be honest, great wine friends have a way of sticking around.
And then, of course, there was the BIG PRIZE. “I didn’t even know you were having a drawing,” Steve said. “I was in shock. I called my wife immediately and said, ‘You’re not going to believe this.’”
For Steve and Debbie, this felt like a cherry on top of their already unforgettable Grapeline memories.
Club Kay Perks? Worth Every Sip.
Steve and Debbie are Club Kay members for good reason. From Cork Bucks on birthdays to deep discounts on Purple Friday, they know how to get the most out of every tour. “I highly suggest when you go with Grapeline, you join Club Kay,” says Steve.
Want to hear the full story—surprises, sips, and all? Listen to the full interview here and get inspired for your own wine country adventure.
~ Kay Syrah
Wine Country Guru Gal
