TV fans from past decades may recall Fess Parker as the lead in shows like Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone. Yet, in wine circles, he’s celebrated as a key figure in turning Santa Ynez Valley into a wine destination. After his acting career, he became a respected vintner and hotelier in the region. The Fess Parker Wine Country Inn in Los Olivos, part of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts LVX Collection, owned and managed by Fess Parker’s family, offers a gateway to their winery and over 30 nearby tasting rooms.
The inn, overseen by Fess’s son Eli Parker and daughter Ashley Parker Snider, provides guests with a range of amenities like complimentary wine, a heated pool, lush gardens with firepits, and a buffet breakfast. It also features the Nella Kitchen & Bar, offering Roman-style pizzas known as Pinsas with various toppings. In town, visitors can try the renowned Bar Le Côte for a modern European seafood experience.
Staying at the inn includes complimentary wine tastings at the Epiphany and Fess Parker Winery, showcasing exceptional varietals from the region. The winery’s tasting room has been recently renovated, paying tribute to the family’s legacy with decorative elements like a mural of the Fess Parker Home Ranch and memorabilia from Parker’s acting days.
Similar to Yountville’s nickname “Kellerville” due to Chef Thomas Keller’s influence, Los Olivos could be dubbed “Parkerville” for Fess Parker’s impact. Whether a fan of Parker’s TV work or a wine enthusiast, Los Olivos offers a charming experience for all.
Image Source: The Image Party / Shutterstock
