California: Palm Springs - Passion 4 Pinot & Desert Indulgence
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Episode 14
Sometimes the best way to experience Palm Springs is with great friends, a full tasting glass, and a little desert sparkle. Jill is joined by friends Todd Davis and Shari Young for a sun-soaked weekend in Palm Springs - complete with wine festivals, art sightings, and a few unexpected detours (including showing up at the wrong dinner venue).
From blind Pinot tastings and VIP terraces at Pasion 4 Pinot to brunch under the palms, Marilyn Monroe photo ops, and sunset views at The Edge at The Ritz-Carlton, this trip blends classic Palm Springs nostalgia with modern culinary creativity.
Travel & Experience Highlights:
Omni Rancho Las Palmas – Laid-back resort vibes with golf cart rides, multiple pools, and easy access to Palm Desert shopping.
The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa – A past favorite stay with villa-style accommodations and wine tasting events.
Agua Caliente Casino – Sleek, Vegas-style setting for festival dinners (just make sure you go to the right location!).
Sangiacomo Wines – Standout festival dinner featuring a playful “ant on a log” salad, ratatouille, bison ribeye, and spiced chocolate cake.
Palm Springs Pinot Noir Festival: Passion 4 Pinot – Sixth annual celebration of Pinot Noir featuring blind tastings, grand tastings, and an upgraded VIP terrace experience.
Bucher Wines – Intimate tasting experience featuring expressive Pinot Noir.
Red Stitch Wine – Winery owned by former baseball player Rich Aurilia, pouring elegant, food-friendly wines.
Tommy Bahama, Bar & Store (Palm Desert) – Island-inspired dining with cocktails.
The Edge Steakhouse at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage – Cliffside views, museum-worthy art (Picasso, Chagall, Matisse, Rembrandt), scallops to remember, and bold personality from Chef Nyire Rogers.
Wilma & Frieda – Festive Palm Springs brunch spot known for creative comfort food and over-the-top Bloody Caesars.
Forever Marilyn – The iconic 26-foot Marilyn Monroe statue in downtown Palm Springs.
Greyewolfe – Chic desert boutique shopping find.
Welwood Murray Memorial Library (Pez Museum) – A quirky stop featuring Pez history dating back to Vienna in 1927.
On The Mark – Oysters and caviar bites at the VIP terrace (and the kind of small-business story you love to discover).
Daties Dates – Local dates elevated with goat cheese and pistachio.
Wally’s Desert Turtle – Classic Palm Desert institution with an old-school, commercial steakhouse feel.
Sunshine Café – Casual breakfast diner before heading out of town.
About Our Guests:Todd Davis and Shari Young are seasoned wine travelers who bring curiosity, humor, and a commitment to “say yes” energy to every trip. From tattoo traditions to spontaneous conversations with strangers, they embody the spirit of travel connection.
