Tuesday, 27 October 2026, 7:08
San Diego’s culinary scene gets a coastal upgrade this October as celebrated chef Erin Sealy brings her signature wine-pairing experience to Pacific Beach.
On October 20, Drift Cafe will transform into an intimate tasting venue for Wine Pairs Events. Sealy, a self-taught chef known for her intuitive approach to flavor, will guide guests through a multi-course menu designed to complement five carefully selected bottles from Stiekema Wine Company.
The evening focuses on how specific vintages can elevate seasonal dishes. Winemaker Mike Stiekema emphasizes regenerative agricultural practices in his Paso Robles vineyards. The lineup includes the 2025 Rosé of Grenache/Mourvèdre, 2023 Grenache, 2024 Mourvèdre, 2024 Syrah, and a 2023 Grenache/Syrah/Mourvèdre blend. Guests will learn the stories behind each bottle while enjoying expertly crafted food that mirrors the balance sought in modern winemaking.
This event bridges two iconic California regions: the coastal lifestyle of San Diego and the renowned wine country of Paso Robles. By hosting dinners across eleven different neighborhoods throughout San Diego, Sealy allows locals to explore diverse communities while supporting regional agriculture. The cooler autumn temperatures make it the perfect window for outdoor and indoor dining experiences along the coast.
Sealy’s passion for gastronomy stems from her upbringing in a Sicilian-American household where cooking was an instinctive, experimental process rather than a rigid set of recipes. Her early exposure to Mediterranean flavors and a transformative college trip to Italy laid the foundation for her career as a specialist in beverage and culinary pairing.
As the season transitions, residents have a unique opportunity to gather around the table for conversation and fine dining. Interested attendees can view upcoming schedules, final menus, and secure their seats directly on the Wine Pairs Events official platform.
