Big Bear Backyard Tasting with Wine, Beer, Charcuterie Fun Vibes

Planning something fun and different during your stay in Big Bear? This Backyard Tasting Experience offers a cozy, local feel that’s perfect for winding down after a day of adventures. It’s not just about tasting wine or beer—it’s about relaxing in a friendly atmosphere, enjoying good snacks, and soaking up the sunset in a laid-back setting.

What really caught our eye is how this experience feels genuinely casual and personal, like hanging out with friends in someone’s backyard. We also love that it offers a flexible start time, making it easy to fit into your evening plans. Plus, with options to customize your tasting and add gourmet treats, it can suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is an outdoor experience, so the weather can make or break the vibe. While cancellations are fully refundable if the weather doesn’t cooperate, it’s worth keeping an eye on the forecast. This experience is ideal for those who want a relaxed, social outing—whether you’re a couple, a small group, or just someone looking to enjoy Big Bear from a different perspective.

If you’re after an authentic local vibe, enjoy good drinks and snacks, and love a sunset view, this experience could be just the ticket. It’s especially suited for those wanting a casual pre-dinner hangout, a romantic date, or a fun get-together before hitting the town.

Key Points

• Relaxed, outdoor setting in a backyard that feels like hanging out with friends.
• Flexible start times from 4 p.m., with popular sunset hours from 7-9 p.m.
• Curated tasting options include wine flights or craft beer flights, featuring local breweries and interesting finds.
• Delicious charcuterie spread with options for keto, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets.
• Add-ons available like gourmet salads, home-baked cookies, and muffins to elevate the experience.
• Small group size (up to 15 people) ensures a relaxed, intimate vibe.
• Weather-dependent, with full refunds if canceled due to poor weather.
• Affordable price at $70 per person, which includes tasting and snacks—good value for a casual, local experience.

An Honest Look at the Experience

This backyard tasting is a pretty charming way to enjoy Big Bear’s scenic evenings without the usual fuss of crowded bars or restaurants. The setting is simple—just a backyard, but that’s what makes it special. It’s like being invited into someone’s home, but with the added perk of a curated tasting flight and sunset views.

You’ll start at 506 E Fairway Blvd, where Amber Holloway’s team greets you and guides you through your choice of either a wine flight or craft beer flight. The wine options are often exciting—think South African delights like Delicious Monster or refreshing California rosés—while the beer selections include local favorites from breweries like Stone and Hangar 24, with weekly rotations keeping things fresh. Each tasting includes 4 pours, roughly 3 ounces each, so it’s enough to savor without feeling overwhelmed.

The charcuterie platter is thoughtfully assembled, offering a variety of cheeses, salami, fruits (some from their own garden), and crackers. The variety caters well to different dietary needs—keto, gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan—so no one feels left out. We loved the way the snacks complemented the drinks without overpowering them, making every sip and bite a true pleasure.

The vibe is what really makes this experience stand out. It’s laid-back and unpretentious, like hanging out with friends in your backyard on a warm summer evening. The fire pit adds to the cozy atmosphere—perfect for relaxing after a day outdoors—and the sunset views are genuinely stunning. We’ve heard from others that the host creates a welcoming environment that encourages conversation, making it a fantastic choice for small groups or couples.

Adding extras can make the evening even better. Fancy some gourmet salads, freshly baked cookies, or muffins? Just ask in advance, and they’ll likely accommodate you. It’s a nice touch that shows they want guests to customize their experience.

Pricing is reasonable for what you get—a couple of hours of relaxed fun, good drinks, tasty snacks, and beautiful scenery. Compared to the typical bar or restaurant, this experience offers a more personal, intimate setting. It’s a great way to start your evening in Big Bear before heading out for dinner or dancing.

The Booking Process and Practical Details

Booking is straightforward—most travelers do so about 6 days in advance, which means you should plan ahead if you want a prime sunset slot. The experience is mobile ticketed, so no need to worry about paper tickets or complicated check-ins. Meeting at the specified address makes it easy to find, and the outdoor setting is near public transportation, which is handy for those not renting a car.

The tour is capped at 15 guests, maintaining an intimate vibe. Because it’s outdoor, it’s weather-dependent. If rain or poor weather cancels the experience, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund—nothing to worry about there.

The cost of $70 per person is quite fair considering the quality of the drinks, the snacks, and the relaxed environment. It’s not a high-end wine tasting but rather a fun, approachable way to explore some local favorites and enjoy the long, warm evenings in Big Bear.

What to Expect in Terms of Group Size and Duration

The experience lasts around 2 hours, which makes it a perfect pre-dinner activity or a quick evening escape. The group size of up to 15 ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the host’s friendly, informal approach means you’ll likely feel comfortable chatting and relaxing.

Who Is This For?

This backyard tasting is best suited for those who value a relaxed setting over formal wine or beer tastings. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a casual way to enjoy local drinks and good snacks without the pretension of more upscale venues. Couples, small groups of friends, or even solo travelers who enjoy a chill vibe will find it appealing.

If you love beautiful sunset views, informal atmospheres, and tasting local fare, this experience ticks all those boxes. It’s also a great way to kick off an evening in Big Bear, setting a friendly, cozy tone for the rest of your night.

FAQs

Can I choose between wine and beer?
Yes, you can select either a wine flight or a craft beer flight when booking.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, they offer keto, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options—just message them in advance.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers your tasting flight, the charcuterie spread, and sunset views. Add-ons like salads or cookies are extra.

Is the experience suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify children, but since it involves alcohol tasting, it’s probably geared toward adults. Service animals are allowed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions cancel the outdoor experience, you’ll get a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Can I arrive late or leave early?
The start times are flexible, but it’s best to arrive on time to enjoy the sunset and full experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 6 days ahead, but booking early is recommended to secure your preferred time slot.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point is accessible near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

Final Thoughts

This backyard tasting in Big Bear offers a genuine, relaxed way to enjoy some local wine or beer with friends or a partner. Its cozy vibe, stunning sunset views, and thoughtfully curated snacks make it a memorable experience—without the fuss or formality of traditional tastings. It’s perfect for those who want to unwind and soak up the neighborhood charm.

While weather can be a factor, the option for full refunds if canceled due to poor conditions offers peace of mind. The price is reasonable for the value of a relaxed, scenic evening with good drinks, tasty snacks, and friendly hosts. If you’re after a casual, approachable way to experience Big Bear’s local flavors, this might just be your new favorite way to kick off the night.

Whether you’re celebrating, seeking a fun group activity, or just want to enjoy the scenery, this backyard tasting is worth considering for a memorable, low-key evening in Big Bear.