Wine, Tablescape Inspiration, and Mediterranean Style with Jamie Knee
I live in Santa Barbara, California, where long golden evenings invite a slower way of living, where glasses clink beneath the palms, and the Pacific breeze drifts past candlelit tables. Instead of jet-setting across Europe this week, I’m celebrating something equally indulgent: the art of luxury summer entertaining at home on the American Riviera.
From coastal wines to Mediterranean-inspired dishes and dreamy tablescapes, here’s how I bring global flavor to local living.
What to Pour: Summer Wines with Coastal Charm
Santa Barbara calls for wines that capture sunshine, sea breeze, and effortless style. My summer lineup is a blend of local favorites and European gems:
Rosé for Golden Hour
- La Lieff Rosé (Santa Barbara County) — local, vibrant, and perfect for poolside afternoons.
- Château Minuty (Provence) — soft blush, elegant, and always chic. A little Côte d’Azur energy for California sunsets.
Coastal Whites to Cool the Heat
- Albariño from Rías Baixas, Spain
Crisp, citrusy, and made for seafood, sunshine, and summer laughter.
A Slightly Chilled Red for Sunset
- Gamay from Fleurie, Beaujolais
Light, juicy, serve with a slight chill while the sky turns peach and lavender.
📌 Pair your wine choices with Santa Barbara’s coastal lifestyle. Discover more regional inspiration in my guide to the Sonoma Coast and Cool-Climate Elegance.
What to Serve: Summer on a Plate
Summer entertaining doesn’t need fuss, only flavor. I keep the menu travel-inspired, fresh, and ocean-kissed, like a postcard from Greece.
My Menu Staple
Grilled shrimp + feta salad
Bursting with ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, olives, citrus, with a lemony dressing. Add grilled bread, fresh herbs, and you’ve turned dinner into a seaside escape.
Small Plates to Linger Over
- Warm olives
- Crusty baguette
- Charred lemon wedges
- A zesty lemon-tinged dessert
🍋 Jamie’s tip: end dinner with something bright and citrusy to echo coastal wines.
How to Style the Table: Mediterranean Meets California
My tables are full of color, warmth, and personality, always with a hint of travel.
Tablescape Essentials
- Linens from Maison Flâneur or Williams Sonoma
- Vintage Murano glassware for sparkle
- Wildflowers + lavender for fragrance
- Candlelight at every height
Style Philosophy
Mix sentimental heirlooms with modern design. Let the textures, flowers, and colors feel sun-kissed and collected during your travels, even if they came from the local florist.
🌿 Jamie’s mindset: Don’t just set a table, tell a story. Let guests feel transported.
Jamie’s Summer Entertaining Mantra
- Keep the guest list intimate
- Play Mediterranean jazz
- No phones — just connection
- A sensory touch matters (yes, I keep Molton Brown hand wash by the sink)
- Send guests home with a tiny keepsake
(a sprig of lavender, handwritten card, or mini sea salt sachet)
Because food fades, but memories stay delicious.
Keep Exploring the Art of Living Well
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