True Travel Talk

California: Palm Springs - Passion 4 Pinot & Desert Indulgence

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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.

    About the Show: True Travel Talk takes you around the world with real stories, honest tips, and inspired itineraries — from family adventures to faraway escapes, always grounded in connection and curiosity.

    Follow along on Instagram: @truetravelcrew & TikTok: @truetravelcrew 

    Executive Producer & Host: Jill Bohaboy

    Produced by: Collective Change Communications — Kelly Sakalas & Jeni Keeler

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    True Travel TalkBy Jill Bohaboy