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Fess Parker : Actor, Successful Businessman

Fess Parker is a well-known actor. His most notable role was that of "Davy Crockett" - King of the Wild Frontier. This successful, long-running television series was watched by millions of adults and kids during the early 1960's. In between his acting assignments, Fess made records. He recorded the first original version of the "Ballad of Davy Crockett."

Over the years, Fess Parker has made many wise investments. Two of his most recent are: The Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard - In 1987 the family purchased a long stretch of rolling ranch land in Santa Barbara's beautiful Santa Ynez Valley. Immediately, they began prospecting for gold. Having no luck with a big strike, the family turned to growing grapes. The temperate coastal weather is ideal for the growing of superb grapes. Hence, the Fess Parker Winery & Vineyards were born.

The vineyards comprise 714 acres on gentle rolling hills and mesa. The 9,600 square foot Winery building was completed in 1994 and is a handsome English colonial style structure. Its rambling veranda is popular with the visitors.

The tasting room is grand, but intimate, with high angled ceilings. A massive open fireplace and an expansive tasting bar beckons the most hurried visitor. Fess' son, Eli (Fess Parker III) is the wine master and makes some of the best award-winning wines you'll ever taste.

The Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard is located at 6200 Foxen Canyon road, Los Olivas, California. The Tasting Room is open 10 to 5, daily.

The Fess Parker Double Tree Resort -
The Fess Parker Double Tree Resort is located steps from the Pacific Ocean, one-half mile from downtown Santa Barbara. The Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard is located in the Santa Ynez Mountains, which serve as the back drop for the Double Tree Resort.

Each of the 337 luxurious rooms and 23 suites comes with a patio or balcony offering views of the ocean, mountains or the garden courtyard. The Resort's restaurant features mouthwatering favorites and regional specialties, including seafood, freshly caught from the ocean waters. Cafe Los Arcos, provides a casual spot for dining all day long. The Double Tree Resort is located at 633 E. Cabrillo Blvd., Santa Barbara, California.

Fess Parker is another example of a celebrity who is also a successful businessman. While in California, visit Fess' popular Resort and Winery, they're only a few minutes apart. And probably, you'll see old Davy Crockett at one or the other.