Santa Cruz Mountains Wineries
Bonny Doon Vineyards and Randall Graham
The creative and eccentric Randall Graham and his Bonny Doon vineyards are some of the most famous in Santa Cruz. Bonny Doon winery is located at the top of the Santa Cruz mountain range and is surrounded by redwood trees and wildlife. They always have new wines to try at their winery and their staff are both pleasant and helpful.
Byington Winery with Bill, Dean, and Sheryl
Byington winery was founded in the 1980's but the land has been in the Byington family since the early 50's. It is undeniably one of the most serene and beautiful places I have ever been in the Santa Cruz area, not to mention, it offers one of the best tasting experiences around. The bocci ball, picnic setting, and views of the pacific ocean make this one of the most aesthetically pleasing stops on our tour.
Cooper-Garrod with Bill Cooper
The Cooper-Garrod winery is set on a hillside just above Saratoga. They specialize in a variety of Grapes including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Viognier. The Cooper-Garrod vineyards have been in the family for over 100 years making it a well established land mark in the Santa Cruz mountain appellation.
Hunter Hill Vineyard with Christine and Vann Slatter
Hunter Hill Vineyard has been in the Slatter family for over 100 years and for a long time boasted apple orchards. In 1990 Christine and Vann decided they wanted to try their hands at wine and began to plant merlot among other varietals. Now the south facing slope of the Hunter Hill winery is entirely covered with vines including syrah, pinot noir, and merlot, and the Slatters are happy to be making some of Santa Cruz County's best wines.
Nicholson Vineyard with Marguerite and Brian Nicholson
This family owned vineyard run by Marguerite and Brian Nicholson is located in the Aptos foothills in Pleasant Valley. The Nicholson family has been growing grapes since 1996 and now have started an Italian olive tree project as well. The first time I met Marguerite she gladly welcomed me onto their vineyard and showed me where they make their estate Pinot and Chardonnay. With our tour you will get to personally meet Marguerite and have the same wonderful experience among their vines that I had.
Pelican Ranch Winery with Phil and Peggy Crews
Pelican Ranch Winery, run by Phil and Peggy Crews, is nestled right next to a bakery on the Northwestern edge of Santa Cruz proper. They specialize in Rhone blends as well as pinot noir and dessert wines. Phil is always there with a smile and a wealth of information, ready to pour wines and explain to his patrons the process he utilizes in making his unique wines.
Roudon-Smith with Al Drewke
Roudon-Smith is a small winery run by Al Drewke and located in The Santa Cruz Mountains on Bear Creek road. At Roudon-Smith traditional winemaking methods result in elegant, long-lived wines, which are the perfect complement to any meal.
Savannah-Chanelle
Savannah-Chanelle was established in 1892 and holds some of the Santa Cruz Mountain's oldest vines. The winery was purchased in 1996 by the Ballard family who decided to name it after their daughters. At Savannah-Chanelle you will get to taste 7 different wines including some of California's best Pinot Noir.
Silver Mountain Vineyards with Jerold O'brien
Silver Mountain Vineyards is the epitome of boutique winery. The winemaker and owner Jerold O'brien offers handcrafted chardonnay, pinot noir and zinfandel. Silver Mountain is located deep in the Santa Cruz mountain range and boasts incredible panoramic views of the entire bay area. Between its beauty and its exceptional wine it is a treat to be able to offer a tour of this unforgettable winery.
Soquel with Peter and Paul Bargetto
Established by twin brothers Peter and Paul Bargetto, Soquel Vineyards is perched above the town of the same name on a hill side in the Santa Cruz Mountains. With sweeping views of the hills leading down to town and out into the Pacific Ocean, the Bargettos have created a winery that offers not only a variety of very special wines, but magnificent beauty both inside and outside the tasting room as well.