From the lofty heights of Montebello Mountain the grapes make the journey down to the historic ranch where they are examined, pressed and crushed in the shadow of the original Picchetti homestead house. Under the gaze of the ever watchful and vigilant peacocks, sweet juice is magically turned to wine.
Mount Eden Vineyards, a historic gem, perches at 2,000 feet in the Santa Cruz Mountain Appellation, offering breathtaking views of Silicon Valley, about 50 miles south of San Francisco. Established in 1945, this pioneering boutique winery specializes in small lots of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. With the longest lineage of estate-bottled Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in California, Mount Eden's vineyards, planted in the austere, infertile Franciscan shale of a cool, exposed mountaintop, have produced world-class wines for over half a century. In 2007, the vineyard expanded by acquiring a 55-acre estate in the Saratoga foothills, known as Domaine Eden.
In addition to their estate wines, Mount Eden Vineyards crafts non-estate Chardonnays from the Central Coast, notably the Edna Valley. Their Chardonnay from the Wolff Vineyard is particularly acclaimed, consistently earning accolades.
Since 1981, Jeffrey Patterson has been at the helm of Mount Eden's winemaking and grape growing. His philosophy prioritizes wine growing over winemaking, with a fervent commitment to gentle and natural handling of the grapes and wines.
los LaChance is a family-owned and operated winery in the Northern Central Coast region of California. Tucked into the beautiful Hayes Valley, Clos LaChance is a true wine country experience located only 30 minutes from the Silicon Valley. Clos LaChance is a unique site, elegant yet quietly informal—the perfect place for a memorable event.
Hecker Pass Winery, established in 1972 by a third-generation vintner from Italy, produces wines in a classic European style. The winery embraces traditional methods, including dry farming, head pruning, hand picking, and wild yeast fermentation, ensuring each wine reflects a natural, Italian character. Committed to sustainability, they avoid herbicides, pesticides, and cultured yeast, focusing on crafting authentic wines. Today, the fourth and fifth generations of the family proudly continue this legacy, producing old-world wines in a sustainable way for future generations.
This winery is fun! They're only open the third weekend of the month. Tucked away down Redwood Retreat Road about 3.5 miles from Watsonville Road, the drive to get here is truly spectacular. They are only open the third weekend of each month and passport weekends. They ask that you sign in and they then give you name tags with your first name on it. The staff was friendly and the owners Therese and Dan were walking around greeting people. Dan and Therese Martin clearly have a passion for making great wine. They have scores of awards for their wine but that's not what they lead with. Their tasting room is welcoming and intimate. The vibe is comfortable and engaging. Martin Ranch produces a variety of wines from Chardonnay to Cab Franc, Sauvignon Blanc to Sangiovese.
Meander is the personal project of winemaker Amy Aiken, who has been crafting wines in Napa Valley since 1989. Starting in 2000, her exclusive focus has been limited production, ultra-premium Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Established 2003 Cases/year: 400 Winemaker: Amy Aiken
At the Shire, the aim is to treat visitors to smooth and savory blends designed to captivate even the most discerning palate. Their oak-aged, handcrafted wine is a drinkable gem, born from vineyards blessed by the serene surroundings only nature can provide. The privilege of planting, nurturing, and harvesting the abundant clusters of fruit that adorn the hillside vines is cherished by all involved.
Visitors are invited to experience the offerings of these vines within the comfort of the gardens of the European-styled estate. Each day in the tasting room, magic happens as guests arrive and rediscover their true selves. Relaxation and camaraderie flourish as patrons meet others who appreciate wine, art, conversation, and music. Friendships form as one strolls through the grounds, greeted by a calm and soothing embrace. Sitting near the pond, visitors can take a moment to reflect or meditate.
The Shire takes great pleasure in sharing this enchanting experience with all who visit.
