Blue Oak Merlot, which is named for the regal blue oak tree in the backyard, is perhaps California's best merlot — Chicago Tribune. We look forward to visting with the folks at Blue Oak, then we can share a little more with our readers.
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.
Waugh Cellars, Ryan Waugh founded this winery in 2001 at the young age of 25. Many 25 year olds are still trying to figure out what to do with their careers. At the time of our visit Ryan is project manager for his own 22,000 square foot completely underground-contained cave winery (including the crush pad) 900 feet above the valley floor in the famed Stag's Leap District. Ryan is one of the new generation of Napa winemakers - young, lots of enthusiasm, with initiative, International wine experience and an unbridled passion for working with vineyards. He was bitten with the wine bug while studying to be a Doctor at Santa Clara University.
They were brimming with passion for wine and the industry, arriving with a cellar filled with inspirational wines from around the globe. They launched their Villa Creek label in 2001, gaining a deeper understanding of the environment, the winemaking process, and the interplay between the two. Now, with 22 years of experience, their second label, MAHA, has gracefully come into its own.
Clay Shannon has always been a bit of a maverick. In 1996, he decided to shake things up by embarking on a bold journey to establish a progressive and pioneering winery and ranch in Lake County, California.
This rugged, challenging terrain captured Shannon’s imagination and fueled his unwavering commitment to the land itself. “We wanted to grow the best fruit possible,” says Clay, “but we also wanted to enjoy living here.”
Today, Shannon Family of Wines encompasses over 2,000 acres of mountain property, with about half of that area dedicated to vineyards. In the face of a changing climate, the winery is stepping up to make a difference. They’re transforming 1,000 acres into a regenerative organic farming system, significantly reducing their environmental impact.
Nestled on ridges of ancient volcanic soil at higher elevations, Shannon Family of Wines offers an extraordinary guest experience. While the conditions may seem extreme, visitors are treated to rustic charm, breathtaking lake views, and abundant wildlife that celebrate the western spirit of Clear Lake.
Guests can indulge in award-winning wines and a diverse range of varietals—all crafted with an earth-first approach that prioritizes sustainability and quality. At Shannon Family of Wines, the commitment to authenticity shines through, staying true to both the land and their own values. Cheers to an adventure that promises unforgettable sips and stunning scenery!
Bokisch Ranches has been in the business of developing vineyards and selling grapes to other wineries throughout California since 1996. Bokish management company farms 1,000 acres of winegrapes within the Lodi Appellation. Bokisch Ranches grow several white varieties including Albarino, Pinot Grigio, Verdelho, Johannesburg Riesling, Viognier and Chardonnay. Our red grape varieties include Tempranillo, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Graciano, Grenache, Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon and customizes their farming to match theirr buyers needs. Bokisch Ranches partners with small and large wineries located in many wine regions throughout California including Napa, Sonoma, Marin, Amador, Santa Cruz and, of course, Lodi!
When William and Jane Ballentine bought a nineteenth century ghost winery in St. Helena in 1999, little did they know it would take them three years to acquire a permit to open its doors which had been shuttered since Prohibition. The reason: county laws prohibited restoration of abandoned wineries with less than ten acres and the young couple only owned five. After several years working with the county, the Ballentines received a special historic winery ordinance that allowed them to reopen the 1873 winery.
Arnaud and Guillaume Fabre moved to California for love. For Guillaume, it was his passion for winemaking and farming without limits that brought him to Paso Robles. This love led him to one of the most prestigious wineries in Paso Robles,
Meet Arnaud and Guillaume Fabre, two brothers from France whose passion for winemaking is deeply rooted in their heritage. Their journey to California was sparked by love—Guillaume's ardor for winemaking and limitless farming led him to the picturesque Paso Robles, where he initially joined one of the region’s most esteemed wineries, L’Aventure, before launching his own venture, Clos Solène.
Arnaud's tale is equally captivating, reminiscent of a romantic film. His move to California was driven by his love for Chloe, leading the brothers—Les Deux Frères Fabre—to settle in the heart of Paso Robles.
But the story doesn’t end there. The Fabre brothers invite wine lovers to discover the intriguing chapters of their journey for themselves. With a deep respect for their family legacy spanning six generations in the Languedoc-Roussillon and Bordeaux regions, their winery, BENOM, beautifully marries the freedom of winemaking in Paso Robles with the exceptional talent inherent in the Fabre lineage.
Painting by Wine Artist Agata Zaborowski - people enjoying wine
This is a Famly business run by four Brothers, all native residents of Napa, and all grew up making wine in their garage as kids.... Needless to say they produce some outstanding wine! The brothers take turns conducting private tours at a cave winery in the southeastern hills of the Napa Valley. It's a great tour and a REAL Napa Winemaking experience.
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.
