Zinfandel

Zinfandel

Cakebread Cellars

glasses of white wine - Pixabay

Cakebread Cellars' story begins with a piece of land, a family passionate about wine, and a community of friends and partners who helped bring the winery to life. Since its founding in 1973, Cakebread Cellars has aimed to create quality wines that pair beautifully with good food and good company. The wines reflect the personalities of their estate vineyards as well as the spirit of the entire team. They take pride in sharing these wines—from their family to yours.

Fellom Ranch Vineyards

pouring wine - Pixabay

Fellom Ranch was founded in 1928 by Senator Roy Fellom. The land was already planted with vines, but prohibition was in effect at the time. According to reports the vines were tended by local families who harvested the grapes for their own use as payment. The 12 acre vineyard was eventually largely replanted and in 1987 the winery became bonded to sell wines.

Rutherford Grove Winery - now (Pestoni Family Estate Winery)

glass of wine - Pixabay

Bob and Sylvia Pestoni
In the mid-1990s, Bob and his wife Sylvia were presented with a rare opportunity. A small winery adjacent to their family´s Rutherford property had become available for purchase. Over the years, Bob and Sylvia had always grown grapes on their land, but they had always sold their fruit to other wine producers. They hadn´t been interested in becoming vintners before, but the acquisition of this new property renewed Bob´s admiration for his family´s business – and for his heritage. In 1994, they opened the doors to Rutherford Grove Winery and resumed making the single vineyard, hand-crafted artisanal wines Bob´s father and grandfather had created there for more than a century before him.  In 2017, in celebration of their 125th anniversary of Napa Valley winemaking, the winery was renamed Pestoni Family Estate Winery.

Storybook Mountain Vineyards

glass of wine - Pixabay

Storybook Mountain was originally founded by Jacob Grim, as a reference to the Grimm fairy tales. Finding the black wrought iron gate and stepping into this winery on a misty, gray day was very akin to what I can only imagine as stepping into a fairy tale. But a fairy tale finishing with the aroma of a 97 point Zin type of ending, not a Grimm ending. Storybook Mountain's sought-after estate wines are carefully hand-crafted from choice grapes grown in certified organic estate vineyards surrounding the winery. A winery out in the thick of a California redwood forest, and also the makers of the world's first 97pt Zin. If you suspect that this means they are serious wine makers, you're absolutely right. Storybook has a rich history and blue collar vibe. It's totally worth going!

A. Nonini Winery

A. Nonini Winery logo

A. Nonini Winery (aka Fresno's best-kept secret) was founded in 1936 by Antonio and Angiolina Nonini, and the business carries on managed by the fourth generation. We were pleased to tour the winery, starting with the 1941 Garolla grape crusher from Italy and ending with the finished product resting in the redwood tanks, which can easily be arranged by calling James Jordan.  They also have facilities for hosting special events. Be sure to try the Nonini Winery's Ruby Cabernet. The winery opens its tasting room from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.~

Hours:

Mon - Sat - 9:00AM to 4:00PM
Sunday                Closed

Wiens Family Cellars

Painting by Agata Zaborowski - woman enjoying wine at beach

The wines at Wiens Family Cellars were very good. Not too crowded inside. Good vibe inside. We had a lot of first timers in my group so they were a little unsure of what to do but the staff there were very friendly and eager to answer any questions. The hostess I dealt with was very friendly and had good recommendations. I have to say their "Perspective" blend was a very good red that I enjoyed. I also really like their Cab selection. From what I understand their big reds are in the premier tasting room....that will be my next stop when I return to Temecula Wine and wine country.

MOHI Ranch

Grape cluster - Pixabay

At MOHI Ranch, the farm-to-table philosophy isn’t just a concept; it’s a way of life! This delightful haven grows its own produce, ensuring that every event is graced with the freshest ingredients straight from the land. The ranch is not just a stunning backdrop; it’s the very heart of their culinary magic, bursting with vibrant fruits, vegetables, and herbs that bring the best of each harvest right to your table.

But MOHI Ranch doesn’t just host events—they create unforgettable experiences! Their dedicated team focuses on every detail, ensuring that your celebration, whether a dreamy wedding, a corporate retreat, or a family reunion, perfectly reflects your vision and values. Picture saying "I do" amidst blooming flowers or dancing under a canopy of stars—MOHI Ranch is the ultimate setting for life’s most cherished moments. Come and discover the unique farm-to-table experience that makes this ranch truly special!

Established at the turn of the 20th century as Marchetti Ranch, a family vineyard and winery before Prohibition, Sycamore Creek Vineyards has undergone an incredible transformation over the years. The most significant change came in 2005 when Bill and Carolyn Holt of Morgan Hill took the reins. With Bill’s passion for agriculture and commitment to quality, Sycamore Creek blossomed into an award-winning winery known for its unique, hand-crafted wines.

Initially celebrated for its Zinfandel and Carignane, the winery expanded its repertoire under the Holts to include delightful Viognier, Chardonnay, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and bold Bordeaux-style blends. In 2015, the winery joined the Léal Portfolio under Frank Léal, further elevating its prestige.

Today, nestled in the scenic hills west of Morgan Hill and Gilroy, MOHI Ranch continues this rich legacy, producing some of the Central Coast's most coveted wines. Looking ahead, the ranch plans to enhance its agricultural efforts, cultivating a variety of produce alongside its renowned vineyards, enriching both the land and the community.

Set along the picturesque banks of Uvas Creek in Uvas Valley, MOHI Ranch is the perfect escape. Visitors can unwind and enjoy award-winning wines while soaking in the beautiful surroundings. The charming ranch and boutique winery is located in the historical Uvas Valley, just west of the delightful towns of Morgan Hill and Gilroy. Don’t miss the chance to relax on the outdoor patio, savor a tasting, and indulge in their unique, delicious wines.

Visit MOHI Ranch Wine Tasting Room:
12775 Uvas Road
Morgan Hill, CA
Availability: Year-round
Phone: 408.779.4738

Great wine and unforgettable memories at MOHI Ranch!

Wente Vineyards

grapes - Pixabay

Founded more than 125 years ago, Wente Vineyards is the country’s oldest, continuously operated family-owned winery. Today, the winery maintains its leadership role in California winegrowing under ownership and management by the Fourth and Fifth Generations of the Wente family. Blending traditional and innovative winemaking practices, the winery draws from approximately 3,000 acres of sustainably farmed Estate vineyards to create an outstanding portfolio of fine wines. Located just east of San Francisco in the historic Livermore Valley, Wente Vineyards is recognized as one of California’s premier wine country destinations, featuring wine tasting, fine dining and championship golf.

Selby Winery

wine and cheese - Pixabay

Selby Winery Tasting Room is another great tasting room in downtown Healdsburg. The tasting room itself is small and well organized with enough space at the bar for 2-3 small groups. What struck me was the friendliness of the staff and of Susie Selby (the winemaker) herself, who was in the tasting room taking care of some business. The conversation was very comfortable and free flowing and Susie was wonderful. After such a positive initial experience, it was on to the wines, and they did no disappoint.

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