Let’s face it; Napa is lovely, but it’s also 100 miles North of us, and how long that takes depends on your luck with the traffic…and, besides, the views from the Santa Cruz mountains are worth taking in (we’d say more so than than some of the rolling Napa vineyards).
The Los Gatos mountain roads can twist and turn, but appeal to us more than driving (and sometimes crawling along) the big freeways to Napa. So, we’ve been discovering wineries a little closer to home, and the Los Gatos mountains hide a generous handful of lovely little wineries – here are a just couple that we’ve visited and would recommend…
Los Gatos tasting rooms can be found downtown and tucked away on hidden mountain roads. There are nationally recognized brands alongside mom-and-pop establishments. One grape or style unites the area, there’s everything from collectible Pinot Noirs to offbeat varieties like Pinotage.
Bryce Wiatrak, Professional Wine Journalist
Burrell School Vineyards & Winery
You know you’ve made it when you get to the 19th Century red schoolhouse! The photo above was our view while making our way through the day’s tastings – what’s lovely is that we didn’t have to go back in to get the next sip; they kept an eye on us and came out to pour and chat with warmth and attentiveness.
Loma Prieta Winery
If you like Pinotage, this is the place for you! Loma Prieta has single-handedly become the largest producer of Pinotage in North America. It’s worth the winding roads to reach this winery, set at 2600 feet and named after the flat-topped mountain that towers to the South-East. The views are breathtaking and the wine is delicious!
(They’ll waive your tasting fee if you buy a bottle!)
A few others we’ve yet to try…
Byington Vineyard & Winery – Set 95 mountainous acres, surrounded by redwood forests, with a view to Monterey Bay. Byington produces award-winning Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay wines (and other exciting varietals that highlight the diversity of Northern California).
Silver Mountain Vineyards – Hidden high in the Santa Cruz Mountains and established in 1979, Silver Mountain Vineyards is located at an elevation of 2,100 feet, offering spectacular view of Monterey Bay and surrounding redwood forest. The estate certified organic vineyard grows Mount Eden clone Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Merlot – they also purchase additional Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes from dry farmed, hillside vineyards.
David Bruce Winery – Dedicated to producing the greatest pinot noir in the world. In pursuit of this goal, the winery has adhered to traditional European winemaking practices that trace their lineage back to the early pioneers of winemaking in the Santa Cruz Mountains and Santa Clara Valley.
Silicon Valley Ventures 