Santa Cruz Wine Tasting Guide: 13 Best Wineries, Itineraries & Travel Tips

Thinking about a Santa Cruz wine tasting trip? Let this be your sign. Tucked between Silicon Valley and the breezy beaches of Santa Cruz and Capitola, the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA (American Viticultural Area) is one of California’s most underrated wine regions,  and it’s absolutely worth discovering. With coastal redwoods, cool foggy mornings, and hillside vineyards, it’s a dreamy mix of NorCal nature and world-class winemaking.

I recently spent a week exploring this magical slice of unique California wine country, and I’m sharing my personal travel guide to the best Santa Cruz wineries to visit. From family-run vineyards to eco-conscious estates, here’s exactly where to sip, swirl, and savor your way through the Santa Cruz Mountain vineyards. 

Where Is the Santa Cruz Mountains Wine Region?

If you’re in the Bay Area, the Santa Cruz Mountains wine region is probably a lot closer than you think, and a whole lot less crowded (and expensive) than Napa. For real – you can reach some of the best Santa Cruz wine tasting rooms in just 25 minutes on Highway 17 from San Jose or Silicon Valley. (Yes, really!)

It stretches from the northern edges of Half Moon Bay and Woodside all the way down to Mount Madonna and Watsonville in the south. It winds through Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, and San Mateo counties, making it a next door neighbor to us Bay Area folks. (See, told you it’s closer than you think). 

It’s the only California wine region where you can sip Pinot Noir under towering redwoods in the morning and enjoy fresh seafood on the beach in Santa Cruz or Capitola by afternoon. And, you can be home for dinner if you don’t want to spend the night (though, I recommend you do.)

What Makes Santa Cruz Wineries Unique?

Santa Cruz Mountain wineries are unlike anything in California. For starters, where else can you find vines planted on steep, rugged mountain slopes, among towering redwoods, and just miles from the Pacific Ocean?

Just like you’ll find microclimates in San Francisco, this geography creates a patchwork of microclimates, allowing winemakers to grow everything from high-acid Pinot Noir and Chardonnay to fruity Syrah and earthy Gamay. 

Plus, the region’s close proximity to the Bay Area makes it ideal for a spontaneous day trip or a relaxing weekend getaway that always makes me feel rejuvenated in a way that stuffy Napa wineries can’t offer.

With winding mountain roads, coastal breezes, and scenic vineyard views, the Santa Cruz Mountains wineries offer a wine country experience that blends NorCal magic with big flavor and zero pretension.

13 Best Wineries in the Santa Cruz Mountains To Visit This Weekend

1. Wrights Station Winery

It’s one of the best wineries in Santa Cruz to visit if you’re looking for a tasting room that’s basically in your Bay Area backyard but feels a world away. Tucked between Los Gatos and Santa Cruz, Wrights Station Winery has redwoods and madrones surrounding the vineyard, creating a unique terroir that’s perfect for Pinot. Seriously, it’s like the holy grail for these grapes.

Their Far Away Block Pinot is award-winning, and the outdoor tasting patio has this great view of the Redwoods, the vines and the mountain view. Plus, they are like literally the nicest people ever.

Bonus: this spot is also a popular venue for redwood weddings under trees that are over 100 years old.

2. Alfaro Family Vineyards & Winery

No Santa Cruz Mountain wine tasting itinerary can be complete without Alfaro. I swear, everyone we visited this past week knew the name and had only good things to say.

Alfaro is a larger operation, producing about 10,000 cases a year, but they still maintain a personal touch. We took a truck tour of the vineyard, learning about their organic farming practices and how they use cover crops to enrich the sandy soil. Their Gruner Veltliner (with floral apple notes and a hint of wisteria, I swear) was a standout, though everything they make is fantastic.

Make sure to visit on a warm day so you can sit on their back porch with epic views and bask in the sunshine. 

3. Ferrari Ranch Wines

Located in Corralitos, Ferrari Ranch is all about small-lot production and sustainable farming – oh, and they have the best views in all of Santa Cruz. We walked out to their back deck for our tasting and I think my jaw hit the floor.

Ferrari Ranch produces just 400 cases a year, focusing on Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Rosé. The warm climate here, tempered by morning mists, creates wines with a French sensibility and a touch of California sunshine. Their Rosé of Zinfandel is a must-try, and the black tea notes in their wines are a signature of the Corralitos area.

4. Lester Estate Wines

I low key felt like Snow White when stepping into Lester Estates since we saw multiple deer and turkeys on our way to this magical redwood grove/fairy circle on the property. After, we got to taste their fantastic lineup in their tasting room which feels a little like a hunting lodge in the best way possible. 

The soil here, once a seabed, is rich in minerals, allowing the vines to grow deep roots with plenty of nutrients. I truly loved everything we tasted but their sparkling rosé Pinot and floral Chardonnay (in a Burgundy style) are divine.

Fun fact: their winemakers have code names inspired by explorers—how whimsical is that?

5. Storrs Winery

Storrs Winery has been a staple in the Santa Cruz Mountains since the 1980s. Their eco-friendly winery and tasting room in Corralitos are surrounded by 60 acres of organic vineyards. The best way to explain the tasting room vibe is Southern France Industrial Chic. 

Think: concrete, chic outdoor furniture, flowers everywhere, and eucalyptus as the backdrop.  Storrs practice biodynamic and even have sheep “work” in the vineyards in the winter to help mow the grass. We visited right after the lambs were born and had a chance to visit them. 

Petite Syrah is a standout with its rich plum-like flavors, so make sure to try that and budget to take home a bottle. 

6. La Vida Bella Vineyard

This family-owned boutique winery on the Corralitos Wine Trail is all about quality over quantity. They produce estate-grown wines and even offer olive oil tastings!  The catch is, they’re only open one day a month. This private, hidden barn-turned-tasting room is pouring some great sparkling wine and deserves a stop if you’re in the area. 

7. Madson Wines

Madson Wines is a newer addition to the region they they’ve already made a name for themselves with their natural wines and hip Santa Cruz tasting room. They focus on regenerative agriculture and limited-production wines made with native ferments.  

We did a tasting here on a morning when they were bottling, and it was super special to watch them bottle up goodness while sipping on their wines. Some standouts for me are their Aligoté (fresh! perfect for summer!), Gamay (yes, you can make Gamay in this region!), and a yet-to-be-labeled Syrah that tasted just like blueberry pie. 

This is a stop I recommend you shop from the wine list and bring back home to enjoy at parties and events. They’re a crowd pleaser! 

8. Samuel Louis Smith Winery

Samuel Louis Smith is a micro-négociant winery sources grapes from cool-climate sites across the Central Coast, including Santa Cruz. We had a chance to sip with winemaker, Sam, and hear about his production first hand. His Chardonnays are sharp and acidic, and their Gamay Noir and Pinot Noir are equally impressive. 

In fact, during our tasting, a wine club member stopped by to pick up her shipment, and Sam invited her to join us. Friendliness and community are everything here in the Santa Cruz Mountains. 

9. Big Basin Vineyards

Big Basin took my breath away as I drove up. Terraced into a steep hillside, this vineyard could be the poster child for the Santa Cruz Mountain AVA. 

We kicked out tour off with a drive to the top of the vineyard. If you’re looking for Santa Cruz wineries with a view, nothing beats this view that overlooks the mountains and the vines below. You can’t see the ocean from up there, but Big Basin is still proudly ocean-influenced since it benefits from the cooling maritime breezes and fog, which helps keep grapes from overheating and ripening too quickly. 

Big Basin has great Rhônes reds you need to try (like that Rattlesnack Syrah!?) They farm organically, use native yeast, and are CCOF organically certified. Their wines have a cult following for a reason—the intensity and elegance of their Syrah are unmatched.

10. David Bruce Winery

Established in 1964, David Bruce Winery has a storied history, including being part of the 1976 Judgment of Paris!! Talk about impressive. 

Located above the fog line, they produce exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, along with Riesling, something not everyone in the region can grow. David Bruce is at the very top of the ridgeline of the Santa Cruz Mountains and thus has epic views as you drive up. I recommend tasting outside under an umbrella so you can gaze upon their steeped vineyards while sipping wine. 

While known for their Pinot Noirs, I loved their acidic Chardonnay (in fact, they pulled out a bottle of 2011 Chardonnay for us which was mind-blowing.) 

11. Picchetti Winery 

Picchetti Winery is a slice of rustic magic tucked into the Santa Cruz Mountains that’s super close to Silicon Valley, making it a go-to stop for visitors. I’ve had more than one birthday party here. 

Wild peacocks roam the grounds (yes, for real!) and their 110+ year-old Zinfandel vines are a testament to the winery’s deep roots in the region. The best part? You get to curate your own tasting list, so you’re not stuck sipping wines you don’t love.

12. Ridge Vineyards 

Ridge Vineyards is all about the views and the wine—both are next-level. Perched high above the South Bay, this hillside estate offers sweeping panoramas that stretch all the way to San Francisco on clear days. 

It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, so pack your favorite cheeses, bread, and olives to pair with their iconic Zinfandel. The drive up Monte Bello Road is a bit of a commitment, but trust me, the sunshine, good wine, and laid-back vibes are worth it.

13. Thomas Fogarty Winery 

Thomas Fogarty Winery is pure romance in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Their estate-grown Pinot Noir is a standout, but the real magic happens at sunset when the sky turns pink and golden over the rolling hills.

They offer guided walking tours through the vineyards, which is such a fun way to learn about their winemaking process while sipping on something delicious. 

How to Plan Your Santa Cruz Wine Tasting Trip

The beauty of planning a Santa Cruz wine tasting getaway is that you can do it your way. Whether you’re popping in for a day trip or lingering for a cozy weekend of wine and nature, you can find it all.

The Santa Cruz Mountains wine region is open year-round, but if you visit in the spring, you’ll be treated to blooming wildflowers, green rolling hills, and perfect picnic weather. I also adore winter in this area. I just spent a lovely weekend in Felton this past January and loved the winter sunlight and fewer crowds on the trails. 

The best way to explore the region is by car. You’ll want the flexibility to hop between wineries, winding mountain roads, and coastal stops at your own pace. While some Santa Cruz vineyards are just 25 minutes from San Jose or Silicon Valley, others are tucked away, so it’s worth staying overnight to soak it all in.

Pro Tips:

• Most tasting rooms are casual but call ahead or check online for reservation requirements — especially on weekends.
• Pack layers! The weather can shift from cool mountain mornings to sunny coastal afternoons.

1. Where To Stay In Santa Cruz:

Make it a weekend by booking a night in the region!

• Sand Rock Farm Bed & Breakfast: a charming historic inn nestled in the redwoods. It’s one of the most beautiful historic properties I’ve found in the Bay Area, especially in the spring, with the blooming gardens and the house are covered in wisteria. Home-cooked breakfast is included (score!) and there’s chickens and a hotel cat to say hi to. 
• Treehouse rentals in the Santa Cruz Mountains: there’s a few treehouse Airbnbs in this area that’s uniquely NorCal and a total vibe. I’ve stayed at a few, but my favorite is the Redwood Treefort, complete with a fire pit and heated blankets! 

2. Where To Eat In Santa Cruz:

Santa Cruz is a foodie’s dream, with everything from cozy bakeries to farm-to-table gems. Whether you’re fueling up for a day of exploring or winding down after a wine-tasting adventure in the Santa Cruz Mountains, these spots are guaranteed to hit the spot

• Dinner: For an unforgettable dinner, head to Mentone in Aptos. Their wood-fired pizzas are perfection, and the natural wine selection is chef’s kiss. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger over every bite. Another must-visit is Home in Soquel, a cozy farm-to-table restaurant with a rotating seasonal menu that always surprises in the best way. Both are local favorites and pair beautifully with a day of wine tasting in the mountains. If you’re venturing deeper into the Santa Cruz Mountains, don’t miss Emerald Mallard in Felton for upscale comfort food like smash burgers and truffle mac & cheese. It’s a trendy hunting lodge vibe with food that’ll blow your mind.
• Coffee & Breakfast: Start your morning with a latte from Cat & Cloud, a Santa Cruz staple that takes coffee seriously (but not themselves—love that).For a classic diner breakfast, Rocky’s Café in Felton is a must. Located in an old house surrounded by towering trees, it’s the kind of spot where pancakes and hashbrowns taste like they were made by your forest-dwelling grandma.
• Bonus Snack Stop: If you’re passing through Capitola, grab a cookie (or three) from Gayle’s Bakery, a local institution with a cult following.

3. When Is the Best Time to Visit the Santa Cruz Wine Region?

• Spring: Wildflowers, mild temps, fewer crowds
• Fall: Harvest season, golden light, cozy vineyard vibes
• Year-Round: Most tasting rooms are open regardless of season (just call ahead in winter)

4. Why Santa Cruz Wine Country Is the Next Big Thing

As a certified wine expert with a WSET2 level, I was blown away by all the wine tasting in Santa Cruz Mountains AVA. This is a very under the radar wine country gem with fantastic wines and even more fantastic people. 

If you’re been burned by snobby tasting rooms in other parts of California, or hate spending $100 on a single tasting, then you’ll love Santa Cruz wines. The wines are crisp, bright, and acidic here. They’re delicate and interesting, and extend beyond just Pinot and Chardonnay. 

Plus, the landscape here is stunning. In between wine tasting, you can go hiking in redwoods, kayaking on the ocean, shop cute antique stores, catch a rollercoaster on the boardwalk or even visit the Mystery Spot. I’m obsessed with this region, and you will be too. 

FAQ About Santa Cruz Wine Tasting

What wines is Santa Cruz known for?

Santa Cruz Mountain vineyards are known for steep terrain, Coastal Redwoods and a fog inversion layer that results in the perfect climate to grow cool climate grapes. But, some sections get hot enough to also grow Syrah, Gamay and other varietals you may not be used to seeing in California. 

Is Santa Cruz a good wine tasting destination?

Omg, yes. The Santa Cruz Mountains is putting out some of the best wine in the United States right now, and it absolutely rivals Europe. This unique climate and terrain result in delicate, interesting wines that are nothing like the big, bold, overpowering wines you find in places like Napa or Paso Robles. 

Plus, the wine tasting rooms are all so cute here and probably have insane views and insanely nice people working there. Oh, and wine tasting is going to be a lot cheaper compared to other regions

What wineries in Santa Cruz are dog friendly?

• MJA Vineyards Westside Tasting Room & Cellar
• Hallcrest Vineyards and Santa Cruz Scrumpy Cider

Can you visit Santa Cruz wineries without a reservation?

Probably! It’s always best practice to call ahead or reserve a tasting online, but many Santa Cruz Mountain wineries take walk-ins 

 I hope this helps you plan the best visit to Santa Cruz Mountains for wine tasting and other adventures!

If you have any questions, drop a comment below and I’ll try and help you out.