Embark on a Wine Road Trip Through Santa Cruz's Scenic Vistas Santa Cruz County is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, redwood forests, and world-class wine country.

Embark on a Wine Road Trip Through Santa Cruz's Scenic Vistas

Santa Cruz County is renowned for its breathtaking coastline, redwood forests, and world-class wine country. The Santa Cruz Mountains American Viticultural Area (AVA) produces some of the state's most exceptional wines, making it an ideal destination for a wine road trip. Here are five unmissable tasting rooms to visit on your journey.

1. Burrell School Vineyards

Tucked away in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Burrell School Vineyards is a family-owned winery that crafts some of the region's most distinctive Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. Take a stroll through their picturesque vineyards, then head to the tasting room to sample their latest releases.

Burrell School Vineyards offers a variety of tasting options, including flights and private tours. Don't miss their annual Harvest Festival, where you can join in the celebration of the grape harvest with music, food, and wine.

2. Byington Vineyard & Winery

Perched atop a hill overlooking the Santa Cruz Valley, Byington Vineyard & Winery is a must-visit for its stunning views and exceptional wines. Their Tasting Room offers an intimate setting to sample their small-production Cabernet Sauvignons, Chardonnays, and Pinot Noirs.

Byington Vineyard & Winery is also renowned for its sustainable practices and organic farming methods. Take a self-guided tour of the vineyards or book a private tour with one of their knowledgeable staff members.

3. Thomas Fogarty Winery

Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Thomas Fogarty Winery has been producing exceptional wines for over four decades. Their Tasting Room offers an extensive selection of Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, and Cabernet Sauvignons from their estate vineyards.

Thomas Fogarty Winery is also home to a beautiful garden and picnic area, perfect for enjoying a wine and cheese pairing or a leisurely lunch on the patio. Be sure to check out their events calendar for live music and wine festivals throughout the year.

4. Kautz Vineyards

Located in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA, Kautz Vineyards is a family-owned winery dedicated to producing high-quality, estate-grown wines. Their Tasting Room offers an intimate setting to sample their Cabernet Sauvignons, Chardonnays, and Pinot Noirs.

Kautz Vineyards is also known for its beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards and the Santa Cruz Valley below. Take a stroll through the gardens or book a private tour with one of their knowledgeable staff members.

5. Woodside Vineyards

Perched atop a hill overlooking the San Francisco Bay, Woodside Vineyards offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains. Their Tasting Room features an extensive selection of Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, and Cabernet Sauvignons from their estate vineyards.

Woodside Vineyards is also home to a beautiful garden and picnic area, perfect for enjoying a wine and cheese pairing or a leisurely lunch on the patio. Be sure to check out their events calendar for live music and wine festivals throughout the year.

Getting Around

Santa Cruz County offers a variety of transportation options to help you navigate the region's scenic roads and wine country. Consider renting a car or booking a guided tour with one of the local wine tour companies.

Tips and Essentials

• Be sure to check the hours, fees, and tasting options for each winery before visiting.
• Plan your visit around the harvest season (September-October) for an unforgettable experience.
• Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views and vineyards!
• Consider pairing your wine tastings with a picnic lunch or dinner at one of the local restaurants.