Santa Cruz Travel Guide 2009 - (Page 37) The Santa Cruz Mountains Appelation A wine lover’s paradise The wine scene in Santa Cruz County is as inspired as its cuisine. And so, it’s no surprise that area wineries and restaurants are celebrating local varietals with an eclectic mix of tasting opportunities. From Boulder Creek to Capitola, oenophiles are raising a glass to the Santa Cruz Mountain Appellation region, one of the oldest wine growing regions in the United States. A number of local restaurants offer wine and food pairings. Michael’s on Main in Soquel Village boasts a delicious buffet, matched with wine and live music to reflect a new theme every Tuesday night. For the perfect blend of wine and cuisine, stop by Capitola’s Shadowbrook restaurant during Winemaker Wednesdays. From October through April, sample wines in the lounge with complimentary hors d’oeuvres, meet the winemaker, and choose from selected wines specially priced. Soif Wine Bar in Downtown Santa Cruz features sumptuous pairings of food and wine from around the world in a hip, urban setting. If you’re in the mood to celebrate, the Boulder Creek Art, Wine & Music Festival in May features live music, international food booths and local wines. Every August, the family-friendly Scotts Valley Art & Wine Festival displays the work of local artists accompanied by food, wine, music, and children’s activities. In September, the Capitola Art & Wine Festival provides live entertainment, wine tasting and delicious gourmet food from local restaurants and caterers. Experience fine art and intricate crafts and meet winemakers in person, mere steps from the beach in California’s oldest seaside resort town. Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association hosts a number of wine-related events throughout the year, such as special winemaker dinners. Wineries and restaurants offer food, music, barrel samples, and tours during the Vintner’s Festival. During Passport Weekends four times a year, smaller wineries not otherwise open to the public host exclusive tastings. Or opt for a half or full-day wine tour, complete with a gourmet lunch in a custom made picnic basket. In Soquel Village, Bargetto Winery, one of the oldest family-run wineries of the Santa Cruz Mountains, has been producing hand-crafted wine for over a quarter century, including varietals. Whether your love of wine takes you to a picturesque tasting room, an historic eatery, or a modern downtown bistro, Santa Cruz County is the idyllic destination for oenophiles everywhere. For a list of wineries, see page 72. Cheers! eight Santa Cruz Mountain 37 Photo: Paul Schraub/CVC www. s a n t a cr u z co u n ty. t r a v e l http://www.santacruzcounty.travel
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