Scmwa

About Us

The Santa Cruz Mountains wine region is a winegrowing region that is defined by its unique terrain and a maverick mindset. It is a place where soaring cliffs drop into the sea, steep mountain vineyards overlook idyllic small towns, and tradition meets innovation. The region has played a pivotal role in the history of California winemaking since the 1870s when Paul Masson and Charles Lefranc planted our first vineyards from cuttings transplanted from Burgundy. Recognized as an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in 1981, we are the first California appellation to be defined by its mountain topography. Today, our winegrowing community comprises nearly 300 small growers and wineries who are united by a spirit of independence and shared passion to make elegant, distinctive wines that reflect the region's unique terroir.

Our Wine Region

The Santa Cruz Mountains wine region is a broad region that spans nearly half a million acres, with over 1,600 acres planted to winegrapes. Our region is planted to approximately 1600 acres of winegrapes, divided evenly among Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and "Other Varietals" (most notably Merlot and Zinfandel). Our wines come from high-altitude, small vineyard lots surrounded by Redwood trees and native chaparral, growing atop an ancient seabed overlooking the Pacific Ocean. These growing conditions give the wines a distinct regional identity, characterized by fresh flavors, bright fruit, and minerality. As a region that has a strong commitment to sustainable winegrowing, we have observed best practices for vineyard sustainability for decades. As most of our wineries are small and family-owned with limited distribution, the best way to experience them is in the place where they're grown.

Our Wine Club

The Wines of the Santa Cruz Mountains Club offers members a rare opportunity to experience wines from many different producers across our region, all delivered to your doorstep. Choose from three club options: the Pinot, Classic or Mountain Bordeaux Collection. Each of these explores key aspects of our region and will introduce you to bottlings from both acclaimed producers and under-the-radar brands. Join Now

Our Wineries

The Santa Cruz Mountains is home to over 70 wineries and 200 growers, offering a diverse range of wine styles and experiences. From small, family-owned wineries to larger, more well-known establishments, our wineries welcome visitors to taste their wines and learn about their unique winemaking approaches. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Santa Cruz Mountains offers a wine country experience like no other.

Wineries

To the public:

• Farm Cottage Wines
• Wargin Wines
• Bottle Jack Winery
• Regale Winery and Vineyards
• Domaine Eden
• House Family Vineyards
• Kissed by an Angel Wines
• Alfaro Family Vineyards & Winery
• La Honda Winery
• Aptos Vineyard Tasting Room
• Saison Cellars
• Equinox Wine
• Madson Wines
• Ferrari Ranch Wines
• Sante Arcangeli Family Wines
• Lago Lomita Vineyard

Events

• SCM Wine Passport
• Surf City Wine Walk
• More Events