Brandon Armitage is one of the premier winemakers in the Santa Cruz area. He consistently turns out impressive wines—one of which is the 2019 Alaya Vineyard Chardonnay ($36).
This Chardonnay is aged in stainless steel, so those not fond of oaked Chard will be happy with this crisp, bright white wine.
“It’s an unoaked delight that is slowly cold-fermented to bring out the intense tropical aromas of banana, pineapple and coconut,” says Armitage. “The wine is not aged in oak barrels, and the full expression of the varietal is allowed to shine. The palate is round and full, making this the perfect wine to enjoy with almost any food or on its own.”
Armitage farms his grapes on the old Alfred Hitchcock estate in Scotts Valley—usually closed to the public—where the iconic director once lived and invited Hollywood royalty to stay. And it is on this historic property where Armitage holds splendid outdoor concerts at its venue, Tiny Winery. The next show is “An Evening with the North Mississippi Allstars” on Friday, Sept.3, a 21-and-over event. Doors open at 6pm and the music starts at 7pm.
“Armitage Wines is rolling out the red carpet for the North Mississippi Allstars,” says Armitage. “Get ready to shake what your mama gave you when they tear up the Tiny Winery stage!”
Meantime, you can visit Armitage Wines tasting room—by reservation—in the heart of Aptos Village, next to Starbucks at 105c Post Office Drive, Aptos. 831-708-2874. Visit the website for upcoming concert info and tasting room hours. armitagewines.com.
Taste of Terroir
Lester Estate Wines at Deer Park Ranch hosts a marvelous farm-to-table Taste of Terroir dinner on their beautiful property on Pleasant Valley Road in Aptos. Delicious food will be paired with gorgeous Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Participating wineries include Sante Arcangeli Family Wines, Ferrari Ranch Wines, Alfaro Family Vineyards, Storrs Winery, Bargetto Winery, Aptos Vineyard and Lester Estate Wines. The event is 4pm Sunday, Sept.19. For tickets and additional information, visit winesofthesantacruzmountains.com.
