Bargetto Winery produces a multitude of good wines—from high priced to very reasonable. I found a Central Coast 2011 Chardonnay in New Leaf for $13.99 (regularly $15)—a pretty good deal for this lovely wine.
A lighter style of Chardonnay, this vibrant straw-colored wine is aged in stainless steel tanks to maintain the true flavors and acidity of the fruit. With a soupçon of lemony zest on the tongue and aromas of citrus on the nose, the wine is very refreshing and bright. The winery suggests pairing it with fish, sushi and Thai food, and I also like this wine with some zesty cheese.
Deals are to be had by buying directly from Bargetto’s Winery in Soquel—six to 11 cases brings the price down to $13.50 a bottle, and if you buy a whole case, it’s $12.75 a bottle. It might be a good idea to stock up on this delightful Chard while the price is right. Bargetto Winery, 3535 N. Main St., Soquel, 475-2258. Bargetto.com.
Mission Hill Creamery
Dave Kumec recently celebrated one year in business at his centrally located store at 1101B Pacific Ave., in downtown Santa Cruz. Kumec says he is proud to make ice cream using “real ingredients,” such as organic cream, and seeking out local, sustainably raised ingredients. Available in the store are 16 flavors of delicious ice cream as well as sundaes, packed pints and milkshakes. Since opening, Kumec has added a full espresso bar. A scoop of Turkish Coffee ice cream and an espresso? Sure sounds good to me. Visit missionhillcreamery.com.
Cruzin’ Courses
There still might be tickets left ($150 each) for the popular Cruzin’ Courses—a progressive dinner for women taking place in downtown Santa Cruz, and the concept of Cathy Schlumbrecht of Comerica Bank. The event takes place from 4-9 p.m. on Oct. 17 and benefits Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and also raises money for scholarships. Visit cruzincourses.eventbrite.com.
Beauregard Vineyards’ Tour & Tasting
From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 12 & 13, Beauregard Vineyards will be doing a special Tour & Tasting event at their lovely winery in Bonny Doon. Tickets are $15 per person, and free for wine club members. Visit beauregardvineyards.com for more information.
Wine Harvest Dinner
The menu for the Wine Harvest Dinner looks absolutely delicious. The event, to be held at the Sesnon House in Aptos, is from 6-9 p.m. on Oct. 18 and tickets are $55. Here is your opportunity to meet wine professionals, including master sommelier Ian Cauble who was in the movie Somm—which I saw and is absolutely riveting—and taste some incredible wines from our local wineries. Visit scmwa.com for more information.
