Cork and Fork is a new-ish wine bar located smack in the center of the action in Capitola Village. Owner Cathy Bentley says she couldn’t be happier. “It’s a dream come true,” she says, of setting up shop in a prime spot that is nonstop busy.
My husband and I spent a pleasant evening tasting several wines and munching on tasty bites that Bentley prepares, such as cheese and crackers, handmade pizzas, and mozzarella-stuffed turkey meatballs (Wednesdays only). Bentley also runs specials during the week; including the very popular Bubbles and Babes Girls Night Out on Thursdays.
We enjoyed a bottle of Red-on-Red wine made by Drytown Cellars (about $25). Based in Plymouth in beautiful Amador County, Drytown Cellars is known for its good wines at reasonable prices. If you visit the winery, you can buy this Red-on-Red Zinfandel blend for about $10, and, given the price, you won’t be disappointed. It’s a hefty mouthful of red table wine that’s better than most. It won Best of Class of Region (95 points) at the California State Fair last year.
Bentley is constantly changing her wine list—and although the focus is not entirely on local wines, she carries several. An outdoor patio is an opportune place for watching the world go by, and you can cozy up under blankets that Bentley keeps for cool days. It’s also a dog-friendly place—very important for those who want to take Fido on a wine-tasting trip.
If you happen to be in Amador on March 3 and 4, a county-wide wine event will be held, called Behind the Cellar Door. Might be worth going for the weekend.
Drytown Cellars, 16030 Hwy. 49, Plymouth. 209-245-3500, drytowncellars.com.
Cork and Fork, 312 Capitola Ave., Capitola. 435-1110, corkandforkcapitola.com.
Wine Wednesdays at Seascape Beach Resort
The seasonal Wine Wednesdays are now in full swing until May 16. From 5:30-7 p.m. in the resort’s Atrium, you can sample a different winery each week. The cost is $20 (which includes tax and tip) for four tastings plus a small tapas plate and live music.
Sanderlings at Seascape Beach Resort, One Seascape Resort Drive, Aptos. 662-7120, sanderlingsrestaurant.com.
