Integrity Wines has a lovely tasting room at Watsonville Airport, so you don’t have to drive to Napa to try some terrific wines. They produce Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris and a delicious 2019 Monterey Pinot Grigio.
Almost clear in color, this Pinot Grigio brings aromas of a handful of freesias and fresh baker’s dough with accents of pear and pineapple. A full, rich mouthfeel greets the palate—then comes a burst of Meyer lemon with some sage and fennel. This well-made wine with lots of pizzazz is only $20.
If you love their wines, you can join them on a wine cruise through Burgundy and Provence in July. Integrity Wines, 135 Aviation Way, #16, Watsonville. 831-322-4200. integrity.wine.com.
Aptos Vineyards’ Pop-up
Sante Arcangeli tasting room hosts Aptos Vineyards for a pop-up tasting 1-5pm on Sunday, March 6. If you taste selections from both these wineries, it’s guaranteed to be a double-whammy of great flavors. Try a flight or by the glass. Sante Arcangeli, 154 Aptos Village Way, Aptos. 831-207-6048. santewinery.com.
Taking Pure Joy
Local chef Teddy Danielson runs a vibrant meal prep and delivery service that serves Santa Cruz County and beyond.
“We are a small but mighty team of two chefs and two delivery drivers,” says Danielson, “and we are growing quickly.” Danielson learned her culinary skills “at a tiny school in Florence, Italy,” and says she continues nurturing and growing.
Taking Pure Joy’s team also includes classically trained chef Brian Grebow, delivery driver/jack of all trades Bianca Harms and delivery driver/former owner of Golden Roots Kitchen in Scotts Valley, Melanie Geist.
“Mel has been an incredible source of ideas and inspiration,” says Danielson, “and we are all working tirelessly to get tasty, health-conscious, delicious meals to the doors of busy individuals, families and couples.” takingpurejoy.com.Â
