MJA Vineyards is a fun place to go wine tasting. The winery’s busy tasting room always has lots going on, both inside and outside. At a recent visit there, the talented Andy Fuhrman was playing solo guitar on the patio, singing songs from his abundant repertoire of bluegrass, folk, blues, rockabilly, and more. MJA is a great spot to hang out, especially on weekends. And don’t miss the Tacos El Chuy served up on Sundays.
MJA Vineyards founder Marin Artukovich makes wine under two labels, Davine Cellars and Serene Cellars. His Serene Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2017 ($30) has delicious floral notes of apricot and orange blossom, and flavors of bright young fruits. “Citrus and pineapple dance on your tongue with a hint of honey,” says Artukovich. “And a crisp, dry finish keeps you coming back for more.” Pale straw in color, this tasty Sauvignon Blanc, made with Napa-harvested grapes, is a beautiful summer wine.
As a coffee grower in Kona, Artukovich has strong ties to Hawaii. Not only does he make superb wines, but his coffee, which he has for sale in the his tasting room, is par excellence as well. As Artukovich likes to say, “Come experience the Aloha at either one of our tasting rooms.”
MJA Vineyards, 328A Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, 421-9380. And there’s another tasting room at 24900 Highland Way, Los Gatos, 408-353-6000. mjavineyards.com.
Piniti Cookies
I sampled some Piniti Cookies recently, locally made by Laura Scorpiniti. Not your run-of-the-mill cookies, they are delicious without being too sweet. Piniti says she has created a chocolate chip cookie with substance; crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside, and with intense flavor. Each batch is handmade with natural ingredients (no chemicals or preservatives), so they’re best eaten fresh. Scorpiniti says she sells them direct and made-to-order. Visit piniticookies.com for more info.
Stockwell Cellars in the Westside Farmers Market
Wine at a Farmers Market! Yes! You can now find Stockwell Cellars every other Saturday at the Westside Farmers Market—so grab a bottle to pair with your fresh organic veggies. Visit stockwellcellars.com for more info.
