Christmas Cheer in Santa Cruz

Travel and Leisure magazine recently named the city of Santa Cruz as one of the world’s top destination spots for the Christmas holiday season. If you visit, my favorite holiday wine sipping locations are:

Soif Wine Bar & Restaurant – European and California centric wine shop attached to a tappas style restaurant. Food is local, healthy and organic. Located in downtown Santa Cruz. One great thing about this restaurant is that you can buy a bottle in the wine shop, and they will not charge a corkage fee in the restaurant

Cava Wine Bar – Located in the heart of the Capitola village, this stylish yet casual wine bar focuses on the Santa Cruz mountain wineries, but also draws from other California and European destinations. Located next to the fabulous Carusos Tuscan Cuisine, about 50 feet from the sand. Also, within a short walk is the Armida Winery tasting room.

Taste of Monterey – The one place to try the majority of wines from Monterey county, and Carmel and Salinas valleys. Located upstairs on the wharf in Monterey, it has magnificent views of the Pacific ocean. It’s about an hour drive from Santa Cruz, but one location worth the drive if you’re planning a day long event.

Vino Prima Wine Bar – Located at the end of the Santa Cruz pier, above Marini’s candy factory. Includes a variety of California wines and cheese. It has a wonderful view of the Santa Cruz Boardwalk and pacific ocean. Also, looking in the opposite direction, it has a view of prime surf locations Steamer Lane, Indicators and Cowells.

Additionally, there are many fabulous wineries and wine related events that can be enjoyed year round. One that deserves mention is the “Art In the Cellar” holiday party at Soquel’s venerable Bargetto’s Winery. Do stop by if you are in the neighborhood.

Ho! Ho! Ho!

Best, Joe Plonk

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