Did you know that in about one-third of the time it takes to get from SFO to Napa Valley you could be cresting a mountain top vineyard in one of the world's great wine regions? Located about 45 minutes from the San Francisco or San Jose airports to the east, and about an hour from the Santa Cruz's Steamer Lane surf break from the west, the Santa Cruz Mountain AVA is home to outstanding cabernet sauvignons, chardonnays, and pinot noirs. With its proximity to the coast the Santa Cruz Mountains pose a particular challenge for grape cultivation where the cool climate can make or break a vintage. Hillside vineyards can be found tucked within pine forests and ancient redwood stands, on dramatic slopes that leave you wondering just what the aspiring winemakers were thinking when they first planted vines in the late 1900s.

The best Santa Cruz wines possess aromas, flavors, and verve seldom found outside of Europe's noble appellations. Though many of the wines might seem austere and unyielding upon release, legendary bottlings such as Ridge's Monte Bello cabernet, and Mount Eden's Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays are among the most age-worthy wines in the country. Below you'll find a small selection of our favorite wines from the region's most reliable producers. Count on this list to grow in coming weeks as Team USQ returns from the coast with an arsenal of newfound delights. In coming months we'll also be hosting a number of Santa Cruz-themed wine tastings with special guests like Ridge's Eric Baugher making appearances in the Salon - watch our events page for further details as they emerge.