The Santa Cruz Mountains is one of the most underappreciated growing areas in California in my opinion, particularly for the Burgundian varietals Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. My experience with producers from the region is not the most extensive, but I have had some killer wines from this appellation at astonishingly low price points, at least compared to their Napa and Sonoma brethren. While some Russian River Valley Pinot Noirs are fetching up to $60 per bottle, 75 miles south there are some real stunners being produced.

If you agree, or if you’re curious to find out, this coming Sunday is your lucky day.

High up in the hills above Saratoga at the Mountain Winery, the Santa Cruz Mountains Winemakers Association is throwing what they call their Crand Cruz Tasting Event.

Like most events of this type it will include a walk-around tasting of a significant portion of the producers in the area plus hors d’oeuvres from various restaurants including Le Papillon, which is one of the best restaurants in San Jose. There will also be a silent auction for limited edition magnums of wine from many of the producers.

Pinot Paradise Grand Cruz Tasting
Sunday, March 26th, 2:00PM – 4:30PM
The Mountain Winery (PDF map)
Saratoga, California

$65 per person.

Tickets can be purchased on the official web site, or at the winery on the day of the event (subject to availability).

Information on the other events, including the barrel tasting and technical seminars can be found on the web site.