Feel like partying on a Friday night? Then head to Stockwell Cellars. Not only does the expansive tasting room offer well-made wines, but they also feature music most Fridays—a fun way to start the weekend. From 5 p.m. on July 21 there will be Music in the Cellar with Toby Gray.
So, what I’d recommend on a warm summer’s afternoon is a nice glass of Stockwell’s 2015 Sauvignon Blanc while taking in some good music. Grapes for this crisp wine are sourced from Riverstar Vineyards in Paso Robles and turned into a fruity libation with “hints of lemongrass, pink peppercorns and kiwi on the nose.” It comes with “mouthwatering expressions of lemon meringue, white pluot and clementine,” says winemaker Eric Stockwell, “with a finish of marzipan, chalk dust and pear skin.” The finish of marzipan is subtle, but adds depth to this superstar wine. Try it with ceviche or oysters for a delicious pairing. This Sauvignon Blanc ($24) is also a perfect picnic wine as it comes with a screw-cap top.
Eric and his partner Suzanne Zeber-Stockwell, along with Eric’s daughter Jessica Stockwell, will give you a warm welcome in their busy tasting room. The family participates in many local events —and Eric will be featuring his wines at the next Route 1 Farms farm-to-table dinner on Aug. 13. Visit route1farms.com for more information.
Stockwell Cellars, 1100 Fair Ave., (entrance on the Ingalls Street side of the building), Santa Cruz, 234.2178. Open 2-9 p.m. Fridays, and from 2-7 p.m. Saturdays. Visit stockwellcellars.com for more info.
Hawaii Days
Celebrate Hawaii Days with the Summit to Sea Wineries, including Burrell School Vineyards, Loma Prieta Winery, MJA Vineyards, and Wrights Station Vineyard & Winery. Wrights Station will have live music, and Bill the Oyster Man will be there with his ultra-fresh bivalves on July 23. You’re invited to a taste of Hawaii, featuring the music and decor of the islands—so dress in festive island garb and be prepared to get “lei’d!” Raffle prizes include a basket of Hawaiian-themed treats, including a ukulele. The event is noon to 5 p.m. July 22 & 23. Visit summit2seawinetrail.com for more info.
