Ryan Alfaro is a chip off the old block—and that would be his father Richard Alfaro of Alfaro Family Vineyard & Winery in Corralitos. Growing up in the wine business prompted Ryan to follow in his father’s footsteps. Now, as head-winemaker at Alfaro Vineyard, he decided to make wine under his own label: Farm Cottage Wines.
Ryan’s 2019 Trout Gulch Vineyard Pinot Noir ($35) speaks volumes about his expertise. Trout Gulch Vineyard is pretty famous around these parts. Situated in Aptos, and not that far from the ocean, the Pinot Noir grapes get the perfect amount of sun and cooling ocean fog, which Pinot Noir grapes crave! The end result is a superb wine chock-full of red fruit and spice. Cherry and strawberry aromas with touches of smoke, clove and leather lead to gorgeous flavors of earth, spice, ripe cherry, and pomegranate—a delicious mouthful of Pinot, to say the least.
Ryan has studied enology in France and in New Zealand, where he completed his postgraduate work in wine science. But working in his father’s winery gave him essential hands-on experience.
The “Farm Cottage” label is named for an old heart-redwood cottage on the Alfaro property where three generations have lived. It was purchased by Ryan’s parents, Richard and Mary Kay Alfaro, in 1997, and is now Ryan’s home.
For more info visit farmcottagewines.com.
Santa Cruz Fish Co.
Santa Cruz Fish Company’s Salmon Surf Burgers are made in Santa Cruz County using Mt. Cook freshwater king salmon. These delicious gourmet burgers are “top shelf”—using some of the “best-tasting premium salmon in the world.” The company is also doing a Summer Sampler Box for $99, as well as a BBQ Grilling Box for $199—both with free shipping. Visit santacruzfishco.com or email sa*************@gm***.com for more info.
Café Carmel
Café Carmel between Ocean and Mission avenues, in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, is celebrating the “humble egg” throughout the month of June. Look for Eggs Benedict, French Toast, a Loaded Breakfast Burrito, and much more. Learn more at cafecarmel.com.
