Sandar and Hem has listed nearly all vineyards where they get their grapes, which greatly helps us appreciate their dedication to seeking out unique vineyard sites. One of this local winery’s well-made wines is a 2019 Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay ($34), which they believe “captures the essence of the terroirs.”
This outstanding white wine showcases the vigorous side of Chardonnay with “vibrant high-tone aromatics, including notes of lime peel, Asian pear and flint,” write Sandar and Hem founders (and husband and wife) Robert and Recha Bergstrom. It leaves “a refreshing spine of zingy acidity on the palate.”
One of my favorite spots to gather with friends is in the cozy ambiance of Cantine Winepub in Aptos Village, where Sandar and Hem do occasional pop-up wine tastings. Keep an eye on the winery’s Facebook and Instagram for their future events. You can also host a pop-up event for friends and family. “We can bring Sandar and Hem wine tasting straight into your home,” say the owners.
For more info, send an email to in**@sa**********.com. Sandar and Hem don’t have a tasting room, but their wine is available for purchase at sandarandhem.com.
Wildgrain
The Wildgrain company makes terrific bread and more, and it’s all healthy and delicious stuff. I love good bread and decided to give Wildgrain a try. Started by two former Parisiennes, Wildgrain is a monthly direct-to-consumer subscription box of frozen artisan bread, pasta and pastries. My husband was mad about the Sourdough Walnut Bread and ate more than his fair share of a whole loaf. All you have to do is pop the frozen bread in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, and voila! Some good tasty bread is yours for the eating. Wildgrain started on the east coast but this successful company now has a distribution center in California. For more info, visit wildgrain.com.
