Sauvignon Blanc 2012
Although Windy Oaks is known mostly for its outstanding red wines, they are now producing some excellent whites as well. Their new release of Sauvignon Blanc sells for a mere $15 around town, but has been spotted at Deluxe Foods of Aptos for only $11.99. If you need a mouthful of something bright and zingy for summer, then this is your answer.
Windy Oaks has been working closely with small vineyard growers in the Monterey and Santa Cruz Mountains appellations on their non-estate white wines, including Pinot Gris and Chardonnay, and always with an eye on quality. Made with grapes from the Santa Cruz Mountains, the Sauvignon Blanc is crisp and uncomplicated. It’s absolutely perfect to crack open with lighter food such as pizza, seafood, chicken or vegetarian.
Set high the in Corralitos hills, Windy Oaks is well worth a visit – and the view from the ridge is stunning. Try their estate wines, especially their current releases of Pinot Noir, and have fun doing so in their upgraded tasting room.
Windy Oaks Estate Vineyards & Winery, 550 Hazell Dell Road, Corralitos, 786-9463. Windyoaksestate.com. Open Saturday noon to 5 p.m. year round, and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. during the summer through Labor Day.
Japanese Cuisine Now In Capitola Produce
Yuriko Yamaguchi makes the most delicious Japanese food. Hailing from the Land of the Rising Sun, she grew up making traditional dishes from an early age and always loved cooking. She ran two of her own restaurants when she moved to the U.S., and when she retired from that, she simply continued to cook for friends and family, including preparing large amounts of food for parties and events. Now Yamaguchi’s delicious healthy cuisine is available from Capitola Produce and AJ’s Market in Soquel – and it’s packaged and ready to pick up. Try the Chicken Bento Box, Tofu Gyoza, Turkey Gyoza, Soba Noodle Salad, and Seasoned Steamed Rice. Special orders may be placed for large gatherings. It couldn’t be easier or healthier – no GMO’s or MSG! Email Yu******@ao*.com to order or for more information.
Capitola Produce, 700 Bay Ave., Capitola (opposite Gayle’s Bakery), 479-0175.
AJ’s Market, 5955 Soquel Drive, Soquel, 479-0399. Ajsmarket.com.
Vins des Montagnes
Mark your calendars for a special Vins des Montagnes event put on by the Santa Cruz Mountains Winegrowers Association (SCMWA) which takes place on the grounds at Roaring Camp from 2-5 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 25. Enjoy sipping wines made by local winemakers and tasting delicious delights from local vendors. The event is accompanied by a silent and live auction to support SCMWA. Auction items will include rare wines, getaways to world-class resorts, unique private winemaker dinners, and much more. Tickets are $55 in advance. Visit scmwa or call 685-VINE for more information.
