Santa Clara Valley (AVA)
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The Santa Clara Valley, better known to the world as "Silicon Valley", has one of the richest histories in California viticulture. Urban sprawl has forced most of the valley’s wine industry to migrate to its southern extremes, particularly to the Hecker Pass area. Notable exceptions are J. Lohr and Mirrassou, both of which continue to maintain a presence, if not extensive vineyards, in San Jose. Some other notable producers continue to make highly structured and sought after red wines from increasingly rare vineyards located on the western edge of the AVA in the foothills of the Santa Cruz range. The valley is largely protected from the influence of the Pacific Ocean by the Santa Cruz Mountains, although coastal breezes that enter a small opening at Hecker Pass in the west and the wider Pajaro Pass to the south help to moderate the climate. Although much of the Santa Clara Valley wine production is purchased locally, the quality of its wine deserves more wide spread recognition. The Santa Clara Valley also encompasses the Pacheco Pass AVA, and the winery deficient San Ysidro AVA in its southeast corner.

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In the southern Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Georgia vineyards are small and few, yet the establishment of the Upper Hiwassee Highlands could bring much more.  [>] continue


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Merlot: Madame Merlot, you’re a big gal, soft and smoky; how we love your full, curvaceous figure. But you are  [>] continue

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Featured Wines

Martin Ranch Winery 2005 Merlot ~ J.D. Hurley Distinctly displaying Santa Clara Valley terroir, this Merlot hints of smoky blackberry and velvety vanilla, then suggests coffee and chocolate notes.
buy wine $19.95


Martin Ranch Winery 2006 Zinfandel ~ J.D. Hurley A two-vineyard blend with hints of blackberry pepper jam, black licorice and spice, transcending to a long-lasting finish of nice, polished tannins.
buy wine $22.95

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