Nicholson Vineyards -- Aptos, California

Welcome to Nicholson Vineyards. Our boutique winery is located at the end of Pleasant Valley, in the Corralitos foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. It is a quiet place, where the sun, soil and early morning ocean mist create exceptional fruit.

The winery grounds are planted with four acres of estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, as well as 4 acres of Tuscan varietal olive trees. In addition to our wonderful extra virgin olive oil, we produce over 1000 cases of wine annually, which include limited releases of our estate wines, as well as additional production of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah Grenache, Sangiovese and Zinfandel from Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties.

At 700 foot elevation, our grapes mature gradually, taking advantage of our micro-climate’s warm days and moderately cool, breezy nights. The extended growing season which we are lucky to have, allows for the slow development of rich, intense flavors. With wine maker Ian Brand, we strive to produce limited release wines which truly represent our unique Santa Cruz Mountain terrior and allow for the enjoyment of the fullness and depth characteristics specific to each variety. Our mission is one of dedication and passion, which some might call obsession.

The winery is open for tasting most Saturdays, 12 to 4 pm, except for special event days (please call to confirm). We hope you have the opportunity to visit, and join us in savoring a glass of wine. Relax and enjoy the vineyard and valley views while you share a picnic lunch with friends under the Oaks.

Cheers,

Brian and Marguerite Nicholson