It’s no secret I’m a fan of wine tasting. I’ve tasted in Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, Livermore, Temecula, Escondido and more, so I thought I had seen it all in California, right? Well bring in Saratoga, California. A small town right outside of San Jose (think 20 minute drive), Saratoga has a charming “downtown” area and surrounding wineries to match that character.

We brought our group here the day before the Superbowl, and it was the perfect way to spend the day. The wineries were not over-crowded, offered great wines, and it was an absolutely beautiful sunny and 75 degrees out. These factors alone may have sold our guests on Saratoga.

If you live in or are visiting Silicon Valley for work, I’m telling you GO to these wineries. Give yourself a break from the hustle and bustle, grab some glasses of wine, and post up at these beautiful hidden oases.

House Family Vineyards

There is something so charming and special about this winery. First off, the tasting room is a dream. Perched on top of a hill with a vast outdoor area and expansive view yet quaint on the inside, it feels like you are tucked away in your own wine wonderland.

Also have you ever been somewhere that has picture perfect seating areas with a view, but they’re always occupied? House Family Vineyards has an abundance of seating options for that perfect Instagram shot and to hang out with your crew in the most relaxing wine tasting fashion. I could kick back in one of those chairs for hours.

Another few great things about House? It’s BYO picnic and children & dogs are welcome. Let Fido in on the fun!

(Note: The food pictured was prepared by their in-house chef but be aware that this was set up for a private party and is not always available for purchase. It is delicious however, so I suggest contacting them to see if they can put together a menu for your group!)

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Hours: 12 – 5pm Saturday & Sunday / Weekdays with advance reservation

Tastings: 4 wines for $10

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13336 Old Oak Way, Saratoga, CA 95070

Savannah-Chanelle Winery

If Pinot Noir is your varietal of choice, Savannah-Chanelle is your place. The climate in Saratoga is ideal for Pinots, and they do it right here. Also they have PORT, so you know I’m sold.

Savannah-Chanelle has a more rustic ambience than House and even feels like you are entering someone’s cabin home. Walk up towards the Villa and Pinot Hill however, and you are greeted with a breathtaking view of the Santa Cruz Mountains. I personally would claim one of the white wooden lawn chairs and take in the view for hours, but there are also picnic tables available (BYO picnic again!) available by reservation as well as first come, first serve.

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Hours: 11am – 5pm daily

Tastings: 5 wines for $10 / $5 towards tasting fee with bottle purchase

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23600 Big Basin Way, Saratoga, CA 95070

 

Safe travels y’all!

Best,