Santa Cruz in January?

Ask Tlily -

I assumed he'll get to me eventually.

I didn't want to bother him, seeing that he's busy shipping mine and half the board's wine!

I'm guessing you're staying at the Ritz Carlton?

They have a lovely package for $75-$125 a person that includes a private tour and dinner with the winemaker at the nearest winery to the hotel. Or you could probably contact that same winemaker directly, you've got his email, and he doesn't charge $100 a person for anything

I think early January is a pretty good time to come. It's pretty slow and other than pruning going on you should be able to get appointments with owners/winemakers around the area and spend some good time tasting with people.

The Ritz Carlton makes an 'ok' base, it's just a little tough to get out of Half Moon Bay. I've sent people to the Hotel Los Gatos http://www.jdvhotels.com/los_gatos/?cid=gl_hlg and Seascape Resort http://www.seascaperesort.com/

Powell had me write up an appointment guide on winodepot that's up to date. It's under the "Winery Tours" section. Vinocellar also has a really good thread on restaurants in the San Jose/ Los Gatos area.

I'm staying at the Ritz for business only (national sales meeting thingy)and then they are kicking my a** out when I have to put down my own credit card!

I'm still working on all the details (when/if my wife will be coming out, etc., etc.) but am thinking a day or so in the big city and then maybe 2 days in/around Santa Cruz.

I'll take a look a winodepot and be in touch with the winemaker to be named later!

Thanks!