46 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM {due west} well worth the bumpy ride. The view stretches from Moffett Field and Shoreline to Apple Park and downtown San Jose, then gives way to the untamed Santa Cruz Mountains. Settle into a rocking chair on the porch for a highly informative chat about everything from the soil’s geological composition to the harvesting process. And don’t forget to appreciate the ivy that cloaks the adjacent house and creeps along the awnings, its leaves fluttering in the breeze. Its sister winery Domaine Eden, perched on the neighboring mountaintop, is also worth a visit. Note that many of these boutique operations only offer tastings by appointment, so be sure to check winery websites before you jump in your car. GET ACTIVE It’s time to liven things up with an activity or two. First stop: the reservoir at Stevens Creek County Park. While you’re not allowed to dive into this enticing man-made lake, there are plenty of other ways to soak in its splendor. Kayak its waters or hike along its shore on the Tony Look Trail. PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF: MOUNT EDEN VINEYARDS - JASON TINACCI PHOTOGRAPHY / DOMAINE EDEN - KEITH WESTRA PHOTOGRAPHY / ZOE NACHLIS received praise for its cabernet from The New York Times’ chief wine critic Eric Asimov. Further south, sip pinot and ride a palomino (just not at the same time) at Garrod Farms, an estate winery and stables dating to 1893. You have to be willing to work for your tasting at Mount Eden Vineyards, traversing a steep and winding road that turns to dirt toward its destination. But when you stand before the showstopping panoramic views of this untouched paradise, you’ll find it’s several sea captains who decided to drop anchor and put down roots (and vines). French and Italian immigrants propagated grape cuttings after settling along rugged Montebello Ridge. It continues to thrive today with places like Picchetti Winery, with a brick tasting room dating back to the 1880s and plenty of peacocks on its property, Vidovich Vineyards, which welcomes picknickers, and Ridge Vineyards, which ABOVE: (bottom right) A couple enjoy views and vino at Domaine Eden. Clearly popular among lovebirds, the winery’s 2014 pinot noir was served at the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
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