My good friend Mari and I drove to La Vida Bella on a shiny and sunny autumn day within the Aptos hills. We discovered a heat spot at an out of doors picnic desk and munched on our quiche, cheese and crackers as we went via a flight of La Vida Bella wines. LVB’s tasting room is inside a country barn the place Mari and I headed each time we wished to strive one other wine. The entire expertise was pleasant. There was even a bocce ball courtroom on the property.
Of all of the wines I attempted that day, my favourite was the 2016 Property Pinot Noir ($47), “Reir” (Spanish for “chortle”).
“It’s one of many fanciful names now we have given most of our wines that describe ‘the attractive life,’ or la vida bella,” says Pamela Minnis, who based the winery along with her husband Joseph Quink.
The Pinot’s shiny crimson fruit flavors, pepper, spice and daring tannins paired nicely with our munchies.
The vineyard is open solely the primary Saturday of the month by reservation (the following one noon-5pm on Feb. 5), so plan your go to upfront. Tastings are $20 per particular person. LVB additionally produces further virgin olive oil from its timber ($25/375 ml).
La Vida Bella Winery, 1624 Chardonnay Ridge Highway, Aptos. 831-722-3394. lavidabellavineyard.com.
Clear Juice
Karen Brenner, proprietor of Clear Juice in Aptos, poured samples at a current occasion. They had been all fantastic, with a definite “health-boost” taste in every sip. The Wellness Pictures, together with elderberry and wheatgrass, are delish, and the cold-pressed juices are divine, particularly the cashew milk latte. Clear Juice additionally makes açai bowls, protein smoothies, sandwiches, wraps, salads and extra.
Clear Juice, Rancho Del Mar Buying Heart, 100 Rancho Del Mar, Aptos. 831-661-0614. cleanjuice.com.
