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Santa Cruz Mountains AVA: 187 Wineries, Counties and Grapes

The Santa Cruz Mountains AVA is a federally designated American Viticultural Area in California, established under 27 CFR 9.31. It covers San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz counties and contains 187 licensed wine producers. It sits inside the larger San Francisco Bay AVA and contains 1 nested AVA.

Where These Wineries Are

Santa Cruz Mountains AVA: 187 Wineries, Counties and Grapes

Details are collected from public records and the producer's own website and may be outdated. theUSAwineguide.com is not responsible for outdated or inaccurate information; confirm hours and availability with the winery before visiting.

Before You Go

Tasting rooms change their hours constantly and many small producers are appointment only. Confirm directly with the winery before you travel.

Read the trip planning guide

Where the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA Is

San Mateo

Santa Clara

Santa Cruz

Grapes Grown in Santa Cruz Mountains

Pinot Noir

Chardonnay

Cabernet Sauvignon

Syrah

Merlot

Zinfandel

Sauvignon Blanc

Cabernet Franc

AVAs Inside Santa Cruz Mountains

Ben Lomond Mountain

Legal Definition

Codified at 27 CFR 9.31.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many wineries are in the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA?

187 licensed producers are located in the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA.

Where is the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA?

It lies in California, covering San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz counties.

What does the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA designation mean?

A wine labelled Santa Cruz Mountains must contain at least 85 percent grapes grown inside the AVA boundary, which is defined in 27 CFR 9.31.

Is Santa Cruz Mountains part of a larger AVA?

Yes, Santa Cruz Mountains sits within the San Francisco Bay AVA.

Grapes

Details are collected from public records and the producer's own website and may be outdated. theUSAwineguide.com is not responsible for outdated or inaccurate information; confirm hours and availability with the winery before visiting.