About the only thing that doesn't change with the seasons is our passion for great wine. You'll find it in the way we treat every step in the winemaking process like an art form. You'll feel it in the warm, welcoming environment where everyone is treated like family. And you'll taste it in every bottle of our Martin Ranch and Thérèse Vineyards wines.

Bottling: In the spring our vines wake-up and start a new season of growing — and it is also the time of year that we start bottling our new releases! And late this summer, we'll be releasing our Martin Ranch — Thérèse Vineyards 2004 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, following in the award-winning heritage of the 2003 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, which is now sold-out. And of course we also have our Thérèse Vineyards 2004 Syrah that captured an 87-point rating in the April 2007 issue of Wine & Spirits, as well as our J.D. Hurley 2004 Merlot and 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon for which Wine Enthusiast bestowed 86 points in their April 2007 issue. More exciting award-winning Martin Ranch wines are on their way – so be sure to check back and discover what makes Martin Ranch wines so unique.

Racking: This is the process of taking all the wine out of the barrels or tanks, cleaning those containers of the sludge and debris that has settled, then putting the wine back in. This is a crucial part of wine making and needs to be done at least four times in the first year of the vintage.

New Winery Update: Our new winery and tasting center is complete and has been in full operation for more than a year now — it's ready for your next visit for tastings, tours and barrel samples. And, we're now open every third Saturday of each month from 11am to 4pm. And be sure to visit us on Santa Cruz Mountains Passport Saturdays, held on the third Saturday of January, April, July and November. We're also always happy to accommodate small or large groups by appointment too.

More Vineyard News: Pruning, Weed Control, Gopher Control, Compost Spreading

Why not enjoy a delicious menu personally created by Thérèse Martin? Thérèse has a love of tomatoes and grows over 400 tomato plants in her garden. She has developed these recipes with care and shares them with you for your enjoyment.

Recommended wine: Martin Ranch — J.D. Hurley 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon — Santa Cruz Mountains ORDER

Thérèse's Braised Short Ribs

Horseradish Mashed Potatoes

Spinach Salad with Champagne Vinaigrette