Nicholson Vineyards Winery

Specialties

Nicholson Vineyards is one of the best known Santa Cruz Mountains family owned boutique wineries in Aptos in the Corralitos foothills producing chardonnay, pinot noir and olive oil.

The winery grounds are planted with four acres of estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes, as well as 4 acres of Tuscan varietal olive trees. In addition to our wonderful extra virgin olive oil, we produce over 1000 cases of wine annually, which include limited releases of our estate wines, as well as additional production of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah Grenache, Sangiovese and Zinfandel from Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties.

At 700 foot elevation, our grapes mature gradually, taking advantage of our micro-climate’s warm days and moderately cool, breezy nights. The extended growing season which we are lucky to have, allows for the slow development of rich, intense flavors.

We strive to produce limited release wines which truly represent our unique Santa Cruz Mountain terrior.

History

Established in 1996.

As for many who have the inherent need to coax something magical from the soil, Nicholson Vineyards is the realization of a dream for Brian and Marguerite. Rich in family tradition, with Brian being a 9^th generation Californian (his ancestors built the Monterey Presidio), the vineyards and winery represent a passion to produce wonderful fruit and create elegant wines.

Our estate vineyards include four-​plus acres which are separated into three blocks of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The vines were planted in 1996 and expanded in 2004 (additional Pinot Noir). Each block includes a diverse combination of rootstocks and clones, and is situated with a southwest exposure, allowing for maximum sunlight and cool evening breezes.

More recently, the four acre Olive Grove was added in 2005. Five Tuscan varietals grow in the classical grove style. In 2008, the maiden harvest was celebrated and our first extra virgin oil was produced.

Meet the Business Owner

Marguerite N.

Business Owner

As for many who have the inherent need to coax something magical from the soil, Nicholson Vineyards is the realization of a dream for Marguerite.