The following is an article that appeared in Touring and Tasting. Click here for the article on the Touring and Tasting website.
Silver Mountain Vineyards
Silver Mountain Vineyards is tucked away in a unique and picturesque location high in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Perched at a 2,100-foot elevation, the winery and vineyard boast a spectacular view of Monterey Bay and surrounding redwood forest. The estate vineyard was established by Jerold O’Brien in 1979 with the mission of making limited quantities of premium wines using traditional methods and small oak cooperage.O’Brien’s interest in wine began when he was a 22-year-old Air Force pilot, and wound up visiting many of the famous wine-producing nations of the world.
In 1979, the winery was bonded and purchase grapes were used for the initial production. Today, 10 acres are planted with Chardonnay , along with 1.5 acre of Pinot Noir. Silver Mountain is certified organic, and, says O’Brien, "I farmed organically from the start because I wanted to be more in harmony with Mother Nature. I do not like using chemicals." Along with its estate Chardonnay, Silver Mountain produces Alloy, which is the winery’s proprietary name for a Bordeaux blend, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel.Silver Mountain’s unique location presents some welcome challenges. "The mountain soil tends to be poor, without a lot of nutrients," says O’Brien. "As a result, the vines have to struggle to produce, which yields smaller lots of grapes with more character and complex flavors."
After the Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989, all the winery buildings were destroyed. Over the following few years, the winery was rebuilt with improved facilities that include expansive decks for enjoying the views and an amphitheater for small concerts and plays.
info@silvermtn.com · 408-353-2278 · fax 408-353-1898
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