I was fortunate enough to celebrate my birthday here with a group of 10 friends. It was a lovely and intimate experience for us as we were the only ones. Upon arrival we were welcomed by the owners Robbie and Steve and tagging along was their friendly dog Cora. It was such a relaxing place to be and they were very informative on the tour they provided us through the vineyard. We were able to sit in the shade while tasting wine and eating snacks they provided. We also had the chance to just relax on a hammock and their swing seat to take in the scenery. For $15/person we got wine and snacks that were locally made! They had a decadent brownie they brought down from Santa Cruz. A bread freshly baked from the area which we dipped in olive oil they made from the trees the had on the vineyard. I also enjoyed the zinfandel jelly (which they also produce) on top of the cheese and dried apricot. Their white wine was our favorite and it was called Pedro ximenez. Most people in my group went home with a bottle because it was so tasty. I would definitely come back for the hospitality and good wine. Everyone had such a fabulous time! Tips: Don't wear heels so you can properly walk through the vineyard when they tour you. Be sure to call to get help with directions because some times apple maps can lead you in the wrong direction or the service is spotty. read more

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The ranch (vineyard) is not a tourist destination. If you go to Condorshope.com you can sign up to get on the mailing list and see the list of work related events they host. If you are lucky enough to make the cut you will work in the vineyard, camp in the vineyard or sleep in the bunkhouse. And you will be treated to the best meals you can imagine (if you like a sumptuous buffet of organic meats and produce and the best wine I have ever tasted) In the evening we sit around the campfire, entertained by live music and singing. A hike up to the ridge above the vineyard on BLM land completes the weekend. And not any ordinary hike. The owners of Condor's Hope are retired agroecology professors at UCSC so you get a scientific description of every rock, flower, bush and bug. If you ever want to get deeper into where your wine comes from beyond the store shelf, you will get an education that will stun you and blow you away. Oh, and the wine is fantastic and will also blow you away! read more