Bargetto is one of the oldest names in the Santa Cruz wine industry, producing a wide range of red, white, and Italian varietal wines, as well as sparkling and sweet dessert wines. The modest little town of Soquel has grown up to surround the winery, but the place still has its charm, located along a lovely little creek.

The winery operation is just a mile or so off Highway 1 in the small town of Soquel. Located along the banks of Soquel Creek, the winery and tasting room have an ambiance of the “Old Country.” Brothers Phillip and John Bargetto immigrated from Castelnuovo Don Bosco, a small town in the Piedmonte region of northern Italy, bringing with them years of winemaking experience. Today the third generation continues the family tradition, operating the oldest continuously working winery in Santa Cruz.

Their cellar-type tasting room is rich in history, adorned with aged redwood and old family photographs. The walls also host a monthly art show. There is a nice gift shop with glassware and gourmet items for sale, with a step down to the tasting area and its brick floors and windows to the creek. Outside is a courtyard with tables and chairs, plus an additional tasting bar used for busy weekends and for the many wine events hosted by Bargetto.

The winery’s 36-acre vineyard grows Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, Dolcetto, Nebbiolo and Refosco. They also source some of their fruit from other Santa Cruz County vineyards. Try their dessert wines, including Mead, Raspberry and Olallieberry.