The impressive, long, linear presence of Stonesteet Winery can’t be understated. Set against a small hillside, the winery building has a modern, barn-like appearance with a metal roof and numerous architectural details. Along its length are over a dozen olive trees planted in huge terracotta pots. At the center of the building is the large double-door entrance to the stylish tasting room.

Stonestreet’s minimalist contemporary look provides a unique environment in which to taste and concentrate on their wines. Besides the wine, there are just a few items for sale, including glassware and logo clothing. A room off to the right hosts private VIP tastings. (Call for reservations.)

The winery produces handcrafted, estate-grown wines made in small lots from their large Alexander Mountain estate. There are over 900 acres of vineyards on the 5,000-acre ranch, spread out in a patchwork of dozens of distinct vineyard sites. Elevations range from 400 to 2,400 feet above sea level. The rocky, mineral-laden soils make the grapevines struggle for survival, resulting in small berries and smaller yields per acre. Grapes that have been stressed have more complexity and intensity of flavors.

Over 70 percent of the vineyards are planted to Cabernet Sauvignon and 14 percent to Chardonnay, followed by Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. There are a number of Cabernets to try, with each coming from a different area of the rugged mountainside vineyard. The Chardonnay is very accessible, made without any oak aging, which allows the grapes’ intricate aromas to emerge.