sip
sun Alfaro Family
Nicholson Vineyards
in the
BOTTLES AND BARRELS Nicholson Vineyards is open
for weekend outdoor wine tasting.
FRESH TASTE Alfaro Family Vineyard & Winery
is offering outdoor tasting through the summer.
Healthy grapes, less regulations spell good news for wineries By JOHANNA MILLER
4
Nicholson Vineyards
JUNE 18 - 24, 2021 | PAJARO VALLEY MAGAZINE
A
ROWS UPON ROWS Nicholson Winery in Aptos’ vineyard estate.
fter a year of ups and downs, things are looking good for wineries in the Pajaro Valley. That is according to two long-standing wineries, both nestled in the Pleasant Valley area between Watsonville and Aptos. Alfaro Family Vineyard-Winery was first established in 1997 by Richard and Mary Kay Alfaro. Richard Alfaro says that the winery has weathered the pandemic well—whenever they could be open, they were, and production kept moving forward despite the crisis and the devastating wildfires that hit California last year. In addition, their vineyards are currently in “beautiful shape,” he said, adding that they anticipate a good harvest later this year. “We’re doing fantastic,” he said. “The local support has been overwhelming… We very much appreciate it. We’re really excited about being able to open up more in the coming weeks.” On June 15, most Covid-19 restrictions across California were lifted. Previously closed businesses were allowed to reopen, vaccinated people do not have to wear masks in most places, and capacities can increase. Alfaro says that their team is 100% vaccinated, and are feeling comfortable with the rules changing. Still, they plan to keep their wine tasting operation outdoors and they recommend reservations.
