Deaver Vineyards

Along narrow and picturesque Steiner Road is the appealing Deaver Vineyards compound. Among the grassy expanses are winery outbuildings, picnic tables, a Bed & Breakfast, lovely pond, and the tasting room and gift shop.

The cheery space has a hospitable staff and a nice range of wines to sample. There is Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon and five different ports. The fruit-forward winemaking style contributes to the wines’ rich, bold and frequently jammy flavors. The outgoing, hospitable staff adds to the experience. The gift shop is first-rate, with many items not found elsewhere. There are gourmet food items and a deli case stocked with meats and cheeses.

The 120-year-old Zinfandel vines and eight acres of Mission vines at Deaver Vineyards have a long history. The Mission variety is so named because the vines were brought from Mexico by the Jesuits and Franciscans during the Mission Period. The Deaver Mission vines were planted around 1853 by the owner’s great-grandfather. His son planted the Zinfandel vines four decades later, and these vines still produce and contribute to their port program.