Marin John Artukovich, the founder behind MJA Vineyards, comes from generations of Croatian tradesmen and farmers steeped in winemaking tradition. That heritage shows in how seriously they approach their craft, especially when it comes to their standout wines. The Santa Cruz Mountains are famous for Pinot Noirs thanks to the cool coastal weather and high elevation, but what sets MJA apart is their selection of Napa Cabernets. They actually grow Cabernet grapes at their Howell Mountain and St. Helena vineyards in Napa, which are known for producing some of the country’s best Cabernets. The real draw here is that you get these high-quality Napa wines at Santa Cruz prices—a genuinely good deal if you appreciate serious wine.

Beyond the Cabernets, MJA partners with quality California vineyards to source fruit for a diverse lineup. You’ll find Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, dessert wines, Bordeaux blends, and various Mediterranean varietals. It’s a pretty wide range without feeling like they’re trying to do everything at once. The tasting room sits in Santa Cruz, so you get the convenience of exploring serious wine without making the drive all the way to Napa or Sonoma.

The best part if you’re traveling with your dog? They’re welcome everywhere at the property. You can move through the tasting experience with your dog alongside you, which makes for a more relaxed visit than having to leave them in the car. The Westside tasting experience lets you sample their current selections in a straightforward way—no pretension, just good wines and good company.

Check their website for current hours since tasting room schedules can shift seasonally, but once you know when they’re open, it’s worth stopping by to taste what they’ve got available.