Rhys Vineyards

  • A Pursuit of Terroir-Driven Perfection in the Santa Cruz Mountains

    Tucked away in the rugged Santa Cruz Mountains off of Skyline Boulevard lies Rhys Vineyards, a jewel in California’s cool-climate wine crown. At first glance, it’s the picturesque setting that captivates—a series of steep, vineyard-laden slopes interspersed with redwood forests, all under the calming influence of the nearby Pacific Ocean. But the true allure of Rhys lies not just in its scenic beauty, but in the visionary winemaking that has made it a beacon for those who seek authenticity in every bottle.

    Founded by Kevin Harvey in the early 2000s, Rhys Vineyards was born out of a relentless passion for Burgundy-style wines. Harvey’s quest was not merely to replicate the classics of Burgundy, but to craft wines that are unmistakably Californian, yet echo the elegance, complexity, and age-worthiness of their Old World counterparts. To achieve this, he turned his attention to the unique terroir of the Santa Cruz Mountains, a region blessed with a rare combination of cool coastal influence, diverse soils, and varied topography—elements that make it ideal for producing world-class Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

    The Rhys estate program spans eight vineyard gems in some of the most remote parts of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Mendocino County. Every site is meticulously farmed using organic and biodynamic principles. Rhys is distinguished by its commitment to expressing the individuality of each vineyard site.

  • The winemaking philosophy at Rhys is one of minimal intervention. Native yeast fermentation, gravity flow, and careful use of new oak are just a few of the techniques employed to ensure that the wines retain their purity and sense of place. The result is a lineup of terroir-driven wines that are beautifully complex. Rhys produces an array of sought-after wines including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, Chenin Blanc, Riesling, and sparkling wine. Their wines are produced in limited quantities and are highly sought after, often disappearing into private cellars as quickly as they are released.

    Plan Your Visit
    Rhys Vineyards offers private, by-appointment tastings at their stunning Skyline Vineyard in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The experience allows guests to explore the distinctive terroirs of Rhys' estate vineyards while enjoying a curated selection of single-vineyard wines.

    Tastings are available from Wednesday to Sunday, with start times at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm, and each session lasts approximately 60-75 minutes.

    Be sure to reserve your spot in advance for this exclusive and immersive wine experience.