Rexford has handcrafted wine in small lots in Santa Cruz since 2008, working with select local vineyards in cool climates. Joe Miller, a professor emeritus of astronomy and astrophysics at UC Santa Cruz who began making wine in the 1970s, works alongside his son Sam as associate winemaker. The focus is single-vineyard Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Merlot, made with minimal cellar handling and neither fined nor filtered, so the wines carry the microclimates and soils they came from. The winery on Ingalls Street pours on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, and walk-ins are welcome.
Yes — Rexford Winery has a tasting room open to visitors. Walk-ins are welcome, though booking ahead is safest on busy weekends.
Rexford Winery focuses on Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel, Tempranillo, and more. Signature bottles include 2023 Chardonnay, Escolle Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands; 2023 Pinot Noir, Escolle Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands; 2023 Pinot Noir, Nina's Collection #2, Tondre Grapefield; 2023 Chardonnay, Tondre Grapefield; 2017 Zinfandel, Gillan Enz Vineyard, Lime Kiln Valley; 2013 Antle Vineyard Pinot Blanc. When booking a tasting, ask which current release best represents the estate's style.
Rexford Winery is in Santa Cruz, California. Phone: +1 831-426-1500. Confirm hours before visiting. Winery schedules vary seasonally.
Rexford Winery was established in 2008, giving the estate 18 years to develop its wine program and farming practices.
The winemaking at Rexford Winery is led by Joe Miller, Sam Miller. Visiting during special events or release weekends is often the best chance to meet the winemaking team and ask questions about specific vintages or techniques.
Monday: Closed | Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday: Closed | Thursday: Closed | Friday: Closed | Saturday: 1:00 – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 1:00 – 5:00 PM Hours may vary seasonally. Confirm by phone or on their website before visiting.
Yes. Two tiers with no membership fee. The Terrace Club ships three bottles quarterly, and the Grand Terrace Club ships six with complimentary shipping. Members get 20 percent off wine, 25 percent for Grand Terrace, no tasting fees for themselves and up to three guests, first access to new releases, and invitations to club parties and barrel tastings. Wine club membership often waives or credits tasting fees. Worth asking about during your visit.
Double Gold and Gold medals at the 2026 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, Double Gold at the 2025 competition, and multiple 90 to 94 point scores with Editor's Choice picks from Matt Kettmann at Wine Enthusiast
