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The Mountain Winery
Rating Details »
Categories: Wineries, Music Venues, Venues & Event Spaces
14831 Pierce RdSaratoga, CA 95070
(408) 741-2822
- Hours:
Mon-Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Tue, Fri, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
206 reviews for The Mountain Winery
This review is based on attending 4 to 5 concerts a year, with 8 this last season. I mainly wanted to write to praise (a) the new sound system and (b) the really nice people who work here.
Those of you who visited the Winery for concerts in the Old Days may miss the more rustic ambience, but try to tell me that you miss the crappy speakers. The sound quality is much, much better now, and don't we go there mainly for the music?
The staff are uniformly nice and helpful. What I particularly noticed this year is the cool way they handle the crowd. Somehow they hit the right note of keeping people from blocking other's views while not being totally rigid when people want to get up and dance. Also, they are cool in enforcing the no camera rule. I forgot and started recording something - they could have been jerks but the usher quietly came over and asked me to put the camera away.
We will definitely be back next year. I sure hope the big trees survive the winter. I had to withhold a star because the construction of the new bowl not only took out a bunch of big trees, but seems to have sent a few of the remaining ones off on a death march.
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*~*~* Review for Harvest Wine Festival 10/3/09 *~*~*
Windy roads that lead you to an incredible view at the top
Intriguing event that only happens once a year
Now only try the "Estate" wines with the food pairing
Everyone was stomping on grapes
I came here last Saturday afternoon to check out the Harvest Wine Festival at Mountain Winery. I've been to this venue before for a Yelp Event last May one evening. It's definitely different during the daytime! The sun is beating down on you, but it's super windy still too! Lots of bees wanting to eat your sweet food!! O_O Between my friend and I we had all 6 of the wines that they were showcasing. I really recommend the Estate wines only, especially the Chardonnay!! I got 3 glasses of those! haha
Admission: $5, or $15 "Cheer package" which includes 4 wine tastings and a souvenir wine glass
Everything else cost extra!!!
- Grape Stomp $5
- Decorate a cookie $3
- Glass Etching $25 for one/$40 for a pair
- Petroglyph $10-$16
- Woodkraft wine stopper $15-$18
- Caricature $10
- Food pairings $2-$5
- Wine: if you didn't buy the tasting package... $5-$7
Free...
- Historic tour: less than an hour, worth it if you've never been to the winery
- Special events tour: aka Wedding tour, not worth it unless you plan to get married here
- Bounce House
- Balloon Artist
- Cork Shooting
- Sidewalk Chalk
Overall, I don't think I'd want to come back to this event. It was a good first time, but I think I'd want to go to Napa for some real wine tasting!
Favorite wines in order of preference:
Mountain Winery Estate Chardonnay $7 (very yummy and sweet)
MW Estate Pinot Noir $7
MW Reserve Chardonnay $5
MW Cabernet $5
MW Reserve Merlot $5
MW Reserve Zinfandel $5 (very, very dry :P blehhh)
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Doggy and people approved!
Yes, it's a great concert venue and a beautiful place to have a wedding. But it is called The Mountain Winery so guess what? They have wine!
We went for a leisurely Sunday afternoon wine tasting excursion. Jesse "The Mayor" served us and generously gave us a cheese platter ($12 price tag) for free. Good thing it was free because I would've been pissed if I actually paid that much for it. We learned that they are pet friendly and we immediately went to get Billy (who is a Jack Russell) out of the car. The wine was just ok but the view of the Silicon Valley was breathtaking!
They're having a Pets & Pinot event soon so grab your dog, cat, bird, rabbit, turtle, hamster, pig, snake, lizard, horse, fish, and head on over.
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What a great venue to check out a concert! The Mountain Winery offers pictureresque views overlooking Silicon Valley.
I came here to check out the Hall and Oates concert and I have to say these guys still can put on a show! The outdoor concert area, which seats about 2,500, is very comfortable and intimate. The weather can be nice and warm during the day but can also turn quite chilly at night.
The drive up the hill takes about 10 -15 minutes. Remember to carpool if you can. You will get a few perks for doing so.
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Where do I begin??? The scenic drive into this gorgeous section of the Bay Area, the switchback road leading up to the winery with a new and more splendid vista at each turn, the sight of the vineyards as you approach the winery...hmmm, I guess I figured out where to begin!
As there were 4 of us taking is this splendid evening with Hall & Oates, the Mountain Winery rewards carpoolers with VIP parking and an invitation to a private 1-hour reception (we bailed on this reception and the reason will follow!). Even the views from the parking lot were spectacular so we did couples photo opps there!
We had heard great things about the dinner here but unfortunately, we tried to reserve too late. The next-level dining option is a buffet and my wife would rather die than do a buffet. So we decided on their more casual bistro option and figured if we got there when the gates opened, we could get our own table there: right we were! So that's why we chose to skip the 1-hour reception.
And the food was delish! I had the Paul Masson burger and it was VERY good. We all split a bottle of white (gone in 60 seconds) before the men settled into Peroni's. My wife wasn't up for drinking too much this evening (see Vine at Bridges review!). By the way, this bistro has its own deck and the views here are also spectacular.
After our meal, we roamed a bit and came across the seated dinner area: wow! Majestic views from every table. Killer scene. So a mental note to reserve early for next time. On this night, we figured we had extra cash in our pockets so we drank more.
I understand the venue was recently remodeled and I must say they did a fantastic job. I doubt there's a bad seat in the place but we had seats down below so our view of this classic duo was pretty damn good. Classic crowd, too: aging people like me! And let me tell you, it wasn't pretty when all these people decided to get up and dance!!!
But H&O were really good, Hall still has his voice (not for the really, really high notes though). The backdrop for the stage is a nice facade of a winery building, and until the day was done we could also see the vineyards from where we were sitting. AND to top it all off, we caught a full moon rising, low over SJ when we made one of our drink runs.
Spectacular evening. Spectacular property. Highly, highly recommended, even if you're only slightly interested in the band that's playing. Go!
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came here with bf to see india arie a few months ago.
they have beeaautiful view at night. food seemed a bit over priced
all of the staff were very nice. nice stage..
over all, i had a great experience, cept i was freezing my butt when it got dark cuz we forgot to bring warm jackets X(
i would love to go back with jackets and blanket next time =)
This review is for the dinning experience had on the Chateau Deck on Oct 2nd. The rest of my experiences at Mountain Winery was great, (yay pink martini) but the dinner was overpriced and disappointing. We spend like 150 + tip for two ppl.. and it sucked.. because
1) the food was a flop
2) the Chateau Deck location was lame
3) the service was poor.. (jimmy just didn't cared very much.. )
Details:
Seafood Gazpacho - "wtf bad"... lots of seafood, but the flavor was poor; the crab was dried out AND water logged; the shrimp and scallops was a bit stinky.
Caprese Salad - "good". enjoyed the large crystals of salt
Sliced Roasted Tenderloin of Beef - "totally disappointment" was recommended by our waiter, Jimmy. It came medium well even though we ordered it to be medium rare.. There was not enough sauce to coat the tasteless beef. but the potato were great.
Roasted Wild Mushroom Lasagna - "OK" was what you would expect.
location:
The tables and ppl were packed so tight that it reminded me of a crowded HS cafeteria (with table cloth). Other than the first row of tables against the edge of the deck, the rest of us prob could not get much of a view. honestly, you will have a better view tailgating in the car pool parking lot (and there were ppl doing just that) After dark, the lighting for dinner was horrible.. think harsh white florescent lights one might find in a walmart parking lot. this is suppose to be "the ultimate in concert dining". Total fail.
Our waiter Jimmy was.. hmm yeah... It took forever for him to come to the table to get our drink orders. He served my gazpacho w/o a spoon.. I was brought the wrong entree at first from the kitchen.. He tried to hide his ignorance of tapioca. Then, supposedly, he went to ask someone about it .. but he must have asked the wrong ppl, because he still did not know know what tapioca was
im extra bitter about the bad service. because we double tipped.. apparently, tip is already included in the $55/person meal.. no wonder jimmy gave bad service.
the Mountain Winery is a beautiful place.. and the Chateau Deck sucks.
Here's my breakdown of last night's Tony Bennet show.
1 star for T.B., a great showman and apparently nice guy
1 star for decent sound and semi-comfortable seats.
Now the bad:
Bring preparation H for the ass reaming you will take for parking ($15 for narrow and short spaces).
Bring more preparation H for the ass reaming you will take if you are foolish enough to not read the Yelp reviews about the extortionist prices on "food" and beverages.
Bring a barf bag if you do partake of the food at the Bar and Grill. I can't believe that management has the nerve to serve this crap and call it edible food.
Bring earplugs if you have the misfortune to sit near the security people who seem to talk to each other perpetually throughout the show.
This place would like to portray itself as something special, and it is with regard to the special ways they try so hard to bend you over at every possible opportunity.
I will NEVER again subject myself or people I care about to a show at this overhyped, underdelivering glorified parking lot.
.
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We were VIP for Dianna Krall the other night. Actually like the remodeled venue. Spectacular views of San Jose at night, nice intimate feeling. The VIP sections are clean, uncrowded and friendly, with private restrooms an yummy little small bite buffet. Very short or non existent line for the Bar.
Can't wait to go back.
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VERY Beautiful view. Even if you're not going to be tasting the wine, stop by if you are near Skyline Drive. Absolutely beautiful.
10 years here and my first visit to this concert venue was last wkend for Hall & Oates. Ok, laugh, but those guys rock especially Hall, and you'll find your self singing 1 on 1 that your maneater kiss is on my list when you get some adult education with private eyes only to make Sara smile.
Carpool you'll get better parking and bring a picnic. Nice tables outside the venue , but the bees like them too. What a view and not a bad seat to be had!
Saw Chris Isaak here again this year. I was hoping the new renovations would grow on me over time, but that didn't happen. As others have mentioned, parking is expensive, and you have no other choice but to drive and park. I also had to park waaaayyy up in the employee parking area. No idea why they made me do that, as there was plenty of parking down below in the main lot. I almost broke my neck trying to walk down the steep road from the lot down to the venue.
With all the added seats (and thus added patrons), there is an insanely long wait to get out of the parking lot after the show. The night I was there, nobody was directing traffic, so there was just a huge mass of cars coming from all the parking lots from all directions. What a mess! I sat parked in my car for at least a half hour before we even started moving - and then it was another half hour drive down the mountain. Can't say that added anything positive to my concert experience!
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7/21/2008
Two stars for the winery remodel, 5 stars for the Chris Isaak concerts I saw on Saturday and Sunday… Read more »
Ever go to your fave place, you once considered a locals "best kept secret" only to have it changed to a total freak-show, bastardized, and yuppified eye-soar of a wine theme park?
Wayyyy over-done... one would think better taste never played a role in this remodel. Before GA seating was great, not a bad seat in the house! Now? Bad acoustics (drop the ball), too far, too high, not loud enough, and the gorgeous stage is now covered by steel and surrounded by wasted space and with bright lights which are very distracting!
It's as if this was remodeled by the same peeps who build starbucks!
Over priced, not user friendly when you have to search for the bathrooms a mile away! Since they increased the seats... don't you think they should have added more bathrooms? At least throw in a portable crapper... geesh! Now we have to miss an entire song when ever you have to wizz!
I am not one to give bad reviews... but of our groups of 9... we were all on the same page and so disappointed!
3 bad shows in a row! I am out
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Who ever thought of building a fantastic concert venue in the hills of Saratoga, who? Saratoga, really? Well, sure beats driving to SF and/or sitting in a stuffy auditorium.
First.
The newly renovated bowl is up and rolling. While I don't mind this new seating, please keep in mind that the chairs are NOT one size fits all. You really do have to snuggle with your neighbors...really. Picture Elephants and mice sharing a stoop...yah...that's it.
Second.
Drivers beware! And, drunk drivers especially get your designators, because sloppy turns around the windy road might just get you intimate with the bottom side of the cliff. I am just saying. Honk!
Third.
Food stands.
Not. So. Much.
Pack a picnic, or bring a taco and chow. The catering services are great. I sampled the food during a recent yelp event...but again....they ain't catering the concerts...so you do the math...TACO.
Forth.
If by some chance you have to park on the hill in the gravel and you are injured, you can request a golf cart. They will pick you up, and take you to the bowl. Drivers are friendly, and don't be shy...ASK!
Fifth.
You better leave early or sit in the parking lot. Traffic is YUCK. Someone should sell ice cream treats after the concert. Just a suggestion.
Overall, I dig the tunes and shows at the Mountain Winery. I don't mind paying a pretty penny to sit up close, since it's well worth it. Staff is great, and I enjoy going to a venue where I don't have teeny boppers spilling drinks all over my head or smoke blown in my face.
Thanks for keeping it crazy and chill all at the same time.
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Even though the "Limited View ($69/ea.)" tickets, the $15 for parking and the $14/glass of the Reserve (really the only wines worth driking here) or $8/beer ran the bill up, this was one of the best concerts we have ever been to.
We got some drinks Pulled Pork Sliders and a Veggie Burger at the grill on the hill. The food was better than expected, and it was the only stand that took credit cards for drinks---so bring a lot of cash if you don't feel like walking back to the top of the hill to use your cards. They do have a fair amount of liquor, so some mixed drinks at certain stands too.
It turns out, our "Limited View" seats were only limited when someone wanted to take pictures or dance away from their seats. It was kind of funny how the staff only asked the larger, older ladies to sit down....not the case when a younger, more attractive one wanted to do the same.
I am not sure WTF Archie is talking about, but Ziggy Marley is far from a has-been (although some of the newer songs we've never heard before did sound like he jumped the shark a bit), and this joint was hoppin last night. Lots of smiling faces, sweet smelling herbs and EVERYONE was dancing; Especially when he played some of his dad's songs.
Note for next time: Carpool = 3+, and they have a free drink for those guys as well as better parking.
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The Mt. Winery is one place my husband and I always bring out-of-town guests. It's a beautiful and rare place, day or night. We have experienced and highly praise all of its offerings:
Formal dinner-dances with live music
Business dinners
Formal luncheons
Wine tasting
Picnicking
Concerts, both afternoon and evening (bring a jacket!)
Concert dinners at the Chateau
The food is very delicious and it is hard not to feel very special when dining on that patio. The servers are excellent and accommodating.
*Be aware that there are yellow-jackets (yellow wasps) around in the late summer, so it might be best to request a table that does not hug the perimeter.
The Mountain Winery is a unique and intimate venue to enjoy dinner and a concert and it's a lovely place to bring guests for a walk to admire the view..
I attended a show of a major, multi-Grammy winner at The Mountain Winery and it was horribly managed. Inexcusable IMHO late in the season when the operation should be 'dialed in.'
First, understand that Mountain Winery is probably best as a winery - only. Sure, the picturesque 'bowl' and stage are nice but getting to it by car is tortuous.
A narrow, windy road through what appears to be a residential area (nice homes!) is preview of nightmarish post-show bottlenecks. How their 'plan' got approved by a Planning Dept is beyond me but congratulations...I guess.
Staff - I imagine MW subcontracts the logistics team for events. If they don't, they need to re-calibrate the service standards and training of their staff. If they do sub it out...ditto. Dressed in various interpretations of 'black' (including faded jeans and ill-fitting polo shirts) the staff is wandering, unorganized, inattentive, unprofessional - but LOVE to chat on the radios. Many weren't even groomed well (really?). Casual is great here in the Bay Area, sloppy ain't.
Sure, that can be annoying, but at least it's expensive! Although the ticket prices seem in line with other venues, you're greeted with a $15 cash pop to park on the property. Next, enjoy a modest $35 buffet where the table price of a bottle of their 'low end' Estate Cab is a whopping $40 ($28 if purchased online, maybe less at a tasting!). Of course, our server 'mistakenly' poured us the $60 Reserve Cab which we found out about when the bill was presented. Hmmm. There goes the tip! When I ordered 2 glasses of Estate to take to our seats, I was informed that MW was 'out of it' to pour by the glass! Out of wine AT THE WINERY? Please! Can you get your hand outta my pocket for a minute?
At our particular show, rain was forecasted but per the MW website "All events are held 'rain or shine' except in the case of severe or potentially damaging weather, as may be determined by Live Nation/The Mountain Winery." Outdoor venue, this is a fact of life. Still, 2500 eager folks sat in the rain for 30+ minutes waiting for anyone...anyone!...to come on the mic to announce a contingency plan for the headliner show that didn't happen. We were a few minutes away from an insurrection, replete with a bombardment of Blackberries thrown at the stage. Weak. At least let us know what the story is as we sit in puddles of water.
I truly wanted to love this place - and don't get me wrong - it's beautiful up there (once you get there). The artists they book are noteworthy, too. For the price, lack of attention to detail, and mediocre quality I just can't with good conscious return or recommend this venue to anyone.
Mountain Winery, here's a TIP: Let the HOT girls go onstage please. I know you want to maintain a classy and subdued crowd, but seriously . .. it's a friggin rock concert. Uggggggggghhhhhh.
Aside from the above-mentioned gripe, the venue is gorgeous and 80% of the seating is nice.
I have been to two concerts so far (Duran Duran and Pat Benetar) and both crowds have been super casual in jeans and t shirts. So if you DO dress up, be cognizant of this.
No flash photography allowed and trust me, the Camera Nazis will confiscate your camera if they catch you.
They encourage and support carpooling which is awesome. You have your own parking lot and snack bar inside. Sweet.
Overall, a great venue, just wished they loosened the tie a little bit.
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Oh am I a fan of the Mountain Winery.
I first visited during the May 09 Yelp Elite Event. The views at the Mountain Winery are not only spectacular but feels so far removed from the every day hustle and bustle of the city down below. You would be a fool to come up here and not take advantage of the situation. *hint hint for the boysies*
I've been a fan of the Mountain Winery for quite a while and I'm even on the winery mailing list. I came back to the Winery this Thursday after getting some free Steve Miller Band tickets from my boss. Steve Miller is not exactly in my decade and I didn't grow up listening to his music. Being there though, at the Mountain Winery, under the stars and swaying to Steve's acoustic guitar riffs, I felt more at ease and relaxed than I have in a long time. I love the Mountain Winery and now I love Steve Miller! This is easily the best concert I've ever been to...I foresee many Mountain Winery concerts in my future. :)
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This is a good place where you can enjoy the complete view from Saratoga mountains. I do know that they have had some great bands play here. However I was just relaxing to the music, and enjoying the drive...I like the whole experience of the place so far...will come back for some music and good wine certainly!
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This is a classy place. They have a wonderful venue that offers very smoggy, ahem, I mean, scenic views.
It's a nice looking place to get drunk with excellent service. Essentially, it makes wealthier alcoholics feel better about themselves. But hey, I am not fooled by the placebo effect of packaging. Whether I am getting wasted at the Cinebar or the Mountain Winery, alcoholism is alcoholism.
Anyway, this is a classy place to get drunk and enjoy smoggy, scenic views of the area. I'd totally come for a concert featuring an "has beens" that appeal to the 50-plus crowd.
Well, I would do this if the prices of concert tickets weren't so damn pricey.
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Our friend called us last minute with the news that his friends from ABC and Wang Chung left some VIP passes for Dorena B., Richard G., and I to attend the Regeneration Tour. We got to catch Wang Chung, Berlin, ABC, and cutting crew. Dorena B. was our guide since we had never been to this venue. Just as she had mentioned- it is a very beautiful venue. I was nervous as we were driving up the windy, narrow road, but the view from the top was totally worth it! We paid $15 to park and were given a free wine tasting ticket for carpooling.
Despite the seats being uncomfortable, I had a great time! After checking out the menu, I plan to return to try the buffet sometime. The highlight of my night was watching Berlin. Terri must be at least 50, but she did her thing in a skin tight dress with so much energy! Now I know where artists like Gwen Stefani got their inspiration! She even tongued down one of the guitarists, which Dorena called her "prey". HOT!
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So it's a year later & I think it's time to upgrade Mountain Winery to 4-Stars.....only b/c of the phenomenal acts they have booked for this summer
In the past couple weeks, we've been there to see HEART and then the Regeneration Tour (ABC, BERLIN, CUTTING CREW, WANG CHUNG)
The ridiculous $15 parking fee is still in place but they seem to think they're offsetting it by offering a "carpool" benefits deal - which includes:
* Closer Parking - easier to get in but harder to get out
* "Carpoolers Reception" - would be nice if it wasn't only from 5:30 - 6:30....who's going to get there *that* early??
* Chance to win something in a weekly drawing
So response to this benefit.....think again!
Getting past the parking fee, there continues to be improvements to this venue....additional restaurants & food stands for a larger variety of munchies to enjoy before the show - last night Sis got this great looking Greek Wrap & Chocolate-Covered Apricots & said all were yummy
Sound continues to be great & we've scored seats in a variety of sections - views are okay but not completely head-blocking-my-view-free but you can fairly easily maneuver to get the view back
Plus, they have installed parking attendants to help clear out the lots when leaving - which saves the frustration of people taking the every-man-for-themselves approach they had last yr
Yes, my dear Mountain Winery, you've made quite a bit of progress & looks like I'll be spending most of my summer coming to see your great artists....next up: TEARS FOR FEARS then PAT BENATAR & BLONDIE
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8/1/2008
First time at the newly renovated Mountain Winery last night to see Rockin' The Colonies (THE ALARM,… Read more »
superb experience... a great location outdoor with panoramic view of the serratoga mountains for dining, all u can eat buffet and a concert!! We got late for dinner resrvation so we got the All u can eat buffet. Presentation was elegant, my fav was the mussels in garlic broth and their desert n coffee. The band playing that night was enjoyed so much..too bad no cameras allowed but we were still able to get our personal photos of the place...Must go back for more concerts and dining...
One star for nice staff. One star for an outstanding view. But otherwise? Think "wine theme park," not winery, and you'll have the right expectations.
First of all, I know they need to pay off the massive complex, but I've never paid to park at any of the other 100+ wineries I've visited. (And $15? Really?) Secondly, while I applaud their encouragement of carpooling, the "reception" consisting of vegetable trays and dip was a bit underwhelming. Thirdly, while the menu at the Vineyard Bar & Grill was respectable, $14 for a prefab steak burger stung a bit. Finally, while the bartender kindly allowed us to sample a few wines before paying $10 or $14 for a glass, she didn't know anything about the Santa Clara Valley AVA when I asked what happened to the grapes from the estate (they're dumped into the CA wines; interestingly enough the only AVA wines they make are from other places).
So again, a beautiful place to catch a concert (bring a blanket!), but not a serious winery. Think grapes go to Disneyland--and brace your wallet accordingly--and you'll be mentally prepared.
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Came here for their harvest festival. Heard reviews this place was amazing! Didn't know you had drive through multiple hairpin turns to get there and one lane roads. If you get motion sickness forget about it, bout time I got there I was sick and was hoping their wine was good based on their reviews. Yes the view is nice what view isn't nice from the highest peak on earth!. I had the merlot, zin, and the pinot noir. Out of all the tasting I preferred the pinot , it tasted very smooth, jammy, and had a young taste, I don't know what year it was bottled but It when down really easy. Overall wine was good the drive sucks.
The best place to see a concert in the Bay Area. Yes there are a few small inconveniences and a few spoil brats will trow tantrums if one thing doesn't go their way. Peel the unecessary complains on some reviews, is easy easy to spot, as always there are some selfish people anywhere you go no exception here. The Mountain Winery has gotten their act together in a big way. Everyone in the staff goes out their way to make you fill at home and help you if you need it
Did I mention the Buffet ? .. what a bargain, great quality unlimited food, selection whao, what a treat. Location is perfect almost seated right above the stage so you can enjoy your meal and look at the action and the view and just walk down to take your seat 5 before minutes "Curtain time" Sad I saw some people piling up their plates like the place is going to run out of food. People, people a buffet is more enjoyable if you do not not mixed everything like if was banana split. You can go back 20 times if you want to and get a fresh plate every time. Great value folks, don't change anything.
Leaving the parking lot, yes here again in some case the worse of people takes over, watch out for the ones who don't know how to share the road. God forbid if they wait a few minutes for their turn to leave. Oh well what can you do ? .. . Nothing to do we the Winery you might encounter that one ass that "owns the world". Don't be afraid none is moving lots of witnesses just be cool but do defend yourself if need it.
Perhaps in the future installing an Inclinator or gondola will help to bring people out there ? .. oh wait, we are in the US not Europe, even if it propose and affordable it could take 100 years just be consider and perhaps approved. LOL
Peace
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What an incredible venue. I saw one of my favorite bands here recently on a beautiful summer night and enjoyed every second of it. Yes, I did have pretty great seats, but it's a relatively small amphitheater so I really don't think there is a bad seat in the house. Even the public seating area above the stage is a great spot to hang out and watch the show.
They definitely do seem to be catering to a more affluent audience as you won't find your typical grungy venue crappy beers on the bar menu. Bottles of wine are $40 - $60 and cocktails were around $10. Yikes. I'd recommend a little pre-drinking then sharing a bottle their very good wine with friends. You can't bring the glass bottle into the seating area, but you can pour it into cups and take it in.
One other tip: there is a special, convenient parking area for people who carpooled, so try to bring a posse with you if you can.
Then when you're there, admire the view of the South Bay on your way in, grab a beverage, sit back, and enjoy some music in what is now one of my favorite venues in the Bay Area.
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Nestled waaaay up a winding road in the heart of the Santa Clara mountains is a small slice of entertainment heaven that no one should miss visiting at least once.
The Mountain Winery is a great sized venue where I had the pleasure of hearing Steve Winwood one summer evening. There's really not a bad seat in the house, and despite having a seat pretty far away from the stage- I was amazed to see that Steve was hot, and looking like he was about 35. (He's in his 60's). The crowd was mixed, and everyone seemed to be in a fabulous mood under the stars.
No bullshit complaints about the cost of the wine or the parking. It's a concert venue- not your friend's driveway. It's all part of the deal. This is without a doubt the best venue I have been to, no question. Dinner is offered if you like, and being a wine-ho- I was happy as a clam that I could grab a decent glass of vino.
It rocks.
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Came here for BF's work event. The view is great. Even though the winding road is a bit of a trek (esp AFTER you turn through the gates), it's worth the view. Very pretty during the day and night. It's like its own town up there.
Parking was $15 for everyone but since we were there for a private party, we didn't have to pay. We got free tickets for the Indigo Girls and they were priced at $57.50! Ouch! When we were caught leaving early by a staff member, he asked us why we were leaving and he said, "Hope you're happy." What an asshole. We don't even like the Indigo Girls or never heard of them prior to this concert.
Staff is pretty nice. Helpful and offered to take pics for us. They are strict about making sure you're not watching or facing the concert bowl before the concert starts (rolls eyes). So paranoid. Other than that, they were ok.
Food was not that good. I had mediocre steak that looked like it was cooked at my house. It was light brown and had a huge lining of fat on one side and veins in the meat. I was not happy. The salad tasted like it was from the bag. The chardonnay and cab we had were ok. Chocolate cake with raspberry was not too creative and tasted like it was from a Safeway box.
I would only come here for the view. Not the food. Good place to bring your mom. Maybe we'll come back for Huey Lewis. Also good place to have a wedding and the room we were in could probably seat 100-150 people.
Also, I was allowed to bring my camera in, but was advised by two people that during the concert, you can't use flash photography. But people did anyway.
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We went here on a SUnday afternoon. It wasn't too crowded, which we appreciated. The view from the tasting patio was GORGEOUS. You are high up enough to see nearly the entire East/South Bay.
The wines were very nice. We purchased a bottle of the Estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
The wines were pretty good overall, but the CHardonnay blend was nothing great. All in all, a good experience.
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Picture this:
It's late summer, August, that time of year when SF is hot and Saratoga is hotter, but gentle in the evening. You've grabbed your picnic accoutrements: fruit, cheese & crackers from a local stand, wine from a local vineyard. You're slightly buzzed and not driving, or sober, driving, and looking forward to that glass of wine, view of the mountains, and summery breeze as you sit OUTSIDE the gates -- because their food at The Mountain Winery is overpriced and you want "The Natural Experience." Yes. *Sigh * Wish I were there now.
I saw Aimee Mann. It was a small show; just about 150 of us, with Aimee playing the guitar and singing softly. It felt like someone's large backyard. And, as I listened to her beautiful, wistful voice, and looked up at the stars and the mountains, my friends around me, listening, the buzz of the world around me, I thought, "THIS is living! This is what makes my life glorious!"
Yes.
I just want to add, P.S., that Yelper, Adrienne G's review inspired me to write this review because her review was extremely thorough in details about food and parking. I was also inspired by my friend, Angela, who introduced me to the Mountain Winery which is my favorite place to see a small show, surrounded by nature and a community that could be friends.
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Great venue. Great view.
First timer but saw http://flickr.com pics of what it was like before.
Came for a seminar and Tears For Fears.
The buffet was good; roll, salad, chicken, pasta, dessert.
Seats were in Section 10, not too far from the stage, close enough to see the faces.
Day started off hot, as the evening went dark, the temp went down. The flies will get to you, lather on the bug spray.
Seats were cramped, there's no shoulder room, there's no leg room. I felt I was on a bus. Even movie theatres, coach, and baseball park have better seats! I'd gladly trade for a foldup chair tix.
Forget about going to the bathroom at the END of the concert, you'll be in a long line; men/women. If you need to go, remember that there's two sides to the restroom building.
Depending where you're parked, getting out of the parking lot can average 20-30min or more; you're better off just sitting in your seats watching the roadies disassemble the equipment. Saratoga PD made everyone head down the hill on Pierce; I wanted to go the other way. Oh well.
Parking, food, concert were comp'd; so I can't complain.
No camera allowed. But well...
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Yes to the following
1. you turn right after going 15 minutes not 8 minutes on Pierce (google maps lies)
2. you keep going up until you cannot go anymore
3. you should be extra extra careful when going around curves-- if you are planning on drinking bring a super sober DD
4. you should have a car that can handle the d-2 gear with ease
5. they have an amazing view of the whole valley
6. the concert area does not have a bad seat in the house
7. the sunset is romantic and wonderful while looking over the vines
8. this is a hidden gem.. one that everyone should check out
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I'm gonna go ahead and call the Mountain Winery one of the best venues in the bay area for a concert. Tiny and intimate, wonderful outdoor setting, great food...
It is definitely a more sophisticated crowd - with a sophisticated lineup of entertainers. Keeps the riffraff out, but don't expect to see some mega-star there.
I've been twice. I saw the Blues Traveler and the late and great George Carlin in concert there. Both top notch events. Kudos to the Mountain Winery!!
I came here on a Yelp event so Im not sure how this place fares during it's regular events but I have to say its a great place in the middle of the city. Where else can you find a Winery\Concert Hall within a few minutes from San Jose ?
I did have a strange time finding this place as my GPS pointed me to a spot close to it. A bit of a challenge driving through their winding road. They could use more barriers though and maybe lamp posts on the road.
Watch out for deer, we came across one when we were going down the road from the winery.
You bet I'll be back for more summer time events as this place is a gold mine for fabulous views (Ugh..Andrew Zimmerman influence forgive my diction) with excellent wine (Chardonnay is good for cooling yourself during summer :D)
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Yesterday was a momentous occasion. Not only was I spending Mother's Day with my mom, but with my bf's mom too. On top of that, it was the first time our moms were meeting. So, I had a great task in front of me: I needed to find the most incredible venue offering brunch that everyone would enjoy.
Fortunately, both our moms love beautiful scenic spots and sumptuous food, so bringing them to Mountain Winery to dine on the Chateau Deck overlooking our breathtaking Valley was the perfect way to celebrate Mom's Day.
The gourmet buffet brunch was endless! There was such an abundance of food that it really saddened me to see so much left untouched. There were at least 50 shucked oysters with no hungry mouths to slurp them up. And let's not forget about those chocolate covered strawberries on steroids that were brought to each table after our gelato sundaes that only a handful of people managed to enjoy.
Mamma Mia, check out what this sumptuous brunch included:
SALAD:
Garden Greens with Assorted Fresh Vegetables
Assorted Dressings
Pasta Primavera with Fresh Local Vegetables
Cucumber Tomato with Basil Vinaigrette
Red Bliss Potato Salad with Horseradish and Dill
Pickled Red Onion
Fresh Fruit Display
Fresh Local Artichokes with Lemon, Roasted Garlic Aioli
Antipasto Display
Sliced Tomatoes with Aged Balsamic
Shaved Fennel and Ruby Red Grapefruit
Merlot Poached Pears with Gorgonzola and Candied Pecans
SEAFOOD:
Chilled Prawn Display
Oysters Shucking Station with Lemon and Mignonette
Smoked Salmon with Condiments and Petit Bagels
Seared Sesame Crusted Tuna with Hawaiian Seaweed Salad
BREAKFAST:
Omelet Station with a Variety of Fillings
Carved Roasted Tenderloin of Beef
Scrambled Eggs with Tillamook Cheddar Cheese
Cheese Blintzes with Fresh Blueberries
Brioche French Toast with Maple, Pecan Butter
Hickory Smoked Bacon
Chicken Apple Sausage
Seafood Crepes
Country Style Potatoes with Spring Onions
Baked Loch Duart Salmon with Lemon, Thyme Topping
Dungeness Crab Cakes with Organic Tomato Basil Sauce
DESSERT:
Gelato Bar with Assorted Toppings and Florentine Baskets
Chocolate, Almond Mousse
Brownie Bites
Cheesecake
Lemon Curd Tarts with Fresh Raspberries
Baklava
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
Major kudos to the renowned Executive Chef David Sidoti and The Mountain Winery Culinary Team for preparing such a decadent spread, and our sweet server Mary Lou. Manny, the manager, made our day even more special by taking great care of us.
Needless to say, our moms had an unforgettable Mother's Day, and they got along wonderfully!
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1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/24/2008
Absolutely gorgeous, even with it undergoing some remodel work. Once you arrive at Mountain Winery,… Read more »
THE GOOD:
First off, I had a great time watching the B-52s last night (6-30-2009).
This place has an absolutely gorgeous view - you can practically see everything from up here. The winery is a beautiful building too. The sulfur smells like poo as you walk by, but everything here is beautiful.
There's not a bad seat in the house. We were in Section 2, Row H (upgraded ourselves to Row G since they didn't show). We walked up toward the back before the show and it was still a great view. Very "cozy" and personable feeling, the whole thing.
THE BAD:
I was furious that after driving to the top we discover a $15 extortion parking fee. Had we not brought any cash, what would we have done!?
I was directed to park on an incredibly steep incline. For $15 I think I'd rather park wherever the hell I'd like.
After the show as we went to exit, a breathtaking view of the city below catches the eye. While stopped to take a look while traffic thins down the bearer of bad news comes along to have us leave.
Basically it felt like: get in, watch the show, now get lost.
THE INDIFFERENT:
It's the typical crowd you would expect to find at a winery. Drunk and unable to clap on the beat.
I'm glad I brought a nice button up shirt with me - even though it probably wouldn't matter, you'd rather not be the only guy in your sweats and favorite tee that you would lounge around at home in.
Law enforcement is on premises to keep the riff raff at bay. So don't plan on having a beer in the lot before the show.
THE SUMMARY:
This is a wonderful place to see a favorite act just once. The extortion parking fee is just enough to keep me from coming back. Once you've seen the venue, you've done it...no need to return.
If you have difficulty walking then be wary, as the steep terrain is plentiful.
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What can I say? This is a really, really cool place. Tucked away in the deep mountains, you kept wondering whether you've been driving to the wrong direction, passed the destination or been plain stupid while you are on your way up. It's miles of wilderness before you see the unassuming sign.
Of course once it opens up you have a full outdoor concert stadium, food stands, a big parking lot with shuttle and a cafe - all that in addition to the winery, of course. It was a self-contained castle in the middle of nowhere. Then there's the full bodied cabernet sauvignon and merlot. An overall fabulous mid-week experience that makes you forget all life's imperfections.
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Our first time to watch a concert at The Mountain Winery. Tears for Fears was in town and after being alerted by a good friend, I just had to see them again. The last time I saw TFF was probably 4 years ago at the Warfield and that was a banging concert. I was not to be disappointed again. TFF delivered yet again, this time in the breathtaking arena of the mountain winery. My wife being a bit afraid of heights freaked out a bit on the drive up, lol. But once your up there, the views are breathtaking.
My only gripe is, the staff seems a bit unorganized, and unwelcoming upon your entrance. Another thing is, you're not allowed to bring a camera into the venue. Sucks for amateur photgraphers like me. Oh, and a word of advice, unless you're on a hot date and plan to have dinner up there as well, just grab a bite to eat before you head up. Save your extra cash for wine or beer.
