Fernwood Cellars
A hidden gem winery nestled in a majestic redwood grove, offering exceptional Santa Cruz Mountains wines and a serene escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the redwood ambiance
Fernwood Cellars
Best Time
Enjoy the redwood ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hidden gem winery nestled in a majestic redwood grove, offering exceptional Santa Cruz Mountains wines and a serene escape.
"This winery is a hidden treasure, offering the best wines and a Tahoe-like feel amidst redwoods."
🚗 Drive to the End
Don't stop early! Fernwood is at the very end of Redwood Retreat Road. :round_pushpin:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy your meal amidst the redwoods. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon. :sandwich:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.9 · 21 reviews
Type
Farm
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Redwood Grove Tasting
Outdoor tasting areas
Sip exceptional wines surrounded by towering redwoods. A truly magical and serene wine country escape.
Award-Winning Chardonnay
Tasting room
Crisp, flavorful, and a standout favorite, even for those who don't typically prefer white wines.
Santa Cruz Mountains Reds
Tasting room
Explore rich Cabernet and Rhône-style blends crafted with passion by the winemaker.
Scenic Redwood Retreat Road
Access road to Fernwood Cellars
The drive itself is an experience, winding through a breathtaking redwood forest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Redwood Retreat
Tasting Room Comforts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive to the End
Don't stop early! Fernwood is at the very end of Redwood Retreat Road. :round_pushpin:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy your meal amidst the redwoods. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
🍷 Meet the Winemaker
Matt is often present and happy to discuss his craft. :wine_glass:
🎶 Check for Events
They host unique events like lobster boils with live music!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive to the End
Don't stop early! Fernwood is at the very end of Redwood Retreat Road. :round_pushpin:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy your meal amidst the redwoods. Perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
🍷 Meet the Winemaker
Matt is often present and happy to discuss his craft. :wine_glass:
🎶 Check for Events
They host unique events like lobster boils with live music!
🌳 Outdoor Seating
Enjoy the new tasting areas by the creek. Great for relaxing. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Fernwood Cellars for its exceptional wines, particularly the Chardonnay and red blends, and its stunning redwood grove setting. The friendly staff and unique atmosphere are frequently highlighted, making it a 'hidden treasure.' Some past comments mentioned tasting room comfort, but recent updates have improved this, enhancing the overall experience.
"Best wines in the South Bay or possibly in California. The Chardonnay is crisp and deliciously flavorful. Then you get to the reds … wow.
The venue is in the middle of a redwood grove and has a Tahoe feel. The servers are friendly and the pours are generous. If you haven’t been here yet, do yourself a favor and stop for a tasting."
Nick Jize
"EDIT: We gave Fernwood another shot last weekend for Passport Month and we were glad we did. Last time the tasting was in a small room on the right side of the road. It was a rainy day and the room was very hot and muggy. Now they have opened a new tasting room on the left side of the road. The weather this time was perfect and the room was much more comfortable. We enjoyed the wines a lot more this time. We even bought a bottle partly because Fernwood offered special pricing for Passport holders. I wish more wineries did this.
There is a beautiful little creek running alongside the tasting room along with some great outdoor seating areas and a spot to play Bacci Ball or Cornhole.
Small tasting room. Kind of hard to get to. Decent wines but nothing we were interested in buying. Friendly staff."
Darien Guy
"Ok so i Finally brought my first tour to Fernwood it was 21 people on a 50th birthday party .
They were a very fun bunch of couples they not only had us all set up but The hospitality was second to no other winery the ladies treated us like royalty they were organised and fantastic. Tiffany promised a great time and that is just what we had.I will make that drive to the end of redwood retreat for a visit at Fernwood and a stop at Martin Ranch two great wineries any time they are open."
JR Navarro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fernwood Cellars is located at the end of Redwood Retreat Road, near Gilroy and Morgan Hill. The drive is scenic, winding through a redwood forest, so allow ample time. Some visitors note it can be a bit challenging to find, so follow signs carefully until you reach the very end of the road.
Redwood Retreat Road is a scenic, tree-lined road. While it can be winding, it's generally manageable for most vehicles.
Use GPS, but be prepared for the road to be the final destination. Look for signs as you get closer, as it's at the very end of the road.
Yes, Fernwood Cellars is located near other wineries like Martin Ranch and Dorcich Cellars, making it a great stop on a wine tasting tour.
Parking is available at the winery. Given its location, it's best to arrive during opening hours to secure a good spot, especially on busy weekends.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Fernwood Cellars is typically open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 PM to 5 PM.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially for larger groups or during peak seasons and special events. This ensures you have a spot and can enjoy a more personalized experience.
Tasting fees can vary, and special pricing may be offered during events like Passport Month. Inquire directly with the winery or check their website for current tasting fees and any package deals.
Yes, Fernwood Cellars is a popular venue for weddings and private events, particularly known for its stunning redwood setting.
Fernwood Cellars offers a wine club with benefits that often include discounted tastings, special pricing on wine purchases, and access to exclusive events. Becoming a member is a great way to save and enjoy their wines regularly.
🎫 🍷 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is often described as a 'redwood retreat' with a Tahoe-like feel. It's serene, surrounded by nature, and offers a unique outdoor tasting experience.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful redwood grove.
Beyond wine tasting, you can enjoy the natural surroundings, outdoor seating areas, and sometimes games like Bocci Ball or Cornhole. Special events might include live music.
The winery has updated its tasting areas, including a new room with more comfortable seating and outdoor spaces by a creek. This offers a more pleasant experience, especially on warmer days.
The combination of exceptional wines, the stunning redwood forest setting, and friendly, knowledgeable staff creates a memorable experience. The winemaker's presence also adds a personal touch.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Fernwood Cellars encourages visitors to bring their own picnics to enjoy in their scenic outdoor areas.
Their crisp Chardonnay pairs well with seafood and light dishes, while their reds, like Cabernet and Rhône blends, are excellent with grilled meats, hearty stews, and cheese platters.
The closest dining options would likely be in Gilroy or Morgan Hill, as Fernwood Cellars is in a more secluded, rural setting.
For private events and weddings, catering is typically arranged. Contact the winery for details on their event packages and preferred caterers.
There are several outdoor seating areas, including spots near the creek, that are perfect for picnicking and enjoying the redwood ambiance.
📸 📸 Photography
The towering redwoods, the scenic Redwood Retreat Road, the outdoor tasting areas by the creek, and the vineyard views offer stunning photographic potential. +1
Absolutely. The natural beauty of the redwoods and the rustic charm make it an incredibly picturesque venue for wedding photography.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting filtering through the redwoods.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to contact the winery directly to inquire about their policy on drone photography to ensure compliance.
Landscape, nature, wine-themed, and event photography (weddings, parties) are all popular at Fernwood Cellars due to its unique setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit