As March 17 draws near, many will have green on their minds and very specific thirst on their tongue. It doesn’t get much greener than this lush Gilroy spot out on Buena Vista Avenue, directly across from the colorful Satori Cellars.

George and Lynda Green, who met and still work in the medical field, bought this property for its tranquil setting and views. They weren’t really thinking about vines at the time, but then life introduced them to the possibility of planting a vineyard and they thought of it as landscaping with benefits.

The couple have built a welcoming space for enjoyment of their excellent wines, live music and the endless green vistas that restore calm and purpose to this hectic life.

They’ve populated their 12 acres with predominantly Bordeaux varieties, which they turn into wine with the help of consultant Jeff Ritchey (San Saba, Sycamore Creek, Pichetti). Lynda’s favorite is the chardonnay, while George tends toward the 2015 Sophie’s Blend.

Seriously good is the 2015 estate merlot, and if the barrel samples of the Malbec and the cabernet franc are any indication of the prowess of vintage 2018, the resulting wines are going to be killer.

If you get a chance to buy futures, don’t hesitate. But, be warned: George and I might drink that cab franc before it sees a bottle! We were also mightily impressed with the 2018 Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir, with its gutsy cranberry and raspberry core.

And although it may no longer be available in their wine library, don’t pass up a chance to try their excellent estate grown Cabernet Franc should you ever come by a bottle. Cab Franc tends to pair well with dark meat and dishes such as braised short ribs. However, this vintage makes an excellent companion to roast chicken.

Verde Vineyards is open every weekend, noon-5pm.

Verde Vineyards
2143 Buena Vista Ave, Gilroy
408.499.9365
verdevineyards.com