A MAGICAL FEAST AMONG THE MANZANITAS

The weather was perfect, the setting was magical, and the food and wine kept on flowing. But it was our guests who once again made it unforgettable. 

Our “Dinner in the Manzanitas” has become an annual summer rite at Hawks Hill Ranch, and it’s one more reason to consider joining our Insider Trading Club. The latest dinner was held on the beautiful evening of Saturday, July 11. Our 45 guests were chauffeured to the ranch from In Bloom Restaurant. Here, they were greeted with a golden hour reception with wine and passed appetizers. And then, as the sun began to set over the Santa Lucia Mountains, it was time to feast.

Dinner was served family style across six tables. Prepared by Chef Jeffery Scott of Vineyard Events Catering, the menu featured Saddle Chops from our own Hawks Hill Ranch vineyard-grazed lamb and an assortment of other savory selections including Slow Rise Oak Oven Focaccia and Mezzi Rigatoni Al Funghi. Owner-Vintner Kit Kuyper and Winemaker Don Burns were on hand to share their latest creations, including the stunning Hawks Hill Ranch reds from the 2023 vintage, as well as our new release 2024 Pit of Chaos Chenin Blanc from our Open Outcry label. 

It all took place in our intimate grove of ancient manzanita trees. Nestled against the vineyard, these hardy trees speak to the constancy and resilience of our land, with roots that may extend back to the late 18th century. Enchanted by the twisting branches and the quiet of the ranch after sunset, our guests experienced an evening that became something entirely its own. Starlight, the open sky, and the rhythm of a shared table created an experience that was both intimate and unforgettable.

View the event photo gallery here.