In the diminutive town of Capitola, the colorful, Mediterranean-inspired village is known for a relaxed feel which co-exists effortlessly with a spirited hum of small business activity. This seaside town – in addition to local cafes, boutiques, a newly constructed wharf and views of Capitola Beach and Soquel Creek – is now home to three new wine tasting rooms:

Vin Vivant 

Two Central Coast sommeliers partnered to bring their experience and love of Capitola Village to Vin Vivant, where John Haffey and Ryan Cooley highlight French wines along with other samples from around the globe. John was former wine director at Aubergine in Carmel and is a 2023 Michelin California Sommelier Award winner. Ryan served as sommelier at Aubergine, where both worked to earn a second Michelin star for the restaurant in 2024. On the culinary front at Vin Vivant, small bites like tomato milk bread, smoked sea salt and lemon olive oil cake with whipped mascarpone, cardamom spiced pear sauce and poached pears are the creation of Talia Damon, former pastry chef at Aubergine. 

Rexford Wines 

Winemaker Sam Miller is expanding his westside reach and opening a second location for Rexford Wines, in one of the coziest spaces in Capitola Village. This new tasting room – originally a laundromat – is a homey sanctuary in an otherwise lively location. A tasting bar, crafted out of repurposed redwood and oak is the centerpiece of the bright space, where Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Merlot, and other premium varieties are crafted from mindfully sourced small lots in locally curated vineyards.  

Cocoa Vino 

Specializing in rare and hard-to-find wines, including vintage champagne on a rotating basis, Cocoa Vino is steps away from Capitola Beach. Part wine bar/part lounge, mimosas are paired with live music on weekends and the atmosphere transforms into an energetic hub, where celebration meets sophistication.