A hidden gem in plain sight is the best way to describe the beauty and comfort of Stappa Vineyard. The classy yet inviting atmosphere is what makes Stappa feel less like somewhere you simply stop for a glass of wine and more like somewhere you are meant to stay.
For owner and operator Alexa Charles, that was always part of the vision.
Stappa originally began as a retirement property for Charles’ parents, both of whom are from Italy and grew up surrounded by farming and vineyards. When the family first discovered the property, part of it had been damaged by a fire, and much of the land was covered by trees. Together, the family worked to clear the property and eventually transform it into the luscious vineyard it is today.
“It was really about getting a space where all of us could reconnect again,” Charles said.
Rather than gathering for the traditional Sunday dinners, the family began turning them into what they called “Sunday picnics” on the property.
That sense of connection remains at the heart of Stappa’s mission. Charles grew up around her family’s tradition of making wine, but it was not until she truly developed a passion for the process that she fell in love. Charles quickly began experimenting with different varieties and constantly evolving her knowledge.
“For me, I’m still learning as I go,” she said. “But I just kind of fell in love, and here it is today, in all its glory.”
Today, Stappa handles its winemaking process from start to finish. It begins with growing and harvesting the grapes before moving through crushing, pressing, fermentation, and aging. The vineyard also uses a natural clearing process and avoids animal byproducts in its wines.
For Charles, that hands-on process leaves plenty of room for creativity. Experimentation has become one of the things she enjoys most about winemaking. Stappa’s upcoming limited-edition California Pinot Noir is expected to arrive in the fall season. The vineyard has also produced experimental wines in the past, including a White Pinot Noir and the 06477 orange wine, which received a silver medal in California.
The vineyard’s upcoming events offer visitors even more reasons to spend an afternoon on the property. This includes a Fall Market on September 26, a Steal My Style Market on October 4, and a holiday market on December 12. The markets bring together local artisans and vendors, along with live music, creating an experience that extends beyond the vineyard itself.
Above all, Charles wants Stappa to feel personal. The vineyard is not simply a business or a destination; it is an extension of her family and a place where people can come together and create their own memories.
“I’m opening myself up; I’m letting you critique me, and I’m seeing you enjoy it,” Charles said. “But it’s more like welcoming you into my family.”
“I’m opening myself up; I’m letting you critique me... but it’s more like welcoming you into my family.”