Terry and Mary Kay Parks founded Sycamore Creek Vineyards in 1975. They retired in 1989 and moved to Aptos where they established a 2 acre Pinot Noir vineyard. This was purchased in 2001 by Andrea Vollersen who began producing wines under the Aptos Creek Vineyard label. The first vintages were made at Hallcrest by Kenny Likitprakong and John Schumacher; when Kenny moved to Moshin in 2005 he continued as winemaker. The latest vintages are being made by him at Beauregard's facility in Bonny Doon. The wines are 50% whole cluster fermentation and see 50% new French oak for 18 months. The vineyard is at 200' above sea level and so carries the Santa Cruz County appellation; the winery is grandfathered into the SCMWA.2004 Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz County
Medium garnet colour. Nose of Bacon fat, smoke and black cherry. Rich and spicy with flavours of cherry and cinnamon, good balance, touch of cocoa on the finish. 89 $28
2001 Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz County
Slightly lighter colour than the 2004 with an amber tinge to the meniscus.
The nose is very funky with leaf mulch and earth; I expected earthy flavours too but was surprised by bright redcurrant, blackcurrant and black cherry fruit. Good depth of flavours, nice acidity, probably at its peak right now. 90 $28
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