One of the most memorable highlights of our Bay Area trip was a spontaneous visit to Captain Vineyards in Moraga. We had never been wine tasting before, and this wasn’t something we had planned- it was a spur-of-the-moment idea. Most vineyards in Napa and Sonoma were already closing for the day, so we took a chance and called Captain Vineyards (appointments are required). To our surprise, Sal and his wife Susan were available and welcomed us for a last-minute private tour and tasting.
Captain Vineyards is small, peaceful, and unlike any winery I’ve visited. There are no crowds or flashy tasting rooms: just a serene hillside, rows of vines, and the kind of warm hospitality you don’t forget. Susan gave us a personal tour through the vineyard, explaining their dry-farming practices, sustainability efforts, and the hands-on care that goes into every part of their process. It felt intimate and real, not rehearsed.
Our tasting with Sal took place on their beautiful back deck and felt like a quiet conversation among friends. Each pour came with stories about the soil, the grapes, and their unique approach to winemaking. I learned so much, and nothing about it felt pretentious or overwhelming- just thoughtful insight and truly exceptional wine. We were even served a small plate of cheese, nuts, and homemade bread fresh from the oven. Everything was perfect.
If you’re visiting the Bay Area and want a meaningful wine experience, skip the crowds in Napa and head to Moraga. Captain Vineyards is a hidden gem, run by people who care deeply about their craft. I took home a bottle of their Pinot Noir and can’t wait to open it on a special occasion.
Dimitrii Krasnopevtsev
I had the pleasure of visiting Captain Vineyards in spring 2024, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable wine experiences I've had. The vineyard is beautifully nestled in the hills, with a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home.
The owners are not only passionate about winemaking but also incredibly knowledgeable and generous with their time — sharing stories about their sustainable approach and local community involvement. Their commitment to organic and dry-farming practices is truly inspiring.
And of course — the wines! Each one had its own distinct character and elegance. You can taste the care and thought that go into every bottle.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for an authentic, intimate wine tasting experience with heart.
andrey esterlis
Fantastic experience! Highly recommended. Great hosts. Unbelievable views! Terrific wine!
Phillip Azzari
My wife and I called day of and Sal was gracious enough to accommodate us. So lucky we decided to head to Captain’s on somewhat of a whim. The wine was great, scenery was beautiful, and company was unmatched. Sal gave us a tour, talked to us about winemaking, and was great company as we sampled the wines. We had the place to ourselves. A true hidden gem and very reasonably priced. Thanks Sal and we hope to be back soon!
Igor Moskalenko
I am local, residing in Castro Valley, but visited this place for the first time. I had colleagues from France visited the Bay Area for half a day, and had to find a place not so far from SFO airport. I decided to take them to this winery based on excellent reviews.This was the right decision. We spent more than two hours, first with Susan, and then with Sal, talking about everything from ancient Georgian wine making, to Alexander The Great, the Puglia history of winemaking etc. etc. In fact, we would be happy to stay longer, but my colleagues had to catch their plane. The wine testing with homemade bread and artisan cheeses was also excellent. The wines smell was outstanding and it changes quickly as the wine in the glass was interacting with oxygen. I particularly liked their Petite Sirah 2013 and Cabernet Franc 2013. It was terrific to learn how a retired mechanical engineer (Sal) and a mathematician (Susan) started their winery about 20 years ago with no experience and grown into mature organic winemakers. Sal knows a lot from history, science, engineering, philosophy, you name it, and it is a big fun taking to him. My French colleagues said it was a spectacular trip! I will visit this place again.
George Algharbi
Great Winery
Katia BARAKAT
The best winery ever, amazing views, friendly and welcoming family
Sujit Konapur
Nestled atop the serene hills of Moraga, Captain Vineyards is a hidden gem that beckons wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As you approach, the family-operated vineyard unfolds like a page from a storybook, with verdant vines stretching across the landscape, kissed by the Californian sun.The vineyard's commitment to organic practices is evident in every sip of their exquisite wines. Each bottle tells a tale of the land, the care, and the passion that goes into its creation. But what truly sets Captain Vineyards apart is the warmth of its people and the familial atmosphere they cultivate.As you wander the vineyard, you might be lucky enough to cross paths with Cleopatra, the vineyard's adorable canine ambassador. With her soft fur and endearing eyes, she's hard to resist, especially if you're armed with her favorite treat – cheese.The skies above are a theater of nature's beauty. Hawks gracefully glide over the rolling hills, their silhouettes painting a picture of freedom and majesty. The occasional bluejay adds a splash of color, their vibrant plumage contrasting beautifully against the green backdrop.Mr. Captain, with his vast knowledge and affable nature, is always eager to share the intricacies of winemaking. His stories weave through the history of the vineyard, the nuances of each wine, and the organic practices that make their offerings so special. Every conversation with him is an education, a journey through the world of wines.Captain Vineyards is not just a place to visit; it's an experience to cherish. It's where nature, passion, and family come together to create magic. One visit is simply not enough; this enchanting vineyard will call you back, time and time again.In the realm of wines and memories, Captain Vineyards stands tall, a beacon of authenticity and love. Cheers to many more visits and many more memories! ?
Quinton Frederick
My family and I had a wonderful time at Captain Vineyards. Sal and Susan gave us a very warm welcome and provided lots of great information about the winemaking process and the region. The wine and snacks were just as good as the service. I hope to visit again soon.
Tyler Nuanes
Beautiful vineyard overlooking the rolling golden hills of California! Call ahead to book a tasting of several delightful wines. Learn a little about all the grapes and the winemaking process from the wonderful hosts!
Absolutely wonderful experience! Both Sal and Susan are super knowledgeable and passionate about what they do! The setting is just so cozy and welcoming & the wine was lovely as well! So very recommended! Thank you for the best experience we could have asked for! ❤️
Ryan Elliott
Very great experience! The family who runs the place is so nice. Plus the area is just gorgeous. I highly suggest checking captain vineyards out!
Paige Campbell
What an amazing experience!!! Sal and Susan welcomed us to their vineyard, shared wine, and created a delightful charcuterie board. Our small group found so many connections...four of them worked at Adac in the 80s including Sal, the winemaker.
M Pak
We visited this place for the first time for a friend visiting the US. When we arrived, I was a little embarrassed because I couldn't find the signboard, but I found out that it was such a private space. A really beautiful and peaceful hideout. A secret space you want to hide... Literally, even if there are people who haven't been there, it's a beautiful winery that no one seems to have been to only once. Five stars isn't worth it. You will be greeted by friendly owners and really cute puppies... Strongly recommended!
Nydia Zhang
Captain Vineyards is a hidden gem of SF Bay Area. We were warmly received by Sal and Susan and their wonderful furry friend! Sal spent a lovely afternoon with us and told us the history of their vinery and life stories as well. He’s such a knowledgeable, warm and thoughtful host. It was the day before my boyfriend’s birthday and Sal even gave us a beautiful bottle of Petite Sirah as his birthday gift ???? ????
One of the most memorable highlights of our Bay Area trip was a spontaneous visit to Captain Vineyards in Moraga. We had never been wine tasting before, and this wasn’t something we had planned- it was a spur-of-the-moment idea. Most vineyards in Napa and Sonoma were already closing for the day, so we took a chance and called Captain Vineyards (appointments are required). To our surprise, Sal and his wife Susan were available and welcomed us for a last-minute private tour and tasting.
Captain Vineyards is small, peaceful, and unlike any winery I’ve visited. There are no crowds or flashy tasting rooms: just a serene hillside, rows of vines, and the kind of warm hospitality you don’t forget. Susan gave us a personal tour through the vineyard, explaining their dry-farming practices, sustainability efforts, and the hands-on care that goes into every part of their process. It felt intimate and real, not rehearsed.
Our tasting with Sal took place on their beautiful back deck and felt like a quiet conversation among friends. Each pour came with stories about the soil, the grapes, and their unique approach to winemaking. I learned so much, and nothing about it felt pretentious or overwhelming- just thoughtful insight and truly exceptional wine. We were even served a small plate of cheese, nuts, and homemade bread fresh from the oven. Everything was perfect.
If you’re visiting the Bay Area and want a meaningful wine experience, skip the crowds in Napa and head to Moraga. Captain Vineyards is a hidden gem, run by people who care deeply about their craft. I took home a bottle of their Pinot Noir and can’t wait to open it on a special occasion.
I had the pleasure of visiting Captain Vineyards in spring 2024, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable wine experiences I've had. The vineyard is beautifully nestled in the hills, with a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home.
The owners are not only passionate about winemaking but also incredibly knowledgeable and generous with their time — sharing stories about their sustainable approach and local community involvement. Their commitment to organic and dry-farming practices is truly inspiring.
And of course — the wines! Each one had its own distinct character and elegance. You can taste the care and thought that go into every bottle.
Highly recommend to anyone looking for an authentic, intimate wine tasting experience with heart.
Fantastic experience! Highly recommended. Great hosts. Unbelievable views! Terrific wine!
My wife and I called day of and Sal was gracious enough to accommodate us. So lucky we decided to head to Captain’s on somewhat of a whim. The wine was great, scenery was beautiful, and company was unmatched. Sal gave us a tour, talked to us about winemaking, and was great company as we sampled the wines. We had the place to ourselves. A true hidden gem and very reasonably priced. Thanks Sal and we hope to be back soon!
I am local, residing in Castro Valley, but visited this place for the first time. I had colleagues from France visited the Bay Area for half a day, and had to find a place not so far from SFO airport. I decided to take them to this winery based on excellent reviews.This was the right decision. We spent more than two hours, first with Susan, and then with Sal, talking about everything from ancient Georgian wine making, to Alexander The Great, the Puglia history of winemaking etc. etc. In fact, we would be happy to stay longer, but my colleagues had to catch their plane. The wine testing with homemade bread and artisan cheeses was also excellent. The wines smell was outstanding and it changes quickly as the wine in the glass was interacting with oxygen. I particularly liked their Petite Sirah 2013 and Cabernet Franc 2013. It was terrific to learn how a retired mechanical engineer (Sal) and a mathematician (Susan) started their winery about 20 years ago with no experience and grown into mature organic winemakers. Sal knows a lot from history, science, engineering, philosophy, you name it, and it is a big fun taking to him. My French colleagues said it was a spectacular trip! I will visit this place again.
Great Winery
The best winery ever, amazing views, friendly and welcoming family
Nestled atop the serene hills of Moraga, Captain Vineyards is a hidden gem that beckons wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As you approach, the family-operated vineyard unfolds like a page from a storybook, with verdant vines stretching across the landscape, kissed by the Californian sun.The vineyard's commitment to organic practices is evident in every sip of their exquisite wines. Each bottle tells a tale of the land, the care, and the passion that goes into its creation. But what truly sets Captain Vineyards apart is the warmth of its people and the familial atmosphere they cultivate.As you wander the vineyard, you might be lucky enough to cross paths with Cleopatra, the vineyard's adorable canine ambassador. With her soft fur and endearing eyes, she's hard to resist, especially if you're armed with her favorite treat – cheese.The skies above are a theater of nature's beauty. Hawks gracefully glide over the rolling hills, their silhouettes painting a picture of freedom and majesty. The occasional bluejay adds a splash of color, their vibrant plumage contrasting beautifully against the green backdrop.Mr. Captain, with his vast knowledge and affable nature, is always eager to share the intricacies of winemaking. His stories weave through the history of the vineyard, the nuances of each wine, and the organic practices that make their offerings so special. Every conversation with him is an education, a journey through the world of wines.Captain Vineyards is not just a place to visit; it's an experience to cherish. It's where nature, passion, and family come together to create magic. One visit is simply not enough; this enchanting vineyard will call you back, time and time again.In the realm of wines and memories, Captain Vineyards stands tall, a beacon of authenticity and love. Cheers to many more visits and many more memories! ?
My family and I had a wonderful time at Captain Vineyards. Sal and Susan gave us a very warm welcome and provided lots of great information about the winemaking process and the region. The wine and snacks were just as good as the service. I hope to visit again soon.
Beautiful vineyard overlooking the rolling golden hills of California! Call ahead to book a tasting of several delightful wines. Learn a little about all the grapes and the winemaking process from the wonderful hosts!
Restaurantji Recommends
Absolutely wonderful experience! Both Sal and Susan are super knowledgeable and passionate about what they do! The setting is just so cozy and welcoming & the wine was lovely as well! So very recommended! Thank you for the best experience we could have asked for! ❤️
Very great experience! The family who runs the place is so nice. Plus the area is just gorgeous. I highly suggest checking captain vineyards out!
What an amazing experience!!! Sal and Susan welcomed us to their vineyard, shared wine, and created a delightful charcuterie board. Our small group found so many connections...four of them worked at Adac in the 80s including Sal, the winemaker.
We visited this place for the first time for a friend visiting the US. When we arrived, I was a little embarrassed because I couldn't find the signboard, but I found out that it was such a private space. A really beautiful and peaceful hideout. A secret space you want to hide... Literally, even if there are people who haven't been there, it's a beautiful winery that no one seems to have been to only once. Five stars isn't worth it. You will be greeted by friendly owners and really cute puppies... Strongly recommended!
Captain Vineyards is a hidden gem of SF Bay Area. We were warmly received by Sal and Susan and their wonderful furry friend! Sal spent a lovely afternoon with us and told us the history of their vinery and life stories as well. He’s such a knowledgeable, warm and thoughtful host. It was the day before my boyfriend’s birthday and Sal even gave us a beautiful bottle of Petite Sirah as his birthday gift ???? ????
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