Fortino Winery and Event Center 4525 Hecker Pass Highway • Gilroy • California 95020

Acres of vineyards, rolling hills, giant redwoods … you'll feel the smile on your face and the lift in your spirits even on the approach to Fortino Winery and Event Center. Located along the Santa Clara Wine Trail, this family-owned and community-oriented establishment has been producing fine wine and equally fine celebrations for decades.

Gatherings generally unfold on the lovely Redwood Terrace directly behind the winery. A popular summer music venue, it also happens to be just the spot for wedding ceremonies, receptions, and other social and corporate events. A low stage backed by towering redwoods provides the perfect focal point for the huge patios and vast sweep of lawn. In summer, a full vineyard sunshade keeps things cool. Sheer enough to shield without blocking your view of the sky, it's accented by market lights that add twinkle to the wink of the moon and the stars.

The variety of spacious settings affords plenty of room for dining, games, entertainment, and dancing. What's remarkable, though, is that this large expanse of patio and lawn has such an intimate backyard feel. Maybe it's the redwood fence or the flowerbeds … or, perhaps it's special touches like the little memorial apple tree where cherished family members are quietly remembered that lend it such warmth. Whatever the reason, you'll definitely feel at home—whether you're a bride in the glamorous bride's room, a groom enjoying a toast with a few special friends under the front patio arbor, or early arrivals sampling a flight of Fortino's award-winning wines in the rusticly charming tasting room. Adults and kids can even play bocce ball and kick back at the picnic tables beneath the giant eucalyptus trees next to the vineyard.

And, if for some reason dining and dancing outdoors is not in your cards, you can move the party indoors and celebrate in the handsome Barrel Room. Entrance is through the broad, 40-foot-high Barrel Door, made by owner Gino Fortino. Comprised of wood from 60-year-old barrels, it has magnificent hand-hewn, wrought-iron hinges. Gino is also responsible for the simple and—according to past guests—simply delicious menu offerings made and served up on the premises. In keeping with the winery's Old World roots, food here is Italian style. Your choices include hors d'oeuvres, the Classic Italian buffet, Fortino's own Dinner Buffet, or their Family Style or Wine Country Dinner.

One thing you're sure to notice: Wherever you are on this property, the welcoming vibe is uncanny. It's as if Gino is personally inviting you to relax, while the winery's kind and attentive staff help him carry on the family tradition of hospitality. It's no wonder wedding couples and other guests come back often over the years for birthdays, anniversaries, holiday parties—eventually even their own children's weddings … and a whole new generation of fun.