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Contemporary jazz superstar Dave Koz calls the Mountain Winery “one of the greatest venues in America.”
“It might not be that easy to get up there,” the platinum-selling saxophonist says. “But once you get up there, you never want to leave.”
Indeed, this mountaintop venue is nothing short of breathtaking. Part of that has to do the historic venue itself, which was built in 1901 and was known for years as the Paul Masson Mountain Winery. Many people may remember the winery’s famous TV slogan, voiced by Orson Welles: “We will sell no wine before its time.”
It’s such a significant spot that on both the California Historical Landmark and National Register of Historic Places rosters. But the view from the venue may well be the biggest draw: Music lovers get stunning, sweeping views of the South Bay.
The 2,500-capacity outdoor amphitheater hosts a variety of artists, representing everything from country to R&B and classic rock. Martina McBride, Diana Krall, Brian Wilson, ABC, Bryan Ferry, Ella Fitzgerald and Stevie Wonder are among the acts that have performed at the winery over the years. Here’s what you need to know before you go:
2019 concert highlights
Best bets include Kool & the Gang and Evelyn “Champagne” King Aug. 1; Jackson Browne Aug. 13-14; Boz Scaggs and Aaron Neville Aug. 19; the Beach Boys Sept. 8; Steely Dan Sept. 17-18; Diana Krall Sept. 22; and Earth, Wind & Fire Sept. 24-25.
Also highly anticipated: The return of Dave Koz on July 20 and Duran Duran’s visit on Sept. 10-11. Check out the full season lineup announcement here.
Where to eat before a show
Mountain Winery is located well away from the hustle and bustle of Silicon Valley — it’s part of its charm. That means there aren’t restaurants right next to the venue, but downtown Saratoga is a scant three miles away with plenty to offer on the culinary front, from a fine-casual venture from a Michelin-starred chef to a gourmet burger sliders joint. Here are three tasty possibilities in town.
If you choose to eat at the venue, which allows for more time to enjoy the amazing views, there’s an impressive new, gourmet lineup for the 2019 season. San Francisco’s Global Gourmet Catering has brought in everything from prix fixe dining to wood-fired pizzas and celebrity chef desserts. You’ll find all the details here.
Parking and transportation
The vast majority of people who go to the Mountain View drive and park at the venue’s big lot. General parking is $25 per car. Find more information on the venue’s parking page.
Traffic isn’t usually much of an issue getting to the show — at least not once you get into the Saratoga area — although it can slow down a bit going up Pierce Road. But note that getting out of the parking lot after a show can be a real bear. Make a beeline for your car after the performance to get a jump start on the crowd, or plan to dawdle a bit.
What you can (and can’t) bring in
Needless to say, weapons are banned here, and so are electronics, professional cameras, computers, tablets and recording devices (cell phones are allowed), outside food and beverages, signs, coolers, selfie sticks, and bags that are more than 12 inches in length, 12 inches wide and 8 inches high. (You’ll find more specifics on the venue website.) On the OK list: One sealed bottle of water and bags smaller than the 12x12x8 mentioned above.
The nitty gritty
The Mountain Winery is located at 14831 Pierce Road in Saratoga. Find tickets and show schedules at mountainwinery.com.
