Moonstone Crossing Winery

History

Moonstone Crossing is a winery with an unconventional setup—while the tasting room sits in the laid-back coastal town of Trinidad, the grapes themselves hail from some of California’s most renowned regions, including Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, and Amador. This allows winemakers Don Bremm and Sharon Hanks to source the best fruit while keeping their winemaking process local to the North Coast.

The winery takes a meticulous approach to winemaking, aging all red wines in French and American oak for 22 to 36 months before bottling. Unlike many large-scale operations, Moonstone Crossing avoids pumping, fining, or filtering its wines, relying instead on traditional methods to preserve the character and complexity of each varietal. The result? Rich, layered wines with bold flavors that reflect both their origins and the careful craftsmanship behind them.

Winemakers

Winemakers Don Bremm and Sharon Hanks bring a hands-on, small-batch philosophy to Moonstone Crossing. They focus on crafting full-bodied reds with depth and character, letting the fruit shine through while embracing the influence of oak aging. Their selection includes a robust lineup of varietals like Sangiovese, Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and even lesser-seen grapes like Nebbiolo, Aglianico, and Pinotage.

In addition to single varietals, Moonstone Crossing offers five unique blends inspired by European winemaking traditions: Spanish style, Rhône style, Bordeaux style, Super Tuscan style, and Italian Piedmont style. Their dedication to these styles speaks to their love of winemaking as both an art and a science.

For those who prefer white wines, the winery also produces intriguing options like Falanghina, Albariño, Malvasia Bianca, and Vermentino—varietals that thrive in Mediterranean climates but are rarely seen in California.

The Property

While Moonstone Crossing doesn’t have a vineyard onsite, its tasting room is nestled in the heart of Trinidad, just moments from the rugged beauty of California’s northern coastline. Visitors may not be sipping among the vines, but the trade-off is an opportunity to pair a tasting with a walk along the cliffs overlooking the Pacific.

The tasting room itself has a casual, inviting atmosphere, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in, take your time, and explore a wide range of wines without any rush.

Trinidad, California

Be sure to spend some time and visit the town. Perched along California’s rugged North Coast, Trinidad is a small seaside town with breathtaking ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and a laid-back charm. Known for its scenic beaches, including Moonstone Beach and Trinidad State Beach, the town is a haven for outdoor lovers, offering opportunities for tide pooling, kayaking, and hiking along the coastal bluffs. Trinidad’s harbor, one of California’s smallest but most picturesque, serves as a gateway for local fishing and crabbing. Despite its tiny population, the town boasts a rich cultural history, with strong ties to the Yurok Tribe, whose presence in the region dates back thousands of years. Visitors can explore the Trinidad Head Lighthouse, sample fresh seafood, or simply take in the stunning ocean vistas. Whether you’re sipping wine at Moonstone Crossing or enjoying a sunset over the Pacific, Trinidad captures the essence of California’s wild, untamed beauty.

Tasting Options

Moonstone Crossing offers an approachable and budget-friendly tasting experience, with prices ranging from $5 to $15. This makes it easy to explore their diverse selection without a hefty price tag.

For larger groups (six or more), reservations are highly encouraged. Private tastings can be arranged upon request by calling Hayley at (503)-778-0361.

Conclusion

Moonstone Crossing Winery is a hidden treasure for wine lovers who appreciate bold reds and small-batch craftsmanship. While it may not have the sprawling vineyards of Napa or Sonoma, it makes up for it with a welcoming atmosphere, a well-curated selection of wines, and a location that invites you to linger and explore. If you find yourself in Trinidad, a stop at Moonstone Crossing is well worth your time—just don’t forget to take a stroll down to the coast with a bottle in hand.