The Riva Ranch Series highlights exceptional wines from the renowned Riva Ranch vineyard in Arroyo Seco, Monterey, a cornerstone of Wente family winemaking since the 1960s.
Shaped by a cool coastal climate and gravelly loam soils, these wines deliver elegance, depth, and the signature quality of Wente Vineyards.
Karl L. Wente pioneered winegrowing in Monterey County’s Arroyo Seco region in 1961, drawn to its cool climate, rocky soils, and ideal growing conditions.
Today, Arroyo Seco is celebrated for producing intensely flavored wines with vibrant character, particularly Chardonnay and other cool-climate varieties.
At first glance, a whole grilled fish might seem like the kind of recipe reserved for professional chefs or adventurous home cooks. But Chef Leigh Orleans’ Whole Grilled Snapper with Tomato Salad proves that an elegant, restaurant-quality dish can be surprisingly simple to make at home. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss — making it perfect for impressing guests or elevating a weeknight dinner. Paired with the rich, well-balanced Wente Family Vineyards Riva Ranch Chardonnay, it’s a seasonal showstopper that celebrates the best of California’s Central Coast flavors.
Looking for the perfect summer appetizer to impress your guests? This burrata and roasted cherry tomato tart on crusty Italian bread is a simple yet elegant dish packed with rich, savory flavor. Roasted balsamic tomatoes and creamy burrata come together with golden garlic bread for a show-stopping starter that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Best of all, this easy appetizer recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of Wente Vineyards Chardonnay. Its bright acidity and subtle fruit notes complement the richness of the burrata and the sweetness of the roasted tomatoes, making it an ideal pairing for summer entertaining, outdoor dinners, or wine and cheese nights. Try this flavorful and fresh burrata tart recipe with our signature Chardonnay wine for an unforgettable food and wine experience.
2024 Riva Ranch Chardonnay, 91 points
Sharp and yet floral aromas of lemon peel, plumeria and pineapple align on the nose of this bottling. The palate is slightly viscous and thick in mouthfeel, as mango and citrus flavros work into a harmonious balance.
Matt Kettmann, Wine Enthusiast
2023 Riva Ranch Pinot Noir, 92 points
A lighter hue in the glass, this bottling offers cranberry, rusty fence and tumbleweed aromas on the pleasantly rustic nose. The palate is more opulent, offering baked strawberry, nutmeg and more sanguine flavors.
Matt Kettmann, Wine Enthusiast
2024 Riva Ranch Rose, 93 points
A spring garden of wildflowers seduces the palate. Fresh, ripe melon, orange peel, and plumeria are further enhanced by bright acidity. A rosé to remember!
Meridith May, The Tasting Panel
2023 Riva Ranch Chardonnay, 90 points
Minty white flower aromas meet with tart green apple and toasty oak notes on the nose of this bottling. There’s a decent tension to start the sip, which evolves into baked apple and roasted nut flavors.
Matt Kettmann, Wine Enthusiast
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