In the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, perched above the vibrant town of Los Gatos, lies an offering so rare and exceptional it redefines the concept of a luxury homesite. This is not merely land; it is a sprawling, ready-to-build canvas for a trophy estate, an exclusive entry into the legendary Black Ridge Vineyard Estates. Spanning over 23 acres across four distinct, legal parcels, this listing is the ultimate confluence of privacy, prestige, and unparalleled natural beauty, all while remaining mere minutes from the sophisticated pulse of Silicon Valley.
For the visionary seeking to establish an enduring family compound, an elite corporate retreat, or a spectacular private winery, this package of properties represents a generational acquisition. It is a chance to not only own a piece of Los Gatos but to secure its commanding high ground, offering world-class vineyard and panoramic views that stretch from the reservoir to downtown San Jose.
The Promise of Black Ridge Vineyard Estate: An Exclusive 23+ Acre Domain
Black Ridge Vineyard Estates is an established, private, and gated 8-lot subdivision, a community where exquisite custom homes have been crafted over the last two decades. Now, for the first time, an unprecedented opportunity has emerged: the sale of four of the subdivision’s most prized remaining parcels, available for purchase as a cohesive $14,200,000 package or individually.
The four parcels, which range in size from a substantial 3.5 acres up to an expansive 11.08 acres, offer maximum flexibility and development potential.
| Address | Acres # | Parcel # | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18570 | 11.08 | 544-58-012 | $4,600,000 |
| 18590 | 4.92 | 544-58-013 | $4,600,000 |
| 18700 | 3.50 | 544-58-014 | $2,600,000 |
| 18650 | 4.00 | 544-58-015 | $2,400,000 |
| Total | 23.50 | $14,200,000 |
The foundation for a truly effortless construction process has already been meticulously laid. The attention to detail is evident in the existing infrastructure, which includes underground utilities and completed street improvements. Furthermore, all necessary preliminary reports are readily available, giving a prospective buyer a significant head start on design and permitting, including:
- Topography (Topo) Reports
- Engineering Reports
- Percolation Tests (Perc) Tests
- Geotechnical Reports
The community is governed by CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions), ensuring that the future custom homes built here maintain the neighborhood’s established quality and aesthetic integrity, protecting your investment for decades to come.
Perhaps the most valuable amenity, given the semi-mountainous location, is the robust water infrastructure. The eight parcels collectively own a Mutual State Small Water Company, which is reliably supplied by six on-site wells. This independence from municipal water supply offers peace of mind and the resources necessary to support the extensive landscaping and, most importantly, the world-class vineyard land this elevation is known for.
Vineyard Leadership and Philosophy
Vineyard Manager Bill Brosseau is an advocate of a minimalist, organic approach to viticulture, focusing on methods that allow the fruit's inherent character and the unique terroir of our estate to be fully expressed.
Mr. Brosseau has an exceptional and verified track record, having crafted over 2,000 wines scoring 90+ points from leading publications, including Wine Spectator, The Wine Advocate, Wine Enthusiast, and International Wine Review. His recent achievements include contributing to Testarossa Winery's recognition as 'Winery of the Year' in 2020 and securing 'White Wine of the Year' in the 2021 Connoisseur’s Guide to California Wine. His commitment to capturing the authenticity and essence of the vineyard is evident in every wine he produces.
Estate Terroir and Varietals
The Black Ridge Vineyards estate benefits from an ideal geographic orientation and elevation. This positioning offers protection from harsh coastal winds and lingering fog, ensuring the vines receive full-day sun exposure. The local microclimate is further enhanced by the proximity of the Lexington Reservoir, located half a mile below the vineyard. These optimal growing conditions are instrumental in producing consistently high-quality fruit.
The following varietals are currently cultivated on the estate: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec.
Historical Context and Future Direction
The land now occupied by Black Ridge Vineyards has deep historical roots in viticulture, with original plantings dating back to the mid-nineteenth-century California wine boom. Following a period where the land was converted to prune trees during Prohibition and later operated as a Christmas tree farm, the current partners purchased the property in 1999and returned it to its original purpose by replanting grapes.
After 20 years of dedicated effort growing high-quality grapes and producing estate wines, Black Ridge Vineyards has made the difficult decision to cease production of Black Ridge Vineyards labeled wine in 2022. Moving forward, our focus will remain entirely on vineyard management and grape cultivation. We will continue to grow the highest quality fruit to sell to local area wineries, ensuring that our unique terroir will still be reflected in the wines found at local tasting rooms.
A Lifestyle of Pristine Wilderness and Tranquility
The defining feature of Black Ridge is its location. It offers the secluded, meditative tranquility of a mountain retreat while being situated just one exit away from Downtown Los Gatos. This perfect balance is what makes Los Gatos one of the Bay Area’s most coveted addresses.
Crucially, the property is situated at the gateway to some of the region’s most spectacular open spaces, fulfilling the deep desire for connection with nature that so many Bay Area residents crave.
The Los Gatos Creek Trail & Lexington Reservoir
Directly accessible from the area is the famous Los Gatos Creek Trail. This paved path is the recreational spine of the town, offering miles of scenic routes perfect for running, biking, or a peaceful evening stroll, leading from the reservoirs all the way into the charming downtown area.
A stone’s throw from the estate is the Lexington Reservoir County Park, a 950-acre haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Centered around a beautiful 338-acre man-made reservoir, the park is a hub for activity. Residents enjoy shoreline fishing, boating (non-gas powered vessels like kayaks and canoes are permitted), and a vast network of hiking and mountain biking trails. This is where you trade the boardroom for the boat launch and the keyboard for the kayak paddle.
Majestic Open Space Preserves
The listing specifically notes the proximity to Open Space Preserves, and the options here are magnificent:
- St. Joseph's Hill Open Space Preserve: Serving as a dramatic backdrop to Los Gatos, this 273-acre preserve offers quick access to the wilderness. Its trails, including the popular Jones Trail, provide stunning hilltop views of the Lexington Reservoir and the valley below. It's a favorite for hikers, dog walkers, and equestrians looking for a quick, invigorating escape.
- Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve: Just a few miles south, this massive 1,430-acre preserve is a wonderland of towering second-growth redwood forests, Douglas fir, and oak woodland. With over 10 miles of trails meandering along perennial creeks, it offers a deeper immersion into the coastal ecosystem. Visitors can explore the Upper Lake Interpretive Walk, witness local wildlife (including bats and salamanders), and hike trails like the steep Alma Trail up to Madrone Knoll for breathtaking views.
These preserves ensure that the serenity and pristine environment surrounding Black Ridge are protected forever, guaranteeing a clean, green, and quiet backdrop for your custom estate.
Downtown Los Gatos: Culinary Excellence and Community Charm
The proximity of Black Ridge Vineyard Estates to Downtown Los Gatos—just one exit down Highway 17—means the exclusive tranquility of the mountain retreat can be instantly swapped for the vibrant, picturesque energy of one of Silicon Valley’s most highly-regarded towns.
Downtown Los Gatos is a charming and historic village hub, known for its tree-lined streets, boutique shopping, and an extraordinary culinary scene that rivals any major city. For a future resident of Black Ridge, these world-class restaurants will be your local favorites:
A Taste of the World on Santa Cruz Avenue
The dining landscape here caters to sophisticated palates, offering everything from classic American steakhouse fare to innovative international cuisine:
- Dio Deka: An upscale, Michelin-recognized Greek/Mediterranean restaurant that transports diners with authentic flavors, exceptional service, and an extensive list of Greek wines. It is an ideal spot for a celebratory evening.
- Forbes Mill Steakhouse: A local institution for the finest cuts of meat and seafood, offering a stylish and comfortable environment perfect for power dinners or a romantic date night.
- Telefèric Barcelona: For a more vibrant, modern experience, this Spanish tapas restaurant brings the festive energy of Barcelona to Los Gatos, complete with iconic small plates and signature sangria.
- Oak & Rye: A local favorite for a more casual, yet still high-end, meal. They specialize in delicious wood-fired pizza with perfectly charred thin crusts, handcrafted cocktails, and small plates.
- The Lexington House: Known for its modern take on seasonal Californian cuisine and its handcrafted cocktail menu, this gastropub offers a trendy, approachable atmosphere.
Whether you're looking to enjoy a casual coffee at one of the many local cafes, browse the boutiques along Santa Cruz Avenue, or host a client at a fine-dining establishment, Downtown Los Gatos delivers a quality of life unmatched in the region.
The Unbeatable Investment: Los Gatos Schools
For families, the value proposition of Black Ridge Vineyard Estates is compounded by its location within the coveted Los Gatos School District. The schools in this area are consistently ranked among the best in California, providing an exceptional educational pathway from primary grades through high school.
The appeal of this school district is a major driver of Los Gatos’s sustained property values and desirability. Investing in Black Ridge is not just an investment in land and luxury; it is an investment in your family's future, secured by one of the state's most sought-after public education systems. This factor significantly enhances the long-term desirability and liquidity of any estate built within this prestigious community.
Be The Visionary
Black Ridge Vineyard Estates represents the zenith of Silicon Valley mountain luxury—a rare, established, and fully-vetted opportunity. It is a chance to build not just a house, but a legacy, on land that offers both world-class privacy and immediate access to the Bay Area’s finest recreational and cultural amenities.
From the quiet contemplation of a mountain morning, overlooking your own vineyard land with the sun rising over the valley, to an evening of unparalleled culinary indulgence downtown, the life offered here is truly unique. The infrastructure is ready, the CC&Rs are in place, the views are spectacular, and the location is irreplaceable.
This is the moment to select your favorite parcel—ranging from 3.5 to 11.08 acres—or acquire the entire 23+ acre package and realize the full potential of this magnificent property.
Don't miss the chance to own a piece of Los Gatos's most exclusive hilltop. Contact us today to explore this unparalleled opportunity.
Paul Burrowes, CRS, CCEC, SFR, NHCP, LHC, REALTOR® Licensed REALTOR® with over 15 years of experience and expertise. Commits to being on time and transparent. Acts as your consultant to ensure you make the best decisions to fit your transaction at every step in the process. Negotiates towards a low-stress, win-win outcome. Handles all the details for you, ensuring the hundreds of steps in your real estate transaction go smoothly. Proudly serving Silicon Valley, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Santa Clara Counties! | DRE# 01955563 | (408)497-3989 | paul@burrowes.com.
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