Dreyfus Peninsula Volume 2 Issue 2

LUXURY HOMES AND LIFESTYLES AROUND THE PENINSULA / SPRING 2016

The

PENINSULA

SILICON VALLEY ESTATE ATHERTON’S HISTORICAL FENNWOOD ESTATE SAN FRANCISCO GETAWAYS

O F F M A R K E T E XC LU S I V E I N C R E S C E NT PA R K , PA LO A LTO Extensively renovated in 2010, a classic exterior artfully blends into a contemporary interior showcasing modern materials and an ideal setting for outdoor living and entertaining.

6 bedrooms, office, fitness room | 4 full baths, 2 half-baths Approx. 6,500 sq. ft. on 3 levels | Approx. 17,000 sq. ft. lot | One mile to downtown Palo Alto Offered at $9,950,000

SHENA HURLEY 650.575.0991 shena.hurley@sothebysrealty.com License No. 01152002

SUSIE DEWS 650.302.2639 susie.dews@dreyfussir.com License No. 00781220

Downtown Palo Alto 728 Emerson Street, Palo Alto | 650.644.3474 Downtown Menlo Park 640 Oak Grove Avenue, Menlo Park | 650.847.1141 dreyfussir.com | Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

ABOUT US As founder of Dreyfus Properties, I have spent the last 25 years helping people move to and within this place I feel so lucky to call home.

I’ve worked to assemble experienced, professional, can-do agents who love living here as much as I do, and who pride themselves on their intimate knowledge of the ever changing, and sometimes challenging, housing market.

SILICON VALLEY ESTATE

A few years ago, we joined Sotheby’s International Realty. Now our clients get the best of all worlds: a boutique brokerage with an insider’s knowledge of the premium neighborhoods and home values in this area, combined with the professionalism, depth of experience and superior marketing of an established global network.

Contents SPRING 2016 6 31

This magazine is our tribute to living on the Peninsula — a chance to showcase some of the finest homes available for sale, highlight the neighborhoods that make this area unique, as well as share current trends in local design, style, art, and wine.

LOCAL INSIGHTS

20

SPOTLIGHT Q&A

ARTS & CULTURE

Gamble Garden Spring Tour 6 Chris Romero, Romero Construction 8

Two Worlds of San Francisco

32

11

SPECIAL GETAWAYS

Explore San Francisco

The Alpine Inn 11 Great Palo Alto Hikes 12 The Food Trucks of Menlo Park 14

35

VINTAGE

18

Gems in the Woodside Hills

PROPERTIES OF NOTE

Atherton’s Historical Fennwood Estate 18 Silicon Valley Estate 20

Founder Michael Dreyfus Michael Dreyfus, Broker/Owner Dreyfus Sotheby’s International Realty If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

Publisher/Sales Sandie Timm

The

Managing Editor Toni Sieling

Contributing Writers Laura Ness, Kathy Cordova, Marianne Lipanovich

Finance Manager Lacey Ragland

Contributing Photographers Andi Gutmans

Creative Director Phong Giang

Distribution Susan Foster

PENINSULA

Printer HomeFolio Media

Dreyfus Sotheby’s International Realty 728 Emerson St, Palo Alto, CA 94301 | 640 Oak Grove Ave, Menlo Park, CA 94025

Downtown Menlo Park 640 Oak Grove Avenue, Menlo Park | 650.847.1141 dreyfussir.com | Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

S I LI CO N VA L L E Y E S TATE Resort-like estate in a bucolic setting in Los Altos Hills, one of Silicon Valley’s exclusive residential communities. The 20,000 sf home on 8+ acres is designed for entertaining on both a corporate and personal level for events in the tens or hundreds.

Amenities include an indoor swimming pool with a retractable roof, massage room, movie theatre, vineyard, wine cellar and tasting room.

The home features a freestanding office building perfect for board meetings or other business needs.

Easy access to San Francisco and San Jose airports make the home a perfect West Coast hub for its owner. This is a secure and private retreat from which to welcome guests and explore all California has to offer. $88,000,000

PROPERTIES.DREYFUSSIR.COM/LOSALTOSHILLS CONTACT MICHAEL DREYFUS 650.485.3476

SPOTLIGHT

Q&A

Gamble Garden Spring Tour Dreyfus Sotheby’s International Realty is proud to be a major sponsor of this community-building event.

INTERVIEW WITH VANESSA ROACH, GAMBLE GARDEN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

BY NOELLE QUEEN, GAMBLE GARDEN VOLUNTEER

Tucked away on just under three acres in Old Palo Alto, The Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden is a precious and uncommon resource for the entire surrounding community. This historic home and garden has a rich history of generosity, education and beauty. The Garden is open to the public every day of the year during daylight hours and admission is free of charge.

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PURCHASING TICKETS AND TIPS Tickets can be purchased online at GambleGarden.org. Pre-ordered tickets are discounted and can be picked up at Gamble Garden on the day of the tour.

If ordered before April 15 the tickets will be mailed to your home. There are also tickets available the day of the tour.

TIP 1: Delicious boxed lunches are sold in advance and can be enjoyed at one of the tables set up in the garden at Gamble. They can also be taken “to go.”

Enjoying lunch at Gamble Garden during the tour has become a tradition for many annual attendees.

TIP 2: A Spring Tour booklet will be given to you when you visit your first garden.

This is a great resource that includes a map of all the featured gardens. Detailed descriptions highlight some of the special plantings at each property. There is also a map that highlights all that is happening at Gamble Garden itself.

How did the Gamble Garden Spring Tour originate?

The first Spring Tour was in 1985 when Gamble Garden was in need of funding and the garden was in the process of rejuvenation. One of the members had a revolutionary idea to sponsor a garden tour, invite everyone in town, sell tickets and hold the event in a private Palo Alto garden. At that moment a cherished community tradition was born. Today, more than 20 percent of the annual operating budget of this not-for-profit organization comes from the proceeds of the Spring Tour.

How many gardens are on the tour and how are they selected?

There are five private Palo Alto gardens on the tour this year. Our Spring Tour Committee begins its search for gardens immediately after the conclusion of the current tour. Once the first garden is selected and committed, another garden in the same general location is targeted. This allows attendees to walk from one garden to the next. Usually, at least one garden is within walking distance of Gamble Garden itself. Naturally, gardens are considered for their beauty, the feeling they convey and the variety they offer. We are always on the lookout for new and interesting ideas being implemented in gardens throughout the city.

What is going on at Gamble Garden during the tour, Friday, April 29 & Saturday, April 30?

Visitors to Gamble Garden during Spring Tour are in for a real treat! There is a Marketplace set up with more than 15 vendors selling everything from one-of-akind jewelry to gourmet treats. The committee also puts on an upscale rummage sale called “Over the Garden Fence” — a treasure seeker’s paradise. Gamble also holds an ever-popular Plant Sale featuring many of the plants found in the gardens featured on the Tour. Horticultural resources, live-music, pre-ordered box lunches and complimentary refreshments make Gamble Garden a very special place to be during the annual tour.

TIP 3: “Over the Garden Fence” is so much more than a rummage sale.

The items collected by this committee throughout the year are truly exceptional.

I highly recommend stopping by to check out the way these donated treasures are displayed.

TIP 4: Enjoy striking up a conversation with one of the many artisans that will have displays at the Marketplace.

You never know who you may meet!

Last year, a former Palo Alto mayor displayed her paintings for sale inside the Gamble House.

TIP 5: Consider visiting a couple gardens on Friday and the others on Saturday. Many people find splitting the event into two days very enjoyable and more leisurely.

TIP 6: Most importantly, put the Gamble Spring Tour on your calendar today!

Whether you are an avid gardener, or just enjoy being outside in beautiful settings, you are sure to enjoy this special and memorable event.

Gamble Garden is located at 1431 Waverly Street in Palo Alto. For complete information, visit gamblegarden.org.

THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016 / 7

Chris Romero

CEO OF ROMERO CONSTRUCTION

SPOTLIGHT

Q&A

Chris Romero is a Peninsula home builder. We get his take on what’s happening in new construction.

You’ve been building homes on the Peninsula for 12 years. What’s the most important thing you’ve learned in that time about building a home?

I’ve been building homes since I was 17 years old, starting in New England. The most important thing I have learned since building on the Peninsula is how smart and particular our customers are. They excel at what they do and they expect us to excel at what we do. There is very little room for error. We are working with a lot of natural materials that move, breath, shrink, swell, have patterns, etc… We need to be able to explain how everything will come together so our clients can see it before we build it. They expect projects to be managed efficiently and executed perfectly.

To what extent does the desire for green resources impact your homes?

How have your homes evolved with more sustainable solutions?

I have a degree in Environmental Science so I have always been interested in incor-

8 / THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016

porating “green” building standards into our homes, even before it was trendy.

Building technology is advancing rapidly.

Homes are becoming more efficient each year and new codes are mandating more environmentally friendly materials and systems. Some of the green materials and processes are more expensive than standard so there is a fine balance for a lot of our customers between what is in their heart and what is in their purse.

Do you have a signature style?

Being from New England, I am drawn to Traditional stylings. I am a sucker for Victorians and Craftsman type homes.

But in the Bay Area, most of our work is Transitional — mixing classic and contemporary styles in the same home.

In the past couple of years, we’ve built a modern hacienda, a contemporary craftsman, and a daring modern home, among others. And we just started a mission-style home in Menlo Park. The diversity in styles and architecture keeps our work fresh and interesting.

What are the trends in building right now?

We are seeing a lot of open floor plans geared to modern family living where the kitchen, dining, entertaining, and play areas are all in close proximity to each other. Our customers want a seamless transition from the exterior to the interior of their homes so we are doing glass walls such as NanaWalls and Lift & Slide doors.

We’re also seeing an increase in demand for age-in-place features such as curbless showers and even elevators so people can stay in their homes later into life. And, of course, our customers want the latest and greatest in home automation.

What trends are losing favor?

The desire to build the largest house possible has slowed a bit. Customers are more interested in well designed spaces that meet their family’s needs. We’re also not seeing the desire for formal rooms.

Anything that limits light and space is frowned upon.

“I like a lot of light in a home and a little bit of whimsy a place where you feel like you can entertain and relax.”

What qualities do you most admire in a home?

I’m all about great design, great balance, and great flow. In a well built home, you can see how the collaboration of the whole team (client, architect, engineer, contractor, designer) combines to make it exceptional. I like a lot of light in a home and a little bit of whimsy — a place where you feel like you can entertain and relax.

What are clients most surprised by in the remodeling/building process?

There are a lot of things that surprise our clients. The most obvious is how costly it is to build or renovate a home. It is very expensive to build homes in California compared to the rest of the country.

Added to that, our clients tend to be drawn to very nice materials and finishes, so there is a lot of education around that.

A lot of clients are also surprised at how long the process of designing and building a home takes. It can take up to a year for design and permits, and one to two years for construction, depending on the size of a home. Another issue that comes up is navigating the bidding process and helping clients understand why bids can be all over the map.

What is your favorite house that you’ve built?

I really enjoyed the hacienda style home we recently completed – it is a great combination of style, design, and fun. The clients were super fun and very collaborative and it shows in the final product. The home has large pivot and sliding doors, an indoor-outdoor feel, happy, fun colors and a great fish tank! The whole process was a great experience and the final result was exceptional.

Favorite thing about living in Menlo Park?

Great people. My wife Margaret and I stumbled into Menlo Park by accident and now we would not want to live anywhere else. We have met so many good friends and clients through the school district.

We can be at the beach, in the city, or on a plane in no time. I always say, Menlo Park is a half hour to everywhere!

Any horror stories?

I’m happy to say I have no horror stories. I think carpenters and general contractors are, in general, people pleasers. At least I am. I go into every project loving my craft, giving it my very best, and wanting to show off our skills. Frankly, I want people to say “Wow!”

What advice do you give homeowners when choosing a builder?

First, find a good architect who listens to what you are saying. Spend the time and money with the architect to fully design your plans. And then keep the architect involved throughout the building process. Find a good builder early and engage them to help you fully build out the estimate for your home so you have a firm idea of what you will be spending. You will be spending a lot of time with your builder (I say it’s like dating!) so make sure you have chemistry and have compatible styles for conflict resolution. It should be a collaborative, wonderful process.

Best advice you ever got?

I have been blessed by some amazing mentors in my life. They have taught me the value of hard work, a thick skin, and honesty and integrity in my building process. Three lessons: (1) always be nice, (2) measure twice, cut once, and (3) my personal favorite, “Why is there never enough time to do it right, but there is always enough time to do it over?”

Chris Romero can be reached at 650.206.4511 or office@romeroconstruction.com THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016 / 9

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LOCAL INSIGHTS

The Alpine Inn

BY COLLEEN FORAKER

BURGERS, BREW, AND THE BIRTH OF EMAIL Silicon Valley is full of technological landmarks, like the “HP Garage” in Palo Alto, or the Mountain View residence where Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak built the first Apple Computer. But did you know that Portola Valley is also the birthplace of a historic technological development, one that most of us could not even imagine living without? It’s true – just inside an unassuming beer garden on the corner of Alpine and Arastradero, technological history was made. This beer garden is called the Alpine Inn, and it was the site of the first ever Internet transmission.

The Alpine Inn is quintessentially Silicon Valley – extremely casual, with a downto-earth selection of burgers and grilled sandwiches, along with a clientele that could easily be a mix of incognito Facebook millionaires, local ranchers, and motorcyclists passing through the area.

From the outside, it would be impossible to guess that this modest “roadhouse,” which originated in the days of the California Gold Rush, would be the site of such an illustrious technological accomplishment. Yet on August 27, 1976, scientists from SRI International in Menlo Park drove a van containing a mobile radio laboratory to the beer garden, which at the time was called Zot’s. The group then sat at one of the outdoor picnic tables with a computer terminal and successfully sent an electronic report – the first email – to SRI offices, and then all the way to Boston.

The setting is rustic, with picnic tables surrounded by big redwood trees and a creek babbling in the background. The menu is very basic, and probably contains the best bargains in all of Silicon Valley, with nothing costing more than ten dollars. The pub offers a wide range of both domestic and imported beers, with several on tap. I ordered the tuna on a grilled bun, served with a juicy tomato slice and fresh lettuce, and my husband had the BLT with thick, crispy bacon.

Having taken into account the dive-bar sort of ambiance (which is part of the charm!) we kept our expectations in check, but we were pleasantly surprised to find that our meals were not only large, but also tasty.

I drive by the Alpine Inn all the time and, though aware of its legendary status, I realized I’d never actually been inside. So I decided to stop by for an early dinner the other day to check it out for myself – and it did not disappoint.

The parking lot gives you a hint of what to expect in terms of its patronage, and on any given day you might see expensive racing bicycles, Harley Davidsons, Bentleys, and even horses, coexisting as effortlessly as their owners inside.

My final thoughts? The Alpine Inn is a fun, casual neighborhood hangout, steeped in local history, where you can

go for comfort food by yourself or with friends. It’s a place where there is no pretense and no one cares if you’re a high-tech mogul or a local retiree. As demonstrated by its long history, the Alpine Inn has been an important part of the community from the earliest settlers to the leading technologists of today. Stop by sometime to get a slice of Silicon Valley history, and a pretty good BLT.

“This beer garden is called the Alpine Inn, and it was the site of the first ever Internet transmission.”

The Alpine Inn 3915 Alpine Road, Portola Valley Open 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m. alpinebeergarden.com

COLLEEN FORAKER Dreyfus Sotheby’s International Realty 650.380.0085 colleen@colleenforaker.com License No. 01349099

Mountain Home Road, Woodside SOLD

Doris Drive, Menlo Park SOLD

W. Portola Avenue, Los Altos SOLD

THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016 / 11

LOCAL INSIGHTS

Great Palo Alto Hikes

BY MICHELLE TASER

Two of my absolute favorite things in life are my dogs and hiking. Going on a hike with my dogs and husband by my side, especially in the beautiful Palo Alto weather, is pure bliss.

Since my three Foxhounds are high-energy and need lots of regular physical activity, I spend plenty of time following my bliss! Here are a few of our favorite hikes: Baylands Nature Preserve Ranger Station / 2500 Embarcadero Road, Palo Alto Open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset The Baylands are especially nice to hike during the winter and spring months. If you go around dusk, you can see the gorgeous colors of the sunset when the Hayward Hills turn a spectacular purple. There’s plenty of wildlife, including hundreds of varieties of birds, plus jackrabbits racing through the bushes – my hounds love that! Some weekdays around 4 p.m., you might get lucky and see Sequoia, the Junior Museum and Zoo’s bald eagle, out with her handler for her daily exercise. It’s truly amazing to watch a bald eagle soar freely above your head!

Foothills Park 11799 Page Mill Road, Los Altos Hills Open daily for Palo Alto residents and their guests from 8 a.m. until sunset Although dogs are only allowed in the park on the weekdays, Foothills is a favorite because you can hike for miles (more than 15 miles of trails) without seeing another person. You truly get the feeling that you are far, far away from civilization, although it’s just a ten-minute drive from town. You have to be careful hiking in summer because there can be a lot of snakes, so we stick to winter and early spring hikes.

MICHELLE TASER Dreyfus Sotheby’s International Realty 650.575.7782 michelle.taser@dreyfussir.com License No. 01775122

12 / THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016

City Parks Palo Alto has 28 amazing parks! Our favorites for dog-walking are Greer, Hoover and Mitchell Parks. They all have fenced-in areas where dogs can play off-leash with their canine pals. The new Mitchell Park library is a wonderful pit stop along the way to that park, and their café is a great place to grab a quick bite to eat.

Bryant Street On Saturdays we love to walk from our home in Midtown to Downtown, have lunch and then walk back. We usually take the scenic Bryant Street (the bike lane street) and often meet neighbors along the way.

I hope you enjoy these hiking destinations, whether you go with friends, family or your four-legged pals. And if you see me along the way, please stop and say hi!

Nationally Ranked No. 155 Among the Top 250 Agents in the US by The Wall Street Journal / Real Trends

THE WALL STREET JOURNAL & REAL TRENDS

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BY AVERAGE SALES PRICE

Who wouldn’t want to have their cake and eat it too? I can show you how.

TAX STRATEGIES FOR SELLING Thinking of selling your primary residence but afraid of the CAPITAL GAINS TAX consequences?

Sell your home and pay ZERO TAXES.

CALL FOR A NO OBLIGATION CONSULTATION OMAR KINAAN, REALTOR® 650.776.2828 omar@kinaan.com License No. 01723115 Individual tax circumstances are unique, sellers are encouraged to seek the advice of their tax advisor.

Omar Kinaan is not a tax professional and does not offer tax or legal advice. Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

LOCAL INSIGHTS

The Food Trucks of Menlo Park

BY ANNETTE SMITH

When Dad wants barbecue, Mom wants sushi, the kids want burritos and everyone is too tired to cook, there is hope – at least if it’s a Monday or Wednesday night in Menlo Park.

Fun and variety are on the menu at two Menlo Park food truck events. You can find the food trucks at The Willows Market on Monday, and on Wednesdays, Off the Grid hosts food trucks and music at the Menlo Park Caltrain Station. I love the food trucks because I can try something different every week. The choices can range from Italian to Vietnamese to Mexican and more. But one of the things I love best about food truck nights is that whenever I go, I am sure to see old friends and make new ones.

I recently met John Capelo, owner of Capelo’s Barbecue. John is a Texas transplant who traded the world of fast-paced high finance for slow-cooked barbecue.

His cuisine is self-taught through trial and error, and that seems to be working, since business is booming. He attributes the growing popularity of food trucks in large part to families. “It’s a great way for families to get out of the house, enjoy a meal together and have some fun,” says John. “I have a young family – a six-yearold and a one-year-old and we don’t go to restaurants anymore, but we can enjoy eating outside at the food trucks.”

And the family ambiance isn’t just about the customers. Marvin Reyes can be found most evenings carrying his son Isaac in a front pack while entertaining his daughter, six-year-old Isabella, for whom his business, Izzy’s Cheesesteak, is named. Marvin left a real estate career to follow his passion for cheesesteaks

and people when he started Izzy’s Cheesesteaks. “I love food and I was always the one who cooked in the family,” he says.

Now he’s cooking for families all over the San Francisco Bay area at several events a week.

Nick Sharma, owner of The Willows Market, started the first food truck evenings in Menlo Park about two years ago when one of his customers expressed the wish for an easy, casual food option on Monday nights. “A lot of moms told us that they’re burned out after busy weekends fi lled with activities. We are a neighborhood market and there are a whole lot of houses nearby with kids.

The idea was to give people a place where they can enjoy different types of food and mingle in a nice gathering place,” says Nick. “It’s truly a family affair.”

THE FOOD TRUCKS THE WILLOWS MARKET The Willows Market / 60 Middlefield Rd. Mondays 4:30–8:30 p.m.

John Capelo, owner of Capelo’s Barbecue with Annette Smith at the Willows Market.

OFF THE GRID Menlo Park Caltrain Station / Merrill St. & Santa Cruz Ave. Wednesdays 5–8 p.m. (winter) / 5–9 p.m. (rest of the year)

ANNETTE SMITH Dreyfus Sotheby’s International Realty 650.766.9429 annette.smith@dreyfussir.com annettesmithhomes.com License No. 01180954 14 / THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016

1975 Avy Avenue, Menlo Park FOR SALE

9 Bishop Lane, 131 Hawthorne Ave #D, Menlo Park Menlo Park $3,275,000 | PENDING $899,000 | SOLD

COMING SOON

PORTOLA VALLEY VIEWS Located on a private cul de sac, this Portola Valley Ranch home has captivating views, a dramatic entry, gorgeous living room with vaulted ceiling, gourmet eat-in kitchen and multiple decks for entertaining. Portola Valley Ranch offers choice amenities including two pools, tennis courts, community garden, clubhouse, community garden, vineyard and expansive hiking trails and open space.

Mary Jo McCarthy, Realtor 速 650.400.6364 maryjo.mccarthy@dreyfussir.com maryjomccarthy.com License No. 01354295

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

JUST SOLD / 2843 ADELINE DRIVE, BURLINGAME Offered at $5,750,000 | Beds 5 | Baths 4.5 | Home ±5,200 sf | Lot ±0.5 acre

FOR SALE / 255 ROBIN WAY, MENLO PARK

COMING SOON

Offered at $2,195,000 | Beds 4 | Baths 2 | Home ±1,870 sf | Lot ±5,062 sf PALOMAR DR, REDWOOD CITY Beds 3 | Baths 2 Home ±1,690 sf | Lot ±11,832 sf JEFFERSON AVE, REDWOOD CITY Beds 3 | Baths 2 Home ±2,130 sf | Lot ±9,750 sf CEDAR ST, SAN CARLOS Beds 4 | Baths 3 (Plus Cottage w/ Bath) Home ±2,260 sf | Lot ±4,520 sf GORDON ST, REDWOOD CITY Beds 2 | Baths 1 (Plus Studio w/ Bath) Home ±920 sf | Lot ±5,772 sf CORK HARBOUR CL, REDWOOD SHORES Beds 2 | Baths 2 | Home ±1,136 sf

BRIAN AYER, SALES ASSOCIATE 650.242.2473 Brian.Ayer@sothebysrealty.com 650pro.com License No. 01870281 Each Offi ce is Independently Owned and Operated.

CRESCENT PARK 725 Center Drive, Palo Alto | 725center.com

Offered at $4,775,000 Beds 5 | Baths 4.5 Home ±3,424 sf | Lot ±9,376 sf

MICHAEL DREYFUS, BROKER 650.485.3476 michael.dreyfus@dreyfussir.com

NOELLE QUEEN, SALES ASSOCIATE 650.427.9211 noelle.queen@dreyfussir.com

ASHLEY BANKS, SALES ASSOCIATE 650.544.8968 ashley.banks@dreyfussir.com

License No. 01121795

License No. 01917593

License No. 01913361

Downtown Palo Alto 728 Emerson Street, Palo Alto | 650.644.3474 Downtown Menlo Park 640 Oak Grove Avenue, Menlo Park | 650.847.1141 dreyfussir.com | Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

PROPERTIES OF NOTE

Atherton’s Historical Fennwood Estate

BY MARIANNE LIPANOVICH

Down a long tree-lined driveway sits a private oasis of almost two beautifully manicured acres, yet at the same time you are standing only blocks from the bustle of downtown Menlo Park.

Owner William Grindley says, “It’s my park hidden in the city.”

IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK The Fennwood Estate has been a part of Atherton since the town’s beginnings. It was built in the 1880s, shortly after the town’s own recorded history began, and was originally known as La Foret. The list of owners reads like a Who’s Who of Atherton society, beginning with first owner Peter Spreckels, a member of the notable 19th-century family. The second owner was Captain Charles Goodall, founder of The Pacific Coast Steamship Company, and the home’s third owner was Albert Hahn, an inventor and a founder of the Circus Club.

By 1951, the home acquired its fourth owners, William and Helen Platt. When

they moved to Paris in the late 1960s, they unknowingly rented it to a commune. In 1972, their daughter, Susan, who grew up in the home, and her husband William Grindley, took over the home, saving it from the bulldozer by just one day, and they have meticulously maintained it for more than 40 years.

William Grindley, trained as an architect, has kept the home’s history in mind when any work has been needed. One example of his work involves the Queen Anne garlands that had decorated the front of the house until they were destroyed by ivy in the 1950s. In 2010, he made a mold from the garland that was still present

Albert Hahn and family, July 4, 1915, owners from 1909–1951

18 / THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016

on the balcony portion of the home, had more garlands made, then hand-painted and installed them.

In addition to housing some of Atherton’s leading families, the Fennwood Estate also served its country as home to a medical team during WWII when the US Army requisitioned and subdivided it into four apartments for doctors who worked at the hospital three blocks away. Not only did the home survive the war, it also managed to survive two earthquakes and has had its share of fame with a feature in the book Menlo Park, California: Beyond the Gate, a historical look at Menlo Park and Atherton over the course of 150 years.

Dining Room, immediately after 1909 Hahn remodeling

“The formal living room, dining room and grand ballroom feature the finest craftsmanship of the era with beadings, brackets, and dentil and egg-and-dart moldings.”

Living room (current) remodeled in 1909 by the Hahn family

VICTORIAN ERA GRANDEUR The home’s elegant interior reflects its origins. Victorian-era architecture greets visitors at the entry verandah, with its original 1885 lampposts and two large flowerpots that were a gift from the architect to the first owner, Mr. Spreckels.

The dramatic front door, crowned by a fanlight with gold-colored accents, opens onto a central foyer lighted by the stained glass skylight 26 feet above.

The formal living room, dining room and grand ballroom feature the finest craftsmanship of the era with beadings, brackets, and dentil and egg-and-dart

Dining Room, (current) retains original cut velvet wall covering and gold leaf, coffered ceiling

Ballroom, (current) 1929 faux shadowing of details & wall covering similar to 1909 remodeling

moldings. The mahogany-paneled dining room’s beautiful 1909 light fi xture remains the room’s focal point, even the original gas lighting is present though not working. Seven bedrooms, four full baths and an open kitchen complete the main house.

historic status. Since Atherton has not placed restrictions on the preservation of residential structures, this means that once the home welcomes its new owners, they can update it to any level. Whoever decides to call the Fennwood Estate home next, one thing is certain, it has quite a tale to tell them.

The home has a four-story Carpenter Gothic or Railroad Gothic–style attached tower which houses two bedrooms, two and one-half bathrooms, a classic smoking/billiards room and a top-story kitchen overlooking the grounds. What could be more romantic?

Although the home is historic – and has enjoyed quite a history – it does not have

The Fennwood Estate is offered for sale by Jakki Harlan of Dreyfus Sotheby’s International Realty. Reach her at 650.465.2180 or email jakki@jakkiharlan.com. Complete information on the Fennwood Estate is available at fenwoodestate.com THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016 / 19

PROPERTIES OF NOTE

A Resort of Your Own

EXECUTIVE ESTATE COMBINES HOME AND WORK

BY MARIANNE LIPANOVICH

Even in an area known for luxury estates, this Los Altos Hills retreat stands out. Set on more than eight acres overlooking the San Francisco Bay, its 20,400-square-foot luxury home, separate office space and resort-like grounds make it a private oasis conveniently located in a west coast hub that’s a jumping-off point for business and travel. “The ideal buyer is an international or national executive with local business needs in the 20 / THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016

Silicon Valley,” says Michael Dreyfus, the listing agent for the property. “They want a home where they can also hold business meetings, entertain clients and host guests.” This property perfectly blends all of these requirements into one stunning package. Perfection doesn’t come cheap, but Dreyfus points out that the features of this secure and private retreat make it worth its $88 million listing price.

A CONTEMPORARY HOME WITH HISTORIC ROOTS This home is a labor of love. The owners, a technology entrepreneur and his wife, spent years meticulously planning and painstakingly choosing every detail. As a result, each element in this home and the adjoining gardens is custom made or ordered from sources around the world, including the intricately carved wall screens in the entrance, the small pebble accents in the master bath, the Studio Becker cabinets in the kitchen, the wood floors from Italy and the curved windows made to fit into the curving walls that are found throughout the home.

The home also combines the best of both the past and the present. The Santa Barbara-inspired style with its hand-troweled exterior walls pays homage to the region’s history and roots while including the latest in cutting-edge technologies and amenities, all in a naturally flowing, organic space. As a bonus, sustainable building materials and techniques, including energy-efficient windows with glazing to protect the flooring and automatic shades and a geothermal heating and cooling system linked to the 54 wells on the property, ensure that the home is as “green” as possible.

Each element in this home and the adjoining gardens is custom made or ordered from sources around the world.

MODERN STYLE AND TRADITIONAL COMFORT The tree-lined drive off a quiet road that leads to an expansive entrance court with whimsical statues, a massive domed entry and a long, low house that is nestled into the hillside is the first indication that this estate is special. Once inside, the home is spacious and grand, but also warm and welcoming, the result of meticulous planning and painstaking attention to details.

The foyer provides the requisite grandeur with its one-of-a-kind screens and wall of windows overlooking the back garden and its centerpiece bell tower. Throughout the rest of the house, though, the grandeur is tempered by the use of natural materials, such as rich woods, stone and tile and the gentle curves of many of the walls, windows and ceilings. Though individual spaces are large enough to hold a crowd, they are also inviting for more intimate gatherings. Throughout the home, the rooms blend almost seamlessly with the outdoor space, a hallmark of the California lifestyle.

A closer look reveals the more subtle aspects of the home’s design. High ceilings and large windows ensure the space feels light and airy. Dramatic lighting highlights the outstanding features in each room and traditional window moldings have

been replaced by organic wood patterns that draw attention to the grounds beyond without compromising the light. Tiles, stones and subtle patterns are used as unexpected accents on floors and walls while warming fireplaces throughout the home add to the sense of well being. Comfortable seating and smaller gathering spots can be found throughout the space, and the combination of traditional and contemporary décor is tied together by the soft, neutral finishes throughout.

The other amenities in the home are equally impressive, starting with the five spacious bedrooms, each with its own private patio.

Four separate kitchens make it easy to cook a quiet family dinner or entertain hundreds of guests. A library, home theater, home gym and massage room are also part of the home. The 4,000bottle wine cellar and tasting room, complete with a contemporary wall-mounted water feature, includes wines bottled from grapes grown in the estate’s vineyards. No luxury home would be complete without a pool, and the salt-water pool in this home rivals some of the best in the world, with its adjacent spa, swim-up bar and an automated retractable roof that will close when it starts to rain.

THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016 / 21

GROUNDS FOR ENTERTAINING AND RELAXING The same thoughtfulness that went into the home’s design is reflected in the extensive landscaping. The property boasts seven different gardens, each with its own theme. By far the most immediately impressive is the back garden (pictured on front cover and page 20), which steps down to a semicircular patio overlooking the spectacular views of the valley below. Built-in fire pits and planters bisect the patio, providing color accents while adding warmth on chilly nights. Rows of lounge chairs and tables provide seating and optimize the views while the bell tower does double-duty as the garden’s focal point and a versatile spot for relaxing, dining or enjoying a live musical performance.

The other outdoor spaces are smaller and more private but equally inviting, often including seating, sculptures and fire features. A mix of lawn, plantings, paths and patios tie the spaces together. A closer look reveals that the same “green” sensibilities that were part of the house design have been repeated here.

Southwest natives and Mediterranean plants, with their reduced water needs, complement the more traditional lawns and flowers in a lush, climate-friendly landscape that is reminiscent of traditional European estates.

A PLACE FOR BUSINESS Just steps away from the main house, a standalone 1,000-squarefoot executive office provides a private workspace that can easily be used for executive meetings. The adjacent private patio and garden provide a secluded outdoor space and a balance between home and business life. The house and the grounds are also set up for large-scale corporate entertaining, with enough space to host gatherings for hundreds of guests and behind-the-scene advantages that include a separate catering kitchen and plenty of room for parking. It’s an easy freeway drive to both San Francisco and San Jose, and international airports and private jet services are readily available.

1,000 square-foot executive office

For home, business, entertaining and relaxing, this Los Altos Hills estate truly incorporates the best of all worlds.

This Silicon Valley Estate is offered for sale by Michael Dreyfus of Dreyfus Sotheby’s International Realty.

Reach him at 650.485.3476 or email michael.dreyfus@dreyfussircom.

22 / THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016

16 0 G R E E R ROA D, WOO D S I D E Wonderful Central Woodside location | Approximately 10.4 acres | Lovely western hill views Mostly level land | Pre-approved plans for a new home | Possible sub-divide Offered at $18,000,000

SHENA HURLEY 650.575.0991 shena.hurley@sothebysrealty.com License No. 01152002

SUSIE DEWS 650.302.2639 susie.dews@dreyfussir.com License No. 00781220

Downtown Palo Alto 728 Emerson Street, Palo Alto | 650.644.3474 Downtown Menlo Park 640 Oak Grove Avenue, Menlo Park | 650.847.1141 dreyfussir.com | Each OfďŹ ce is Independently Owned and Operated.

PARK CITY, UT MORE THAN A SKI TOWN

MANY PARK CITY PROPERTY OWNERS USED TO SKI IN TAHOE AND COLORADO UNTIL THEY DISCOVERED PARK CITY. CALL ME TO FIND OUT WHY!

LET SCOTT GUIDE YOU TO ENJOY THE PARK CITY LIFESTYLE

SCOTT MAIZLISH 435.901.4309 | MAIZLISH@GMAIL.COM | SCOTTMAIZLISH.COM Scott Maizlish | Summit Sotheby’s International Realty | 1750 Park Avenue | Park City, Utah 84060 USA

LIVE YOUR DREAM IN PARK CITY, UTAH • 35 MINUTE DRIVE TO SALT LAKE CITY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT • NORTH AMERICA’S LARGEST SKI RESORT

• 300+ INCHES OF ANNUAL SNOWFALL • YEAR-ROUND ACTIVITIES FOR THE OUTDOOR ENTHUSIAST

• PARK CITY HAS MORE THAN 7,300 ACRES OF SKI ABLE TERRAIN

• NINE GOLF COURSES IN A 20 MILE RADIUS

• DEER VALLEY HAS 2,026 ACRES OF SKI ABLE TERRAIN, 21 SKI LIFTS AND 101 TOTAL RUNS

• BIG CITY CULTURE—SMALL TOWN FEEL

®

• REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES • TOP 1% IN UTAH EDUCATION SYSTEM

©MMXV Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a licensed trademark to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates, Inc. An Equal Opportunity Company. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

Scott Maizlish | Summit Sotheby’s International Realty | 1750 Park Avenue | Park City, Utah 84060 USA

1565 VIVIAN LANE TAHOELAKESIDEHOME.COM

606 LAKESHORE BOULEVARD INCLINELAKESHORE.COM

121 MAYHEW CIRCLE LAKETAHOESKIHOME.COM

535 LODGEPOLE DRIVE LAKETAHOEWATERVIEW.COM

419 VALERIE DRIVE LAKETAHOEVIEWHOME.COM

Lexi Cerretti 775.833.1646 Each office is independently owned and operated.

BUYTAHOEHOMES.COM

SHAKESPEARE RANCH TAHOELEGACY.COM

2219 LANDS END ROAD GLENBROOKLAKEVIEW.COM

999 LAKESHORE BOULEVARD TAHOELAKEFRONT999.COM

1103 SKINNER DRIVE SIERRAHERMOSAMANOR.COM

1A WEST FORK VISTA SIERRAVIEWRANCHNV.COM

Claudia Thompson 775.233.4014 Each office is independently owned and operated.

TAHOELIVING365.COM

Unrivaled opportunities await JUST AN HOUR FROM TAHOE/RENO IN GRAEAGLE, CALIFORNIA...

1711 SMITH LAKE ROAD 4,000 sf, 3 beds, 3 baths | 28.19 acres SIP construction, indoor exercise pool $1,495,000

1425 SMITH LAKE ROAD 1,800 sf | 45.12 acres Access to ponds and pasture land $895,000

1180 SMITH CREEK ROAD 6,109 sf, 3 beds, 3 baths | 10.14 acres Includes 1,200 feet of creek frontage $1,595,000

Sierra Sotheby’s International Realty is offering a rare find: three separate listings that neighbor one another.

Combined, this is the perfect canvas for a family compound or corporate retreat. Each home is custom-built and embodies equally impressive mountain charm, thoughtful design and respectful environmental building. Together, they boast over 80 acres of peacefully private land, majestic mountain views, ponds, creeks, and horse pastures. Buyers would have a large holding on Smith Creek and become declarants by owning 1425 and 1711 Smith Lake Road properties.

This is truly an outdoor mecca with opportunities for fly fishing, horseback riding and access to the Pacific Crest Trail, all within minutes of championship golf courses, fine dining and small town charm.

1711 Smith Lake Road together with 1425 Smith Lake Road offered at $2,300,000.

Amber Corr

Carol Murray

615.477.6852

530.249.2833

BRE #01931671

BRE #01394768

sierrasothebysrealty.com

IMAGINE

Your Dream Tahoe Ski Home...

Poulsen Ranch, Squaw Valley, CA, $15,000,000

773 Twinberry, Norden, CA, $2,299,000

1750 Village East Road #5-126, Squaw Valley, CA, $495,000

400 Squaw Creek Road #916, Squaw Valley, CA, $899,000

400 Squaw Creek Road #114 & 116, Squaw Valley, CA, $829,000

TAMARA MCKINNEY 530.412.0302

Artfully uniting extraordinary ski homes with extraordinary lives.

Tamara@TamaraMcKinney.com CA BRE# 01451608

Second home, move up, move down, stay put?

We do the math, you see your future.

Call us for a complimentary Financial Review before you sell your home.

Help when you make the most important ďŹ nancial decisions of your life.

2875 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306

|

650.319.1600

|

opesadvisors.com

Opes Advisors is licensed by the CA Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act, License #4150089, CA Bureau of Real Estate 01458652, loans will be made pursuant to the Residential Mortgage Lending Act, CO Registration Regulated by the Division of Real Estate, Idaho MBL8530, Montana Mortgage Lender License #235584, Oregon ML4902, Washington CL1178435, Wyoming #2667 and NMLS 235584. Equal Housing Opportunity Lender. Opes Advisors is a registered investment advisor with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Š 2016 Opes Advisors, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

ARTS & CULTURE

LEFT: Lisa’s father in the center / MIDDLE: Sam Wo’s old and new signs / RIGHT: Merchandise Mart & Twitter Building

Two Worlds of San Francisco: PAST AND PRESENT BY LISA KEITH

I was recently in the Financial District, having dinner at the venerable Sam’s Grill off of Kearny Street, a place that’s been around since 1867 – originally as an oyster saloon that opened a mere 18 years after the Gold Rush. Nostalgic not only because of the private wooden booths and white jacketed waiters of a by-gone era, but also because it was just across the street from my dad’s office building on Kearny. My father was a real estate broker in a golden era of real estate – right after the second World War. He was an entrepreneur in the early days of the San Francisco MLS leadership, the state and national organizations’ councils, and an innovator during an unparalleled time of growth for the region and profession. After growing up locally with real estate in my blood, no wonder I ended up in the biz!

It also made me realize just how much San Francisco has been rejuvenated and given new life. Many locals remember the old Sam Wo’s, the famous Chinese restaurant, as a place to go at the end of the night. Shuttered down in 2012 after nearly 100 years of operation, it recently reopened a block away from its original location. Known for its surly waiters and five dollar meals at two a.m., the reborn Sam Wo’s is a bit nicer in tone and a tad more expensive ($8.50 for the tomato beef chow mein), but it still has vestiges to its colorful past, including a dumbwaiter and raw fish salad.

Other signs of “the old blossoming into the new” is the resurgence of the Mid-Market area. This area now boasts the headquarter offices of “disruptive

companies” like Uber, Square, Zendesk and Zoosk – and most notably, Twitter.

What is now known as the Twitter Building is actually the old Merchandise Mart that opened in 1937 and, back in the day, was unremarkable in location and style.

Today its Art Deco inspired architecture has become the beacon of the technology wave hitting this area of the city. What was old has certainly become new again – as San Francisco recasts itself – and experiences yet another exciting renaissance.

So whether you’re looking to re-nest from the Peninsula to San Francisco or get a pied-à-terre, let me help you rediscover this great City.

(Merchandise Mart photo by San Franciso History Center, San Francisco Public Library)

LISA KEITH Dreyfus Sotheby’s International Realty 650.703.8644 lisa@lisakeith.com lisakeith.com License No. 00882247

2254 Williams Street, Palo Alto $2,995,000

2316 Eastridge Ave, Menlo Park $2,020,000 | SOLD

1330 University Dr #61, Menlo Park $2,300,000 | SOLD

THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016 / 31

SPECIAL GETAWAYS

Explore San Francisco

BY MARIANNE LIPANOVICH

San Francisco’s blend of amenities, from its world-class restaurants and vibrant nightlife to its cultural landscape, sporting events and recreational opportunities, has long made it a destination of choice for those seeking an urban experience. But whether you’re looking for a pied-à-terre for weekend getaways or a permanent home, a key factor is finding the right neighborhood, especially in a city that has so many unique areas to choose from.

For San Francisco–based Sotheby’s International realtor Dean Badessa, two of his current listings are perfect examples of ideal homes in ideal neighborhood locations, which also happen to be neighborhoods he knows well. The first is just a ten-minute walk from his home and overlooks Aquatic Park and the historic Dolphin Club where he swims daily; the second is just a short walk from his office up San Francisco’s famed Filbert Steps.

(Pictured on this page: View from Russian Hill property. Photo by Jacob Elliot)

Photo by Jacob Elliot

Photo by Open Homes Photography

CONTEMPORARY PIED-À-TERRE ON HISTORIC RUSSIAN HILL

SOPHISTICATED OASIS ON ICONIC TELEGRAPH HILL

The panoramic 270-degree views, stretching from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Bay Bridge and Coit Tower and taking in the Marin Hills and Mt. Tam, are incomparable. They’re also immediately visible when you enter this 15th-floor unit with two bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths, thanks to the floorto-ceiling windows that open to the private balcony. The rest of the space is equally impressive: open, spacious and filled with natural light. “The white on the walls allows them to take on characteristics of light throughout the day,” says Badessa. “And sunsets are unparalleled.”

Telegraph Hill is one of the most coveted locations in San Francisco and it’s rare when there’s an opportunity to buy. It’s even more rare when the property occupies an entire floor on a quiet cul-de-sac with amazing views. This second-story flat, one of three in the building, combines old-world charm, modern amenities and only-in-San Francisco views that make it the ideal spot for anyone looking for a home in the City by the Bay.

Badessa describes this property as “the quintessential modern state-of-the-art coop with timeless details.” The sleek, contemporary interior design features top-of-the-line finishes, trimless cabinetry with a lacquered, high-gloss finish, professional– grade appliances and custom lighting plus built-in bookshelves and concealed storage. Technology upgrades are equally up-to-date, with built-in iPads and a built-in Apple computer, a large-screen adjustable television with Smart HDTV and a ceiling-mounted retractable projector. The building’s amenities also include a doorman and access to meeting rooms, a pool and a rooftop deck.

Step outside and you’re immediately in the heart of old San Francisco. The Russian Hill neighborhood is home to San Francisco landmarks such as Lombard Street, the Hyde-Powell cable line, Ghirardelli Square and the Buena Vista Café. It’s also known for it’s Edwardian and Victorian homes, hilly streets, quirky alleyways, unique boutiques and restaurants. For film buffs, it’s the home of “Scottie” Ferguson, James Stewart’s character in Vertigo. Aquatic Park and the Bay spread out just below the building, Fort Mason is immediately west, Crissy Field and the Presidio are a short distance away and running trails and bike paths run between both bridges. It’s also a short 10-minute taxi ride to the ballet and opera for evenings out.

Channeling the charm of one of San Francisco’s oldest neighborhoods, this two-bedroom, two-bath property features a wood-burning fireplace, oak floors, a bay window and balcony off the living room and views of Coit Tower, the Bay Bridge and the downtown skyline. Modern updates include contemporary finishes, a spacious en suite master bath, a completely updated chef’s kitchen with granite countertops that’s open to the dining and living room and access to the rooftop deck with its incredible views. Other amenities include in-unit laundry, additional storage and a dumbwaiter that makes transporting larger packages from the off-street parking in the shared garage to the second floor painless.

Outside, you’re literally steps away from the restaurants, shopping, nightlife and outdoor activities that San Francisco is known for, in no small part thanks to both the famous Filbert Steps and the lesser known Greenwich Street Steps which are close by. You’re within easy reach of some of San Francisco’s best-known restaurants, including Fog City Diner and Quince and the traditional Italian trattorias, delis and bakeries of North Beach. The Embarcadero is just down the hill, and historic Jackson Square, with its art and antique shops, is a stroll away. Venture further, and you’ll find yourself in Chinatown or the Financial District. Closer to home, Badessa notes, you might catch a glimpse of the famous wild parrots of Telegraph Hill or buy local honey from the neighbor who keeps more than 300 bees.

Both properties are offered for sale by Dean Badessa of Sotheby’s International Realty.

Dean can be reached at 415.474.5140 or dean@deanbadessa.com. Complete information is available at deanbadessa.com.

THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016 / 33

SAN FRANCISCO LUXURY PIED–À–TERRE

RUSSIAN HILL 1050-NorthPoint.com 1050 North Point #1502/03A | $3,298,000

TELEGRAPH HILL | 282 Union Street 282Union.com | $1,749,000

DEAN BADESSA +1.415.474.5140 Dean@DeanBadessa.com

JACKSON SQUARE | 733 Front Street #402 733FrontSF.com | $1,698,000

LOCAL EXPERTISE, GLOBAL REACH

CalBRE# 01876759 SAN FRANCISCO BROKERAGE 117 Greenwich St, San Francisco | 415.901.1700

DEANBADESSA.COM

Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks used with permission. Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Real estate agents affiliated with Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. Equal Housing Opportunity.

VINTAGE

Gems in the Woodside Hills

BY LAURA NESS

Living on the Peninsula is a series of “pinch-me” moments: it’s a wonder we’re all not permanently bruised. Natural beauty is so pervasive here, we often have to pause to drink it in. Discovering hidden vineyards in the hills is just another benefit of life on the rim of Silicon Valley. Pour a little splendor in your glass and come with us on a virtual journey to some of our favorite, private vineyard gems.

(Story continued on page 36)

Kristi Bowers of Kings Mountain Vineyards in front of the theater illustrated on their label.

Kings Mountain Vineyards Pinot Noir

THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016 / 35

Photo courtesy of Mindego Ridge.

Jim (left) and Bob Varner. Photo courtesy of Varner.

KINGS MOUNTAIN VINEYARDS

MINDEGO RIDGE

VARNER

On a bucolic private estate just beyond the town of Woodside, you will find the scant acre vineyard of Kings Mountain Vineyards (Pictured on previous page). Planted in 1992, it once produced Pinot Noir and all five Bordeaux varieties, but was entirely grafted to Pinot Noir in 2009. Kings Mountain presently offers two Pinots: one sports the Kings Mountain label, bearing the image of the stunning theater on the property. Made entirely from the Martini clone (Clone 13), it is profoundly earthy and complex. The other, called “Bacchus,” is a fruit-forward California style Pinot made primarily of Clone 667 with a bit of Martini.

Tucked in a sun-drenched bowl off Alpine Road, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are planted on a North-South orientation for maximum sun exposure here at the Mindego Ridge home of David and Stacey Gollnick, and their two dogs, Bunny and Larry. Guided by Rex Geitner, responsible for many of the plantings in Diamond and Spring Mountain AVAs, the couple planted ten acres of vines in 2009 on the 40-acre parcel.

Although the property is blessed with a creek, they are essentially dry-farming, watering only twice in 2015.

Twins Bob and Jim Varner not only look identical, they share many things in common, including a love for beautiful wine. They both attended UC Davis and have been in the wine business for decades, at first selling French imports and later, producing brilliant vineyard-designate Chardonnays from Portola Valley, under the Varner label. The Bee Block and Amphitheater Block Chardonnays are legendary: they are like gossamer golden poetry. Critics from coast to coast rave about the impeccable balance and inherent purity of these wines, naming them among the best in the nation.

Fortunately for oenophiles who can’t seem to cellar anything long enough to experience the pleasure of a properly aged wine, the folks at Kings Mountain (Kristi Bowers and Alec Hutchison) have done it for you.

With no tasting room or distributor, the cellar is rich with older vintages, available for purchase. Tasting older vintages alongside current releases is a rare pleasure, indeed. Few wineries can offer such an experience.

The current Kings Mountain Meritage blend, vintage 2008, is lovely, but one sip of the 2006 will make your heart sing.

Likewise, the 2010 Kings Mountain Pinot Noir is a slice of Burgundian heaven: the 2002 will cause you to swoon.

Some of the Pinot Noir is sold to Nathan Kandler of Fogarty, who is making a vineyard designate for the Fogarty wine club, to be released shortly. The remaining fruit goes into a few hundred cases of each varietal made by the acclaimed winemaker, Ehren Jordan.

Jordan is known for his light touch in winemaking, allowing the fruit to shine.

Using minimal oak, just 25 percent new, the purity of the Pinot is unmistakable. Aromas of Bing cherry, graphite, rose petals, damp clay, pomegranate and licorice, combine with strawberry, pomegranate and spice in the firm, yet supple mouthfeel. Smooth tannins and pulsing acidity create a wine of remarkable depth.

Being a part of “In Pursuit of Balance,” started by Master Sommelier, Rajat Parr, You can find the currently released Pinots has put them in esteemed company, at Roberts Market and Beltramo’s, along introducing their elegant and finessed with fine restaurants like The Plumed Horse wines to high-end restaurants from and Madera. Sign up for their mailing list San Francisco to New York. Find their to be invited to private tastings: wines at Roberts Market in Woodside, or kingsmountainvineyards.com purchase online at mindegoridge.com 36 / THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016

Unless you are on their mailing list, they are unobtainable. However, you can access their well-priced brand, Foxglove, in many local markets. The 2013 Foxglove Chardonnay, done entirely in steel, is a spring wild flower explosion, with an endearing viscosity, yet lightness of touch.

At less than $15, Foxglove proves that class need not to be costly.

As of 2014, winemaker Bob began sourcing some lovely Chardonnay and Pinot from vineyards in Santa Barbara. The 2014 Varner Chardonnay is fermented totally in stainless, with a bit of wood ageing to broaden the palate. Easy to love, it teases with tropical aromas, practically oozing caramel, Bosc pear tart with vanilla crème fraiche, and finishing with a hint of lime. Divine. varnerwine.com

SILICON VALLEY WINE AUCTION: APRIL 16 Visit all three of the wineries featured in this story at the wine event of the year in the Silicon Valley, Saturday, April 16, at Levi’s Stadium. Fift y wineries from the Santa Cruz Mountains will take the field for a Grand Tasting, from noon to 4 p.m., followed by a VIP tasting and gala wine dinner, accompanied by a live auction to benefit the Silicon Valley Education Foundation.

Mingle with the region’s longtime and legendary producers like Mount Eden, Big Basin Vineyards, Ridge, Equinox, Byington, Burrell School, Rhys and Fogarty, while meeting rising stars like Armitage, Bottle Jack, Left Bend, Sante Arcangeli, Silvertip and Russian Ridge.

Explore older vintages of mountain-grown Pinots and Cabernets side-by-side from Kings Mountain Vineyards and gain an appreciation for the age-worthiness of the region’s impressive wines.

Title sponsors include Scott Cook & Signe Ostby; Brocade Communications Systems; Canaan Partners; Flex; The Krause Foundation; JP Morgan Chase; DJM Capital; eBay; Kings Mountain Vineyards; House Family Vineyards and Joe Lonsdale of Addepar.

Tickets can be purchased at scmwa.com Photos of Silicon Valley Wine Auction courtesy of SCMWA.

THE PENINSULA SPRING 2016 / 37

WE ARE Puakea Bay | $11 M Gayle Ching, R(S) | 808.987.9155 Kathy J. Christiansen, (RB) | 808.896.9000

Luahinewai | $16 M Adam Atwood, R(S) | 808.937.7462

www.bigislandreale.com | 808.885.8885

HAWAI‘I Waikii Ranch | $3 M Deborah Au, R(B) | 808.987.8753

Puako | $11 M Rebecca Keliihoomalu, R(B) | 808.937.7462 Brodie Callender R(S) | 808.987.4218

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

808.885.8885 | www.bigislandreale.com

ATHERTON ESTATE 393 Atherton Avenue, Atherton | 393atherton.com

Offered at $9,995,000 Beds 5 | Baths 9 Home ±7,649 sf | Lot ±1 acre

MICHAEL DREYFUS, BROKER 650.485.3476 michael.dreyfus@dreyfussir.com

NOELLE QUEEN, SALES ASSOCIATE 650.427.9211 noelle.queen@dreyfussir.com

ASHLEY BANKS, SALES ASSOCIATE 650.544.8968 ashley.banks@dreyfussir.com

License No. 01121795

License No. 01917593

License No. 01913361

Downtown Palo Alto 728 Emerson Street, Palo Alto | 650.644.3474 Downtown Menlo Park 640 Oak Grove Avenue, Menlo Park | 650.847.1141 dreyfussir.com | Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.