The winery was purchased and planted by Paul Masson, considered one of the forefathers of the California wine industry, in 1901. Today, it operates as the Mountain Winery. A dedicated staff led by CEO Stuart Ferguson works to preserve the more than 150-year-old winery building, with its ivy-covered stone structure that serves as the breathtaking backdrop to a concert stage that plays host to some of the world's most beloved performers.

Each summer such legendary names in music as Chicago, Jewel, Huey Lewis and the News, Leann Rimes, B.B. King, Tony Bennett and Carole King join comedians like Bill Maher and Lewis Black to entertain intimate audiences of only 1,750--and the performers love it so much they come back year after year.

However, it's not just the performances that draw people to the Mountain Winery--it's also the fine wine and dining opportunities that appeal to people of all ages.

There are the three-course "prix fixe" meals created by renowned chef Trinidad Gutierrez at the venue's Chateau Restaurant, featuring personalized gourmet food and wine selections. Parties of 10 or more can also request a private, luxury dining experience in the restaurant's Bordeaux Room, located on a private deck that overlooks the entire valley.

Wine lovers might be interested to know that the Mountain Winery serves its Reserve and California Series wines, which are only available to members of the Vista Wine Club or for purchase on site.

Those who want a more casual, personal touch can pack their own dinner to enjoy on one of the many picnic tables at the front of the winery. Skip Houston of San Jose says he makes it a point to see at least three to four concerts at the Mountain Winery every summer, and he, his wife Sherry and many of their friends love to take a Chinese food-and-wine picnic with them.

"A couple of times we've gotten into the concert a half-hour late because the picnic was such a great time, we barely noticed the concert had started," he recalls. Houston says the sights make the Mountain Winery incomparable to anywhere else. "Being at the top of the mountain, the beautiful views of the whole Santa Clara County ... the air has a crispness to it. Plus, for the concerts, there isn't a bad seat in the house; you have a great view from wherever you sit."

Marc Shull of Campbell agrees--the picturesque views and great-tasting wines complement the intimate performances.

"Just the fact that, especially during nightfall, right when the sun goes down, you're able to look out over the entire Bay Area, drinking a glass of good wine and listening to great music," he says. "And I love the intimate setting that allows you to be so close to the performers."

At Saratoga's Mountain Winery, it's all part of the show.

For more information, visit www.mountainwinery.com.