About
Located atop Mt. Bielawski — also known as Mt. McPherson — Caruso California is a historic property undergoing restoration. At 3,232 feet, it is the highest elevation farm in the county, sitting along Skyline Boulevard where the Santa Cruz Mountains meet the sky. Once home to thriving pear and apple orchards in the late 1800s, the land was later converted into a Christmas tree farm in the mid to late 20th century. Since abandoned, it is being carefully revitalized with a focus on sustainability, regenerative farming, and innovation.
As the owner of Caruso California, I am dedicated to preserving the land’s agricultural legacy while reimagining its future. My goal is to restore this site into a thriving orchard and vineyard that blends historic farming traditions with modern sustainability. The property’s high-elevation microclimate, well-draining sandy loam soils formed from Vaqueros Sandstone, and abundant sunlight coupled with a cool ocean influence provide an ideal foundation for producing exceptional fruit.
Caruso California is more than a restoration project—it’s a vision for what agriculture can be: environmentally responsible, historically connected, and deeply personal. Every step, from clearing overgrown fields to implementing zero-emission farming practices, is part of a commitment to quality, sustainability, and honoring the land’s rich history.
Stay tuned as we grow. The best is yet to come.
Site
View of the Monterey Bay from the farm.
The Land
Caruso California is located at the summit of Mt. Bielawski, a 3,200-foot peak in the Santa Cruz Mountains The property spans approximately 18 acres with 10 acres of plantable land making it one of the highest elevation farm sites in the region. Positioned along Skyline Boulevard, it offers a unique blend of coastal and mountain influences creating an ideal microclimate for fruit production.
From this vantage point, the land commands timeless Coastal California views to the south, Monterey Bay stretches across the horizon, while to the west, the sunsets frame the historic **CalFire Mt. Bielawski fire lookout tower**. The property sits just a short distance from **Silicon Valley**, yet remains entirely secluded, offering a rare combination of accessibility and remote mountain beauty.
The soil, derived from Vaqueros Sandstone is well-draining sandy loam perfect for deep-rooted orchards and vineyards. Combined with high elevation, steady coastal breezes, and natural rainfall, these conditions make the site an exceptional location for regenerative agriculture.
The Cabin
At the bottom of the property stands a historic board and batten cabin built in 1880, a rare surviving structure from the early homesteading days of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Originally built by the Scott family of Sunnyvale, this cabin is a direct link to the land’s agricultural past and will be preserved as part of the farm’s restoration.
FAA Radio Towers
Located near the top of the property is an FAA communications site home to radio towers reaching 70 and 100 feet high, with 360 degree views of the San Fransisco and Monterey Bay Areas. Built on leased land in 1960, these towers served as a critical part of regional aviation and emergency response infrastructure. Located next to the 100 year old CalFire Mt. Bielawski Look Out Tower, there is a phone line that runs directly from the property to downtown Los Gatos.
Vision
Introduction
Caruso California is a forward-thinking agricultural venture dedicated to producing premium fruit, wine, and other specialty crops at the highest elevation farm in the county. Rooted in history and innovation, our goal is to create a sustainable, zero-emission farm that blends tradition with modern regenerative practices to deliver exceptional products while preserving the environment.
Mission
To cultivate high-quality, sustainably grown fruit and wine while maintaining a commitment to environmental stewardship, historical preservation, and community engagement.
Core Values
- Sustainability: 100% electric, zero-emission farming practices.
- Quality: Premium fruit and wine production through careful selection and innovative techniques.
- History & Heritage: Honoring the agricultural legacy of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
- Innovation: Leveraging modern technology for efficiency and eco-conscious farming.
- Community: Supporting local businesses, artisans, and consumers with transparency and integrity.
Vision for the Future
Caruso California envisions a farm that serves as a beacon of sustainable agriculture, where innovation meets tradition to produce exceptional products while restoring and preserving the land. Our commitment is to:
- Build a self-sufficient agricultural ecosystem that minimizes environmental impact.
- Establish a legacy of premium, terroir-driven wines and fruit known for their distinct quality and character.
- Cultivate a farm that not only produces but educates, inspiring others to adopt sustainable and regenerative agricultural practices.
- Foster a connection between people and the land, offering experiences that celebrate nature, heritage, and craftsmanship.
Contact
Please give us a call at (408) 304-4872
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