Before I found AJA Vineyards, I didn’t know a tannin from a terpene. What started as a casual afternoon with a friend turned into a three-hour tasting led by Jenny, one of the staff there, and ended with us signing up for the wine club.
The AJA Story
AJA Vineyards was founded by Todd and Heather Greenbaum. Their daughter, Amanda Greenbaum — a certified sommelier and author — runs the business day to day. It’s a family operation in the true sense: all three of their kids are involved, and there’s a real commitment to the Malibu Coast AVA, where the estate sits. That family-first approach carries into the wine club too, which Amanda oversees personally.
The 4th Annual Wine Club Pick Up Party
Wine club membership perks go beyond the bottle. I recently went to the 4th Annual Pick Up Party at the private AJA Estate Vineyards in Agoura. Todd moved through the crowd pouring his very first wine, the 2011 AJA Proprietary Red — watching him do it felt like watching a proud parent pull out a graduation photo.
We also took a golf cart tour of the estate with Jack, who walked us through how the vines are managed, tasted the 2018 Chilled Syrah, and got an early pour of the 2025 Wildflower Rosé before it’s even hit shelves.
Is a Wine Club Membership Worth It?
A private tour with a family member like Jack usually runs upwards of $100 per person at a bigger Napa winery. Here, it’s just part of being a member. So is having someone like Jenny, who remembers what you liked last time and steers you toward what you’ll probably like next.
If your weekends tend to get away from you, a wine club membership is a pretty effective way to force a slower pace — you show up, you sit down, and for a couple of hours that’s the whole plan.
Read More on Culinary Passages
If you enjoyed this, check out a few other posts along the same lines:
- AJA Harvest Party: The Ultimate Wine Club Experience
- Waymo Rides, AJA Wine Flights, and a Dessert Surprise
- Santa Monica’s Best Hidden Gem: AJA Vineyards Wine Tasting Room
- Fia in Santa Monica: Garden Dining for Less
- 6 Honest Rules for LA Dining: How to Eat Like a Local
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Please consult with a healthcare provider regarding alcohol consumption and your specific health needs. Always drink responsibly.
