July 22, 2014 – EMB has learned that Holman Ranch is in escrow on a deal to buy the historic Wills Fargo restaurant in Carmel Valley from owner Ben Pon. Pon began divesting his properties last year with the sale of Bernardus Lodge to Noble House Hotels, but still owns Bernardus Wine. Holman Ranch operates a tasting room near the restaurant that’s often packed to capacity for special events, so the restaurant will provide welcome additional space.
Executive Chef Jerome Viel is expected to remain at the helm of the classic steak house and saloon. The former butchery, where diners would go to pick out their steaks, is expected to be turned into a boutique showcasing the ranch’s high-end wines. Holman Ranch estate-grown wines are continuing to rack up the awards, with their 2011 Chardonnay winning gold at the Sunset International Wine Competition. Their 2010 Pinot Noir and 2010 Hunter’s Cuvee Pinot Noir both garnered silver medals.
The beautiful Holman Ranch, with it’s vineyards, winery, olive grove, stables and stone hacienda has been named one of the best venues in the country for weddings and private parties. Wills Fargo may be a good fit for their growing wedding business, as it could handle rehearsal dinners and smaller celebrations.
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At Edible Monterey Bay, our mission is to celebrate the local food culture of Santa Cruz, San Benito and Monterey Counties, season by season. We believe in sustainability, and we believe everyone has a right to healthful, clean and affordable food. We think knowing where our food comes from is powerful, and we hope our magazine, website and newsletters inspire readers to get to know and support our local growers, fishers, chefs, vintners and food artisans.
