Exceptional wines capture the depth and true essence of exceptional vineyards. The grapes are grown in the Lodi Appellation reflecting a sense of place from the character and richness of this unique terrior. The wines are hand-crafted by award-winning winemaker, JC van Staden who intertwines both old world and new world techniques. Each varietal and vintage showcases the dedication of artistry in every bottle.
Capay Valley Vineyards was established in 1998 by Tom Frederick and Pam Welch, long time residents of Capay Valley, CA. This beautiful valley is located in the northwest corner of Yolo County bordering Napa and Lake counties. It is approximately 1½ hours from San Francisco and an hour from Sacramento. Capay Valley Vineyards produces wines from their own grapes. Varietals were chosen to complement the climate and soils. All vineyard tasks - pruning, shoot thinning, and harvesting are done by hand and tailored to each variety. Harvesting is done at night to ensure that the fruit is cool to start the winemaking process.
We booked the 10am tour and tasting and I was very impressed. The tour was about an hour and a half. We started in the front tasting room, went outside to the vineyards, to the caves where they store the barrels and finally to the room with the tanks. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. She was willing to answer any questions we had. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone who wants the full winery experience!
David Girard Vineyards is nestled in the Sierra foothills near where the south fork of the American River gave up its gold in 1849. At an elevation of some 1,200 feet soil, temperature and conditions, an environment ideally suited to growing the premier grape varietals of southern France's Rhône valley. Twenty years ago the folks at David Girard started with little more than good earth, a tolerance for risk and a willingness to learn from their mistakes. The winery has established a solid reputation for excellence and value by producing Rhône style wines in the heart of one of California's most historic regions.
In the heart of California’s scenic Gold Rush Country, Ironstone Vineyards will surprise and delight you with a winery that places as much emphasis on the natural beauty and history of their surroundings, as they do on the quality of their wines.
Gold Hill Vineyard was founded in 1980 by Hank Battjes. Hank worked for 27 years as an electrical engineer at GTE. During those years, Hank increased his knowledge of home wine making, applying it to his hobby and passion. Pursuing his dream he searched for suitable land and when a friend, Bruce, suggested 5 acres of vineyard on an 80 acre parcel near Coloma, California, he bought it.
What a beautiful estate! This was my first time to Francis Ford Coppola and I was in awe! I don't even know where to start, but the grounds are beautiful, the tasting room was fun, the memorabilia was nostalgic, and the cellar was amazing as well!All of the staff was ever so friendly, welcoming and helpful. You wouldn't expect anything short of greatness, when you learn that Mr. Coppola is heavily involved in the operations of the winery and visits periodically to ensure that everything meets his standards.
Elegant lovely and the reds wow I just had a moment. Not casual but elegant. Unique tasting room built by a very wealthy Persian businessman. Blocks of travertine imported from Iran, rare blue granite and fine craftsmanship are on full display. The staff is knowledgable and friendly and the cabernets, given some time to age and soften the abundant tannins, are terrific.
All of the wines are delicious. They off certain wines to try with chocolates and crackers for your pleasure. They educate you on what you tasting and give you time to make up your mind if your satisfied or not. They recommended other wineries we should try, as well as great nearby foods places. The "Napa Valley AmerItal Red Wine" (750ml) Goosecross Wines is truly one of my favorites. 1. First of all, Make a reservation! Make a RESERVATION! or else! The place is hidden, small, and worth visiting but dropping by isn't going to work. 2. The place is family run, which makes it personal and incredible.
Beautiful grounds, it does seem like what an American would envision Italy to be like garden speakers playing American-Italian music abound, fountains, and lots of terra cotta planters. This winery was lovely! They have a great patio filled with flowers and a fountain. They also served lunch. The grilled chicken breast sandwich was really tasty, the same with their pizzas. It's definitely a winery to check out if you are in the area.
Image courtesy Randy Caparoso
