Discover the Charm of Terre Rouge and Easton Wines: A Journey Through California's Rhône Varietals

Located in the heart of Amador County, Terre Rouge and Easton Wines is a captivating story of passion and dedication, brought to life by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, Bill Easton and Jane O’Riordan. Established in the late 1980s, this winery is a must-visit for any California wine lover eager to explore the unique flavors of the Sierra Foothills.

A Winemaker’s Journey

Bill Easton’s winemaking adventure began in the 1970s when he founded Solano Cellars, a Berkeley wine shop specializing in artisanal wines from around the globe. His experiences in the shop and extensive travels through Europe shaped his refined palate and distinctive winemaking style. Bill's approach celebrates balance and elegance, creating wines that evolve beautifully over time—a practice the French call élevage, or "raising" the wine in the bottle. Each bottle not only offers immediate enjoyment but also hints at its potential for further aging.

In 1986, Bill crafted his first Rhône red blend, marking the start of his serious winemaking journey. By 1994, the couple had moved to their current winery and expanded their portfolio, with Bill earning recognition as one of the original Rhône Rangers and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016 for his pioneering efforts in bringing Rhône varietals to the Sierra Foothills.

Culinary Creativity

Jane O’Riordan’s entrepreneurial spirit shines brightly alongside Bill’s winemaking. She launched her first business, Cottonfield, in 1975, a fabric shop that inspired creativity through quilting and garment making. When the opportunity arose to expand Solano Cellars, Jane took on the role of chef at their Bistro, where she crafted a rotating menu that perfectly paired with Bill’s wine selections. Today, Jane continues to bring her culinary expertise to Terre Rouge and Easton events, delighting guests with her delicious creations.

The Terroir of Terre Rouge

The name Terre Rouge, meaning "Red Earth," beautifully reflects the region's distinctive vermillion soil, a defining characteristic of their vineyards. The land, rich in granite and volcanic minerals, nurtures a diverse array of Rhône varietals, including Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne. The high elevation of their vineyards—reaching up to 3,200 feet—adds complexity and depth to each bottle.

Easton Wines: A Tribute to Tradition

Bill's family name graces the Easton label, which showcases non-Rhône varietals that thrive in the Sierra Foothills. Here, ancient and old-vine Zinfandel, Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sauvignon Blanc shine, alongside emerging varietals like Grenache Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc. Each wine is crafted with a deep respect for the region's history and potential.

Visit Terre Rouge and Easton Wines

For wine enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience, Terre Rouge and Easton Wines offers more than just tastings; it’s an invitation to explore the artistry of winemaking in one of California’s most beautiful regions. Join Bill and Jane for a sip of their exceptional wines, paired with delightful culinary creations, and immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Amador County’s wine country.

Silvestri Vineyards began in the Piedmont region of Italy as an immigrant's dream of a better life. The year was 1908 when a young girl from Castell'Alfero, and a young boy from Novara prepared to leave home and travel to America. Joseph (Joe) Silvestri and Eugenia (Jenny) Martinetto would later meet and marry in New York's 'Little Italy' where they worked in the restaurant business. With the arrival of their children, they moved across the Hudson River to Teaneck, New Jersey, with the hope of building a life and a business of their own.

In 1950 a grandson would be added to their legacy and it was in this grandson that the Silvestri family would once again feel the wanderlust that had brought them to this land of dreams and opportunity. Finding his voice in music, Alan Silvestri traveled to Los Angeles in search of his dream through the pursuit of his art. Music was his vehicle for expression but food and wine, the staples of life at home, were never far from his heart. After meeting his wife Sandra in 1978, they would often travel back east where family events and occasions were always marked by wonderful food served with Jenny and Joe's homemade wine.
 

Fleur De Lys Winery is a winery located in Somerset, California. The winery is owned by Robert and Mireille Lajoie. The wine at Fleur De Lys Winery is produced by Robert Lajoie. De Lys Winery produces the following wine varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Petite Syrah, Port, Roussanne, Syrah/Shiraz, Viognier and Zinfandel. Fleur De Lys Winery has the following amenities you can enjoy: Barrel Room, Family Environment, Pet Friendly Grounds, Private Events, Private Tastings, Retail Sales, Scenic Views, Wine & Food Pairing.

urrent labels for the Graziano Family of Wines are Saint Gregory, Monte Volpe, Enotria and Graziano. The four labels are crafted to preserve each variety's integrity by employing time honored Old World cellar practices perfected by the gentle application of modern technology.