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.
Kathleen has a couple of really nice young guys working the tasting room and it looked like the winery's reputation is growing as they had been busy. This vineyard is in Santa Rosa, and Kathleen is producing some amazing wines. While she has been producing at this organic vineyard for 10 years, this seems to be her break out year, because her work is finally be recognized.
The story of the Winery begins at the vineyard. Located in the heart of Temecula’s Wine Country, off of Calle Contento, the vineyard stretches across a 20 acre parcel where the Patels, Winemaker Renato Sais, and the winery staff give the vines the upmost care all year long. Working together, learning and understanding viniculture, curating the perfect grape & vine, and learning the wine business have become a huge passion for the team. 100% estate grown & single vineyard, Akash wines are developed with passion and sophistication. The wines showcase familiar varietals in contemporary, eye catching packaging, and are crafted with consistency of style and quality across all vintages. The Akash Winery & Vineyards tasting room officially opened mid 2019, though the Patels also hope to open a resort, spa, events venue, and bed & breakfast in the coming years.
Over a 100 years ago, the first known woman wine grower in California, Dona Marcelina Felix Dominguez, grew Mission vines on her Santa Barbara property. The vines survived, and when Deborah Hall and her late husband, William, brought the property in 1994, they discovered these vines under a heavy cover of brush. They originally thought the vines were Zinfandel, and sold them as such to other vintners. DNA testing at University of California Davis later revealed that they were Mission vines. Mission vines were brought into California in 1767 by Spanish Padres from Mexico who established a chain of missions from San Diego to Sonoma from 1767 to 1833. Deborah’s ancient Mission vineyard of three acres is part of only ten acres still growing in California.
At the top of High Valley AVA in Lake County, CA lives an Estate and winery unlike any other. Planted at an altitude matched by only 1% of vineyards in the world, Brassfield Estate Vineyards & Winery is not bound by the traditions of the valley floor. Precision, sustainable farming is our base to craft 17 varietals; from vine to bottle the wines never leave our hands. We go above and beyond; for the land we reside on, the animals we share it with, the people who join us, and of course our award-winning wines.
Don't overlook this small store and location. This is a great spot to go with friends for a FREE Olive oil tasting. The owner is passionate about his wines and olive oil and will take the time to talk about his passion. When you first walk in you will see a typical wine tasting area (with a wine tasting fee). Bypass that area and go toward the back right corner by the restroom. Here the owner will offer you a free olive oil and vinegar tasting using small pieces of dipping bread! These specialty oil and vinegars are reasonably priced and make great gifts. Then head back to the tasting bar.
Painting by Agata Zaborowski
Sierra Vista: An El Dorado Original Since 1974
In 2024, Sierra Vista Wines proudly celebrates 50 years as one of the first and original wineries in the Sierra Foothills. This medium-sized boutique winery and vineyard is nestled in the picturesque landscape of El Dorado County, CA. Sierra Vista Winery seamlessly integrates the artistry of winemaking with the natural beauty of its 50-year-old legacy vineyard.
Each vintage begins with meticulous vineyard management, where skilled viticulturists tend to the vines, ensuring optimal grape ripening and quality. Harvesting is executed with precision, as grapes are hand-selected at their peak of maturity to capture the essence of the terroir.
Upon harvest, the grapes are immediately processed by a team of experienced and passionate winemakers and barrel hands. The winemaking process—encompassing crushing, fermenting, aging, and blending—focuses on preserving the unique characteristics of each varietal.
Sierra Vista Winery embraces sustainable and eco-friendly practices throughout its operations, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship. The winery features a welcoming tasting room where guests can savor a diverse range of wines grown, produced, and bottled on-site.
Knowledgeable Tasting Room staff members provide insights into the winemaking journey and guide visitors through curated tastings, creating memorable and educational experiences.
In addition, Sierra Vista actively hosts on-site wine events, live music, and food pairings, showcasing its exceptional products and engaging with the broader wine community. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, sustainability, and a passion for the art of winemaking, Sierra Vista aims to stand as a beacon of quality in fine wines.
photo courtesy photographer Randy Caparoso
Vinum Cellars, established in 1997 by first-generation California winemakers Richard Bruno and Chris Condos, was born from a dream financed on credit cards in Napa Valley. From the beginning, their mission has been to explore California's coastal vineyards and unique microclimates, seeking out the finest vineyards cultivated by the state's top growers. These long-time partners, mindful of their modest beginnings, ensure that every wine they produce offers an exceptional quality-to-price ratio. Each wine is meticulously handcrafted from single vineyards, adhering to a small-lot philosophy. From Coastal Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Vinum Cellars produces varietal wines sourced from single vineyards and appellations across California.
As an environmentally conscious winery, Vinum Cellars collaborates exclusively with sustainable growers to create eco-friendly products. Their packaging choices are deliberately made to reduce their carbon footprint, incorporating domestically produced lightweight Eco-Series glass and labels and cartons printed with non-toxic, water-based inks. Additionally, all packaging suppliers recycle 100% of the waste generated during the manufacturing process.
Founded in 1999, proprietors Sherrie and Elliot Graham purchased a picturesque 34-acre parcel of rolling hills and sprawling oak and pine trees. The property, which is a portion of the old Meyer’s Ranch, was bare with the exception of a historic barn, once a notable stopping point for miners to change horses en route to Placerville.
An experience in Fair Play showcases the many diverse attractions of El Dorado County. Why not make your adventure to Fair Play more than just a day trip? Busby Cellars offers on-site lodging, and many quaint Bed & Breakfast Inns and Vacation Rentals are also nearby. In addition to over 25 award-winning Fair Play wineries, historic downtown Placerville is just a short drive and features gold-rush charm along with gourmet restaurants and shopping. Wonderful hiking trails and pristine lakes are nearby, and world-class ski resorts are just a one-hour drive to Lake Tahoe. Isn’t it time to experience Fair Play today?
Longoria Wines, founded in 1982, was established by Rick & Diana Longoria with the vision of producing artisanal wines from the most prestigious vineyards throughout Santa Barbara County.
