Malbec

Malbec

Busby Cellars

cluster of grapes - Pixabay

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?

Alma Sol Winery

Painting by Agata Zaborowski woman enjoying wine

Alma Sol WInery is a micro-boutique winery that sources premium fruit from top vineyards sites in California. This micro-boutique winery is family-owned and operated with the mission to craft exceptional Bordeaux wine varietals and special blends. All fruit is hand-picked in small lots that respect the fruit and is just one of the hands-on facets of producing the artisan wines of Alma Sol Winery. Owners John and Lisa wanted to make the best possible Cabernet Sauvignon they could and to set out and prove that California's Central Coast could provide a great Bordeaux. Noteworthy is that their inaugural release of 2009 recieved numerouis accolades, including a 90pts review from Wine Enthusiast. *

Hours:

Sat-      2:00pm to 6:00pm
Sun-     2:00pm to 5:00pm

Provenance Vineyards

wine and cheese - Pixabay

Classic Family Roots with Italian Style
Provenance Vineyards began in 1999 and quickly earned a stellar reputation as the Napa Valley Cabernet house. Over the years, Provenance expanded into also producing tasting-room only regional exclusives and single-vineyard wine for other red, Bordeaux-style blends and white wine. Its founding family had the vision to produce fine wines that were true works of art of unique “provenance” or authentic origin.

Over the years, the brand has passed through the hands of two corporate owners. And in November 2021, the Allen Lombardi family acquired Provenance Vineyards. Attracted to its rich history, timeless style and strong growth potential, the Lombardis are committed to building the next chapter of the brand – increasing domestic distribution (and expanding globally) in fine wine shops and restaurants. The goal is make Provenance Vineyards wine more accessible to Napa wine lovers throughout the world.

Churon Winery

painting of person drinking wine at a patio table

This winery is pleasant and makes you feel like you are at home. Decor was very casual and warm. Staff was generous with their pouring. We had some reds and sweet wines. The sweet wine with plum and chocolate notes was one of the best. Their sherry was also very good. We even had some homemade lemon marmalade with crackers.

Lambert Bridge Winery

glass of wine - Pixabay

We were treated to a sit down personalized tasting with about 7 different wines. Andy our host was super nice and informative and gave a great tour. Their Viognier, Rock Pile Zin and Cuvee were nice. Their Cab Franc and Cabernet were really delicious as well.

Omega Vineyards & Winery

Old Vine Zinfandel - photographer Randy Caparoso

Established in 2006, Alpha Omega is a gem for California wine lovers, dedicated to crafting artisanal, handcrafted wines that beautifully blend Old World vineyard traditions with New World innovation. Their mission focuses on capturing the unique terroir of Napa Valley, allowing each bottle to express a true sense of place.

Nestled on the Rutherford Bench in the heart of Napa Valley, Alpha Omega welcomes visitors with a warm and inviting atmosphere, mirroring the authentic spirit of the Napa Valley farming community. The winery's founders, Robin and Michelle Baggett, have always prioritized creating world-class wines in a convivial setting, a commitment that has remained strong since they first opened their doors on July 1, 2006.

The picturesque surroundings at Alpha Omega are nothing short of breathtaking, featuring charming water fountains, a serene reflecting pond, and stunning views of the Mayacamas Mountains. This stunning backdrop provides the perfect ambiance for savoring the handcrafted wines produced from grapes sourced from prestigious, historic vineyards, all expertly managed by Alpha Omega’s talented winemaking team.

Visitors are greeted by a friendly staff of knowledgeable wine educators, eager to share their passion for wine in a setting that feels like a postcard from paradise. The winery’s modern farm-style architecture, located along the famous Highway 29, enhances the experience, making it a delightful destination for those seeking beautiful wines and a memorable visit.

When Robin and Michelle first toured the valley in 2005, they envisioned creating an estate that rivaled the finest in Napa. Drawing on their diverse backgrounds—Robin as a seasoned attorney and grape grower, and Michelle as an international hotel interior designer turned hospitality marketing expert—they brought their ambitious vision to life. The name Alpha Omega, conceived in 2005, reflects their commitment to delivering the ultimate winery experience from start to finish. Today, Alpha Omega proudly stands as one of the top wineries in the region, inviting all to indulge in its extraordinary offerings.

Image - Old Vine Zinfandel - photographer Randy Caparoso

Idle Hour Winery Oakhurst

Idle Hour Winery logo

A hobby gone wild! That is how Idle Hour Winery, formerly Panoche Valley Vineyards, got its start. Winemaker Anna Marie dos Remedios began making wine as a hobby to relieve the stress of her day job as a newspaper journalist/business owner.  Anna Marie is focused on small lot, single-vineyard designated wines from some of California's best wine-growing regions. Anna Marie learned traditional winemaking methods from mentor and renowned Pinot Noir producer Josh Jensen at Calera Wine Company. At Idle Hour Winery the focus is on these traditional methods: native yeast fermentation, gravity flow racking and the use of neutral French Oak; all very gentle in nature, applying these to all the varieties Anna Marie ferments. While you will find all of the wines at Idle Hour Winery delightful, be sure to try the Reserve Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc and the Tannat Idle Hour Winery is located in Oakhurst, CA the gateway to Yosemite Park. Idle Hour was include in a short video we did featuring several Central Valley wineries you can view HERE *

Hours:

Mon-    11:00AM-6:00PM
Tues-   11:00AM-6:00PM
Weds-   11:00AM-6:00PM
Thurs-  11:00AM-6:00PM
Fri -      11:00AM-6:00PM
Sat -     11:00AM-6:00PM
Sun -    11:00AM-6:00PM

San Antonio Winery

people enjoying wine - Wine Artist Agata Zamborowski

San Antonio Winery

A winery in Los Angeles? Yes!  Whether you arrive for a tour, meal, or celebration at San Antonio Winery you will discover the variety and quality of their collection of fine wines in the only producing winery in Los Angeles. The San Antonio Winery in LA offers 4 wine flight tastings and winery tours. *

Hours:
Mon      12:00pm to 4:00pm
Tues     12:00pm to 4:00pm
Wed      12:00pm to 4:00pm
Thur     12:00pm to 4:00pm
Fri        12:00pm to 4:00pm
Sat       11:00am to 5:00pm
Sun      11:00am to 5:00pm

people enjoying wine - Wine Artist Agata Zamborowski

Cinnabar Vineyards & Winery

glasses of wine in front of fireplace - Pixabay

Cinnabar Winery is a family-owned establishment that embraces winemaking as a harmonious blend of science and nature's magic. Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, their vibrant Saratoga and Gilroy Tasting Rooms serve as the heart of the winery, where they collaborate with local growers to transform California's finest grapes into distinctive and approachable wines.

History

Founded in 1983 by the late Tom Mudd, Cinnabar initially planted vineyards and constructed a majestic winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Following Tom's passing, the estate changed hands in 2007, and Cinnabar relocated to its new home in downtown Saratoga.

In 2019, Ron Mosley, the original vineyard manager, took ownership, completing a remarkable full-circle journey. Ron is dedicated to honoring Cinnabar's legacy while steering the business toward an exciting future. Cinnabar's philosophy remains rooted in the joy of creating serious wine with a sense of fun.

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