Amador Cellars: A Family Tradition in Winemaking

Amador Cellars is a small, quality-driven, family-oriented winery owned and operated by the Long Family. In 2000, the Longs acquired a 22-acre parcel that included a 20-acre Zinfandel vineyard in Amador County, an area they had previously sourced grapes from for their home winemaking endeavors. The family began constructing winery facilities, and by 2004, Amador Cellars was officially established. Today, this family-run winery thrives in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley.

Larry Long, Founder and General Manager
Though winemaking was not his first passion, Larry Long eventually found his calling in the craft, a decision that transformed the course of his life. After earning a bachelor's degree in biological science with a minor in chemistry from UC Davis, he pursued two master's degrees—one in biochemistry from Ohio State University and another in healthcare administration from George Washington University. Larry spent 20 years as a hospital administrator, including 13 years as CEO of Tahoe Forest Hospital in Truckee, California. After settling in Truckee with his wife, Linda, Larry discovered the joy of home winemaking. “I loved the idea of taking grapes and making wine, then enjoying the fruits of our labor. It was a great adventure for the whole family.” His enthusiasm for the hobby led him to take viticulture and winemaking classes through the UC Davis Extension, ultimately inspiring him to retire early from healthcare to pursue his passion.

Linda Long, Co-founder
Linda Long met her future husband, Larry, while attending UC Davis. She raised their three children in Truckee while running her private clinical social practice. For nearly a decade, Linda balanced her work in Truckee with the establishment of the winery, finally retiring in 2012. At Amador Cellars, she plays a vital role in various aspects of the business, managing the tasting room, organizing club events, and coordinating private gatherings in the newly established barn.

Michael Long, Head Winemaker & Viticulturist
Michael Long, the son of Larry and Linda, discovered his passion for grape growing and winemaking while working alongside his father. After gaining hands-on experience, he attended Fresno State University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 2012 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Enology. Michael values every stage of the grape growing and winemaking process, dedicating his efforts to ensuring that the vineyards and fruit meet the highest standards. He prides himself on being a minimalist winemaker, intervening only when necessary to enhance the intrinsic qualities of the grapes, resulting in sensual, charismatic wines. Michael currently resides in Cameron Park, California, with his wife and college sweetheart, Michelle, their son James, and Oscar, the winery dog.

Amador Cellars offers a welcoming environment for wine lovers seeking quality and a personal touch, reflecting the Long Family's dedication to their craft and the land.

In 1992, Peirano Estate Vineyards began bottling and selling wine using their estate grown grapes. Until this point, Lance Randolph, fourth generation Peirano, produced wine simply for his enjoyment and that of his close family and friends. The rest of the grapes were sold to winemakers across the country. It was well-known amongst Lance’s family and friends that he had a knack for making well-balanced, elegant wines but was not interested in selling it to the masses. At their insistence, Lance began bottling and selling his wine to wine enthusiasts throughout the United States.

The family story is about two families – one named McConnell and the other Wackman – that found their way to Elk Grove, California. The 5th generation from these founding families planted winegrapes in 1993 and began making wine on this historic property in 2002 for you to enjoy.