Viognier

Viognier

Shenandoah Vineyards

Leon and Shirley founded Shenandoah Vineyard in 1977. They were one of the first four wineries in Amador County's now well known Shenandoah Valley appellation. From the first offering of 1,200 cases, the winery has continued to thrive, adjusting the portfolio of wines over the years. It is now producing about 25,000 cases per year. Taste the reserve reds for $5 and get to keep the glass. This Vineyard seems to be the last stop, we watched the sunset come down over the Vineyards as they were closing, simply beautiful. Organic wines and passionate wine makers. sting the portfolio of wines over the years. It is now producing about 25,000 cases per year. Demand continues to grow as a result of skilled winemaking, marketing, and strong family commitments to quality and service. Taste the reserve reds for $5 and get to keep the glass. This Vineyard seems to be the last stop every time were in Amador County. We watched the sunset come down over the Vineyards as they were closing, simply beautiful.

Kelsye See Canyon Vineyards

women, wine bar at beach

What began as a retirement project back in 1999 has blossomed into a full-time labor of love for Dick and Dolores Kelsey, long-time residents of See Canyon. 

The Kelsey family’s winery is a true family affair, with three generations working side by side. It all began as a retirement project for Dick and Dolores Kelsey, longtime residents of See Canyon. Their sons, Richard and Keith, along with grandchildren Deanna, Devon, Clive, Tessa, and Jessica, have since joined in, transforming the initial venture into a vibrant family business known for both fantastic wines and a welcoming atmosphere.

Founded in 1999, the Kelsey Winery has grown into a full-time endeavor for Dick and Dolores, who are dedicated not only to their vineyards but also to the land and wildlife that surrounds them. The winery property produces Estate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, with the cool coastal climate contributing to exceptional harvests year after year. Wild peacocks roam the grounds, with more than 150 calling the winery home—a unique and beautiful addition to the estate that brings charm to every visit.

The Kelsey family believes in letting the land and climate guide each vintage. Their winemakers take a “hands-off” approach, allowing the terroir to shine with minimal intervention. This philosophy brings out refined, authentic notes in each varietal, staying true to the essence of the land. Their wines, sourced from See Canyon, Creston, and Paso Robles, have earned awards for their consistent quality. These reds, whites, and apple blends are loved for their fruit-forward profiles, satisfying mouthfeel, and lingering finishes that keep enthusiasts coming back for more.

Stevenot Winery

Painting by Agata Zaborowski - two women with wine at table

The first Stevenot’s came to the area during the great Gold Rush of the mid 1800’s. During that time vineyards began cropping up throughout the region as miners from France, Germany, and Italy were creating a demand for wine on an unprecedented scale. At one time the Sierra Foothills rivaled the areas of Napa and Sonoma combined in vineyard acreage with over 100 wineries established. Although the industry eventually declined with the advent of prohibition, it wasn’t long before a 5th generation member of the Stevenot family took up where his family had left off and established the winery in the late 1970s. Recognized as one of the pioneers of the rebirth of wine production in the Sierra Foothills, Stevenot Winery quickly secured its reputation for producing world-class wines and for its innovative and award-winning style.

Painting by Agata Zaborowski - two women with wine at table

Sierra Vista Winery

clusters of grapes

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

MOHI Ranch

Grape cluster - Pixabay

At MOHI Ranch, the farm-to-table philosophy isn’t just a concept; it’s a way of life! This delightful haven grows its own produce, ensuring that every event is graced with the freshest ingredients straight from the land. The ranch is not just a stunning backdrop; it’s the very heart of their culinary magic, bursting with vibrant fruits, vegetables, and herbs that bring the best of each harvest right to your table.

But MOHI Ranch doesn’t just host events—they create unforgettable experiences! Their dedicated team focuses on every detail, ensuring that your celebration, whether a dreamy wedding, a corporate retreat, or a family reunion, perfectly reflects your vision and values. Picture saying "I do" amidst blooming flowers or dancing under a canopy of stars—MOHI Ranch is the ultimate setting for life’s most cherished moments. Come and discover the unique farm-to-table experience that makes this ranch truly special!

Established at the turn of the 20th century as Marchetti Ranch, a family vineyard and winery before Prohibition, Sycamore Creek Vineyards has undergone an incredible transformation over the years. The most significant change came in 2005 when Bill and Carolyn Holt of Morgan Hill took the reins. With Bill’s passion for agriculture and commitment to quality, Sycamore Creek blossomed into an award-winning winery known for its unique, hand-crafted wines.

Initially celebrated for its Zinfandel and Carignane, the winery expanded its repertoire under the Holts to include delightful Viognier, Chardonnay, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and bold Bordeaux-style blends. In 2015, the winery joined the Léal Portfolio under Frank Léal, further elevating its prestige.

Today, nestled in the scenic hills west of Morgan Hill and Gilroy, MOHI Ranch continues this rich legacy, producing some of the Central Coast's most coveted wines. Looking ahead, the ranch plans to enhance its agricultural efforts, cultivating a variety of produce alongside its renowned vineyards, enriching both the land and the community.

Set along the picturesque banks of Uvas Creek in Uvas Valley, MOHI Ranch is the perfect escape. Visitors can unwind and enjoy award-winning wines while soaking in the beautiful surroundings. The charming ranch and boutique winery is located in the historical Uvas Valley, just west of the delightful towns of Morgan Hill and Gilroy. Don’t miss the chance to relax on the outdoor patio, savor a tasting, and indulge in their unique, delicious wines.

Visit MOHI Ranch Wine Tasting Room:
12775 Uvas Road
Morgan Hill, CA
Availability: Year-round
Phone: 408.779.4738

Great wine and unforgettable memories at MOHI Ranch!

Pride Mountain

wine barrels all stacked neatly - Pixabay

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!

Crazy Woman Cellars

Painting by Agata Zaborowski

The inspiration for the name comes from the winemaker's former mother-in-law, who raised four daughters as a single woman on a homestead in Mendocino County during the 1970s. They lived in a sheep barn without plumbing, windows, or doors, surrounded by pot growers who frequently encroached on their property. Defending her family with a six-shooter, she soon became known as "The Crazy Woman" and was widely respected in the community for her fearlessness. The winery aims to honor the countless women who have changed history while facing the label of being called crazy.

The winery is excited to host tastings in the barrel room, located in the Tin City Annex, where the wine is produced. This immersive experience will include tastings of wines in bottle alongside barrel tastings, allowing guests to see how the wines are made and enjoy an individual tasting experience.

Painting by Wine Artist Agata Zaborowski

Thacher Winery

wine glass and corks - Pixabay

Thacher Winery has been handcrafting wines from superb vineyards throughout California's Central Coast. Their boutique production showcases local subtleties and true terroir, focusing on creating elegant wines with nuanced flavors rather than sheer power. Utilizing diverse varietals from exceptional vineyards in Paso Robles, Santa Barbara, and Monterey Counties, Thacher Winery emphasizes minimal intervention and native ferments, allowing the fruit, acid, and tannins to balance naturally. Embracing the growing season's inconsistencies and the unpredictability of harvest, they aim to produce wines that reflect the unique character of each vintage rather than a standardized product.

The award-winning winery and tasting room are nestled next to a 100-year-old KR barn, offering spectacular and ever-changing vistas of vineyards, hayfields, and oak trees. Thacher Winery and Vineyard celebrate everything that makes Paso Robles special, inviting visitors to share in their love for this remarkable region.

Hidden Oak Winery

grape cluster - ai generated - Pixabay

The history of Hidden Oak Winery is a unique story shaped by a deep love of the land, family values, hard work, and tradition. The name "Hidden Oak Winery" reflects this heritage; before grapes were planted, almond trees grew on the property. During the clearing process, a small oak tree was discovered hidden among them, and it was nurtured to thrive alongside the vines. Today, this oak stands over 50 feet tall, a testament to the winery's commitment to the land.

Owners Mike and Martha James may be relatively new to winemaking, but their label has quickly garnered attention in the industry, resulting in numerous awards and reviews that are remarkable for such an emerging winery.

The James family toiled in the vineyard, celebrating their first harvest in 1997. “We learned that it goes beyond just picking the grapes at peak ripeness,” Mike explains. Together, they meticulously monitor the pH and acid levels, ensuring consistency, but they also take the time to taste the grapes, searching for that perfect flavor that indicates readiness for harvest. It’s not uncommon to see them strolling through the vineyard, sampling the fruit directly from the vines.

Their journey into winemaking began with a modest inaugural release intended solely for friends and family. However, encouragement from those who tasted their wines led them to offer their creations commercially. Starting with Merlot, the Jameses soon expanded their portfolio to include Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, Zinfandel, and blends crafted from the diverse varietals grown on their property.

For wine lovers visiting California's wineries, Hidden Oak Winery promises a heartfelt experience rooted in tradition and dedication, along with a delightful selection of wines that capture the essence of the land.

Westbrook Wine Farm

Winemaker Ray Krause

Westbrook Wine Farm the vineyard and winery are located on a mountainous forty acre site at an elevation of 1440 feet in the central Sierra Nevada range of eastern Madera County, California. Close to the hamlet of O'Neals and not far from Bass Lake, the town of Oakhurst and the Southern entrance to Yosemite National Park.

Pages

Subscribe to Viognier