This little hidden gem is very easy to miss while whizzing past on Silverado Trail. But don't overlook this one. You won't be disappointed. Some of the best zinfandel and very good cabernet sauvignon. It is a great value wine that will hold its own against some higher priced wines. This is a very small winery with limited production and only offers a few wines. You won't find this in too many stores so you will need to make a trip out there of go on-line.
What a hidden gem! They only make four types of wine: sauvignon blanc, rosé, cabernet sauvignon, and a blend. Normally after you wine taste, you would just buy your favorite wines and leave the winery, right? Well, Doug, the vintner and now tour guide, then took us for a tour outside the wine cave and showed us the estate's 200+ year old rose, the extensive car collection residing in a renovated barn, and the fully restored functioning green house.
The wines of Boeschen Vineyards celebrate the land and traditions of Napa Valley. On an estate founded in 1880, our family farms the 11-acre vineyard and crafts the wine from barrel to bottle. Experience a taste of how Napa used to be – and still is at Boeschen Vineyards.
Scribner Bend Vineyards, located just 12 minutes south of the Capital on the beautiful Sacramento River, is Sacramento’s Local Winery and Wedding Venue. Award winning wines, tasting room, authentic Italian dining room and over 6000 square feet of outdoor lawn and gardens serves to provide a location for your dream wedding or just a relaxing afternoon picnic.
Jason Bushong grew up in Southern California in the 80s, doing what most kids were into—collecting vinyl, jamming to Duran Duran, and exploring his passions. Over time, one passion stood out: wine.
With over 20 years in the winemaking industry, Jason’s love for the craft led him to open his own tasting room, Bushong Vintage Company, in November 2017. It’s here that he shares his unique vision and experience with wine enthusiasts.
Clay Shannon has always been a bit of a maverick. In 1996, he decided to shake things up by embarking on a bold journey to establish a progressive and pioneering winery and ranch in Lake County, California.
This rugged, challenging terrain captured Shannon’s imagination and fueled his unwavering commitment to the land itself. “We wanted to grow the best fruit possible,” says Clay, “but we also wanted to enjoy living here.”
Today, Shannon Family of Wines encompasses over 2,000 acres of mountain property, with about half of that area dedicated to vineyards. In the face of a changing climate, the winery is stepping up to make a difference. They’re transforming 1,000 acres into a regenerative organic farming system, significantly reducing their environmental impact.
Nestled on ridges of ancient volcanic soil at higher elevations, Shannon Family of Wines offers an extraordinary guest experience. While the conditions may seem extreme, visitors are treated to rustic charm, breathtaking lake views, and abundant wildlife that celebrate the western spirit of Clear Lake.
Guests can indulge in award-winning wines and a diverse range of varietals—all crafted with an earth-first approach that prioritizes sustainability and quality. At Shannon Family of Wines, the commitment to authenticity shines through, staying true to both the land and their own values. Cheers to an adventure that promises unforgettable sips and stunning scenery!
The brilliant white stucco stands out dramatically against the rugged Mayacamas and Vaca mountain ranges that flank each side of Napa Valley. Mount Saint Helena makes a lovely distant backdrop. The tour is self guided so it's at your own pace and the gondola ride is unique for the area. It's also one of only wineries that's on a hill in the middle of Napa Valley so the views are to die for. My only suggestion would be (if you enjoy wine clubs) to join the wine club before you go. You can get on the gondola for free for up to 4 people and the tour is included as well. That pays for one of your months of wine right there. Then, you get access to the VIP tasting room which is fantastic.
Located in Rutherford, west of Hwy 29 off Bella Oaks Lane. The tour/tasting appointment here will last about 60-90 minutes, depending on the group dynamic. Standard cave tour and sit-down tasting. You pay for what you get - pricer than other wineries, but the wines are excellent, full-bodied and rich. Family owned and run, committed to the environment. Great tasting experience.
On a trip to Paso Robles years ago, Douglas Ayres was awed by the beauty of the land, the warmth of the people and the promising wine region. While later traveling through some of the most celebrated wine and cultural areas of the world, the memory of Paso Robles inspired him to return with a vision of owning vineyards, making world-class wine and developing a destination driven wine country resort.
Painting by Agata Zaborowski
At the Shire, the aim is to treat visitors to smooth and savory blends designed to captivate even the most discerning palate. Their oak-aged, handcrafted wine is a drinkable gem, born from vineyards blessed by the serene surroundings only nature can provide. The privilege of planting, nurturing, and harvesting the abundant clusters of fruit that adorn the hillside vines is cherished by all involved.
Visitors are invited to experience the offerings of these vines within the comfort of the gardens of the European-styled estate. Each day in the tasting room, magic happens as guests arrive and rediscover their true selves. Relaxation and camaraderie flourish as patrons meet others who appreciate wine, art, conversation, and music. Friendships form as one strolls through the grounds, greeted by a calm and soothing embrace. Sitting near the pond, visitors can take a moment to reflect or meditate.
The Shire takes great pleasure in sharing this enchanting experience with all who visit.
Brecon Estate is a Boutique Estate winery nestled in the rolling westside hills outside of Paso Robles, California. With an international award-winning winemaker that strives to produce exquisite and inviting wines for you and us to enjoy.
"Open Daily 11-5, reservations available, walk-ins welcome,"
