Zinfandel

Zinfandel

Armida Winery

wine cluster - Pixabay

Overshine Wines, a project of Armida Winery, is deeply inspired by the essence of California. The state's cultural diversity, iconic landscapes, and innovative spirit—from the mountains and redwoods to the beaches and bustling hubs like Hollywood and Silicon Valley—define the winery's philosophy. Overshine captures the magic of California’s golden light, vibrant food culture, and the rich tapestry of influences that shape its identity.

At the heart of Overshine's vision is a belief in inclusivity and environmental sustainability. The team envisions a world where everyone is welcome, and where preserving the health of the land is a top priority. Their holistic approach celebrates diversity and resilience, reflected in their commitment to sustainable farming, producing wines that are both authentic and joyful, and fostering a spirit of connection to the beautiful place they call home.

Overshine was founded by David Drummond, with the collaboration of Sam Bilbro and Thomas DeBiase. David’s deep California roots and passion for wine, combined with his brother’s involvement in the Healdsburg Jazz Fest, led him to Healdsburg. After meeting Sam and Thomas, David was inspired by their wines and the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere they embodied. Together, they saw an opportunity to create a future for wine that was both innovative and joyful, and thus, Overshine was born.

Boeger Winery

wine corks and glass - Pixabay

The Boeger Winery estate, originally homesteaded during the 1849 Gold Rush by the Fossati-Lombardo family, has a rich history rooted in California's early days. Like many during that era, the Fossati-Lombardo family sought their fortune in the gold fields but soon realized that greater prosperity lay in providing goods and services to miners rather than mining itself. Their land evolved into a thriving fruit and nut farm, which later expanded into a winery and distillery. Using Mission grapes and an early clone of Zinfandel, they produced wines, and a small block of that original Zinfandel still produces wine today.

In 2018, Boeger Winery received the prestigious Wine Lifetime Achievement Award from the California State Fair, a testament to its longstanding impact on the industry.

Decades after Prohibition forced the closure of the last winery in the county, Greg and Sue Boeger discovered the property in 1972 and made it their home. This marked the beginning of Boeger Winery as the first modern post-Prohibition winery in the El Dorado American Viticultural Area. Greg Boeger was no stranger to winemaking, as his grandfather, Anton Nichelini, founded the Nichelini Winery in Napa Valley in 1890. Greg spent much of his youth at his grandfather’s vineyard, gaining hands-on experience that would later fuel his passion for the craft.

Following in the footsteps of the Fossati-Lombardo family and his grandfather, Greg became a pioneer in his own right by experimenting with lesser-known grape varietals, including Barbera, Carignane, Refosco, Charbono, and Aglianico. Among these, Barbera became a standout, earning hundreds of awards for the winery.

As a trailblazer in the El Dorado wine industry and a staunch advocate for agricultural rights, Greg Boeger was recognized with the 2018 Wine Lifetime Achievement Award. This honor placed him among California's most renowned winemakers, including Robert Mondavi, Jerry Lohr, Bob Gallo, and the University of California, Davis.

For those looking to experience the magic of Boeger Winery, visitors are invited to explore the estate, taste its award-winning wines, and take in the history that continues to shape its future.

Broc Cellars

red wine pouring a swirling in the wine glass - Pixabay

Broc Cellars is a Berkeley-based winery known for producing refreshing and approachable wines meant for everyday enjoyment. Founded in 2002 by owner and winemaker Chris Brockway, the winery employs native fermentations and uses organically-grown grapes. Broc wines are crafted with the goal of uplifting the spirit without overwhelming the senses.

Chris Brockway’s winemaking journey began with a fascination for California Zinfandel. Drawn from his hometown of Omaha, Nebraska to California by the spicy, brambly fruit style, he discovered that the California wine scene had shifted towards the "bigger is better" trend of the time. Personally, Brockway found this approach excessive, with wines that were high in alcohol and overly robust.

Believing that California wine could offer a different experience, Brockway started with a single barrel in 2002 and has since expanded to over 20 different wine releases each year. Broc Cellars continues to focus on creating fresh, enjoyable California wines. In 2023, the winery's commitment to simple and ethical winemaking expanded with the acquisition of Fox Hill Vineyard.

R&B Cellars

wine glass and wine corks - Pixabay

At R&B Cellars, wine-making is viewed as an art form with the power and influence of music. It’s meant to inspire, brim with passion, and unite people in celebrating life, happiness, and community.

Situated in the East Bay of San Francisco, owners Kevin and Barbara invite visitors to Riggers Loft, their scenic winery, tasting room, and wine bar in the Port of Richmond, Point Richmond. Here, guests can enjoy a blend of delicious wines and vibrant music in one of the most welcoming communities in the area.

As lifelong musicians, Kevin and Barbara recognize that, much like music, wine is crafted to be shared—whether with old friends, new acquaintances, or the world at large. To suit a variety of tastes and personalities, they offer several varietals at different price points. Riggers Loft is their dream: a place where music and wine harmonize beautifully. The experience is made even more memorable with a sweeping 270-degree view of the San Francisco Bay.

Vina Robles

wine corks and glass - Pixabay

With 25 years of farming experience in the region, we take a ground up approach to quality, integrating it into every aspect of wine production, from our six SIP Certified sustainable vineyards to our premium hospitality offerings. Vina Robles Vineyards & Winery is built upon the core values of sustainability, hospitality, and quality.

Cline Cellars

corks and wine glass - Pixabay

This isn't your usual winery experience--Cline is surrounded by an impressive property, but this location is also rich with historical relevance. The mission on downtown Sonoma used to actually be located where Cline stands today. The vineyard was cute and cosy. IHas picnic tables in the front lawn laid out so you can have your own snacks to accompany your bottle of wine after your tasting.

Manzanita Creek Winery

wine and cheese - Pixabay

We stopped in here several years ago, quite confused, because I had read about another winery with a similar name in the area and I was looking for the fields of lavender. Obviously that's not what you'll get in this industrial warehouse near Healsburg square, but it's not about the scenery here - it's all about the wines, and how delicious they are. If you're a fan of big, bold Zins, I cannot recommend this place enough. They also make a very decent Chardonnay and some Syrah and Petit Syrahs, but my heart belongs to the zin, especially the amazing Stealth.

Back Patio Cellars

Artwork by Wine Artist Agata Zaborowski – Agata Art Gallery   Gallery | Agata Art Gallery

Back Patio Cellars got it's start on the patio. It was a lot of work to process those first grapes into wine. This husband and wife team are passionate about wine. Starting out as a hobby it was soon a matter of "Go Big or Go Home." Fank and Jen believe that wine always tastes better when you are with friends and family, so you will feel the relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere at Back Patio Cellars. 

Hours:

Fri         4:00pm to 7:00pm      Or By Appointment
Sat        1:00pm to 7:00pm
Sun       1:00pm to 5:00pm

    

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