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?

Mayo Family Winery produces small lots of single-vineyard wines under the premise that the world's most interesting and highest quality wines must come from a single-vineyard source that can be expressed in the wines' aroma, taste and texture. Founded in 1993, the winery has two winemaking facilities in Glen Ellen, California, each fitted and equipped to produce particular types of wines. Mayo Family wines are only sold online or in their tasting room attached to the winery in the town of Glen Ellen and their two other tasting rooms in Sonoma Valley.

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.

You walk up to this old house with gardens and fountains. There is some outdoor seating if you desire to sit and relax. Definitely on the more expensive side bottles ranging from $50-80, but the wine was wonderful. The tasting is $15, but if you buy a bottle that fee is waived so it really gives you some incentive.