Limitless possibilities
Unique surroundings, perfect for winemaking
Our dynamic terroir ranges from 1,000 to 3,500 feet with hundreds of microclimates providing endless opportunities for our creative winemakers to experiment with nearly 100 distinct wine varieties.
Warm days and cool nights
Mountain born, intense flavors and distinct character
Our mountain vineyards are on steep hillsides with warm summer days and cool nights. It’s an environment that gives wines luscious fruit, an alluring balance, gentle tannins, and body and depth.
The story that built us
It all began in 1848
California's Gold Rush and the planting of the first vines.
California’s Gold Rush began in El Dorado County in 1848 with James Marshall’s discovery of gold at Sutter’s Mill, on the South Fork of the American River in Coloma. As legions of people flocked to California to claim their fortunes, the region’s winemaking industry was born.
By 1870
The early pioneers of California winemaking
El Dorado County was among the largest wine producers in the state, trailing only Los Angeles and Sonoma counties. The local wine industry flourished until just after the turn of the century when there were approximately 2,000 acres of vines in the county. Shortly thereafter, El Dorado began a gradual decline, brought about by poor economic conditions and a diminishing local population. Prohibition was but the last straw.
1920 - 1960
Rebirth
Viticulture virtually disappeared from the county. It wasn’t until the late 1960s that winegrowing made a resurgence. Following the development of several experimental vineyards, it became apparent that both the climate and soil of El Dorado County were ideally suited to the production of high quality, dry table wines. With the opening of Boeger Winery in 1973, El Dorado was once again on its way to becoming an important winegrowing region.
Present
A can't-miss California wine region with boutique independent wineries
Today, the county has more than 2,000 acres of vines, is home to approximately 50 wineries, and produces some of California’s most sophisticated wines. El Dorado was designated an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in 1983.
Today is International Cabernet Sauvignon Day, a grape grown throughout the world, including here!
To celebrate the world’s most popular grape, we have three fun facts:
🍇 Cabernet Sauvignon is actually a relatively young grape variety! Compared to some ancient vines, it`s a youngster, with the first mentions dating back to the 17th century.
🍇 It’s a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Talk about a surprising family tree!
🍇 Cabernet Sauvignon is incredibly versatile. It thrives in diverse climates, from the cool regions of Bordeaux to the warmer climates of El Dorado County, producing unique flavor profiles in each location.
Pictured: @wavewinesofficial
#ElDoradoWines #CabernetSauvignonDay
Are you El Dorado wine-curious? 🧐 Maybe you’re planning a visit but aren’t sure which wineries are pet-friendly, have outdoor seating, or picnic supplies? 🐶 🧺 ⛱️
Never fear! Our winery page lets you filter wineries by location, by amenities, and even by days open. It makes planning a breeze.
Get started at the link in our bio.
Pictured
🐶 @crystal_basin_cellars
⛱️ @toogoodestatewinery
⛱️ @davidgirardwinery
#ElDoradoWines #Wineries #PlanYourVisit
Wishing you a happy and safe Labor Day weekend. 🇺🇸 Whether you’re traveling or staying put, exploring our wineries 🍷 😎 or laying low, we hope you enjoy a well-deserved weekend off!
#ElDoradoWines #LaborDayWeekend #SafeWishes
Discover the best of El Dorado’s wineries this Labor Day weekend. 🇺🇸 Gather your posse for live music, food pairings, unmatched hospitality, and delicious wines!
See all the possibilities at the link in our bio or at eldoradowines.org/events.
📷 @madronavineyards
#ElDoradoWines #LaborDayWeekend #Events
Sun-kissed days and good company. 🍷☀️ Both make for delightful memories at our wineries.
📷 @mellowoodvineyard
#ElDoradoWines #WineTasting #BetterWithFriends
It’s veraison time at our wineries! Wondering what it is, exactly? 🤔 🍇
It’s *not*
☎️ A phone company – or Internet provider
🍷 A wine varietal, though it is essential to wine making!
We’ve got the full scoop on our blog at the link in bio.
📷 @crystal_basin_cellars
#ElDoradoWines #Veraison #Winemaking #Grapes
You don’t have to be a fan of Grease to appreciate the magic of summer nights. 🤩 Especially the mountain-grown variety.
📷 @starfieldvineyards
#ElDoradoWines #MountainGrown #SummerNights
Our wineries aren`t just about delicious wines but also about stunning backdrops perfect for capturing unforgettable memories! 📷 🙌🏽
From rolling vineyards bathed in golden light to charming and rustic tasting rooms, find our guide to finding the most Instagram-worthy spots at the link in our bio.
#ElDoradoWines #Photos #Views
We love us a wine day, and National #WhiteWine Day is no exception! 🥂
Sure, we may be known for our bold red wines, but our mountain-grown white wines are recognized for their balanced acidity and concentrated flavors, making them a memorable way to celebrate today – or any day.
With so many varietals and blends to choose from at our wineries, there is no shortage of new wines to discover!
#ElDoradoWines #WhiteWineDay #MountainGrown
@smokey_ridge_ranch isn’t your average winery. This small family-run operation, open seasonally during the fall, offers a taste of rural California mountain-grown charm. 🍷
They grow all their produce, from grapes for their wines to 17 varieties of apples, flowers, and chestnuts. The boutique winery produces red wine, rose, and hard cider, with varietals that include Syrah, Sangiovese, Tempranillo, Grenache, and Zinfandel.
Fun fact: Farmer Kirk, who planted the vines in 1999, has a PhD in Biochemistry and is a stickler in growing premium, perfectly mature grapes. 🍇
Stop by for a wine tasting on fall weekends and enjoy the beautiful scenery, or pick up a flower bouquet and wine while visiting the Apple Hill™ farms!
#ElDoradoWines #SmokeyRidgeWinery #MountainGrown
While wine pairs with many things, scenic views are at the top of the list. 🙌🏽 You`ll find gorgeous vistas at wineries throughout El Dorado County, but if you`re looking for something memorable, check out these spots! 🤩
🍇 @lavacapwinery
🍷 @hollyshill
🍇 @davidgirardwinery
🍷 @skinnervineyards
🍇 @wavwinesofficial
See more on our blog at the link in bio.
#ElDoradoWines #BestViews #Wineries #ViewsforDays #WinePairings
