Explore the Sierra Foothills Wine Country
Amador County: A Legacy of Old Vines
Amador County is renowned for its historic vineyards, with nearly 600 acres of vines over 60 years old and several dating back to the 19th century. Nestled in the heart of Gold Country, this region blends rich history with bold, flavorful wines.
Known for: Old Vine Zinfandel, Barbera, Sangiovese, Syrah, and Viognier
Home to: The lush Shenandoah Valley and charming Gold Rush towns
Calaveras County: History & Natural Beauty
Made famous by Mark Twain’s story The Jumping Frog of Calaveras County, this region retains its 19th-century charm. Visitors can experience its historic sites, including Murphy’s Historic Hotel, in operation since 1856, and explore stunning natural wonders.
Must-See: Calaveras Big Trees, a grove of giant sequoias
Known for: Rich reds like Syrah, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon
El Dorado County: High-Elevation Winemaking
Located at the northern end of California’s historic Mother Lode, El Dorado County boasts vineyards at elevations above 2,000 feet. This elevation creates ideal conditions for producing exceptional wines, particularly Zinfandel.
Signature Grape: Zinfandel
Easy to Get To: Less than an hour from Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe
Scenic Beauty: Dramatic river canyons and rolling hillsides
Yuba County: Where Mountains Meet the Valley
At the northern edge of the Sierra Foothills AVA, Yuba County offers a mix of scenic wilderness and fertile farmland. The area has a deep agricultural history, with vineyards dating back to 1849 when John Sutter first planted grapes here.
Famous For: Farm-to-fork experiences featuring local peaches, nectarines, melons, and olives
Historic Roots: One of California’s earliest winemaking regions
Outdoor Adventure: Explore the wild and scenic Yuba River & Plumas National Forest
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to California wine country, the Sierra Foothills offers an unforgettable blend of history, scenic beauty, and world-class wines.
