What time and where is wine o‘clock? The answer: right here, right now! There’s no time like the present to celebrate and savor the many (many!) incredible wineries our region has to offer, whether it’s on a shady patio with picturesque views or deep in the cool confines of a rustic tasting room. From newer wineries on the block to well-established favorites, there’s literally every type of winery to choose from—even those that offer on-site accommodations. And mercifully, plenty of wine to be had! So, let’s say “cheers” to wine, raise a glass, and start bending our tasting elbows. 

Cool New (ish) Wineries

Smokin’ Barrel Winery

Lincoln’s Smokin' Barrel Winery opened in 2022 and is one of the newer kids on the Placer Wine Trail; it’s a short trip from Roseville, but the rustic-country vibes are so good you’d swear you were miles from nowhere. Smokin’ Barrel offers a wide range of varietals, from complex reds to well-balanced whites (in other words, enough to please even the pickiest palates), and they’re not afraid to mix it up with creative alternative wine beverages; their wine slushies are a huge crowd-pleaser. 3700 Wise Road, Lincoln, 916-759-9330, smokinbarrelwinery

La Mesa Vineyards

Plymouth’s La Mesa Vineyards opened in 2021 and has quickly become a fast (and award-winning) favorite of the region. La Mesa wines come with a uniqueness all their own, like the barbera blanc, gamay, grenache, and primitivo (but trust and believe there’s plenty more, that’s just naming a special few!). Paired with a thoroughly modern tasting room offering uninterrupted views of the rolling hills and abundant vineyards, and a gorgeous, shaded patio, La Mesa is a Sierra foothills wine experience to be savored. 13200 Shenandoah Road, Plymouth, 209-245-3388, lamesavineyards.com

Lecavalier Cellars

Lecavalier Cellars opened a shiny new tasting room this past spring in Newcastle, and it’s conveniently located right off Interstate 80: easily accessible to visitors from all regions. Enjoy a drop or two of their light and crisp sauvignon blanc, rosé, albariño, and vibrant chardonnay, or savor a pour of the pinot noir, barbera, zinfandel, and cabernet sauvignon. Whatever you fancy, there are plenty of small plates to create a perfect pairing (everything from grazing boards to decadent desserts). While you’re there, check out their forward-thinking patented wine bottle design that allows for easy recycling. They really have thought of everything! 9314 Chantry Hill Road, Newcastle, 916-740-0678, lecel.com

Sustainable Sips

Wise Villa Winery

Lincoln’s Wise Villa Winery is a Certified California Sustainable Vineyard & Winery; according to their website “[Wise Villa] leads Placer County in sustainable farming initiatives, being the only winery recycling 99.95% of all wastewaters produced during wine production, while using sheep as the primary source of natural fertilizer and grass control.” In addition to their sustainability bona fides and award-winning pours (their 2023 Bouquet of Roses recently won “Best of California” at the California State Fair Wine Competition), Wise Villa also boasts the region's only Tuscan-style bistro, guaranteeing a perfect and unique food and wine pairing experience. 4200 Wise Road, Lincoln, 916-543-0323, wisevillawinery.com

Terra d’Oro

Plymouth’s Terra d’Oro prides itself on good pours and good-for-the-earth practices. Their owl boxes attract owls who feed on harmful pests, and cover crops help fertilize the soil and attract beneficial insects to feed on other more harmful ones, reducing reliance on artificial fertilizers and pesticides. Terra d’Oro also holds a firm place in the history of Amador winemaking: They were Amador County’s first winery since Prohibition, and their zinfandel helped reestablish the region’s reputation for fine wine. All of which means the wine definitely delivers. 20680 Shenandoah School Road, Plymouth, 209-245-6942, tdowinery.com

Teneral Cellars

Teneral Cellars at Wilderotter was founded in 2020 and is a women-owned and operated producer of sustainable wines (with beautiful Amador views to boot), using eco-friendly farming practices to improve the quality of their wines, minimize environmental impact, and reduce their long-term production costs. They also donate 10% of profits to organizations that empower women and promote gender and racial equity. Make a winecation out of it by booking a five-star stay at the on-site Grand Reserve Inn, because you can never have too much of a good thing. 19890 Shenandoah School Road, Plymouth, 209-245-6016, wilderottervineyard.com

Secret Ravine Winery

Family-owned and operated, Secret Ravine Winery of Loomis is a must-visit vineyard for people who appreciate quality wine made with an eco-friendly approach. Sustainable viticultural practices include minimal use of artificial fertilizers and insecticides, traditional cultural practices in favor of organic materials, integrated pest management, and little cultural intrusion to the environment. These practices all combine to maximize the full varietal character of the grapes they grow, from Teroldego and Montepulciano to cab franc, tannat, and zinfandel, to name a few. 4390 Gold Trail Way, Loomis, 916-652-6015, secretravine.com

Grape Escapes

Farmhouse at Sentivo Vineyards

Located in the heart of Fair Play, Sentivo Vineyards & Winery offers wine club members exclusive access to their luxurious properties located on the vineyard: the Farmhouse (accommodates up to nine guests) and the Crush Pad (two bedroom, two bath). Between both properties there’s over 3,400 square feet of living space, spectacular views of the vineyard, and even a hot tub for maximum relaxation! All of that, combined with five acres of vineyards and varietals like cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, grenache, petite sirah, primitive, and syrah, means it’s the perfect pick for your next wine weekend! 7460 Fairplay Road, Somerset, 916-936-3306, sentivovineyards.com

Devancy Chateau at Helwig Winery

Helwig Winery is one of the Shenandoah Valley’s premier wineries and a premier winery demands premier accommodation. Check out Davancy Chateau, a 40-acre gated French-style country estate just minutes from the winery. This quiet retreat is perfect for a celebratory getaway, thanks to six bedrooms, four and half bathrooms, steam showers, a spa tub, gourmet kitchen, game room with an 80” flat-screen TV, and pool table; plus, guests can take a dip in the pool, relax on the expansive patio, or simply soak in the gorgeous scenery. A separate Carriage House is also available to accommodate additional guests for a weekend retreat. Guaranteed to be a luxurious experience you’ll not soon forget. 11555 Shenandoah Road, Plymouth, 209-245-5200, helwigwinery.com

Flower Farm Inn at Casque Wines

Flower Farm Inn is a lush Loomis getaway located in the middle of a working citrus orchard and vineyard. Full of old-world charm, the 1905 farmhouse is filled with antiques, cozy furnishings, and impressive local artwork; and all you need to do is walk out the back door to find gorgeous gardens, ponds, a farm-to-fork café, and really (really!) good vino. Casque Wines is handily located right next door, where you can enjoy deeply delicious Rhône and Bordeaux varietals and blends in a picture-perfect setting. 9280 Horseshoe Bar Road, Loomis, 916-652-2250, casquewines.com

Zinfanden at Saluti Cellars

Located in the heart of El Dorado wine country, Saluti Cellars is a fever dream of gorgeous scenery, delicious wines, luxurious lodging, and on-site adventures. Choose from two well-appointed suites perfect for a wine weekend or romantic hideaway: the Zinfanden and the Mouvedroom each come with a balcony or deck, full bath, gas fireplace, king bed, granite countertops, and more. There are also gorgeous walking trails, a bocce ball court, and a horseshoe pit for guests; if that’s not enough, they also offer horseback riding experiences. Giddy up! 7505 Grizzly Flat Road, Somerset, 530-957-2528, saluticellars.com

Family-Friendly Wineries

Rancho Roble Vineyards

Rancho Roble Vineyards has an actual playground and climbing structure for kids, so you know they mean it when they say kids are welcome! No sequestering your tots and shushing them to be quiet at this Placer County gem that also boasts an expansive patio, beautiful pond, bocce courts, and breathtaking scenery. Rancho Roble’s goals are relaxation, fun, and excellent barbera pours. If you’re lucky, “Lincoln,” the winery cat, might even make an appearance! 340 Fleming Road, Lincoln, 916-645-2075, ranchoroble.com

Lava Cap Winery

Lava Cap Winery is one of Apple Hill’s most popular, decorated wineries and one of the reasons why is because of their warm hospitality and how readily they embrace littles. With an expansive patio and gorgeous views, there’s plenty of room for kids to stretch their legs while the adults engage in some important wine-down and soak up the incredible scenery. Oh, and apple cider donuts can be easily acquired nearby if any extra incentive is needed for bribing said children! 2221 Fruitridge Road, Placerville, 530-621-0175, lavacap.com

Dono Dal Cielo

Nestled in the rolling hills of Newcastle, Dono dal Cielo is in the heart of the Placer Wine Trail, which is appropriate, since “heart” is what they bring to your winery experience. Inclusive, welcoming, and full of positive energy, kids are more than welcome: thanks to the gorgeous rolling hills and huge outdoor area, there’s plenty of space for them to run around (or roll around) and work off all that little-kid energy. Meanwhile, since it’s wine o’clock, the grownups can enjoy pours of the winery's signature zinfandel, petite sirah, sauvignon blanc, and davenport, among others! It’s a win-win for all ages. 6100 Wise Road, Newcastle, 530-615-1564, donodalcielo.com

Viña Castellano Winery

Auburn’s Viña Castellano Winery is Placer Wine Trail’s Spanish oasis tucked away in the Sierra foothills. Enjoy tasting in the atmospheric stone barrel cave or sip sangria on the expansive picnic grounds surrounding the pond. Kids are welcome, and there’s a healthy supply of board games and toys on hand, plus a variety of lawn games in the summer (anyone for croquet?), with ample room for them to roam. Meanwhile, Mom and Dad can savor a full flight, which includes the “Best of Class” tempranillo and “Best of California” abuelito red Spanish blend; or sample the Vintner’s Choice limited tasting flight. Ole! 4590 Bell Road, Auburn, 530-889-2855, vinacastellano.com

Hidden (&Unhidden) Gems

Fenton Herriott Vineyards

Fenton Herriott Vineyards is one of the many jewels in the crown that is Apple Hill. They have an abundance of award-winning wines on offer, including popular red varietals like zinfandel, barbera, sangiovese, syrah, cabernet sauvignon, and petite sirah; on the white side, there’s chardonnay and gewürztraminer (bless you). Or, if you prefer to “rosé all day,” then sangiovese rosé is your huckleberry. (Also, this Star Trek: Voyager fan must shout out that Fenton Herriot named one of their wines the JaneWay so a hearty “live long and prosper” to this winery only!). 120 Jacquier Court, Placerville, 530-642-2021, fentonherriott.com

Twin Rocks Estate Winery

Is Granite Bay considered wine country? Twin Rocks Estate Winery proves that the answer is yes. (Placer Wine Trail, of course, agrees.) Their expansive winery and tasting room are like something out of a vacation brochure (remember those?); you can come here for an extensive tasting session and forget that the rest of the world even exists. The winery encompasses some 80 acres, perfect for unique varietals like grenache, barbera, primitivo, moscato, and grenache blanc; and word on the grapevine is the sparkling rosé and wine slushies are also winners. Luckily, all their wines pair perfectly with delicious eats from Farm Fusion mobile kitchen (oysters on the half shell or a lobster roll, anyone?); and don’t miss out on their olive oil tastings! From unwinding in the lush garden taking in the spectacular surrounds to bending an elbow in the tasting room, we only have one question: who would ever actually WANT to leave? 6635 Cavitt Stallman Road, Granite Bay, 916-587-0618, trwinery.com

Merlo Family Estate Vineyards

While the Merlo family’s vineyards might be near the wilds of the Southern Fork of the Trinity River in far-off Hyampom Valley, the Merlo Family Estate Vineyards tasting room is conveniently located in Historic Folsom, and this little gem is a happening place! Sip on a rare collection of deeply complex, richly flavored, and expressive wines, self-described as “naturally big and bold, yet refined and beautiful,” which, funnily enough is EXACTLY how I’ve been described by those who are lucky enough to meet me (#relatable). 815 Sutter Street, Folsom, 916-817-1962, merlovineyards.com

Mt. Vernon Winery

Auburn’s Mt. Vernon Winery is the self-proclaimed largest and most award-winning winery in Placer County, and who’s to argue; a winery this welcoming deserves all the awards! The quaint 1950s milk house tasting room is beautifully restored and looks like it came straight out of the English countryside. Sample from their many wines, including barbera, cabernet franc, merlot, petite sirah, white meritage, and more; keep an eye out for cider tastings in summer, too. Mt. Vernon is also the only winery (that we’re aware of) with their very own “wine club island” for wine club members. Not a figure of speech: it’s a literal island! 10850 Mount Vernon Road, Auburn, 530-823-1111, mtvernonwinery.com

Bumgarner Winery

Fair Play’s Bumgarner Winery has not one but two tasting rooms in El Dorado County east and west: in Fair Play and Camino. Their specialties are cabernet sauvignon and an award-winning tempranillo, along with pinot noir, zinfandel, and many more. Their ciders are particularly popular in summertime! Both tasting rooms include spacious picnic areas and plenty of picnic fare. Proof that two tasting rooms are definitely better than one! 3550 Carson Road, Suite B, Camino, 530-303-3418; 7380 Vineyard View Drive, Somerset, 530-957-7495, bumgarnerwinery.com

Frosé All Day

Heringer Estates

Trendy, boozy, and delicious, wine slushies are having a moment. Wondering where to get your frosé on? Here are some top spots to savor the irresistibly icy treat. 

Andersonia
2875 Larsen Drive, Camino, 530-303-8008, andersonia.wine

Batia Vineyards 
459 Main Street, Placerville, 530-683-7308, batiavineyards.com

Ciotti Cellars

Ciotti Cellars
3285 Crosby Herold Road, Lincoln, 916-534-8780, ciotticellars.com

Drink EEZY Craft Winery & Kitchen

Drink Eezy Craft Winery & Kitchen 
11225 Trade Center Drive, Suite 250, Rancho Cordova, 866-200-7110, drinkeezy.com

Heringer Estates 
37375 Netherlands Road, Clarksburg, 916-744-1919, heringerestates.com

Smokin’ Barrel Winery
3700 Wise Road, Lincoln, 916-759-9330 smokinbarrelwinery

Twin Rocks Estate Winery

Twin Rocks Estate Winery 
6635 Cavitt Stallman Road, Granite Bay, 916-587-0618, trwinery.com

Vino Noceto 
11011 Shenandoah Road, Plymouth, 209-245-6557, noceto.com

Something Extra

Lone Buffalo Winery

Auburn’s Lone Buffalo Winery likes to kick it old-school with their personal hands-on tasting experience (and pours!) direct from the winemaker. Meet the face behind the grapes and enjoy the gorgeous views of the vineyard right from the tasting room. While you’re there, make yourself at home, enjoy a picnic on the patio and sample some of the great food trucks that come through on a regular basis, or graze like the bison and build your own charcuterie box from their deli case. 7505 Wise Road, Auburn, 530-823-1159, lonebuffalovineyards.com

Old Sugar Mill

With 14 wineries in one location (plus six venue options!), you’re bound to find something you like at Clarksburg’s Old Sugar Mill. Sample some of the region’s best wines like zinfandel, cabernet sauvignon, barbera, tempranillo, chardonnay, chenin blanc, and sangiovese—all under one roof—or uncover a little something extra like Rendez-vous Winery’s wine slushies or Butterscotch Pineapple Dip or the wine and chocolate pairings at Due Vigne Winery (always a crowd-pleaser). There are also regular events on tap with live music and food trucks and an expansively gorgeous outdoor area, all just a mere 15 minutes from Sacramento! 35265 Willow Avenue, Clarksburg, 916-744-1615, oldsugarmill.com

Sierra Vista Vineyards & Winery

In a region abundant with spectacular scenery, Placerville’s Sierra Vista Vineyards & Winery might be one of the most beautiful spots in the foothills, boasting views all the way to San Francisco’s Mt. Diablo if you can believe it. In winter, check out their awesome reservable wine pods, private clear mini shelters that will keep you warm and cozy and maximize the glorious grounds! They hold up to six people and are available November through March in 1.5-hour increments. With a 45-year history, Sierra Vista is an El Dorado original, featuring Rhône and Bordeaux estate wines, and many more exciting varietals. Drop by for some excellent wines, incredible views, and plenty of fun! 4560 Cabernet Way, Placerville, 530-622-7221, sierravistawinery.com

Via Romano Vineyards

Via Romano Vineyards is a little piece of Tuscany right in the heart of Apple Hill. They’re dedicated to crafting Italian wines that evoke Old World winemaking; throw in views of the perfectly glorious foothills landscape and you’ve got yourself a winner. Stop by the tasting room and enjoy award-winning pours like sangiovese, barbera, primitivo rosé, fiasco blanca white wine blend, and much more. Hang out, meet the family, and beg for them to adopt you so you never have to leave. 2875 Larsen Drive, Camino, 530-269-9463, vrv.vin 

Taste Like A Pro

Wine tasting is meant to be an informal and fun adventure. Here are a few tips to make the best of your experience.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK. Research the winery and its offerings before your visit.

USE A MAP. Visit sacwineandale.com/all-maps to view, download, and print maps of our area’s various wine regions (Placer County, Amador County, El Dorado County, Nevada County, Sacramento & the Delta).

STAY HYDRATED. Drink water between tastings to cleanse your palate and stay hydrated.

PURCHASE & SUPPORT. Consider buying bottles to support the winery and to enjoy at home (or gift someone!).

ENHANCE & EXPLORE. Add a hike, some local boutique shopping, or enjoy a local restaurant.

KNOW YOUR LIMITS. Drink responsibly.

WHEN TASTING

Use Your Senses. Observe the wine’s color, smell its aromas, and take a moment to appreciate its texture and taste.

Sip, Don’t Guzzle. Take small sips to full appreciate each wine without overwhelming your palate.

Engage with the Host. Ask questions about the wines, vineyard, and winemaking process.

Take Notes. Record your impressions to remember wines you enjoy and compare different varieties.

Experiment. Try new wines and explore diverse regions and grape varietals to expand your palate.

Enjoy. Wine tasting is about enjoyment and discovery, so relax and savor the experience!

Reprinted with permission from Sac Wine & Ale (sacwineandale.com)—a regional lifestyle brand that highlights local wine, beer, farm-to-fork fare, and outdoor adventures.

by Sharon Penny

Lacavalier Cellars photo by Madison Brill. La Mesa Vineyards photo by Molly Jane Photography. Davancy Chateau photo by Nicole Shebl. Sentivo Vineyards photo courtesy of Sentivo Vineyards. Rancho Roble Vineyards photo by Heirloom Photography. Viña Castellano Winery and Dono dal Cielo photos by Heirloom Photography. Fenton Herriott Vineyards photo courtesy of Fenton Herriott Vineyards. Twin Rocks Esate Winery photo by Jyo Bhamidipati ©stylereadersmedia. Bumgarner Winery photo by Oran Miller. Heringer Estates photo by Lyda Studios @lydastudios. Twin Rocks Estate Winery photo by Jyo Bhamidipati ©stylereadersmedia. Lone Buffalo Winery photo by Taylor Allred ©stylereadersmedia. Old Sugar Mill photo courtesy of Old Sugar Mill. Taste Like a Pro photo © Kirsten Davis/peopleimages.com - stock.adobe.com. Via Romano photo by Sierra Foothills Media. Sierra Vista Vineyards & Winery photo courtesy of Sierra Vista Vineyards & Winery. Other photos courtesy of their respective wineries.