Best Wineries in Lake County, California
Lake County is Northern California's hidden wine gem — high-elevation volcanic vineyards surrounding Clear Lake, producing outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon,...
Lake County sits northeast of Napa Valley in the mountains above the Mayacamas range, surrounding the vast expanse of Clear Lake — California's largest natural freshwater lake. At elevations between 1,400 and 2,800 feet, the vineyards here experience dramatic diurnal temperature swings — hot days and cold nights — that produce wines of remarkable concentration and freshness.
The volcanic soils of Lake County are one of its defining characteristics — remnants of ancient volcanic activity that created a mineral-rich growing medium unlike anything in Napa Valley or Sonoma County. The combination of volcanic soils, high elevation, and Clear Lake's moderating influence creates conditions that have attracted serious winemakers looking for something genuinely distinctive.
Lake County remains one of California's most under-the-radar wine destinations, which means visitors find genuinely personal hospitality, fair pricing, and wines that overdeliver for their cost. The Red Hills Lake County sub-appellation in particular has attracted significant investment from producers who recognize the potential of its volcanic benchland sites.
Featured Wineries
01
Brassfield Estate Winery
The most spectacular winery in Lake County, Brassfield's high plateau estate sits at 2,600 feet with 360-degree views of Clear Lake and the surrounding mountains. The estate produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Merlot from volcanic soils that give the wines a distinctive mineral character.
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Guenoc & Langtry Estate
The historic Langtry estate — once owned by Victorian actress Lillie Langtry — has one of the most colorful histories of any California winery. The remote Guenoc Valley AVA exclusively defined by this estate produces wines of genuine individuality.
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Hawk And Horse Vineyards
One of the Red Hills Lake County sub-appellation's most serious producers, Hawk and Horse farms biodynamically at elevation to produce Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc of impressive structure and volcanic mineral character.
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Langtry Estate & Vineyards
The continuation of the historic Guenoc estate produces wines from California's only single-estate AVA — the Guenoc Valley. The combination of the estate's fascinating history and distinctive terroir makes it one of California's most unique wine destinations.
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Brassfield Estate Winery
The dramatic plateau setting, the volcanic soils, and the wines of genuine quality make Brassfield the standard-bearer for Lake County wine tourism. The view from the estate is among the most spectacular of any California winery.
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Dolia Winery
A small, family-owned Lake County producer making wines of genuine character from the county's volcanic soils. The intimate tasting experience and the focus on estate-grown wines make Dolia a rewarding find for visitors exploring beyond the well-trodden wine trail.
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Fox and Bear Winery
One of Lake County's more accessible and visitor-friendly small wineries, Fox and Bear produces a range of varieties from county fruit with a casual, welcoming atmosphere. A good introduction to what Lake County wine can offer.
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Ceago Vinegarden
A biodynamic estate on the shores of Clear Lake producing Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tempranillo with a commitment to organic farming and genuine ecological stewardship that reflects Lake County's growing reputation for sustainable viticulture.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What wine is Lake County known for?
Lake County is best known for Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc from its high-elevation volcanic sites. The Red Hills Lake County sub-appellation is particularly celebrated for structured, mineral-driven Cabernet Sauvignon. The county also produces excellent red blends and Zinfandel.
Is Lake County wine affordable?
Yes — Lake County is one of California's best wine values. Outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc from volcanic soils are available at $20-40 per bottle, and tasting fees are significantly lower than Napa or Sonoma. It's one of the state's most rewarding under-the-radar regions.
How far is Lake County from Napa Valley?
Lake County is approximately 60 miles north of Napa Valley — about 1.5 hours via Highway 29 through Calistoga. It's often visited as an extension of a Napa Valley trip, and the dramatic change in landscape from the Napa Valley floor to Lake County's mountain terrain is striking.
What is the Red Hills Lake County AVA?
Red Hills Lake County is a sub-appellation within the broader Lake County AVA, covering volcanic benchland on the slopes above Clear Lake between 1,400 and 2,800 feet. The distinctive red volcanic soils and high elevation produce Cabernet Sauvignon of exceptional concentration and mineral character.