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Best Wineries in El Dorado County
Best Wineries in El Dorado County
El Dorado County offers California's most diverse high-elevation wine country — volcanic soils, dramatic views, and wines from the coolest and highest...
El Dorado County's wine country climbs higher into the Sierra Nevada than any other California wine region, with vineyards at elevations up to 3,500 feet. The Fair Play AVA at 2,400-3,000 feet is the county's most exciting area, producing wines of remarkable freshness and finesse from volcanic soils.
Featured Wineries
01
Boeger Winery
El Dorado's pioneering estate, farming since 1972 from Gold Rush-era ranch buildings.
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Lava Cap Winery
High-elevation volcanic soils produce Cabernet and Chardonnay of surprising elegance.
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Holly's Hill Vineyards
Rhône specialist in Fair Play producing Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Roussanne.
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Miraflores Winery
Beautiful Fair Play estate making Tempranillo, Syrah, and Cabernet.
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Cedarville Vineyard
Small family estate producing meticulous Rhône and Zinfandel from Fair Play volcanic soils.
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La Clarine Farm
One of California's most compelling natural wine producers, making wines from Sierra Foothills fruit with biodynamic commitment.
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David Girard Vineyards
Provençal-inspired El Dorado estate making Mediterranean varieties of genuine quality.
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Sierra Vista Winery
One of El Dorado's most established producers, making wines from high-elevation vineyards since 1977.
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View Sierra Foothills Region →Frequently Asked Questions
What is El Dorado County wine country like?
Rolling hills, volcanic soils, pine forests, and dramatic views of the Sierra Nevada. The wine country extends from Placerville east toward Fair Play and the Apple Hill area.
What is the Fair Play AVA?
Fair Play sits at 2,400-3,000 feet in El Dorado County with volcanic soils and dramatic temperature swings. It's the Sierra Foothills' most exciting sub-appellation for Rhône varieties and cool-climate wines.
How far is El Dorado County from Lake Tahoe?
Placerville is about 1 hour west of South Lake Tahoe on Highway 50 — an easy stop on the way to or from Tahoe.
What varieties grow best in El Dorado County?
Rhône varieties (Grenache, Syrah, Roussanne) and Barbera thrive at elevation. Higher sites also produce good Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon with surprising freshness.