Explore the Best Wineries in El Dorado

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El Dorado Wine Region

El Dorado wine country of California is where the first gold was discovered and the most excellent wines were born in the highest foothills. The rich soils yield great wines, while the natural splendour of the undulating hills and tranquil streams entices tourists to indulge. The climate in the El Dorado County foothills is suitable for some of the world's best wine grapes, including those from Bordeaux, the Rhône, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Vintners in El Dorado County will have a tasting glass ready for you.

When you visit El Dorado, you may be certain that you will taste and experience El Dorado, not imports from other wine areas. It is a hidden treasure among California wine areas, with vineyards dedicated to the El Dorado way of life, which values individuality, diversity, and excellence in wine varieties and styles.  Indulge yourself with unique wine tastings and tours in El Dorado wineries, and enjoy a walk through the vineyards and pleasant conversations with El Dorado winemakers.

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Where is the El Dorado AVA?

The El Dorado AVA is an American Viticultural Area in El Dorado County, California, USA. It is located at the northern end of California's renowned Mother Lode, a 193 km gold vein found in the late 1840s that became the location of the Gold Rush. 

El Dorado

Unique terroir of El Dorado AVA

The El Dorado appellation is known for its unique environment and geography, which are perfect for creating wines of great depth and density. Its diverse microclimates are perfect for cultivating a wide range of grapes associated with the world's best wine regions, such as Rhône, Bordeaux, Italy.

The El Dorado region is renowned for its altitude and varied terrain. The mountain vineyards it contains stand taller than the lowlands in the center of the state, reaching close to sea level. Rather than being exposed to fog like others in coastal areas, El Dorado vineyards are cooled by winds that come from Sierra Nevada mountains and due to their high altitude (2000 ft elevation). As a result, they receive more direct sunlight and their grapes can ripen at lower temperatures. The lush mountain region features diverse microclimates and soils, making it distinct from other wine-producing areas due to its complex topography.

Aside from its climate, three types of soil also help define the region's characteristics. These soils include fine-grained volcanic rock, decomposed granite, and fine-grained shale. Every soil type, due to its particular height and geography, facilitates proper drainage of water and has the right nutrients to help grapevines develop robust and delicious grapes.

History of El Dorado wine region

Winemaking in El Dorado County began with gold discoveries in the area, and by 1870, the El Dorado wine region was among the state's major wine producers. The local wine business thrived until soon after the turn of the century, when the county had roughly 2,000 acres of vineyards. Shortly after, El Dorado began to collapse gradually as a result of weak economic conditions and a shrinking local population. Prohibition was only the final straw. 

Viticulture largely vanished from the county between 1920 and 1960. It wasn't until the late 1960s that winemaking made a comeback.

Following the establishment of many experimental vines, it became clear that El Dorado County's climate, soil, and mountain heights were excellent for the production of high-quality, dry table wines. El Dorado was on its way back to become an important wine production region with the founding of Boeger Winery in 1973. El Dorado County's wine business has developed considerably since then. 

Today, the county has about 2,000 acres of vines planted, over 70 distinct kinds, and 50 to 60 wineries, largely boutique or small production. In 1983, El Dorado was recognized as an American Viticultural Area (AVA).

The region's wine grape producers produce a wide range of varietals, including Zinfandel, Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petite Sirah, as well as considerable plantings of Rhône varietals. El Dorado AVA white wines include Chardonnay, Viogner, Grenache Blanc, and over 70 more varieties. 

What is El Dorado Wine?

El Dorado Zinfandel is one of the region's hallmark wines. The Wine Enthusiast magazine gave this wine a high rating. The wine has fresh forest fruit and spice aromatics, is full-bodied, and has mild tannins. 

El Dorado AVA Chardonnay wine bursts with spiced pear, Meyer lemon, and golden sweet apple flavours. The mouthfeel is creamy and crisp on the palate. The finish has butterscotch and caramel aromas from the oak. It's a delicate and multifaceted wine with no single fragrance or flavour taking centre stage. Traditional Burgundian barrel fermentation is seamlessly blended with cold tank fermentation, with both held "sur lie" until close to bottling. The degree of malolactic secondary fermentation chosen depends on the year, with the objective of producing a wine with great acid balance and a crisp, lingering finish.

Viticultural information:

• Vineyards are cultivated at elevation; 

• There are microclimates within the county; 

• Much of the soil is decomposed granite. 

The particular terroir of El Dorado AVA makes it unique from that of Paso Robles, Sonoma or Napa. This results in the production of wines with their own distinct character. Cabernet Sauvignon is one grape variety that flourishes especially well in this region. Many of the grapevines in El Dorado County are grown from their own roots, rather than grafting them onto another rootstock. This provides them with more time to mature and develop naturally. Grapes start off as a cutting with buds that are planted in the soil. The planted buds grow roots while the buds above ground turn into leaves and grapes. Grafted buds are a great solution for those who need to see results fast, however, own-rooted vines are a better option in the long run. It takes longer to mature but once they do, they require less water and can stand up to difficult conditions much better.

El Dorado Vineyards

Food to Pair with El Dorado wine

Lobster à la Americana

Lobster a l'Americaine is a traditional French meal that may be made with a variety of different components. Lobster flesh, carrots, celery, shallots, tomato paste, garlic, dry white wine, cognac or dry sherry, chicken or fish stock, olive oil, bay leaves, thyme, butter, heavy cream, and chopped parsley are common ingredients.

The lobster is cooked in the sauce before being flambéed with cognac or sherry. If the lobster is cooked in its shell, the taste of the meal will be enhanced. It is suggested that you serve it with rice on the side. The only thing known about its origin is that it is a French dish, however numerous accounts suggest that it originated in the Languedoc or Brittany areas. This dish goes beautifully with a full-bodied El Dorado Chardonnay.

Crab cake 

Crab cake is a famous American fish cake made with crab flesh, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings including Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and fresh herbs. When resources were few, the notion of combining minced fish flesh with other foods dates back to prehistoric times.

English immigrants are thought to have brought a form of crab cake to the early colonies. There are several 19th-century recipes for crab cakes, many of which contain bread crumbs and seasonings, while others are fried.

Crab cakes are usually served with a typical accompaniment of saltine crackers, lemon wedges, french fries, coleslaw or potatoes.

Kansas City-Style Barbecue

The gourmet passion of Kansas City, popularly known as the "global capital of barbecue," is barbecued meat. Kansas City-style BBQ offers some truly mouth-watering options like pork ribs, hot or cold beef brisket and a delectable "pig salad" of pulled pork. All these dishes combine to create an unforgettable culinary experience. Nowadays home cooks and chefs have added their own secret ingredients, but the most basic barbecue sauce and manner of preparation have remained mostly unchanged. Every October, barbecue enthusiasts from all around the world descend to Kansas City for the American Royal Barbecue competition.

El Dorado Zinfandel pairs well with Kansas-style barbecue.

Places to visit in El Dorado

Placerville

Based in Placerville, California, Historic Main Street is an ideal place to begin any new venture. It's teeming with excitement and offers a fabulous start to your journey.

Placerville is situated in El Dorado county, right between Sacramento (State Capitol) and South Lake Tahoe. It enjoys beautiful weather conditions, being neither too cold nor too foggy. It's located just above the snowline - perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities! 

Placerville is the perfect combination of old and modern life. Its diverse culture with a long-standing history attracts a variety of people, ranging from gold-miners, and entrepreneurs to international artists. This destination is filled with something for everyone - from the older generations that have been living here for years to new arrivals from the city and suburbs. It's truly become a home to many. Exploring the charming Historic Main Street in Placerville can be a delightful experience. From making new friends to finding unique items and enjoying delectable cuisine, there are plenty of opportunities to create everlasting memories with your loved ones.

Iconic Vikingsholm

This majestic "castle," located in Emerald Bay on Lake Tahoe, is a one-of-a-kind combination of nature's breathtaking beauty and man's creative brilliance.  Vikingsholm is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States. It is currently part of the Emerald Bay State Park's Harvey West Unit. The mansion is accessible for visits during the summer months, but visitors to this wonderful setting may enjoy the magnificent landscape all year. This majestic edifice stands at the entrance of Emerald Bay, one of the most photographed locations in the United States. Outside of the Nordic nations, it is today regarded as one of the best examples of Scandinavian architecture.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the El Dorado wine region

Where is El Dorado wine made?

El Dorado Wine is one of the finest wines produced in California and it is from the El Dorado AVA. This region was designated in 1983, covering most of El Dorado County located in Sierra Foothills. Enjoy its unique taste!

How many wineries in El Dorado AVA?

El Dorado County has over 70 wineries, most of them are family owned and boutique wineries. The Winetourism.com team highlighted some of the local wineries and encourage you to visit El Dorado County and enjoy everything this area has to offer!

Why is it called El Dorado?

The Spaniards referred to the city that this flamboyant monarch reigned over as El Dorado, which translates to 'Gilded One'. Due to the promise of gold covering everything here, it eventually turned into a legend of an entire nation made up entirely of gold.

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Just getting started on your wine journey, or jumping back in?
Taste through a selection of a great local wines.

Wineries in El Dorado