From the region’s oldest winery, you could travel about 15-20 minutes north up Historic Hwy 49 to one of the region’s newest wineries: David Girard Vineyards

This beautiful tasting room and vineyards are tucked between the American River and Coloma.  David Girard Vineyards is one of several wineries helping to make a name for El Dorado’s Rhone style wines — an “old world” wine that is becoming quite popular with today’s consumers.  El Dorado’s geography, soils and climate are similar to France’s Rhone region so the grapes grow particularly well here.  Winemakers are using that to their advantage.  

(Tip: El Dorado was formerly known for its focus on Zinfandel  — but its award-winning Rhones are changing that wine image. There are more than 50 grape varieties grown in El Dorado!)

Winemaker Mari Wells:  Mari is energetic, recognized for her wines — and one of 3 women winemakers in the region.

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