wineries

Took a trip to Plymouth, (the Sierra Foothills) California wineries and was impressed. They're not as large as you find in Napa Valley but their wines are very comparable. Several (Bella Piazza is one) also feature a nice menu for your dining pleasure. Being much smaller scale (about 13 wineries total) they tend to be more attentive to your inquiries. Makes a nice afternoon trip and the countryside is pleasing. The tour is free but most do charge for taste sampling.

Plymouth provides tasting for all tastes and the tastings are free which is a nice touch since other winery areas charge (and so I don't frequent)...The reality is, I always end up buying wines!!

We visited several wineries in the area and were pleasantly surprised with the quality in this lesser know region. I recommend Sobon for a variety of Zinfandels, Ports, and a very nice Vionier. It also had a nice picnic area under big trees. All in all, the people in the area are very friendly and helpful.

I do not know why this tasting room near Plymouth is not on the Trip Advisor list! Some of the best wine in the region, produced by one of the nicest and most interesting vintners around! You HAVE to go there! Club members may also visit the C. G. Di Arie Winery in El Dorado County, an interesting and welcoming experience awaits! Ask about "Captain Crunch".

When in Amador county,you must check out the Shenandoah trail of wineries...there are many to taste at and one favorite is C G di Arie.Chaim and his lovely wife Elisheva are the humblest of people I have ever met. To have such great wines in many varietals and blends is incredible. Try to go to one of the events when the winemaker is there, so much to learn.