From Gold Rush to Wine Crush

Wine Tasting in Amador County

There's a new rush happening in the beautiful foothills of Amador County, and it's not for gold. Wine is the current cash crop—with deep historic roots in this part of California. The wine industry here took off back in the gold rush days before tapering as gold mining declined. But now the wine is back, in a big way. With a climate providing perfect conditions for robust vintages, Amador County's Shenandoah Valley is fast becoming the go-to region, with a down-to-earth vibe and inexpensive tasting fees, even as the awards keep rolling in. The loping sun-drenched vineyards are absolutely stunning in fall and winter. Pack a lunch and head to the best picnic spot in the valley: Story Winery. The tasting room—a renovated 1870s bunkhouse—is high on a hilltop overlooking a river canyon and surrounded by vineyards—some over 100 years old. (Story's Alitia Zinfandel pairs nicely with the scenery.) Another winery with amazing views (and wines: we like the Primativo) is Helwig (pictured). This newer winery (2011) may be one of the hippest places to taste in Amador County. It can be quite the scene on a Saturday afternoon with people mingling around the horseshoe-shaped bar ($5 tasting fee) or swirling and sipping and enjoying bruschetta on Helwig's modern, multi-tiered patio. The staff here isn't too cool for school either—they're downright fun. Also friendly is Turley ($10 tasting). Their rustically elegant ambience brings to mind Restoration Hardware, with some wine prices to match! The Atlas Peak Zinfandel is worth a holiday splurge. Cheers!

Story Winery

The Shenandoah Valley in Amador County is about 2 hours east of San Francisco by the town of Plymouth (directions). Story Winery is located at 10525 Bell Rd., Plymouth. They're open 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and tasting is complimentary. Helwig Winery is located at 11555 Shenandoah Rd., Plymouth; open from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and tasting is $5 which can be credited to the purchase of a bottle. Turley is located at 10851 Shenandoah Rd., Plymouth; open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and tasting is $10 which is waived with the purchase of two bottles.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Two people walking along the bluff trail at Sea Ranch on the Sonoma Coast overlooking the Pacific Ocean

    Sweet as the Sea

    Rough-and-tumble coastline, twisting Highway 1, open grasslands, hidden beaches, bluff trails, and a rustic lodge for storm watching from indoors—we’re not talking about Big Sur. We’re talking Sea Ranch and its namesake lodge on the Sonoma Coast. Walk its famous bluff-top trail, a cliff-hugging sensation with soaring Pacific scenery.

    View
  2. Sponsored

    The 2025 Hiking Calendar Is Here!

    Ready to make hiking part of your New Year’s wellness plan? Get the all-new 2025 Hiking Calendar courtesy of Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST).

    View
  3. Most Peaceful Hike of All

    Is this the most peaceful one-hour hike in the Bay Area? It's got our vote! Lake Lagunitas is the smallest lake in a series of five found on the north side of Mount Tam, so it’s got that tiny but mighty charm. Do a 1.5-mile loop around the lake's shore-hugging trail.

    View
  4. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Animal Encounters

    Located where Redding’s famous Sundial Bridge overlooks the Sacramento River, Turtle Bay Exploration Park is 300 acres of gardens, a museum and playground, aquarium, and unforgettable up-close animal encounters!

    View
  2. Weekend Sherpa Podcast
    Sponsored

    Weekend Sherpa Podcast: Take It Outside

    Adventure for your earbuds. What's new in the world of the outdoors? Listen to Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss local hikes, beaches, bike rides, camping spots and all kinds of travel and adventure in California and beyond!

    View
  3. Enchanted in Chantry

    Chantry Flat is one of the most popular hiking areas in LA, but the 5.3-mile (round-trip) Hoegees Campground via Upper and Lower Winter Creek Loop Trail proves you can find peace and quiet anywhere, even in busy Los Angeles.

    View
  4. Locals' Feature: Max Smith of Moment Skis

    Meet Max Smith, VP of Moment Skis in Reno, Nevada. Moment is the largest ski manufacturer in the US and you can see how their innovative and artistic skis are made by visiting Moment Skis headquarters in Reno. The Factory is where the magic happens, so drop in for a visit and say hi to the team, including employee dogs who are on quality control.

    View