Best 6 Wineries in Apple Hill CA: A Guide to the Top Vineyards in the Area

ByTony Parker Last Updated:

Apple Hill, located in El Dorado County, California, is a popular destination for wine lovers. With over 50 wineries and vineyards, deciding which ones to visit can be overwhelming. Apple Hill has something for everyone whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual taster.

The region is known for its unique microclimate, perfect for growing various grapes. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery while sipping on award-winning wines. Some of the most popular grape varieties grown in Apple Hill include Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay.

Best Wineries in Apple Hill CA

Lava Cap Winery

Lava Cap Winery is known for its world-class wines. They grow their grapes on the volcanic soil of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting in their tasting room or tour the vineyards. Lava Cap Winery offers a variety of varietals, including Cabernet, Chardonnay, Petite Sirah, and more.

Website: http://www.lavacap.com/

Address: 2221 Fruitridge Rd, Placerville, CA 95667, United States

Boeger Winery

Boeger Winery is one of the oldest wineries in Apple Hill. They were established in the Gold Rush era and have produced quality wines ever since. Boeger Winery offers a variety of varietals, including Zinfandel, Grenache, and Mourvedre. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting in their tasting room or tour the vineyards.

Website: http://www.boegerwinery.com/

Address: 1709 Carson Rd, Placerville, CA 95667, United States

Starfield Vineyards

Starfield Vineyards is a boutique winery that produces world-class wines. They specialize in Bordeaux varietals and offer a variety of red and white wines. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting in their tasting room or tour the vineyards. Starfield Vineyards also offers outdoor seating for picnics and enjoying the scenic beauty of Apple Hill.

Website: https://www.starfieldvineyards.com/

Address: 2750 Jacquier Rd, Placerville, CA 95667, United States

Miraflores Winery

Miraflores Winery is known for its award-winning wines. They offer a variety of varietals, including Albarino, Syrah, and Barbera. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting in their tasting room or tour the vineyards. Miraflores Winery also offers outdoor seating for picnics and enjoying the scenic beauty of Apple Hill.

Website: http://mirafloreswinery.com/

Address: 2120 Four Springs Trail, Placerville, CA 95667, United States

Edio Vineyards

Edio Vineyards is a family-owned winery that produces world-class wines. They offer a variety of varietals, including Riesling and Chardonnay. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting in their tasting room or tour the vineyards. Edio Vineyards also offers outdoor seating for picnics and enjoying the scenic beauty of Apple Hill.

Website: https://delfinofarms.com/edio-vineyards/

Address: 3205 N Canyon Rd Bldg 1, Camino, CA 95709, United States

Delfino Vineyards

Delfino Vineyards is a commercial winery that produces high-quality wines. They offer a variety of varietals, including Cabernet and Zinfandel. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting in their tasting room or tour the vineyards. Delfino Vineyards also offers outdoor seating for picnics and enjoying the scenic beauty of Apple Hill.

Website: https://delfinofarms.com/

Address: 3205 N Canyon Rd Bldg 1, Camino, CA 95709, United States

Apple Hill is a popular tourist destination, especially during the fall season. In addition to wineries, visitors can explore fruit and vegetable farms, flower gardens, and Christmas tree farms. There are also places to eat, such as bakeries that offer pastries, cakes, turnovers, and strudel. 

Visitors can also enjoy craft beers at local breweries or visit a distillery. Outdoor enthusiasts can go on adventures like nature trails or exploring the orchards. Due to COVID-19, some wineries may require reservations or have limited hours. Visitors should also know about traffic and crowds, especially on Highway 50. Despite these challenges, Apple Hill remains a wonderful place to visit and support the local community.

Bakery and Food

Apple Hill is not just about the wineries and orchards, but also about the delicious food offerings. Visitors can indulge in baked goods, pastries, and cakes made from freshly picked apples. Here are some of the best places to grab a bite in Apple Hill:

  • Delfino Farms: This family-owned farm has been a favorite stop on the Apple Hill map for family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of fresh-baked pies and pastries at Joan’s Apple Bakery. Their apple fritters are a must-try, and visitors can enjoy a slice of their famous apple pie.
  • Boa Vista Orchards: This fifth-generation family farm offers a diverse selection of fresh produce, delicious baked goods, and crisp apple ciders. Their apple cider donuts are a favorite, and visitors can enjoy a slice of their homemade apple pie.
  • High Hill Ranch: This farm is a popular destination for visitors looking for various apple treats. Their caramel apples are a must-try, and visitors can also enjoy their famous apple donuts, pies, and turnovers. The farm also has a restaurant that serves up delicious food options.
  • Rainbow Orchards: This orchard is known for its delicious baked goods, including famous apple cider donuts. Visitors can also enjoy a slice of their homemade apple pie and other pastries.
  • Jack Russell Brewery & Winery: While this place is primarily known for its beer and wine, they also offer various food options. Visitors can enjoy wood-fired pizza, cheese plates, and other small bites while sipping their favorite beverage.

In addition to these places, visitors can also find a variety of cheese and other food vendors throughout Apple Hill. From fresh cheese curds to gourmet spreads, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Wine Varietals

Apple Hill is home to numerous wineries producing a variety of wine varietals. Visitors can enjoy tasting various wines from red to white and everything in between. Some of the popular wine varietals found in Apple Hill include:

Red Wines

  • Barbera: A red wine grape variety that produces full-bodied wines with high acidity and low tannins. Barbera wines from Apple Hill are known for their fruity flavors and aromas of black cherry and blackberry.
  • Grenache: A red wine grape variety that produces medium-bodied wines with notes of red fruit, spice, and earthiness. Grenache wines from Apple Hill are known for their bright acidity and soft tannins.
  • Syrah: A red wine grape variety that produces full-bodied wines with blackberry, black pepper, and spice flavors. Syrah wines from Apple Hill are known for their bold flavors and tannins.
  • Zinfandel: A red wine grape variety that produces full-bodied wines with high alcohol content and blackberry, raspberry, and spice flavors. Zinfandel wines from Apple Hill are known for their bold fruit flavors and aromas.
  • Mourvèdre: A red wine grape variety that produces full-bodied wines with black fruit, spice, and leather flavors. Mourvèdre wines from Apple Hill are known for their complexity and age-worthiness.
  • Bordeaux Blends: Red wine blends made from a combination of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and other red grape varieties. Bordeaux blends from Apple Hill are known for their balance of fruit, tannins, and acidity.
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: A red wine grape variety that produces full-bodied wines with black currant, tobacco, and vanilla flavors. Cabernet Sauvignon wines from Apple Hill are known for their rich, complex flavors and tannins.
  • Petite Sirah: A red wine grape variety that produces full-bodied wines with blackberry, blueberry, and spice flavors. Petite Sirah wines from Apple Hill are known for their bold fruit flavors and high tannins.

White Wines

  • Chardonnay: A white wine grape variety that produces full-bodied wines with apple, pear, and vanilla flavors. Chardonnay wines from Apple Hill are known for their creamy texture and oak flavors.
  • Riesling: A white wine grape variety that produces medium-bodied wines with peach, apricot, and honey flavors. Riesling wines from Apple Hill are known for their bright acidity and sweetness.
  • Other White Wines: Apple Hill also produces other white wine varietals such as Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Pinot Grigio. These wines are known for their crisp acidity and fruit flavors.

Overall, visitors to Apple Hill can enjoy a wide variety of wine varietals, from bold reds to crisp whites. With so many wineries, there is sure to be a wine for every palate.