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Sierra Foothills

United States
Top Subregions: California Shenandoah ValleyNorth YubaCalaveras CountyEl Dorado CountySierra FoothillsBorden RanchFiddletownEl DoradoAmador County

Region Description

The Sierra Foothills wine region is located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California, USA. The discovery of gold near Sutter Mill in 1848 led to the California Gold Rush, resulting in many settlers from Southern Europe who established vineyards to supply them with wine. By the 1860s, the Sierra Foothills wine industry was booming before the depression and Prohibition reduced the industry to just a few vineyards.

Beautiful landscape of Sierra Foothills wine region

Grapes & Wine Styles

The Sierra Foothills are well suited to the production of big, ripe, red wines made from Zinfandel, Syrah and Italian varieties such as Barbera. Many of the vineyards here are 140 years old, and the low fertility of the soils leads to small yields of high-quality grapes.

Notable Producers

The Sierra Foothills is home to a number of notable wineries, including Naggiar Vineyards, Ironstone Vineyards, and Montevina Winery.

Fun Fact about Sierra Foothills
The 140-year-old Grandpere vineyard in California Shenandoah Valley is said to be the oldest still in production in the entire state.

Top Wines from Sierra Foothills

Bottle of Terra d'Oro Zinfandel from search results

Terra d'Oro Zinfandel

Terra d'Oro

User Rating:
3.8
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
4.0
Terra d'Oro Zinfandel is a captivating wine that showcases the best of Amador County in California. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this wine is produced from grapes grown in the region's renowned vineyards. The appellation's unique terroir, characterized by warm days and cool nights, imparts rich flavors and balanced acidity to the wine. The winemaking process involves careful selection of the finest grapes, followed by fermentation and aging in oak barrels. The result is a full-bodied Zinfandel with luscious dark fruit flavors, hints of spice, and a velvety texture. Terra d'Oro Zinfandel is a true expression of Amador County's winemaking excellence.
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Food Pairing:
Pork
Beef
Vegetable
Cheese
Croquette
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$16.12
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4 Vintages Available
Bottle of Terra d'Oro Zinfandel Port from search results

Terra d'Oro Zinfandel Port

Terra d'Oro

User Rating:
4.0
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
4.0
Terra d'Oro Zinfandel Port is a rich and luscious fortified wine that showcases the best of California's Amador County. Crafted from Zinfandel grapes grown in the region's sun-drenched vineyards, this port-style wine offers a unique and indulgent experience. The vineyard's unique terroir, characterized by warm days and cool nights, imparts intense flavors and balanced acidity to the grapes. The winemaking process involves fortifying the wine with brandy, resulting in a higher alcohol content and a velvety texture. With its deep ruby color, concentrated fruit flavors, and hints of chocolate and spice, Terra d'Oro Zinfandel Port is a delightful choice for those seeking a luxurious and memorable wine experience.
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Food Pairing:
Chocolate Dessert
Dessert
Nuts
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$12.65
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1 NV Vintage Available
Bottle of Renwood Premier Old Vine Zinfandel from search results

Renwood Premier Old Vine Zinfandel

Renwood

User Rating:
3.8
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
4.0
Renwood Premier Old Vine Zinfandel is a premium wine produced by Renwood Winery, a renowned winery located in the Amadour County of California. This wine is made from grapes grown in old vineyards, which are known for producing high-quality grapes with concentrated flavors. The winemaking process involves careful selection of the grapes, followed by fermentation and aging in oak barrels to enhance the wine's complexity and depth. The resulting wine is a full-bodied Zinfandel with rich flavors of blackberry, raspberry, and spice, balanced by a smooth and velvety texture. Renwood Premier Old Vine Zinfandel is a perfect choice for those who appreciate the unique character and complexity of old vine Zinfandel.
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Food Pairing:
Beef
Pork
Vegetable
Cheese
Fruit
Steak
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$20.73
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3 Vintages Available
Bottle of Terre Rouge Tête-à-Tête from search results

Terre Rouge Tête-à-Tête

Terre Rouge

User Rating:
4.0
Highly Reviewed
Expert Rating:
3.8
Terre Rouge Tête-à-Tête is a premium red wine produced by Terre Rouge winery, known for its exceptional quality and unique character. The wine is made from grapes grown in the Sierra Foothills appellation, which is known for its diverse soils and microclimates that create a perfect environment for growing high-quality grapes. The vineyard features steep slopes, rocky soils, and a cool climate that allows the grapes to ripen slowly, resulting in a wine with intense flavors and aromas. The winemaking process involves careful selection of the grapes, gentle pressing, and aging in French oak barrels, which adds complexity and depth to the wine. The style of the wine is elegant and refined, with a rich and velvety texture, and a long, smooth finish.
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Food Pairing:
Beef
Pork
Vegetable
Cheese
Burger, Sandwich And Wrap
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$20.00
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2 Vintages Available
Bottle of Sobon Estate Old Vines Zinfandel from search results

Sobon Estate Old Vines Zinfandel

Sobon Estate

User Rating:
3.5
Highly Reviewed
Expert Rating:
3.8
Sobon Estate Old Vines Zinfandel is a premium wine produced by Sobon Estate, a renowned winery located in the Sierra Foothills appellation of California. This wine is made from grapes grown on old vines, which are known for producing concentrated and complex flavors. The vineyard features unique soil and climate conditions that contribute to the wine's distinctive character. The winemaking process involves careful selection of the grapes, followed by fermentation and aging in oak barrels. The resulting wine is full-bodied, with rich flavors of dark fruit, spice, and a hint of vanilla. It has a smooth and velvety texture, with a long and satisfying finish.
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Food Pairing:
Beef
Pork
Vegetable
Cheese
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$16.99
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2 Vintages Available