Overview
El Dorado Wine Region, nestled in the historic Gold Country of California, is renowned for its award-winning wineries, stunning landscapes, and rich history. With over 30 wineries, it offers a unique blend of wine tasting, scenic beauty, and historical charm.
Known for its world-class wines and historical significance in the California Gold Rush.
Location
Address
Placerville, California
Neighborhood: El Dorado County
Coordinates
38.738300, -120.796900
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Late morning to early afternoon
Optimal weather for outdoor activities and wine tasting.
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild, 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- • Blooming vineyards
- • Wildflowers
summer
Hot, 80-100°F (27-38°C)
- • Extended tasting hours
- • Outdoor concerts
autumn
Cool, 60-80°F (15-27°C)
- • Harvest season
- • Fall colors
winter
Cold, 40-60°F (4-15°C)
- • Holiday lights
- • Indoor tastings
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tastings ahead
- Check winery hours
- Bring valid ID
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low to moderate
- • Alcohol consumption
- • Uneven terrain in some vineyards
Medical facilities: Closest hospital: Marshall Medical Center, Placerville
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, Walking shoes or boots, Inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1-2 weeks for popular wineries
- • Official winery websites or local tour operators
- • Varies by winery, typically 24-48 hours notice
- • Available for some wineries with advance bookings
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
El Dorado Wine Trail App
Size: 100 MB
Features: Winery map, Tasting reservations, Event calendar
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Some wineries
Charging Stations: Visitor center, some wineries
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Sacramento International Airport
Distance: 45 miles (72 km)
Travel Time: 1 hour
From City Center
Distance: 2 miles (3 km) from Placerville downtown
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich history, beautiful landscapes, and world-class wines.
Historical Significance: A key area in the California Gold Rush, now known for its wine production.
Insider Tips
- Some wineries offer free tastings with a bottle purchase
- Weekday visits are less crowded
- Local farmers' markets offer excellent picnic supplies
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Gold Country cuisine
- • Ask for recommendations from winery staff
- • Visit nearby historical sites
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Boeger Winery
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the vineyard rows leading to the winery
Result: Stunning landscape shots
Madrona Vineyards
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Use the setting sun to highlight the vineyard
Result: Romantic and picturesque
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
Distance: 2 miles (3 km)
Walking: 45 minutes
Type: Historical Park
Apple Hill Farms
Distance: 10 miles (16 km)
Walking: Not walkable, 20 min drive
Type: Farmers' Market
Sierra Repertory Theatre
Distance: 1 mile (1.6 km)
Walking: 20 minutes
Type: Theatre
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tastings in advance"
- "Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds"
- "Try the local wines and food pairings"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (1)
Quick Info
Available Tours
0
Rating
4.6 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$0-$30 (varies by winery)