Wine Tasting Sierra Foothills, Crystal Basin Cellars

If you like big Sierra Reds you'll like Crystal Basin Cellars in Camino just off Hwy 50 east of Placerville.   The drive from Eden Vale Inn, on the other side of Placerville, is about 25 minutes.   Many other Carson Road Wineries and Vinyards are nearby.  Mike Owen and Peter, the wine maker, make a wide variety of wines owning in part to the fact that they buy their grapes from other local Sierra Foothill vinyards.  This allows more flexibility in trying new varities and blends. 

There is lots to like in the extensive selection at this El Dorado County winery.  I came home with a mixed case that included Viognier, Zinfandel, Sarah, Barbara, and Mouvedre.   They also make a five varietal Bordeaux Blend named Triumphant.  Their Triumphant Blending party is coming up February 13th at the Cameron Park Country club.  Crystal Basin Cellars

Wine Eden Vale Inn Placerville

Lava Cap Winery in the Sierra Foothills Wine Region near Placerville, CA has a big sale on their 2005.  Cases are 50% Off on their 2005 wines until sold.  If I remember right these were available: Malbec, Grenach, Zinfandel, Syhra and a few others.  I took home a case of Zinfandel.  Mark