Our Central Valley has become a Wine Destination

In the past, a wine tasting trip was usually to the Napa Valley which has an extensive group of wineries of every variety. Then, Amador County, with more than 40 wineries became a destination as well. The Amador wineries are especially well known for great Zinfandels. But, don’t think you need to go so far these days, there are now some exceptional wineries in Mariposa, Oakhurst, Friant, Murphys and O’Neals. Very locally, we have Vista Wine and Cellars, on Highway 140, between Merced and Planada.

Perhaps the most prolific and popular are the nine wineries along the Madera Wine Trail which starts in Madera and works its way through the foothills through O’Neals, Finegold and Oakhurst.

The nine wineries who joined forces to become the Madera Wine Trail are all family owned and are open year-round. The wine trail has special events during the months of February, May and November. But, they are also open every weekend and have tasting rooms.

What wines will you find along the trail?

As you would expect, there is a large variety of popular wines offered at these tasting rooms. You will find Merlot, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, and many more. One winery (Quady) specializes in Muscat, using a rare imported Italian grape variety. Two or three sell a large variety of Ports, once again using vines imported from Portugal. Or, if you are looking for something new you can try Tempranillo, Sangioveseor or Barbera from Birdstone Winery.

The Trail makes planning your trip a breeze

The wine trail folks have numerous online tools to help you plan a visit. There are maps with addresses, phone numbers and tasting room hours. All of the wineries have individual web sites that describe themselves and their products. If you do visit and taste, you can expect the tasting fee will be applied to any purchases.

So, review this list, plan a trip, hire a designated driver and … Salud!

More information on the Wine Trail online at: maderawinetrail.com